Culture · Tashiding
The night the Bumchu vase is opened
Join the pilgrims at Tashiding for Bumchu, when lamas open the sacred vase and read the coming year's fortune in its water, then share the holy water with the crowd through the night.
Photo: Chettriabhimanyu · CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Bumchu falls on the 14th and 15th days of the first Tibetan month, about two weeks after Losar, usually in February or early March. On the night of the 14th, the lamas open the sealed vase in front of the gathered crowd and inspect the water. Its level is read as a forecast for Sikkim's coming year.
Pilgrims come from across Sikkim, Darjeeling, Nepal and Bhutan, and the hill fills with families, stalls and chanting. After the reading, holy water is distributed; queues last late into the night. Bring a small clean bottle if you would like some.
This is a religious event, not a performance. Dress warmly and modestly, follow volunteers' instructions, keep children close and do not push. Arrange your transport and room well in advance, as roads and beds fill.
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Questions travellers ask
Before you book
What is Bumchu?
Bumchu, meaning 'sacred vase', is an annual ritual at Tashiding in which lamas open a sealed vase of holy water, associated with Guru Padmasambhava, and read its level as a forecast for the year. A full vase means prosperity; an empty one warns of famine. Holy water is shared with pilgrims.
When is Bumchu in 2027?
Bumchu falls on the 14th–15th days of the first Tibetan month, roughly two weeks after Losar, so usually in February or early March. Exact dates move each year with the lunar calendar. We confirm them with the monastery when you plan. Check current status before you travel.
Where can I stay for Bumchu?
Tashiding's few guesthouses fill fast. Book Yuksom (1 hour away) or Pelling (2 hours) well in advance and arrange a car for the night. Shared jeeps run more often during the festival but are crowded. Some pilgrims stay up all night at the monastery.
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