What is the Hemis Festival?

A two-day masked dance ceremony at Hemis Monastery celebrating Padmasambhava's birthday. Occurs 26–27 June (lunar calendar) every year. Draws up to 10,000 visitors including monks, pilgrims, and tourists.

Are the masks really 17th-century?

Yes. They are carved wood, painted with natural pigments, and kept in the monastery vault year-round. They appear only during the festival.

Technically yes, but the experience is better if you don't. We recommend leaving cameras behind.

Is it safe for first-time Himalayan travellers?

Yes. Hemis is at 3,800 m (lower than Leh's 3,500 m). Acclimatise in Leh first, then travel to the festival. The festival itself involves sitting, not climbing.

How do I book a Hemis journey?

Write to hello@thehimalayan.guru at least 2 months ahead. We accept 1–2 parties for the festival per year to keep it intimate.

Hemis Festival 2026 — what to know, when to go, how to attend

Hemis Festival happens 26–27 June every year (aligned to the lunar calendar). Ten thousand pilgrims, tourists, and monks gather to watch the masked cham dance, a tradition founded by Padmasambhava in the 17th century. We take guests who want to come, but we do not photograph it. Here is what happens, and how to prepare.

What is the Hemis Festival?: A two-day masked dance ceremony at Hemis Monastery celebrating Padmasambhava's birthday. Occurs 26–27 June (lunar calendar) every year. Draws up to 10,000 visitors including monks, pilgrims, and tourists.
Are the masks really 17th-century?: Yes. They are carved wood, painted with natural pigments, and kept in the monastery vault year-round. They appear only during the festival.
Can I take photos?: Technically yes, but the experience is better if you don't. We recommend leaving cameras behind.
Is it safe for first-time Himalayan travellers?: Yes. Hemis is at 3,800 m (lower than Leh's 3,500 m). Acclimatise in Leh first, then travel to the festival. The festival itself involves sitting, not climbing.
How do I book a Hemis journey?: Write to hello@thehimalayan.guru at least 2 months ahead. We accept 1–2 parties for the festival per year to keep it intimate.

The Himalayan Guru, custom Himalayan journeys, founded by The Himalayan Guru atelier in Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir. Phone +91 99066 66698, email hello@thehimalayan.guru.