Namchi Mahotsav for tourists from November 2 in Sikkim

Namchi,October30: Namchi is all set to host the annual Namchi Mahotsav from November 2nd,2009 .The three days tourist festival will take place at Bhaichung Stadium of Namchi.

Namchi, district headquarters of South Sikkim is the destination for thousands of tourists who come here in October each year for the annual Namchi Mahotsav, a unique festival showcasing the traditional culture of Sikkim.

Stalls of ethnic handloom and handicrafts are put up along with traditional houses of the three indigenous communities. Marriage rituals of the three are also enacted for the benefit of tourists. Food is the big draw at the Mahotsav with stalls serving authentic ethnic food of ten communities. Open air day programmes are held at the town square over the five afternoons with artists from the state and outside entertaining the audience with special performances. Evening programmes include fashion shows, music and dances.
This year,'Kutumba' a music band from Nepal which is purely based on instrumental will perform along with the local bands and artists.The Mahotsav will also feature performance of Darjeeling carnival with participations of locals as well. According to the organisers, Sikkim Heli Service will be roped in for the interested persons to have an aerial view of Samdruptse and Solophok from November 1 to 5. Rupees 1000/- per head will be charged for the same,it is informed.The arrangement for the heli-service from Gangtok to Bagdogra and back via Namchi will fly on these five days. Interestingly, 'Kite-Show' will also be held at Assangthang Helipad from 8.30am on November 3.The flower show especially on Chrysanthemum will be integral  part of the Namchi Mahotsav.The organisers also inormed that Lingey Ping will be additional attractive.