Ladakh, in the lap of the Himalayas, is not only famous for its incredible landscapes and ancient monasteries, it is also recognized for its rich cultural history. The attire was made for practicality and steeped in tradition, the traditional dress of Ladakhi individuals represents the harsh climate of the region, the Buddhist belief system and ethnic components.

Traditional Clothing of Ladakhi Men

Goncha – The Robe of heritage
The most prominent traditional outfit worn by Ladakhi men is a Goncha which is a thick, woolen coat made from wool typically woven locally. It is thick, heavy and designed to insulate individuals from extreme cold weather which is typical in Ladakh. The Goncha is tied around an individuals’ waist with a skyerak, a decorative sash to hold it in place.

Accessories and Footwear
Men typically wear their Goncha with traditional footwear called Pabu, boots made from yak skin or sheepskin. These boots are commonly worn when working in the field or on rough terrain. Men often wear ornamental styles of the Goncha, which are typically found at festivals or special occasions and are often complimented with decorative accessories including silver jewelry, turbans, rings of turquoise and woolen hats called Perak.

Perak – The Symbol of Status

Though mostly associated with women, Perak is sometimes worn by men during ceremonies. It is an ornamental headdress embedded with turquoise stones and is regarded as a symbol of power and social standing.