The Hemis Festival is an annual religious festival celebrated in the Hemis Monastery, located in Leh, Ladakh, India. Hemis Monastery is one of the most important and largest monasteries in Ladakh and belongs to the Drukpa Lineage of Tibetan Buddhism.

The festival takes place on the 10th day of the Tibetan lunar month, which usually falls in June or July of the Gregorian calendar. The exact dates of the festival vary from year to year. The celebration lasts for two days and attracts a large number of locals and tourists from around the world.

During the Hemis Festival, the monastery comes alive with vibrant colors, music, dance, and religious rituals. The main highlight of the festival is the Cham dance, also known as the Masked Dance. The monks from the monastery, dressed in elaborate costumes and masks, perform these sacred dances that depict various aspects of Tibetan Buddhism, legends, and historical events. The dances are accompanied by traditional music played on traditional instruments like cymbals, drums, and long horns.

Apart from the Cham dance, visitors can also witness other rituals and ceremonies performed by the monks. The Hemis Festival provides a unique opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh and to witness the deep-rooted religious traditions of the region.

It’s worth noting that while the Hemis Festival is a significant event in the cultural calendar of Ladakh, it’s always a good idea to check the specific dates and details of the festival for the year you plan to visit, as they may vary. Local tour operators, travel agencies, or the Ladakh Tourism Department can provide the most up-to-date information regarding the festival.