cultural · February

Losar Festival

Tibetan New Year in Spiti, Lahaul & Kinnaur

Feb 2026: 18 Feb (Wood Horse year)Spiti Valley3 days
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Overview

Losar marks the Tibetan New Year, celebrated by Buddhist communities in Spiti, Lahaul, Kinnaur, and McLeodganj. Monasteries host Cham dances — masked ritual performances by monks that drive away evil spirits.

History

Losar predates Buddhism, originating in the Bon religion of pre-7th-century Tibet. It aligns with the Tibetan lunisolar calendar. Each year is named after one of 12 animals and 5 elements (60-year cycle).

Schedule

Day 1 — Lama Losar

  • Monks perform rituals at monasteries
  • Cham dances at Key, Tabo, Dhankar

Day 2 — Gyalpo Losar

  • Family visits and traditional guthuk (nine-ingredient noodle soup)
  • Prayer flag hoisting

Day 3 — Choe-kyong Losar

  • Community feasting
  • Archery and folk games

Venue

Key Monastery & Tabo Monastery

Spiti Valley, Himachal 172114

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Tickets

Monastery entry

Free

Photography permit

₹100–₹200

Nearby attractions

  • Key Monastery0 km
  • Kibber Village8 km
  • Chicham Bridge10 km

Tips

  • Only accessible via Shimla-Kinnaur route in February. Rohtang closes Oct-May.
  • Temperatures drop to -25°C. Down jacket, thermals, and heated homestays are non-negotiable.
  • Ask monks before photographing rituals — some inner sanctum ceremonies are off-limits.

FAQs

Can I attend Losar in Spiti?

Yes but only via the Kinnaur route — Manali-Spiti road is closed in February. Plan a 5-6 day trip from Shimla.

Is Losar the same as Diwali?

No. Losar is Tibetan Buddhist New Year — a distinct religious and cultural festival with Cham dances, not lamps or firecrackers.