Why You Must Experience the Hemis Festival at Least Once

Most people dream about a Leh Ladakh trip for the stunning mountains and calm monasteries. But trust me, if you really want to see Ladakh at its happiest, plan your trip during the Hemis Festival. I went once, and I still smile when I think about it.

Let me tell you why this festival should be on your travel list — even if you’re not the festival type.

Where and When is Hemis Festival Celebrated?

The Hemis Festival is held at Hemis Monastery, about 40–45 km from Leh town in June or July. The drive is beautiful with cold winds, prayer flags on the roads, and random yaks crossing now and then.

I remember my cab driver stopping near a hill and saying, “Take a photo here, you won’t regret it.” He was right. Even before you reach Hemis, the road feels like a dream.

What Makes Hemis Festival So Special?

Okay, imagine this: monks wearing huge, colourful masks that look scary but also kind of funny, dancing slowly in circles while drums and horns echo through the mountains. That’s the heart of the Hemis Festival.

I stood there for hours, completely lost. A little Ladakhi kid next to me explained, “They are fighting evil spirits!” He was munching on dry apricots, and I shared my chocolate with him. We both watched the dances like it was the best superhero movie ever.

A Place Where Strangers Feel Like Family

During Hemis, the usually quiet monastery courtyard turns into a mini village fair. Families arrive in their best clothes. Old ladies sell momos and butter tea. Tourists, monks, kids, everyone mixes like old friends.

I sat with a local family on the monastery steps. We didn’t understand each other’s language well, but we laughed when a monk dropped his mask mid-dance. Moments like these make you feel connected, even when you’re far from home.

Find Out About: How to Reach Leh Ladakh by Road, Train and Flight

Bring Your Camera, But Also Experience

Sure, Hemis Festival is a treat for photos. Bright silk robes, spinning dances, old monastery walls  every shot is Instagram worthy. But my advice? Click some photos, then just put the camera away and watch.

I did that. And I swear, hearing the wind, the drums, and seeing the dances live — no camera can capture that feeling.

Perfect Stop on a Leh Ladakh Motorbike Tour

Many bikers plan their Leh Ladakh motorbike tour around Hemis Festival time. It makes sense, the roads are mostly clear in June–July, and the festival is like the cherry on top of an adventurous ride.

If you love riding through mountain roads, this festival adds a beautiful pause to your biking story.

My Handy Tips If You Go

• Plan Ahead: Hotels in Leh get full quickly during the festival. Book at least two months in advance.

• Take It Easy: Leh is high up. Rest for a day or two when you reach so you don’t feel sick.

• Dress Warm: Days are sunny but mornings and evenings can get really cold, even in June.

• Be Polite: Locals are friendly, but always ask before taking close-up photos of them.

  
  

Is Hemis Festival Really Worth the Hype?

Definitely! Leh Ladakh tour  can be done anytime but specifically during the Hemis Festival, it comes alive in a way that is hard to describe but you don't just see it, you feel it. The dances, the music, the smiles, the unexpected chats with locals, will be something that you will be reminiscing for years.

So, what do you think? Is Hemis Festival going on your bucket list now? Or have you already been there? I’d love to hear your story.