Blog - Cultural Experiences
A Guide to Festivals in Bhutan
Festivals are a significant part of Bhutan's culture and are central to the living Buddhist faith in the kingdom. Most festivals, also known as 'tsechus', are of great religious significance and are mostly celebrated through music and ritual masked dances called 'chams'. Tsechus attract large numbers of Bhutanese people, dressed in their finery, as they believe by attending these special celebrations they gain religious merit as well as enjoying a fine social event. ... Read more
Sue Lawty's Colours of India
Gujarat in western India is renowned for its sumptuous, dazzling textiles. They are produced by intricate techniques that are deeply rooted within the traditions of local communities or ethnic groups. We explore this fascinating region in our Colours of India tour led by textiles expert Sue Lawty.... Read more
Ladakh Festivals - Hemis and Dak Thok
From the stunning mountainous landscape to the vibrant local culture, Ladakh is a truly memorable place, and a walking or trekking holiday or cultural tour is the ideal way to experience this beautiful corner of the Himalaya in depth.... Read more
An interview with April: Travelling the Silk Road
Our Flights Manager, April, travelled to Central Asia to join one of our groups in Uzbekistan on our Silk Road to Samarkand tour. Here’s what she had to say about her fascinating experience. ... Read more
An Introduction to Tibetan Buddhism
One of the joys of Everest Base Camp trekking is the chance to get to know Sherpa culture, their hospitality, traditions and – if you’re lucky enough to be making your trek at the right time of year – their festivals.... Read more
Prayer Wheels
Wherever you travel in the Himalayas – from the streets of Lhasa in Tibet to a Mera Peak trek in Nepal – you are likely to find prayer wheels in temples: barrel-shaped, sometimes brightly painted and other times plain metal,... Read more
Saga Dawa Festival on Tibet Holidays
Each year, thousands of Tibetan pilgrims attend the Saga Dawa Festival at Tarboche, which happened this year on 15 June. Commemorating the three most important anniversaries in Buddhism – the birth, enlightenment... Read more
Mani Stones
Across the Himalaya, whether on an Everest Base Camp trek, the Annapurna Circuit or elsewhere, visitors will undoubtedly encounter mani stones: large and small stones engraved with a short piece of writing in Tibetan, propped up against a large rock or forming an entire wall alongside part of the track. ... Read more
Bhutan National Day
Taking place each year on the same date every year, December 17th, Bhutan’s National Day commemorates the coronation of the first king of Bhutan, Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuk, in 1907. ... Read more
The Meaning of Prayer Flags in the Himalayas
As you trek through the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas, you’ll notice vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the wind. These colourful flags, strung along mountain ridges, peaks, and sacred places, add a vibrant splash of colour to the often stark and rugged terrain.... Read more
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