Shey Ribo Drukta (Shey Crystal Moutain ) is located at an altitude of 4770m from sea level. It is two camps away from the famous Phoksundo Lake (https://exploredolpotrekking.com/trips/phoksundo-teahouse-trek-11-days/. It is one of the holiest places in the Dolpo region. Dolpo is a land of Buddhism and the Bon religion. Religion plays a vital role in the daily lives of Dolpopas. Every village has numerous pilgrimages. Dho- Tarap has Nya Sampa (New Pilgrimage). Similarly, Tinkyu ( Tinje village) has Kula Nya.
Every 12 years of the Tibetan calendar a ceremony is held at Shey. It has been practiced for centuries. It has been a ritual of the Dolpo people. Along with the time now, it is celebrated more as a festival than a ritual. The Tibetan calendar represents 12 years by 12 different animals. Mouse, Bull, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Monkey, Bird, Dog and, Pig. Every year has its specific pilgrims. For example, Boudhanath Stupa is done in the year of Bird. Mt. Kailash in the year of Horse. And Crystal Mountain in the year of Dragon.
The last festival was held in September 2012 year of Dragon. This time it will be held in 2024 after 12 years. It is a very auspicious festival where all the Dolpopas gather at an auspicious place at an auspicious time. At this auspicious festival, almost all Dolpopas do their best to attend this auspicious festival. Every year this festival gets more attention due to its uniqueness and authenticity. Now tourist people around the world are waiting for the festivals.
The festival starts on the 1st of September in 2024. 1st September is the opening ceremony and different renowned Lama and Rinpoches will deliver many pujas and blessing speeches. There will be dance, singing, and, drama performances from the different schools of Upper Dolpo. On the 1st there will be a performance of villagers, games, archery and many more.
Similarly, the 2nd new moon is the main and most auspicious day. On this particular, the people make rounds (Kora) to Crystal Mountain with packed lunch. It will take a whole day to make a round to Crystal Mountain. Some people prefer to make a round barefoot. In Buddhism, there is a belief that doing Kora barefoot will wash your sins.
Tsankang Gompa, located in the Dolpa district of Nepal, is a remarkable Buddhist monastery that holds great cultural and spiritual significance. Situated at an elevation of approximately 4500 meters (14,763 feet) in the remote and picturesque Dolpa region, Tsankang Gompa stands as a testament to the rich heritage and religious devotion of the local community.
Gompa is one of the prominent monasteries in Dolpa. The monastery is perched on a rock hill, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, including the mighty Dhaulagiri range and Crystal Mountain. Its strategic location provides a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for meditation and contemplation.
The architecture of Tsankang Gompa reflects the traditional Tibetan Buddhist style. The monastery consists of a prayer hall, and meditation, adorned with colorful murals, intricate wood carvings, and sacred Buddhist scriptures. The detailed artwork depicts Buddhist deities, enlightened beings, and important religious events, serving as a visual representation of Buddhist teachings.
Tsankang Gompa is not only a religious center but also a hub for cultural activities. It serves as a gathering place for the local community to celebrate festivals, conduct rituals, and engage in communal prayers. During special occasions, such as the Shey Festival. The monastery comes alive with vibrant ceremonies, masked dances, and religious processions, attracting devotees from far and wide.
Visiting Tsankang Gompa is a journey of exploration and spiritual immersion.
In recent years, Tsankang Gompa has gained attention from trekkers and adventure enthusiasts seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences. Trekking routes leading to the monastery offer breathtaking vistas of the Himalayas, serene lakes, and encounters with rare wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard.
 Explore Dolpo Trek has come up with five different itineraries for the Shey Festival 2024 considering clients’ different schedules and time frames. All four packages are of fixed departure and interested clients can customize and book private trips. We have different options you can choose based on your time frame and budget-wise.
Shey Festival With Inner Dolpo