Ladakh Part III: Lamayura Monastery Mask Festival

Lamayura Monastery: 1100 years old

 

After a day to rest in Leh we set off again on another road trip to a yearly mask dance festival at the Lamayura Monastery. The drive took us through the Indus Valley along the Indus River. Breath taking! About five hours later we were in another world of sacred Tibetan Buddhist celebrations.

We rented a room in a "hotel" that was actually aatached to the monastery. Our room opened up onto a terrace that had a private viewing of all the dancing, and a few visiting young monks. Two older monks lived in huts right next to our room and we could hear them chanting and praying early in the mornings!

Young monk on a terrace



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For the next two days we observed these most sacred dancers dressed in monastic silk robes and wearing masks that are only taken out once a year. The masks represent guardian divinities, while the swords and instruments symbolize the elimination of ignorance. The drums drive the demons away.

 

Local villagers

 

 

Besides the honor of observing this yearly festival, I especially enjoyed sitting amongst the local people who came devotedly each day for the entire celebration. Most spun hand-held prayer wheels and turned their prayer beads in their hands while whispering mantras. They are beautiful and dignified people.

 

 

 

Even though it was a very warm and sunny day, most of the local people wore layers of wool clothing and hats.

 

 

 

 

I was deeply touched by the devotion and spirituality of the people. I tried hard to be discreet with my picture taking, and usually always asked first if I could take a photo. There were several professional photographers present sticking their zooming lenses in people's faces. This time I shot from far away.

 

 

Dungchen horns

 

Dungchen horns are huge trumpet-like horns that are usually played in pairs at ceremonies. Their sound has been compared to the wailing of elephants. While we stayed at the monastery, we could hear the horns being played late into the evenings from rooftops.

 

Monk on a cell phone

 



I was always amazed when I saw the younger monks using their cell phones or expensive cameras. Someone explained to me that family members purchase such items to better stay in touch. Seemed uncanny that there even was cell phone capability in these remote areas.

 

Over 300 prayer wheels

 

Valley below Lamayura Monastery

 

Once again, I hated to leave. Decided to take a leisurely trip back to Leh and visit three more monasteries on the way. But really, I just wanted to head into the hills for awhile!