Leh: The first-ever Shaam Festival 2025 concluded on a high note after two enriching days of cultural celebration, heritage exploration, and community bonding across the picturesque villages of Tia and Tingmosgang in the Sham region of Ladakh.
Day two offered a deep dive into Ladakh’s spiritual and cultural heritage. The day began in Tia village with a serene prayer session and guided meditation at the towering 97-ft statue of Jambeyang (Manjushree) — the tallest of its kind. This was followed by the Tongtum Heritage Walk, where visitors explored ancient Ladakhi homes such as Shingkan, Kachepa, and Changri houses. Locals welcomed guests with traditional food, oral storytelling, and glimpses of Ladakhi life within these ancestral homes. A cultural gathering at Morzing, the heart of Tongtum, and a traditional archery demonstration added vibrancy to the morning.
In the afternoon, celebrations shifted to Tingmosgang, known for its historical significance. Tourists were guided through the Tingmosgang Palace, introduced to the historic Tingmosgang Treaty, and visited the ancient Chudong well. A re-enactment of Losar, the Ladakhi New Year, took place at Tseskarmo Monastery, followed by captivating cultural performances like the Skin Dance, Karokpa Dance, and Horse Dance. Handicraft stalls, handloom displays, and traditional food booths created a lively atmosphere in the orchard area near the monastery.
Executive Councillor Shri Ghulam Mehdi, Councillor Shri Tashi Tundup, Chief Planning Officer Tashi Gyalson, and Assistant Director of Tourism Padma Angmo graced the occasion. In their addresses, the dignitaries appreciated the efforts of local communities and stressed the importance of preserving Ladakh’s rural heritage while promoting inclusive and sustainable tourism.
Shri Mehdi emphasized the need to reconnect youth with their cultural roots, while Shri Tundup highlighted the vision of making Sham a heritage tourism destination. Local leader Shri Tsewang Dorjey, Nambardar of Tingmosgang, urged travel agencies to promote the Sham region and appealed for greater administrative support to amplify the village’s unique offerings.
The Shaam Festival 2025 proved to be a vibrant expression of unity through culture, bridging generations and drawing attention to Ladakh’s rich legacy of art, tradition, and community strength.
