Traditional attire plays an important part in the identity of any area. Traditional Ladakhi clothing has been proven to protect people from extreme cold in Ladakh. Pashmina or wool can be used to make quality hats, shawls socks, and thermals. Here’s a list of the traditional attire that women and men wear in Ladakh.
Ladakh Traditional Dress of Men
1. Goncha
Goncha is also known as Kos is a huge garment that is worn by Men in Ladakh. The fabrics include cotton, velvet wool, polyester or a mix of. The typical Goncha that is used every day is black, burgundy, brown or grey color. Gonchas for weddings are vibrant hue. They are made from silk, velvet brocade, wool, or silk. They are sourced from countries such as Bhutan as well as Nepal. Although younger people prefer lightweightGoncha but older people have the option of heavy wool to shield themselves from the heat.
2. Tipi
Tipi, or tibi, is the Ladakhi man’s hat. Tipi is a hat constructed of brocade. It is worn loosely upon the scalp and covers portion of hair. Buddhist community members of Ladakh like wearing a hat with a colorful design at weddings and other special occasions. The men prefer the monochrome or maroon tipi.
3. Traditional Brokpa Costume for Men
Brokpa is an individual tribal community located in Ladakh. They have their own religious beliefs and social norms, customs and traditions. Men dress in an outfit of white wool paired with a waistcoat to match with woolen pants.
Ladakh Traditional Dress for Women in Ladakh
1. Yogar and Lokpa
Yogars are a traditional cloak used by women for covering their shoulders. They are made from sheepskin. The inside is made of wool, which protects the wearer from freezing cold temperatures. The yogar is made of green cloth with Silk brocade, red and silk designs. In the past it was considered a fundamental requirement for women in Ladakh however, today it is only used at special occasions or festivals.
2. Kos Kar
Changpa Nomads from Ladakh wear a distinct type of clothes which is a white robe, also known by the name of Kos Kar and Lawa Goncha. They are extremely warm and robust clothes made from the wool of sheep and a skin.
3. Traditional Brokpa Costume for Women
Brokpa tribe females are more likely to wear light-colored clothing that have a lokpa covering their backs. This traditional outfit is created with stones, silver shells, precious gems.
Traditional Head Gears for women living in Ladakh
1. Jugin
A majority of the Muslim community of Ladkh wear the jugs. The jugular ornament is comprised of a piece of gold that hangs from the forehead, along with an assortment of pearls. The outfit is followed by a transparent drape of embroidery that covers women’s faces and heads.
2. Gha-ram and Ser-po Tibi
The Zanskar tribal group of Ladakh has the same dress as the other Ladakh people. The thing that distinguishes them is their unique cap. The Gha-ram Tibi have warm caps constructed of a coarse material that has a yellowish hue. They are of Kashmiri origins. The Ser-po Tibi are made from Nambu made of felt from Ladakh.
3. Perak
Perak is a prestigious inheritance belonging to people of the Ladakh Women. It’s a massive and heavy blue headdress that extends from the wearer’s forehead to their lower back. The striking blue turquoise ornament is encased in the padding of the headdress, and the silver-colored charms and coral trinkets embellish the edges.
4. Montho Tibi (Brokpa Headdress)
Do you know who wears these Brokpa headdress that is made from flowers. The saffron-colored bulbous flowers are also known as Shoklo also known as Montho. The headpiece is decorated with peacock feathers, coins and stunning trinkets made of metal.
Ladakh Traditional jewelry and footwear
1. Kau or Gau
Gau is a octagonal hexagonal gold amulet that is the size of the size of a fist. It is decorated with pearls and precious stones with intricate, fine designs.
2. Pabu, Khulu and Lapul
Pabu are traditional sandals constructed from goat or yak leather. Thikma-inspired stripes along the side of these shoes is also known as Thikma Pabu. Khulu as well as Lapul are simple footwear that is that are worn for everyday wear.
Conclusion
Ladakhi clothes are a fascinating combination of practicality and expression. While modern influences are present, Ladakhi people continue to appreciate their distinctive fashion heritage, with a variety of traditional pieces still worn for events and celebrations. Visitors must be aware of these traditional clothes that give a solid knowledge of the tradition and culture.
