Tamu Lhosar at the Gurung Gumpa

Wikipedia describes Tamu Lhosar as the new year of the Gurung people, celebrated on the 15th of Poush in the Nepali calendar, which falls at the end of December. Like the Tibetan, Sherpa and Tamang new years, it follows a twelve-year cycle in which each year is represented by an animal, and Lhosar marks the passing of one animal year to the next. People wear traditional dress, and songs and dances such as the Ghatu are part of the celebrations.

Near Rinchenpong, the focus is Rinchen Choling Monastery at Meghi Dara, a short walk from Rinchenpong town. The Soreng district administration says it was established in 1996 by the Gurung Buddhist Society, which is why it is also called the Gurung Gumpa, and that it stands on the ruins of a meditation retreat once used by Reesum Lama. The district site says Tamu Lhosar is observed at the monastery on 30 December each year, with the Gurung community showing its culture, food and traditions.

For travellers in Rinchenpong over the Christmas and New Year week, this is a chance to see a community festival rather than a staged show. Programmes are organised by the community and may change, so ask at the monastery or your homestay a few days ahead, and check current status before you travel. Rinchenpong is busy that week, so book rooms early.