Korzok Gustor is a significant annual festival held in the enchanting region of Ladakh, India. The festival is celebrated at the Korzok Monastery, which is the highest permanent settlement in the entire country, situated on the banks of the breathtaking Tso Moriri Lake.
When does it happen?
The festival usually takes place in the month of July or August, depending on the Tibetan lunar calendar. During the event, the monastery comes alive with vibrant colors, religious ceremonies, and cultural performances that attract both locals and tourists alike.
In 2024, Korzok Gustor is happening on July 9th and 10th, and you can experience Buddhist traditional rituals up close and understand the heritage by witnessing the celebrations of this festival.
Highlights of the festival:
At the Korzok Gustor Festival, visitors are treated to captivating performances, including The Black Hat Dance, a mesmerizing masked dance believed to dispel evil forces from the world.
Another enchanting sight is the Sacred Masked Dance, where Lamas perform in stunning costumes to portray the guardian divinities of Buddhism, narrating tales of good prevailing over evil. This enthralling dance is famously known as the Cham Dance.
In case you plan to attend the festival, you will also have the opportunity to witness the exquisite old Tibetan Thangka paintings, which beautifully depict stories and tales of Tibetan Buddhists. These ancient artworks provide a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Apart from the religious and cultural activities, the festival also features a colorful market where local artisans and traders display their handicrafts, textiles, and other traditional items for sale.
How to reach?
By Air: The nearest airport to Tsomoriri is the Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh, Ladakh. From Leh, you can hire a taxi or join a guided tour to Tsomoriri.
By Road: Tsomoriri is approximately 240 kilometers away from Leh, and the journey takes around 6-8 hours by road. You can hire a taxi or take a shared cab from Leh to Tsomoriri. The route offers breathtaking views of the picturesque landscape.
Others important things that you must know:
Travel Permit: Before heading to Tsomoriri, keep in mind that Ladakh is a protected region, and travelers need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit certain areas, including Korzok.
High Altitude: Tsomoriri is situated at a high altitude of around 4,595 meters (15,075 feet). Be prepared for the effects of high altitude, such as altitude sickness. It's essential to acclimatize properly and stay hydrated during your journey.
I've never been to Ladakh, but if I get a chance, I'd surely attend this festival, which offers a rare opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh while experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the region. It is truly a celebration that leaves a lasting impression on anyone fortunate enough to be a part of it.
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