Yuru Kabgyat Festival Ladakh – Indianholiday

The Yuru Kabgyat is a two-day-long festival celebrated with tremendous zeal and enthusiasm at Lamayuru, located 127 kilometers from Leh. The Buddhists come from various countries like China, Japan, Tibet, and Korea and attend the Yuru Kabgyat festival at Leh. Moreover, numerous people from abroad attend this festival. It is a festival that is celebrated with tremendous pomp and enthusiasm. Colorfully dressed Buddhist Monks throng the Leh Valley and participate in the dance drama. You can enjoy this festival on your Ladakh vacation.  

History of the Yuru Kabgyat at Leh

Mask dances are part and parcel of the Buddhist festivals, especially the Mahayana tradition, which still exists in Bhutan. As part of the holy scripts, the masked dance of the Buddhists dates back to the 8th century when the Chham Dance was first performed. Participation by the monks at Lahul, Spiti, Ladakh, and Kinnaur made the masked dance drama a jolly experience. The main objective behind this masked dance-drama is to appease the deity. It is also performed to drive off the evil spirits, protect the people from the deadly natural calamities and epidemics, and ensure health and hygiene.

Description of the Yuru Kabgyat at Leh

The Yuru Kabgyat dance consists of Chhams in which the Lamas dance in the form of circles with large colorful masks. This circular movement is often accompanied by drum beats, long pipes, and cymbals. The masks are usually made from paper mache, and there is also a thin coat of plaster enveloping it.

The main figures portrayed are the Yama, or the Lord of Death, and Padmasambhava or the second Buddha is known to be the God of Wealth. He is regarded as a protector of horses and animals, including the human race. At Lamayuru in Leh, this dance is a renowned dance drama that is held every year during the Yuru Kabgyat festival (held around July –August.) This dance drama concludes with sacrificial offerings.

Time for the celebration of Yuru Kabgyat at Leh

The Yuru Kabgyat Festival is usually held in July-August. You can attend this festival while enjoying your Ladakh tour. Plan your holiday through our Ladakh tour packages to get an incredible traveling experience.