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In Sikkim, the Tibetan New Year, also known as Losar, is a festival that is enthusiastically observed. The Tibetans consider Losar, a harvest festival, to be a significant day. Also called Gyalpo Lossar, it is celebrated by going to the monastery, conducting the traditions, and then going to see family and friends.
The Losar festival honours the job of farmers, who do a lot of hard work, day and night. In order to honour farmers for their dedication, the harvesting season’s conclusive end is celebrated. Grand ceremonies and colourful festivities are performed throughout Sikkim during the Losar Festival.
On the auspicious occasion of Losar, citizens exchange gifts with friends and relatives such as money and traditional items, and to celebrate the new year, communities organize festivals and fairs that include cleaning as well as decorating, offering and praying, family gatherings, and the Cham Dance, in which monks perform these traditional dances to keep away evil spirits and bring good fortune for the upcoming year.
History of Losar Festival:
Before Buddhism came to Tibet and its neighboring nations of India, Nepal, and Bhutan, the Losar Festival had a long history. The Losar Festival is said to have originated as a winter ceremony in ancient times. Locals burn a lot of incense at that time to please the gods in their area. According to the Buddhists, enjoying the Losar Festival chases evil spirits away.
Local Buddhists observe this event to usher in a new harvest season and a new year as Tibetan astrological practices have evolved over the years. Today, Losar is regarded as one of the most significant festivals for Tibetans and therefore is lavishly observed in 8 Indian places.

Losar Festival Dates:
21st February to 27th February 2023
Losar Festival Venue:
Gangtok serves as the principal venue for the celebrations, along with other parts of the state like Pelling, Yuksom, and Lachen. The major locations of Losar celebrations are Rumtek and Phodong Monasteries.
Please note: Prior knowledge of the monasteries hosting the Losar Festival is recommended.
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Losar Festival Attractions:
Losar Tsechu:
The Losar Tsechu, the main event of the Losar Festival, ushers in the New Year with traditional dances and performances. Visitors can take in the colorful masks and costumes worn by the performers while also learning about the origins and significance of each dance.
Losar Torchlight Procession:
Thousands of people parade through the streets carrying torches as part of the spectacular Losar Torchlight Procession to symbolize the victory of light over darkness. Attendees are welcome to participate in the march and enjoy the energetic ambiance.
Monastery Visits and Losar Market:
Many monasteries in the area offer unique rituals and ceremonies during this festival, which tourists can attend to understand more about the event’s spiritual side. Visitors can also browse the crowded market stalls selling ethnic handicrafts, apparel, and cuisine at Losar Market.

Losar Food Festivals and Cultural Shows:
Losar Food Festivals: Throughout the event, traditional food festivals are conducted where guests can try regional specialties such as momos, dumplings, and tsampa. Attending cultural performances that highlight the area’s folk songs, dance, and folklore is another option for tourists looking to learn more about the local way of life.
Losar Horse Racing:
Horse racing at Losar is a well-known tradition that attracts lots of spectators, who may take in the thrill of the occasion by watching the races.
How to Reach Losar Festival:
By Air: Closest Airport is Bagdogra Airport
By Train: The closest railway station to reach Losar is Jalpaiguri which is 187 kilometers and Siliguri, which is approximately 146 km away.
By Road: Sikkim is easily accessible by road from Kolkata, Kalimpong, Gangtok & Darjeeling.
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