Mani Rimdu was brought to the Khumbu from Rongbuk Monastery in Tibet, on the north side of Everest, and is performed at three Sherpa monasteries: Tengboche in autumn, Thame in spring and Chiwong in the lower Solu. The ceremony begins privately with the monks building a sand mandala and chanting for many days. Rimdu refers to small red pills of blessed medicine that are distributed to the public, and Mani to the mantra of Chenrezig, om mani padme hum, recited thousands of times over them.
The public part lasts about three days. On the first, the Wang or empowerment, the head lama blesses the crowd with long-life pills and water. On the second, monks in elaborate silk costumes and painted masks perform the Chham dances, each representing a deity or character, including wrathful protectors who subdue demons, and comic figures who make the audience laugh. On the third, a fire puja burns offerings to dispel harm, and the sand mandala is dismantled.
For trekkers, Mani Rimdu is the best chance to see Sherpa religious life at full scale. Families walk for days from Namche, Khumjung, Pangboche and Phortse in their best clothes, and the courtyard and surrounding slopes fill with spectators. Lodges at Tengboche and Deboche book out early. The festival usually falls around the full moon of the ninth Tibetan month, which lands in October or November; check current status of exact dates before you travel.
Tips
- Book Tengboche or Deboche lodges months ahead, or plan to walk up from Pangboche or Phortse for the day.
- Arrive in the courtyard early to find a place to sit, and bring a warm jacket and cushion for long sessions on stone.
- Do not use flash, block monks' paths or step into the dance area; ask before photographing individuals.
Questions travellers ask
When is Mani Rimdu at Tengboche?
Mani Rimdu at Tengboche is held in October or November, usually around the full moon of the ninth month of the Tibetan lunar calendar. The public dances run over about three days. Exact dates change every year, so check current status before you book your trek.
Can tourists watch Mani Rimdu?
Yes. Visitors are welcome to watch the public days in the monastery courtyard. Dress warmly, sit where locals indicate, keep voices low during prayers and avoid flash photography. A donation to the monastery is appreciated.
Which EBC trek dates include Mani Rimdu?
Plan your trek so you are at Tengboche on the dance day, usually the second public day. On a standard itinerary that means leaving Kathmandu about four to five days earlier. We adjust departure dates each year once the monastery announces the schedule.
Is Mani Rimdu held anywhere else?
Yes. Thame Monastery holds Mani Rimdu in spring, usually in May, and Chiwong Monastery in the Solu region holds it around October or November. Tengboche's autumn festival is the best known and easiest to combine with an Everest trek.
