Losoong/Namsoong in 2024

When is Losoong (Namsoong)?

Losoong (Namsoong) is a series of gazetted public holidays in the Indian state of Sikkim.

It begins on the first day of the10th month of Tibetan Lunar Calendar -  the new moon of the "Kurneet Lovo", according to Dungkit Karchu (Lepcha Calendar). This means it usually falls in December in the western calendar.

Traditions of Losoong (Namsoong)

Sonam Losoong (Farmers' Harvest) is a New Year celebration of the Sikkimese Bhutia. It is called Namsoong by the Lepchas. The festival marks the time when the farmers rejoice and celebrate their harvest. Although the festival is celebrated privately among family members and friends there is an air of festivity all around. The Black Hat dance takes place at this festival commemorating the victory of good over evil, with ‘chaams’ held in many monasteries two days prior to Losoong.

The festival of Lossong is celebrated with traditional gaiety and colour both by the Lepchas and Bhutias. On the occasion pujas are performed for peace and prosperity for the new year. Certain competitions are also held in traditional skills, such as archery and the merry-making will continue for days.

Kagyed dance (Monastic dance) precedes the Lossong festival.

Source: Government of Sikkim

Nyempo Guzom

Nyempo Guzom, which falls on the days after Lossong, is considered an inauspicious occasion.

Just after the Losoong ends, people in Sikkim will observe the Nyenpa Guzom, a traditional practice when people usually stay indoors and no good works or ventures are made during the period.

 The two days of the Nyenpa Guzom are considered inauspicious as it signifies the gathering of ''Nine Bad Omens'' of Buddhist culture.