Tendong Lho Rum Faat is one of the oldest and most important festivals celebrated in Sikkim, especially by the Lepcha tribe. It is a three-day Sikkim festival that begins with prayers to Mount Tendong in Namchi in South Sikkim. As per the Lepcha mythology, it was believed that the entire tribe was saved from 40 days and 40 nights of great deluge caused by continuous rain, which drowned the entire Mayel Lyang, the modern-day Sikkim. Therefore, this festival of Sikkim is counted as one of the fascinating events that give a unique celebration vibe. You can enjoy this festival of Sikkim through our tour packages.
History of Tendong Lho Rum Faat Festival
This Tendong Hill is derived from the Lepcha dialect, which translates to “the hill of the raised horn.” As per the Lepcha mythology, at the time of creation, Tendong Hill had risen from the horns of a deity so that during the great flood, the Lepchas were saved.
The historical background of this festival is like this. During the time of creation, the Himalayan range was forming. An excellent volcano eruption (it is believed that Tendong is a dormant volcano) destroyed and damaged Naho and Nather Pokh, the sources of the Teesta and Rangeet rivers, and continuous rain followed.
This destruction of the dam led to water flowing down, and the rain led to a great deluge, and the destruction of the Lepcha tribe was imminent. However, as the lower region started to flood, causing loss of life and property, the horn rose miraculously. The tribe members started to ascend the Tendong Hill, which became their only chance for survival.
The Lepcha tribe still celebrates this occasion to commemorate the almighty who saved their ancestors and pay respect to the hill.
The Tendong Lho Rum Faat Celebrations
During the festivities, people make a model of the Mountain on the facade of their homes and worship it. It is exclusively made of nine stones, and the people dance and sing wearing a mask to get the blessings of the almighty.
It is believed that the good wishes of the Lord are indispensable for keeping them wealthy and healthy. A fiesta is celebrated across Sikkim on a grand scale every year, usually in August. It commemorates the ascension of the ancestors of the Lepcha tribe and pays reverence to the creator for saving them. By creating “The Hill of the Raised Horn.”
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When is Tendong Lho Rum Faat Celebrated:
Celebrations observed over a span of 3 days are usually held in the 3rd Lunar Month, i.e., in July- August every year.
Where is Tendong Lho Rum Faat Celebrated:
The festival is celebrated across Sikkim, but the grand festivities are held at Tendong Hill in Namchi. Namchi is the administrative capital of South Sikkim.
Trek to Tendong Hill
Tendong Hill is located in Namchi, the capital of South Sikkim. Namchi is gaining the attention of trekkers and pilgrims due to the local legends and Buddhist centers nearby. The starting point of the trek to Tendong Hill is from Damthang, located 13 kilometers away from Ravangla. The trekking route to the top of the hill is 6 kilometers stretch of dense forest replete with various species of birds. Mammals such as Red Panda, Himalayan Bears, and Leopards also reside in these areas. In addition, a small monastery and a watchtower located on the top of Tendong Hill hold great cultural significance for the Lepcha tribe.
