LAPTSE

A Laptse is a feast for the senses, galloping horses, prayer flags, and the heavy smoke of juniper offerings. It is one dominated by the neighing of horses, and the shouts of “Lha Gyalo '' that pierce the air, emanating from the mouths of a hundred horse riders. 

Tibetans believe their hills and sacred areas are inhabited by spirits, sometimes referred to as ‘gods’, worldly creatures, who, when Buddhism came to Tibet centuries ago, turned to protect the new Faith. The highest mountain in Ritoma is inhabited by the deity Amnye Tongra, considered a powerful friend, one who protects the realm that the humans live in. By cheering to the gods with the cry of “Lha Gyalo” (May the Gods Win!) the men representing local clans and families call on the spirits to use their power against evil, protect them and bring on  luck. They insure their devotion by offering them incense and mark their allegiance by planting clan arrows into the conical structure that dominated the Laptse area.

Videos taken at Laptse in Ritoma