UNESCO and Royal Enfield launch third edition

Quick Overview:

• UNESCO and Royal Enfield started the third edition at Great Himalayan Exploration in Sikkim.
• The expedition will document 10 unique intangible cultural heritage (ICH) practices.
• Two groups led by riders will explore local traditions from March 3 to April 3, 2025.

UNESCO and Royal Enfield join forces for the third edition The Great Himalayan Exploration. This year, a unique motorcycle expedition heads to Sikkim with a focus on recording and preserving 10 Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) practices. The initiative aims to emphasize the continued shaping of the cultural traditions of living in local communities.

Exploration was marked on March 3, 2025 by Shri Aditya Golay (Tamang) of Sikkim Legislative Assembly Member. Two groups of rider researchers will travel statewide until April 3, interacting with locals and documenting their customs.

Explore the cultural tapestries in Sikkim

As UNESCO defines, intangible cultural heritage includes practices, knowledge and skills considered part of the cultural identity of the community. Through this initiative, riders will interact with Sikkim’s diverse cultural landscape and emphasize that despite modern influences, these traditions remain.

Key practices to explore include:

1. Bhumchu Festival
This sacred ritual is held annually in the Tashiding Monastery, involving opening a pot of holy water to predict the fate of a year. It is one of the most important spiritual events in Sikkim, attracting a large crowd seeking blessings.

2. Lecce Therapy Practice
Traditional Lepcha therapists (called Bhumthings and Muns) use herbal medicines and mental rituals to treat physical and mental illnesses. Their technology reflects the overall connection between nature and healing.

3. Cardamom Growing
Sikkim leads Indian large cardamom production. The exploration will document organic agricultural methods in the region and their role in maintaining rural livelihoods.

4. Grazing and nomadic life
Dokpas, the nomadic Yak herder in Sikkim, continues to follow the seasonal migration method. Their ancient practices support their economy and fragile alpine environment.

5. Dzumsa governance system
This autonomous system is unique to Lacheng and Lacon, allowing local elders to manage rural affairs. It reflects the community-led decision-making model for centuries.

Other ICH practices include making masks in Sikkim, making butter sculptures for Buddhist rituals, and woven Lepcha art. Each reflects the deeply entrenched spiritual and cultural heritage of the region.

Cooperative efforts in cultural protection

The great Himalayan exploration represents a joint effort to protect and promote cultural diversity. Through this immersive, rider-led approach, UNESCO and Royal Enfield aim to document and raise awareness of traditions that may disappear over time.

The initiative also highlights the importance of sustainable tourism, encouraging deeper community engagement and cultural respect.

The final thought

Third Edition The Great Himalayan Exploration Continue to integrate adventure with cultural conservation. By revealing little-known practices, this expedition provides a rare understanding of Sikkim’s living heritage while emphasizing the value of protecting these traditions for future generations.

Also read: Classic Legends introduces industry-first ownership guarantee plan