Pang Lhabsol: Sikkim’s National Ritual of the Land and its Guardian Deities

Synopsis

Pang Lhabsol, Sikkim’s most important indigenous celebration, consists of a series of rituals and monastic dances held in honour of Dzonga, a mountain deity residing on Mt. Khangchendzonga, the world’s third highest peak. Considered the true custodian of the land, its people and natural resources, Dzonga is also held as the defender of Buddhism and of the land’s peace and prosperity. For over three centuries, Pang Lhabsol has been held annually at the end of the monsoon by the Lamas of Pemayangtse Monastery and several others throughout Sikkim.