I suppose my trip to the Manaslu Circuit in autumn 2022 was meant to be more than just trekking through cultural and natural gems. It turned out to be a doorway into the hidden customs and centuries-old traditions of the Tibetan communities, who have preserved their way of life high in these Himalayan valleys.

That year, I was beyond thrilled to be joining a group trek with my friends—an adventure we’d been planning for months. We landed in Kathmandu in September, greeted by Nepal’s vibrant energy and our friendly local guide, who met us with a warm smile and helped us settle into our hotel in the buzzing heart of Thamel.

Two days later, our journey began. I had expected solitude, steep ascents, high passes, and that crisp sense of clarity that only altitude can give you. I expected the aching calves, starlit skies, and the slow burn of yak butter tea in chilly mountain air.

But what truly shaped my experience was stumbling into Kumje—a festival bursting with celebration, music, laughter, and ancient rituals. Kumje wasn’t on my itinerary, but it cracked something open—something soft and curious. That was the moment I began to really see the Manaslu region—not just as a dramatic landscape of glaciers and ridgelines, but as a living, breathing celebration of heritage and resilience.

So let me take you through my journey—a journey not just over mountain trails, but through the heart of the Manaslu region’s vibrant festival season.

The Unexpected Invitation: Stumbling Into Kumje

In the autumn of 2022, my friends and I set out on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, excited for the mountains, fresh air, and quiet trails. But what I didn’t see coming was something even more special—being part of a local celebration that felt like stepping into a different world.

One day, as we reached a village, we walked right into Kumje—a harvest festival I hadn’t heard of before. The whole place was alive. Music echoed through the air, drums were beating, and people danced in colourful clothes, smiling and laughing as one big family.

We didn’t plan for it, but we joined right in. We ate homemade food, sat around watching the dances, and chatted with the locals. Even though we were strangers, they welcomed us with warm hearts. It was a moment of joy, connection, and thankfulness.

What Is Kumje?

From what I have found, Kumje is a traditional harvest festival celebrated by Tibetan Buddhist communities along the Manaslu Circuit in the autumn season, typically between late September and early October, depending on the local calendar and the timing of the harvest.

The primary purpose of the festival is to give thanks to the gods for a successful harvest, to celebrate the hard work of the farming season, and to bring happiness to farmers for their efforts. The festivals are mainly celebrated in the mid-Manaslu region villages, such as Prok, Lho, and Samagaon, where agriculture remains a vital part of life.

The people gather to honor the land, maintain community bonds and preserve cultural identity. After months of planting and harvesting crops like barley, buckwheat, and potatoes, Kumje gives an opportunity for people to pause, reflect, and appreciate the season’s yield. It’s a moment of rest, recognition, and renewal.

Aside from that, the festival also carries spiritual meaning as the lamas of Tibetan monasteries lead prayers and chants to bless the fields and the village for future prosperity.

Traditions and Celebrations

Kumje is known for:

• Feasting: Families cook traditional dishes with the fresh crops they’ve just harvested. Everyone comes together to share meals, usually in the village square or near the monastery.
  
   
• Sharing food: People often exchange food and drinks with neighbors and visitors, showing kindness and sharing the harvest.
  
   
• Music and dance: Traditional Tibetan instruments, such as drums and horns, are played. The villagers dance in circles, wearing bright, colorful clothes.
  
   
• Community gathering: Everyone in the village, from children to elders, joins in the celebrations. There’s a lot of storytelling, laughing, and a strong feeling of togetherness.

Oral History & Stories

For the locals, Kumje is a time to reconnect with each other and with the land. The elders in Prok village told us that the festival has been celebrated for many years, long before tourists or roads arrived. It’s a way to stay connected to their roots, feel thankful, and keep a sense of balance.

Some say the name “Kumje” means “gathering after the harvest.” Although there is no official record, it is passed down through stories that the festival originated from the community’s strong bond with the land, which can be tough but also gives back.

Curiosity Awakened: Learning About Other Festivals

After the amazing experience I had at the Kumje festival, my curiosity grew, and I wanted to learn more about other festivals celebrated in the region. I soon found out there were many more special celebrations that reflect the rich culture of the Manaslu area. Here are a few others I learned about:

Dumche

A festival where people honor their traditions through dances, music, and prayers. It's a time for the community to come together and celebrate their culture.

Mani Chang

A special prayer ceremony where locals spin prayer wheels. This peaceful ritual is meant to bring blessings and good fortune to the community.

Dha Chang

A joyful celebration where the people gather to give thanks for the harvest. It involves dancing and sharing food as a way of expressing gratitude.

Dupchen

A religious festival where locals make offerings and pray for good fortune in the upcoming year.

Chokor

A festival marking the first teachings of Buddha. People gather to pray and reflect on his wisdom during this meaningful occasion.

Gyalpo Losar

The Tibetan New Year is celebrated with feasts, music, and dances to welcome the start of a new year filled with hope and prosperity.

To wrap up, My time in the Manaslu region was unforgettable, especially because of the amazing festivals. They were a beautiful way for the people to celebrate their culture, their land, and each other. From the lively Kumje to the peaceful Mani Chang, each festival was a new adventure.

If you want to experience these festivals and explore the beauty of the Manaslu region, check out Nepal Vision Treks. They offer great trekking experiences that let you enjoy the stunning landscapes and local culture.

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