Saga Dawa is another significant festival celebrated by the Buddhist community in Sikkim. It commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha. Held in May or June, the festival is marked by a month-long period of prayer, fasting, and meditation. Sikkim tour packages during Saga Dawa offer a deep dive into the spiritual life of the region.
The festival is characterised by large processions, where monks and devotees carry the holy scriptures and images of Buddha through the streets. The air is filled with the sound of chants and the scent of burning incense, creating a serene and sacred atmosphere. Participating in the Saga Dawa festival provides an opportunity to witness the profound devotion and spiritual practices of the Sikkimese people.
Processions: Witness the grand processions featuring monks, devotees, and traditional music.
Butter Lamp Lighting: Participate in the lighting of butter lamps at monasteries, symbolising the dispelling of darkness and ignorance.
Charity and Almsgiving: Engage in acts of kindness and charity, an integral part of the festival, reflecting the teachings of Buddha.