Sikkim, known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty, is home to a diverse population with distinct traditions. The traditional dresses of Sikkim reflect the unique identities of its three major communities—Bhutia, Lepcha, and Nepali.
These garments are not just clothing; they are symbols of history, culture, and craftsmanship. Whether it’s the versatile Bakhu worn by both men and women or the vibrant Pharia draped by Nepali women, each outfit tells a story of the region’s customs and values.
Traditional dresses play a crucial role in festivals, weddings, and daily life, blending comfort and artistry. This list of Sikkim’s top 10 traditional outfits captures the essence of its vibrant cultural landscape.
What is the Traditional Dress of Bhutia and Lepcha Tribes in Sikkim?
The Bakhu is the traditional attire for both men and women in the Bhutia and Lepcha tribes of Sikkim. This sleeveless, loose-fitting cloak is fastened at the neck and waist with a belt. Women usually pair the Bakhu with a full-sleeved silk blouse called honju, while men wear it with loose trousers.
The Tibetan chuba influences the garment’s design and suits Sikkim’s cold, mountainous climate.
The Bakhu is worn daily and during cultural festivals, ceremonies, and weddings. Its simple, functional design has stood the test of time, and modern variations often include pairing it with jeans or fitted shirts.
How Does the Pharia Differ From Other Traditional Dresses in Sikkim?
The Pharia is a traditional Nepali dress worn by women in Sikkim. It is similar to a sari, but with unique regional characteristics. Typically made from cotton or silk, the Pharia is wrapped around the body and paired with a blouse called chaubandi cholo.
Unlike the Bakhu, the Pharia is particularly vibrant. It features bright colors like red and yellow and is often adorned with floral patterns.
This outfit is worn during festivals, folk dances, and casual settings. The Pharia allows for easy movement and is commonly accessorized with shawls and scarves. It reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Nepali community, blending tradition with practicality.
What Role Does the Pangden Play in Sikkimese Tradition?
The Pangden is an apron worn by married women in Sikkim, especially those from the Bhutia and Lepcha communities. It symbolizes marital status and is usually worn over the Bakhu.
Woven from either cotton or silk, the Pangden features colorful, bold stripes and intricate patterns, making it an eye-catching element of traditional attire. This apron is symbolic and functional, adding layers of warmth and texture to the outfit.
Worn during festivals, weddings, and daily activities, the Pangden is an essential accessory that highlights a woman’s social status and pride in her cultural heritage.
What is the Significance of the Thokro-dum in Lepcha Culture?
The Thokro-Dum is the traditional dress for Lepcha men in Sikkim. It consists of calf-length white pajama-style trousers paired with a shirt called yenthatse, secured with a waistband. The outfit is completed with a traditional cap called sumok thyaktuk.
Designed for practicality, the Thokro-Dum is ideal for men working in the marshy fields of Sikkim. It reflects the deep connection between the Lepcha people and their land, symbolizing hard work, resilience, and cultural pride.
Worn during festivals and daily activities, the Thokro-Dum is an iconic representation of Lepcha traditions, preserving their unique identity over generations.
How Has Modernization Influenced Traditional Sikkimese Dresses?
While traditional attire like the Bakhu and Pharia are still worn in Sikkim, modernization has brought about significant changes. Traditional garments are often paired with contemporary pieces, such as jeans, fitted shirts, or modern belts.
The Salwar Kameez, originally from Northern India, has also gained popularity in Sikkim, particularly in urban areas. This fusion of modern and traditional elements reflects the evolving fashion landscape while still preserving cultural roots.
Festivals and ceremonies still honor traditional dress codes, but in everyday settings, these garments are now styled for comfort and practicality, blending heritage with contemporary trends.
What Are the Key Differences Between Men’s and Women’s Traditional Attire in Sikkim?
In Sikkim, traditional attire varies significantly between men and women. For instance, men from the Bhutia and Lepcha tribes wear the Bakhu paired with trousers, while women wear the same garment with a silk blouse (honju) and an apron (pangden for married women).
Nepali men wear the Daura Suruwal, a double-breasted shirt and loose trousers, while Nepali women wear the Pharia, a sari-like garment.
The designs for women tend to be more vibrant and colorful, often adorned with embroidery, while men’s outfits are more practical and muted. Both genders use their attire to express cultural identity, but the styles reflect different functional and symbolic roles in society.
Top 10 Sikkim Traditional Dress
1. Bakhu – A Unisex Cultural Staple
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The Bakhu is the most recognized traditional dress in Sikkim. It is worn by both men and women, predominantly from the Bhutia and Lepcha tribes.
This sleeveless cloak, resembling the Tibetan chuba, is fastened at the neck and waist. Women pair the Bakhu with a full-sleeved blouse (honu), while men often complement it with trousers. The Bakhu’s simplicity makes it a versatile outfit for both daily use and cultural celebrations.
Its woolen fabric is perfect for Sikkim’s cold climate, ensuring warmth and comfort. Although deeply rooted in tradition, modern adaptations include pairing the Bakhu with jeans, making it popular among younger generations.
Bakhu Traditional Dress Details
| Dress Aspect | Description |
| Traditional Costume Name | Bakhu (for both men and women) |
| Cultural Heritage | Worn by Lepcha, Bhutia, and Nepalese communities, symbolizing cultural pride during festivals, weddings, and ceremonies. |
| Material Used | Cotton, silk, and wool, depending on the occasion and season. |
| Key Design Elements | Simple wrap-around design, fastened with a belt, with a shirt or blouse underneath. |
| How to Wear | Draped around the body and secured with a belt at the waist; men pair it with a long shirt, while women wear it with blouses. |
| Primary Occasions | Worn during important cultural events, weddings, Losar, and formal gatherings. |
| Accessories Paired With | Women accessorize with jewelry, scarves, and headdresses; men wear a cap called Shambo and traditional boots. |
| Historical Relevance | It has strong Tibetan influences and resembles the Tibetan Chuba. It reflects the region’s history and its ties to Buddhist culture. |
| Regional Variations | Minor variations between Bhutia, Lepcha, and Nepalese styles, with differences in fabric choices and patterns. |
| Popular Color Schemes | Earthy tones like brown and grey for men; bright colors like red, green, and blue for women. |
| Modern Changes | Bakhu is often styled with modern, fitted shirts and fashionable belts, blending tradition with contemporary fashion. |
| Cultural Importance | Represents simplicity, dignity, and respect in Sikkimese society. Often passed down through generations as an heirloom. |
| Functionality & Comfort | Designed to keep warm in the mountain climate, the Bakhu is comfortable and practical for everyday wear in Sikkim’s high altitudes. |
| Artisanal Craftsmanship | Handwoven by local artisans, showcasing traditional Sikkimese craftsmanship. |
| Accessibility & Cost | Widely available, from affordable cotton versions for daily wear to luxurious silk ones for special events. |
2. Pharia – The Vibrant Nepali Sari (Women)
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The Pharia is a sari-like garment worn by Nepali women in Sikkim. Traditionally, it consists of a long piece of fabric wrapped around the body, paired with a blouse called chaubandi cholo.
The vibrant colors and intricate patterns of the Pharia make it popular during festivals, particularly folk dances like the Maruni. It serves as an everyday outfit for women in rural areas as well.
The Pharia’s distinct design provides comfort while showcasing the rich culture of the Nepali population in Sikkim. Accessories such as shawls and headscarves further enhance the look, often adding an air of sophistication.
Pharia Traditional Dress Details
| Dress Aspect | Description |
| Traditional Costume Name | Pharia (for women) |
| Cultural Heritage | Worn by Nepalese women in Sikkim, particularly during festivals and folk dances. |
| Material Used | Cotton or silk, with elaborate patterns and vibrant colors like red and yellow. |
| Key Design Elements | A sari-like garment, often paired with a chaubandi cholo blouse. |
| How to Wear | Wrapped around the body with the blouse worn underneath, often with a shawl or scarf. |
| Primary Occasions | Festivals, cultural celebrations, and everyday wear. |
| Accessories Paired With | Headscarves, shawls, and traditional Nepali jewelry. |
| Historical Relevance | Represents the strong cultural presence of the Nepalese community in Sikkim. |
| Regional Variations | Different styles in how the fabric is draped, depending on the region. |
| Popular Color Schemes | Bright shades like red and yellow, often paired with black or white. |
| Modern Changes | Often styled with modern blouses or belts for a contemporary look. |
| Cultural Importance | Symbolizes the vibrancy of the Nepali community, often passed down through generations. |
| Functionality & Comfort | Designed for comfort and ease of movement, especially during cultural performances. |
| Artisanal Craftsmanship | Handwoven with intricate patterns, showcasing the artistry of Nepali weavers. |
| Accessibility & Cost | Easily available in both affordable and luxury variants, depending on the fabric. |
3. Dumvum – The Elegant Dress of Lepcha Women
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The Dumvum is the traditional dress worn by Lepcha women, often considered a mark of pride and cultural identity.
This ankle-length dress is typically made of soft, flowing fabrics like silk or cotton and is paired with a blouse (tago). It is worn with a belt called nyamrek, which helps secure the blouse in place.
The outfit’s loose design makes it both elegant and comfortable, ideal for both casual wear and special occasions. The Dumvum is a striking representation of the simplicity and grace of Lepcha culture.
Dumvum Traditional Dress Details
| Dress Aspect | Description |
| Traditional Costume Name | Dumvum (for women) |
| Cultural Heritage | Worn by Lepcha women, symbolizing grace and cultural pride. |
| Material Used | Silk or cotton, depending on the occasion. |
| Key Design Elements | Ankle-length dress with a loose-fitting blouse (tago) and a belt (nyamrek). |
| How to Wear | The dress is worn with a contrasting blouse and secured with a belt around the waist. |
| Primary Occasions | Worn during Lepcha festivals, weddings, and religious ceremonies. |
| Accessories Paired With | Headscarves, belts, and traditional Lepcha jewelry. |
| Historical Relevance | Represents the traditional dress of Lepcha women, passed down through generations. |
| Regional Variations | Varying colors and fabric choices depending on the region and occasion. |
| Popular Color Schemes | Soft pastels and natural colors like blue and green. |
| Modern Changes | Sometimes paired with modern accessories like jackets or fashionable belts. |
| Cultural Importance | Reflects the harmony and unity of Lepcha culture. |
| Functionality & Comfort | Lightweight and breathable, making it ideal for Sikkim’s varying climate. |
| Artisanal Craftsmanship | Handwoven by artisans, showcasing intricate patterns and designs. |
| Accessibility & Cost | Widely available in local markets, with prices varying based on material. |
4. Thokro-Dum – The Traditional Male Attire of Lepcha Men
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Thokro-Dum is a distinctive traditional dress worn by Lepcha men, particularly during cultural festivals and outdoor work.
It consists of calf-length white pajama pants paired with a yenthatse shirt, usually tied at the waist with a handwoven waistband called gyatomu.
The outfit is completed with a traditional cap known as sumok thyaktuk. This practical outfit reflects the hardworking nature of the Lepcha community, especially those living in marshy areas.
The short length of the pajamas ensures comfort while working, and the rugged fabric provides durability. This attire symbolizes Lepcha men’s deep connection with their land, traditions, and lifestyle.
Worn during festivals and daily activities, Thokro-Dum is deeply ingrained in the identity of the Lepcha people.
Thokro-Dum Traditional Dress Details
| Dress Aspect | Description |
| Traditional Costume Name | Thokro-Dum (for men) |
| Cultural Heritage | Worn by Lepcha men, symbolizing their heritage and practical lifestyle. |
| Material Used | Cotton and durable materials to withstand fieldwork. |
| Key Design Elements | Calf-length pajama pants with a shirt (yenthatse) and a cap. |
| How to Wear | Worn with a waistband and cap, suitable for outdoor work. |
| Primary Occasions | Lepcha festivals, cultural gatherings, and everyday use. |
| Accessories Paired With | Traditional cap and handwoven belt. |
| Historical Relevance | Reflects the practicality of the Lepcha people’s marshy land origins. |
| Regional Variations | Variations in the length and style of the pants. |
| Popular Color Schemes | Earthy tones like white, grey, and brown. |
| Modern Changes | Sometimes styled with modern shirts or jackets for urban events. |
| Cultural Importance | Represents the resilient and resourceful spirit of the Lepcha men. |
| Functionality & Comfort | Designed for ease of movement and comfort during manual labor. |
| Artisanal Craftsmanship | Often handwoven by local artisans, showcasing traditional weaving skills. |
| Accessibility & Cost | Widely available, particularly in rural areas of Sikkim, with affordable options. |
5. Mekhela Sador – The Elegant Dress for Married Women
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The Mekhela Sador is a traditional dress worn primarily by married women. It originated in the Assamese community of Sikkim.
The mekhela is a skirt-like garment, while the sador is a shawl draped over the upper body. Both are typically adorned with intricate motifs and embroidery, often made from silk or cotton.
This attire is worn during cultural festivals, weddings, and religious ceremonies. The vibrant patterns and bold colors make it a striking outfit that highlights the cultural identity of married women, showcasing both elegance and tradition.
Mekhela Sador Traditional Dress Details
| Dress Aspect | Description |
| Traditional Costume Name | Mekhela Sador (for women) |
| Cultural Heritage | Worn by Assamese-origin women in Sikkim, symbolizing marriage and cultural identity. |
| Material Used | Silk or cotton, often featuring elaborate embroidery. |
| Key Design Elements | Skirt (mekhela) with a draped shawl (sador), usually decorated with motifs. |
| How to Wear | Wrapped around the waist with the shawl draped over the shoulders. |
| Primary Occasions | Festivals, weddings, and religious ceremonies. |
| Accessories Paired With | Paired with traditional jewelry, including necklaces and bangles. |
| Historical Relevance | Reflects Assamese influence in Sikkim’s cultural landscape. |
| Regional Variations | Differences in fabric and embroidery, with some modern adaptations. |
| Popular Color Schemes | Bright colors like red, gold, and green, with detailed embroidery. |
| Modern Changes | Sometimes styled with modern blouses or lighter fabrics for comfort. |
| Cultural Importance | Represents the dignity and cultural pride of married women. |
| Functionality & Comfort | Comfortable yet elegant, suitable for long ceremonies. |
| Artisanal Craftsmanship | Traditionally handwoven with great attention to detail. |
| Accessibility & Cost | Available in local markets, from affordable cotton variants to luxurious silk. |
6. Daura Suruwal – The Traditional Nepali Attire for Men
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Daura Suruwal is a traditional outfit worn by Nepali men in Sikkim, consisting of a long, double-breasted shirt (daura) paired with loose-fitting trousers (suruwal).
This classic combination is often worn during festivals, weddings, and religious events. The outfit also includes a waistcoat (askot) and a dhaka topi, a traditional Nepali cap.
Rich in symbolism, the daura suruwal is believed to embody the spirit of Nepali culture, representing strength, respect, and tradition. The comfortable yet stylish design makes it suitable for both formal and casual wear.
Daura Suruwal Traditional Dress Details:
| Dress Aspect | Description |
| Traditional Costume Name | Daura Suruwal (for men) |
| Cultural Heritage | Worn by Nepali men, symbolizing their cultural identity. |
| Material Used | Cotton or wool, depending on the season. |
| Key Design Elements | Double-breasted shirt (daura) with loose trousers (suruwal). |
| How to Wear | The shirt is fastened with ties, and the trousers are worn loose. |
| Primary Occasions | Festivals, weddings, and cultural gatherings. |
| Accessories Paired With | Paired with a waistcoat and dhaka topi. |
| Historical Relevance | Represents the traditional dress of Nepali men in the region. |
| Regional Variations | Variations in fabric, with wool used in colder areas. |
| Popular Color Schemes | Neutral tones like white, grey, and black for formal occasions. |
| Modern Changes | Occasionally styled with modern accessories like watches or jackets. |
| Cultural Importance | A symbol of pride and respect in the Nepali community. |
| Functionality & Comfort | Loose-fitting and breathable, designed for comfort in all seasons. |
| Artisanal Craftsmanship | Handcrafted by local tailors, with intricate detailing in the waistcoat. |
| Accessibility & Cost | Available in various fabrics, from affordable cotton to premium wool. |
7. Kho – The Luxurious Wedding Attire for Women
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The Kho is a stunning traditional dress worn by women during weddings and festive occasions. It is a full-length silk or brocade gown with intricate embroidery and bold patterns, symbolizing elegance and cultural pride.
The Kho is paired with an apron called pandan and is often accompanied by jewellery, making it an essential part of the Sikkimese bridal outfit.
Worn by the Bhutia tribe, the Kho is highly symbolic in Sikkimese culture, especially during celebrations. Its vibrant colors and detailed craftsmanship make this outfit stand out, representing Sikkim’s cultural wealth and heritage.
Kho Traditional Dress Details
| Dress Aspect | Description |
| Traditional Costume Name | Kho (for women) |
| Cultural Heritage | Worn by Bhutia women, especially during weddings and formal events. |
| Material Used | Luxurious fabrics like silk or brocade. |
| Key Design Elements | Full-length gown with intricate embroidery, paired with an apron (pangden). |
| How to Wear | Draped like a gown with an apron tied around the waist. |
| Primary Occasions | Worn during weddings, festivals, and special ceremonies. |
| Accessories Paired With | Paired with gold jewelry, headdresses, and shawls. |
| Historical Relevance | Symbolizes royalty and cultural pride, especially for Bhutia women. |
| Regional Variations | Different fabric choices and embroidery patterns in rural and urban regions. |
| Popular Color Schemes | Rich colors like red, green, and gold are preferred. |
| Modern Changes | Sometimes paired with modern accessories for a contemporary twist. |
| Cultural Importance | Represents the grandeur and elegance of Sikkimese women. |
| Functionality & Comfort | Though ornate, the outfit is designed for comfort during long ceremonies. |
| Artisanal Craftsmanship | Often handcrafted with traditional motifs and designs. |
| Accessibility & Cost | Available in luxurious fabrics, making it a higher-end outfit for special events. |
8. Shuruval – Traditional Nepali Trousers for Men
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Shuruval is the distinctive bottom-wear part of the traditional Daura Suruwal outfit, worn by Nepali men in Sikkim. These churidar-style pants are loose at the top and tight at the calves, providing comfort and elegance.
For formal events, they are commonly paired with the Daura or a long shirt and sometimes with a traditional waistcoat.
These highly functional trousers offer flexibility and ease of movement while maintaining a classic look. Shuruval is a key piece of Nepali men’s traditional attire in Sikkim, whether during festivals or in casual settings.
Shuruval Traditional Dress Details
| Dress Aspect | Description |
| Traditional Costume Name | Shuruval (for men) |
| Cultural Heritage | Worn by Nepali men, part of the Daura Suruwal attire. |
| Material Used | Cotton or wool, depending on the weather. |
| Key Design Elements | Churidar-like trousers, loose at the top and tight at the calves. |
| How to Wear | Paired with a daura shirt or waistcoat. |
| Primary Occasions | Worn during festivals, weddings, and cultural events. |
| Accessories Paired With | Paired with traditional caps (dhaka topi) and sometimes a waistcoat. |
| Historical Relevance | Represents the strong Nepali influence in Sikkim’s cultural attire. |
| Regional Variations | Different fabrics depending on the region’s climate. |
| Popular Color Schemes | Neutral tones like white, black, and grey. |
| Modern Changes | Paired with modern shirts or jackets for contemporary styling. |
| Cultural Importance | Symbolizes simplicity, comfort, and elegance in Nepali culture. |
| Functionality & Comfort | Designed for flexibility and ease of movement, ideal for long events. |
| Artisanal Craftsmanship | Traditionally crafted by local tailors with attention to comfort. |
| Accessibility & Cost | Available in both local markets and tailor-made options, with affordable prices. |
9. Pangden – The Symbolic Apron for Married Women
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The Pangden is a unique apron worn by married women in Sikkim, primarily by the Bhutia and Lepcha tribes. This colorful, striped apron is traditionally worn over the Bakhu and symbolises marital status.
Woven from either silk or cotton, the Pangden is often decorated with intricate designs and vibrant colors, representing cultural pride and identity.
Besides its cultural significance, the Pangden is also an essential accessory during ceremonies and festivals, highlighting the wearer’s social status in the community.
Pangden Traditional Dress Details
| Dress Aspect | Description |
| Traditional Costume Name | Pangden (for women) |
| Cultural Heritage | Worn by married women, primarily from the Bhutia and Lepcha communities. |
| Material Used | Silk or cotton, with intricate designs. |
| Key Design Elements | Colorful striped apron worn over the Bakhu. |
| How to Wear | Tied around the waist over the traditional outfit. |
| Primary Occasions | Festivals, weddings, and other formal occasions. |
| Accessories Paired With | Worn with traditional Sikkimese jewelry and headdresses. |
| Historical Relevance | A symbol of marital status and cultural heritage in Sikkimese society. |
| Regional Variations | Variations in fabric and design, with some modern adaptations. |
| Popular Color Schemes | Bright, vibrant colors with bold stripes. |
| Modern Changes | Modern versions may incorporate different fabrics for comfort. |
| Cultural Importance | Represents the dignity and respect of married women. |
| Functionality & Comfort | Easy to wear and practical, yet elegant. |
| Artisanal Craftsmanship | Handwoven by local artisans with traditional patterns. |
| Accessibility & Cost | Available in most local markets, with affordable versions for everyday wear. |
10. Salwar Kameez – A Modern Addition to Sikkimese Attire
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The Salwar Kameez has become a popular outfit choice for women in urban areas of Sikkim. While not native to the region, this traditional Indian attire has found its place in the modern fashion landscape of Sikkim.
The salwar refers to loose-fitting trousers, while the kameez is a long tunic. This versatile outfit is often paired with a dupatta, a scarf draped over the shoulders.
The salwar kameez’s blend of comfort and style has made it a favorite, particularly for everyday wear and casual gatherings. It symbolizes the merging of traditional Sikkimese culture with broader Indian fashion influences.
Salwar Kameez Traditional Dress Details
| Dress Aspect | Description |
| Traditional Costume Name | Salwar Kameez (for women) |
| Cultural Heritage | A modern addition to Sikkim’s traditional attire, influenced by Indian fashion. |
| Material Used | Cotton, silk, or synthetic fabrics depending on the style. |
| Key Design Elements | Loose-fitting trousers (salwar) paired with a long tunic (kameez). |
| How to Wear | Worn with a dupatta, a scarf draped over the shoulders. |
| Primary Occasions | Everyday wear, casual gatherings, and cultural events. |
| Accessories Paired With | Paired with simple jewelry and sometimes a scarf or shawl. |
| Historical Relevance | Reflects the influence of Indian fashion in Sikkim. |
| Regional Variations | Differences in fabric and embellishments depending on the region. |
| Popular Color Schemes | Bright, bold colors with embroidered patterns. |
| Modern Changes | Worn with modern accessories, making it a fusion of traditional and contemporary fashion. |
| Cultural Importance | Represents the blending of cultures in Sikkim’s urban areas. |
| Functionality & Comfort | Comfortable and practical for everyday use. |
| Artisanal Craftsmanship | Available in both machine-made and handwoven versions. |
| Accessibility & Cost | Widely available in Sikkim’s urban markets, with both affordable and high-end options. |
Conclusion
Sikkim’s traditional dresses are a powerful testament to the region’s rich cultural diversity and artistic heritage. Each outfit showcases Sikkim’s communities ‘ unique identity and traditions, from the practical yet elegant Bakhu to the symbolically important Pangden.
Even as modernization influences fashion, these garments remain integral to festivals, weddings, and daily life, preserving the state’s cultural fabric.
The vibrant colours, intricate designs, and artisanal craftsmanship reflect beauty and the deep connection Sikkimese people have to their roots. These traditional attires are more than just clothing—they are living expressions of history, passed down through generations, ensuring that Sikkim’s cultural legacy continues to thrive.
FAQs About Sikkim Traditional Dress
What is the most popular traditional dress in Sikkim?
The Bakhu is the most popular traditional dress in Sikkim, worn by both men and women, especially among the Bhutia and Lepcha tribes. It resembles a loose cloak, tied at the neck and waist, and is paired with a silk blouse for women and trousers for men.
What are the main components of the Nepali traditional dress in Sikkim?
The traditional Nepali outfit for men includes the Daura Suruwal, consisting of a double-breasted shirt (daura) and loose-fitting trousers (suruwal). For women, the Pharia is a sari-like garment worn with a blouse (chaubandi cholo).
What is the cultural significance of the Pangden in Sikkim?
The Pangden is a colorful, striped apron worn by married women, primarily from the Bhutia and Lepcha tribes. It symbolizes marital status and is an essential accessory during festivals and cultural ceremonies in Sikkim.
How has modernization influenced traditional attire in Sikkim?
Modernization has changed traditional Sikkimese attire, with outfits like the Bakhu paired with jeans and modern accessories. Urban women also frequently wear the Salwar Kameez, reflecting the blend of traditional and contemporary fashion.
What is the traditional wedding attire in Sikkim?
Sikkimese weddings often feature the Kho for women and the Bakhu for men. These luxurious garments are made from silk or brocade, adorned with intricate patterns, and paired with accessories like the Pangden and traditional jewellery.
Which tribes wear the Thokro-Dum in Sikkim?
The Thokro-Dum is the traditional attire of Lepcha men, featuring calf-length pajamas and a shirt (yenthatse). It is practical for both cultural festivals and daily outdoor activities.
What is the most common material used in traditional Sikkimese dresses?
Traditional Sikkimese dresses are typically made from cotton, silk, and wool. Wool is commonly used for warmth in the cold climate, while silk is preferred for special occasions like weddings and festivals.
