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As the warmth of summer envelops India, June brings a plethora of vibrant festivals and cultural events, each offering a unique glimpse into the country's rich traditions and communal celebrations. This month is perfect for exploring India's diverse heritage, spirituality, and festivities. Let's delve into three captivating events happening this June and discover how you can experience them through meticulously planned itineraries.

The Hemis Festival, held annually in the serene Hemis Monastery, is one of Ladakh's most significant and colourful events. It celebrates the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava, revered as the second Buddha and the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. This two-day festival is a vibrant blend of spirituality, culture, and community.

Celebrations: The festival features elaborate mask dances known as Cham, performed by monks in traditional attire. These dances, accompanied by the sounds of cymbals, drums, and long horns, depict the triumph of good over evil. The courtyard of the Hemis Monastery becomes a riot of colours and sounds, with locals and tourists gathering to witness this spectacular event.

Cultural Influence: The Hemis Festival is deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism and showcases the region's rich cultural heritage. The dances and rituals performed are spiritual in nature and serve to preserve and transmit traditional Buddhist teachings and values.

The best time to enjoy the Hemis Festival is in June. It usually happens on the 10th day of the Tibetan lunar month, which is like June in our calendar. People gather at Hemis Monastery for the festival. Apart from this, June usually has nice weather, perfect for exploring the area and joining in the festivities. This is the best time for travellers to interact with locals and to learn about the culture of the Ladakh.

Join us to embark on a journey of mindfulness and well-being with our specially curated yoga-themed travel experiences. This day is not just about practising yoga, but also about embracing its essence in some of the most tranquil and breathtaking locations around the globe. International Yoga Day is a reminder of the ancient Indian practice that promotes physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. It celebrates harmony between mind and body and encourages holistic living.

Celebrations: Thousands of yoga enthusiasts from around the world gather in Rishikesh to participate in mass yoga sessions, guided meditations, and wellness workshops. The day's events often include discourses by renowned yoga gurus, musical performances, and a focus on yoga's holistic benefits.

Cultural Influence: Yoga, originating in ancient India, is a significant part of the country's cultural and spiritual heritage. With its numerous ashrams and yoga centers, Rishikesh has long been a hub for spiritual seekers and practitioners of yoga. The celebration of International Yoga Day here highlights India's role in promoting global health and wellness through yoga.

The Champakulam Moolam Boat Race is one of Kerala's oldest and most popular snake boat races, marking the beginning of the boat race season in the state. The event commemorates the installation of the idol of Lord Krishna in the Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple, making it a significant cultural and religious occasion.

Celebrations: The tranquil backwaters of Alleppey come alive with the rhythmic rowing of rowers, traditional songs, and enthusiastic cheers of spectators. The long snake boats, known as Chundan Vallams, compete fiercely, showcasing the spirit of teamwork and Kerala's traditional maritime heritage.

Cultural Influence: The Champakulam Boat Race is a testament to Kerala's rich maritime history and communal harmony. The boat races display physical prowess and a celebration of Kerala's vibrant culture and the enduring legacy of its ancient waterway traditions.

Nestled on India’s southwest coast, Kerala is renowned for its fertile tea plantations, spice gardens, palm-lined beaches, Ayurveda and intricate network of backwaters. These canals are the stage for the state’s exhilarating summer boat contests. Plan to visit Kerala next year in June / July, and you might witness the thrilling snake boat races on the Pampa River in Champakulam village, an event that kicks off the racing season.

June is a spectacular month to delve into India's rich Festive Traditions, whether one opts for the high-altitude festivities of Ladakh, the serene yoga sessions in Rishikesh, or the exhilarating boat races in Kerala. June is also considered off-shoulder season, resulting in less crowds with fewer tourists and lower travel costs, making it budget-friendly too!

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