Experience the heartbeat of Sikkim’s Lepcha heritage through one of its most vibrant festivals called Namprikdang Naamsoong festival
When and Where Is It Held?
Location: Namprikdang Ground, Dzongu, Mangan District, Sikkim
2025 Dates: January 10–12
Usual Timing: Between November and January every year
Entry: Free and open to all visitors
The 2025 edition was spread across three vibrant days, from 10th to 12th January. Visitors gathered under clear winter skies to witness age-old customs, taste local delicacies, and celebrate nature’s bounty.
Cultural Significance and Rituals
At the core of Namsoong lies a spiritual world guided by Mun and Bongthing Padim, the traditional shamans or spiritual leaders of the Lepcha community. They perform intricate ceremonies to honor deities, the spirits of ancestors, and nature itself—central to the animistic beliefs of the tribe.
These rituals are not just performances but prayers for peace, harmony, and prosperity in the upcoming year. The Namprikdang ground, located near the confluence of the Rongyung and Teesta Rivers, becomes sacred during this period.
✨ Did You Know?
Lepchas believe Dzongu to be the Mayel Lyang, the “hidden paradise” gifted to them by their ancestors.
Traditional Attire and Dance
During the festival, locals adorn themselves in beautiful traditional Lepcha attire:
Men wear the thakraw, a knee-length robe.
Women don the dumvun, often handwoven from wild nettle fibers.
The celebration features colorful folk dances such as:
Zo-Mal-Lok – a harvest dance invoking prosperity
Chu-Faat – performed to honor sacred mountain peaks
These dances are accompanied by indigenous musical instruments like the tungbuk (bamboo flute) and yangjey (string instrument), filling the air with the unique rhythm of Lepcha folklore.
Stalls, Handicrafts & Local Products
One of the highlights of Namsoong is its array of handicraft stalls, showcasing:
Handmade woolen caps and bags
Traditional Lepcha swords and knives
Locally produced millet wine, grape wine, and rice beer
Organic Sikkimese teas and roasted coffee beans
There’s also a special hot drink made from coffee and alcohol mixed with almonds, pistachios, and cashews—perfect for warming up during the chilly festival nights.
Local Cuisine You Must Try
The food stalls bring together authentic flavors of Lepcha cuisine:
Millet momos
Pork and beef delicacies
Homemade fruit wines
Freshly brewed coffee sourced from Sikkim
Don’t miss out on trying the millet-based dishes, a staple of the Lepcha diet that’s both nutritious and flavorful.
Entertainment, Music & Family Fun
Namsoong 2025 saw electrifying performances by local bands and well-known Sikkimese singer Apurva Tamang, who captivated the crowd with his Lepcha songs.
There’s something for everyone:
Cultural competitions
Kids’ play zones
Local gambling games (a tradition here)
Evening jam sessions by the riverside
It’s a community gathering as much as a tourist event, blending fun, faith, and festivity.
Tips for Travelers
If you plan to visit the Namsoong Festival:
Book your stay early – accommodation in Mangan fills up fast.
Dress warm – temperatures dip below 10°C in January.
Bring cash – local vendors may not accept digital payments.
Be respectful – ask before taking photos of rituals or locals in traditional dress.
Photography Tips
Namsoong offers a rare opportunity for ethnographic photography:
Shoot during early mornings or golden hours for perfect lighting.
Use a 50mm or 85mm lens to capture portraits of people in traditional wear.
Focus on details—textures of clothing, the glow of fire rituals, the smoky cooking huts.
Final Thoughts
The Namprikdang Namsoong Festival is more than a cultural event—it’s a living tradition of the Lepcha people. Whether you’re a backpacker, a photographer, or a cultural enthusiast, this festival will leave you deeply moved and enriched.
If you’re exploring Sikkim beyond the usual tourist trail, mark this celebration on your calendar. It’s one of the few places in the world where ancient traditions, tribal rituals, and communal warmth come together in such a spectacular setting.