Sikkim marks Pang Lhabsol festival honouring Mount Khangchendzonga

The Royal Palace compound in Gangtok became the centre of Sikkim’s cultural and spiritual life as Pang Lhabsol was observed at the historic Tsuklakhang monastery.

 

The event drew Governor Lakshman Prakash Mathur, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, Denjong Prince Palden Namgyal Jigme Wangchuk, cabinet ministers, and hundreds of devotees.

 

Recognised as one of Sikkim’s most important festivals, Pang Lhabsol is unique to the state and marks the consecration of Mount Khangchendzonga as the guardian deity of Sikkim.

 

The celebration, held annually on the fifteenth day of the seventh month of the Tibetan calendar, also recalls the oath of brotherhood between the Lepcha and Bhutia communities at Kabi Longchok, with the sacred mountain as witness.

 

The festival was institutionalised by the third Chogyal of Sikkim, Chagdor Namgyal, who introduced the warrior dance known as Pang Toed. The performance symbolises Mount Khangchendzonga as a warrior god and remains the highlight of the rituals.

 

Beyond its religious significance, Pang Lhabsol serves as a reminder of unity, peace, and communal harmony in the state. People across Sikkim join in prayer ceremonies and rituals, reaffirming their reverence for the mountain believed to safeguard the land.

 

Acknowledging its cultural and historical importance, the state government has declared Pang Lhabsol a public holiday in Sikkim.