Sikkim’s Himalayan Yak Festival Launches to Highlight Highland Heritage and Conservation

Sikkim’s Department of Tourism, in partnership with local conservation groups, inaugurated the Himalayan Yak Festival this week. The multi‑day event, scheduled to run in the capital region, will feature yak parades, traditional music, dance performances, and exhibitions on high‑altitude ecosystems. Organisers say the festival is designed to raise public awareness about the fragile Himalayan environment and the importance of preserving native yak breeds. Visitors can also attend workshops on sustainable grazing practices and purchase locally made handicrafts that reflect the highland heritage. The initiative aligns with the state’s broader eco‑tourism strategy aimed at balancing cultural promotion with biodiversity protection.