Pang Lhabsol at Ralang Monastery

Pang Lhabsol falls on the 15th day of the 7th month of the Tibetan calendar, usually in late August or September. It is a festival found only in Sikkim. It honours Kangchenjunga as the protector of the land and is closely tied to the tradition of the oath of brotherhood sworn between the Lepcha chief Thekong Tek and the Bhutia ancestor Khye Bumsa at Kabi Lungchok, with the mountain as witness. The state observes it as a public holiday.

Ralang, a Kagyu monastery 6 km from Ravangla, is one of the places where monks perform cham, masked dances, for Pang Lhabsol. Wikipedia's article on Ralang Monastery lists cham on the 15th day of the 7th month, and the monastery's dancers are known for their costumes and the precision of their movements. Dancers represent protector deities and warriors, moving slowly to drums, cymbals and long horns, and the courtyard fills with families who arrive early to find a place.

Pang Lhabsol falls in the monsoon, so pack rain gear and expect slow roads. Ravangla rooms fill quickly that week, so book early. Gangtok holds its own large celebration at the same time, but Ralang offers a village setting and a closer view. Dates follow the lunar calendar and move each year; check current status before you travel. Carry cash for donations and food stalls.