Falling on the first ten days of July according to the Tibetan calendar, the Bathing Festival is locally known as "Gamariji". Since the festival lasts for a week it is also known as the Bathing Week that coincides with the appearance of planet Venus in the summer sky. It is believed that when the planet Venus appears, the water in the rivers is at its purest best and acquires medicinal properties that can cure every illness. So during this festival you can see the people of Tibet going to their local rivers and springs to take a dip in the water that is also said to increase longevity.
The mass bathing starts as soon as Venus is sighted in the sky and ends when it sets. During this period, the water in the rivers has a relatively high temperature and hence is suitable for bathing. Therefore there is very little chance of falling sick after a bathing session during the Bathing Week. Though the Bathing Week does not boast of any elaborate celebration, it is still an event that draws thousands of Tibetans who indulge in this yearly bathing ritual and pray for a healthy life for themselves and their friends.
To be a part of this unique event you just need to contact us at TSI Holidays and we will take of the rest of the proceedings.
