Phang Lhabsol

In Sikkim, Phang Lhabsol is among the most important festivals celebrated by the Buddhists. Phang Lhabsol in Sikkim is celebrated by the Chakdor Namgyal, the third Chogyal of Sikkim. During the Phang Lhabsol at Sikkim, the snowy ranges of Kanchenjunga is worshiped.

In Sikkim, Phang Lhabsol is a form of the nature worship of the Buddhists in Sikkim. During Phang Lhabsol, the Buddhists at Sikkim join hands to worship the majestic ranges of Kanchenjunga is worshiped by the Buddhists.

The Phang Lhabsol of Sikkim, which is celebrated on the 15th day of the 7th month of the Tibetan calendar, also celebrates the spirit of brotherhood among the Buddhists in Sikkim, especially between the Lepchas and Bhutias. The Khye Bumsa and Tetong Tek in Sikkim celebrates the kinship of the Lepchas and the Bhutias during this festival: the ceremony is marked with the invocation of the tutelary Gods of Sikkim.

During Phang Lhabsol, the tutelary deities of Sikkim are summoned by the Sikkimese to bear witness of the event ('phang' in Sikkimese means 'witness'). The Lamas portray the tutelary deities: Lamas dance as red-faced deities wearing a crown made of five skulls. Moreover, to add to the revelry of the occasion, jesters known as 'Atchars' play antics.

It is noteworthy in this context that the third Chogyals of Sikkim, Chakdor Namgyal is known to have choreographed the dance steps of the Pang-Toed dance which is performed by the monks on this pious occasion.