Saga Dawa: Sikkim's Sacred Buddhist Festival
The journal
Festivals · 4 min read · May 2026

Saga Dawa: Sikkim's Sacred Buddhist Festival

Saga Dawa is the most sacred festival in Sikkim's Buddhist calendar, commemorating the birth, enlightenment and passing of the Buddha.

The celebrations

Monks and devotees carry holy scriptures in colourful processions through Gangtok, and monasteries fill with prayer, butter lamps and offerings.

When and where

It falls on the full moon of the fourth Tibetan month, usually May or June; Gangtok and major gompas are the best places to witness it.

  • Timing: May/June (full moon)
  • Scripture processions in Gangtok
  • A serene, spiritual atmosphere
  • Respectful dress appreciated

We can align a Sikkim tour with Saga Dawa — ask about net rates for these dates.

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Frequently asked questions