Buddha Purnima

Buddha Purnima or popularly known as Buddha Jayanti is one of the chief festivals of the Buddhists. It is believed that on this day Lord Buddha attained enlightenment and ultimately salvation. It is even supposed that Gautam's wife, his charioteer and his horse were born on this day, making it more auspicious. To mark the occasion, followers wear white, keep fasts and pray solemnly.

Hemis Gompa

Hemis Gompa is a festival celebrated with great jubilance amongst the Buddhists. The festival marks the birth anniversary of Guru Rinpoche who is the spiritual head of the Drupka Kargyud lineage and chief of the Hemis Monastery. He is also supposed to be the reincarnation of Lord Buddha. The traditional music, colorful dance performances and jolly crowd forms the imperative part of the celebrations.

Losar

Losar, a major Buddhist festival symbolizes purification and welcoming the new. It is a three day festival, celebrated to commemorate the advent of New Year. The origin of this festival can be traced back to the pre-Buddhist period in Tibet, where the people offered valuables to please the Lords. Today, the festival is about merry-making, solving quarrels, exchanging gifts and starting a life afresh.

Mahavir Jayanti

Mahavir Jayanti is observed on the thirteenth day of the Chaitra month as per the Hindu calendar. The day is regarded very auspicious for the Buddhists as their great leader Vardhaman Mahavir, the twenty fourth Tirthankar was born. The day symbolizes adopting the path of nonviolence and spreading peace. The festival is not celebrated with any pomp and show but with silent prayers and peaceful processions.

Ullambana

Ullambana, a Sanskrit word meaning rescuing those who are hanging upside-down is a major festival of the Buddhists. It is supposed that on this day gates of hell open and the dead can meet their loved ones. The festival signifies performing good deeds in your life and adopting the path of truth. A famous legend of the Buddhist leader Mahamaudgalyayana saving his Mother is related with this festival. The day is celebrated by carrying out peaceful processions and giving charity.