Ladakh Festival
September, usually in the second half of the month (set annually)
The Ladakh Festival was started to extend the tourist season and showcase the region's culture. It usually takes place over several days in September, with dates announced each year. The opening day features a procession through Leh, with groups from villages across Ladakh in traditional costume: women in perak headdresses studded with turquoise, men in long woollen robes called goncha, and musicians with drums and surnas. Crowds line the bazaar.
Over the following days, events are held in Leh and in villages around it. There are polo matches on the Leh polo ground, archery contests with drinking and singing, masked dances by monks, music and dance performances, and exhibitions of crafts and food. Some events move to villages such as Shey, Stok or Basgo, giving visitors a reason to explore. Your guide explains each event. Archery contests are lively. Crowds cheer every match.
September is a fine month to be in Ladakh, with clear skies, cooler days and the first gold in the poplars. The festival adds colour without the crowds of Hemis Tsechu. Dates and programmes change from year to year. Check current status before you travel. Book Leh hotels early for the opening days. Combine it with Nubra or Pangong, when the September skies are at their clearest and the roads are quiet.
How to do it well
- Find a spot along Main Bazaar early for the opening procession.
- Watch a polo match, played in the old Ladakhi style.
- Combine the festival with Nubra or Pangong in the clear September weather.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
When is the Ladakh Festival held?
The Ladakh Festival is usually held in September, often in the second half of the month, over several days. Dates and the programme are set each year by the tourism department. Check current status before you travel. We confirm dates each spring.
What happens at the Ladakh Festival?
It opens with a procession in Leh of village groups in traditional dress, followed by polo, archery, masked dances, music and dance performances, craft displays and food stalls, some held in villages near Leh. The opening procession is the highlight.
Is the Ladakh Festival crowded?
It is busy in Leh on the opening day, but much less crowded than Hemis Tsechu. September is past the peak season, so hotels are easier to book and roads quieter. September weather is usually clear and pleasant. Book Leh rooms early.
Is the Ladakh Festival good for photography?
Very. The procession of costumed village groups, the polo matches and the masked dances offer many chances for photographs. Ask before photographing individuals at close range, and arrive early for good positions. Polo matches make lively subjects too. Bring a zoom lens.
Festival journeys
Routes built around the calendar
