Gangtok, Sikkim: The Sikkim Arts and Literature Festival (SALF) 2026 will be held at The Ridge Park, Gangtok, from October 28 to 30, bringing together writers, poets, thinkers and cultural practitioners for three days of literary discussions, poetry, music and cultural performances.
The festival aims to celebrate Sikkim’s literary and cultural heritage while providing a platform for regional storytelling and contemporary conversations. Its programme will feature literary sessions, workshops and artistic performances exploring identity, memory, belonging and the cultural traditions of the Himalayan region.
An initiative of Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay), the festival is presented by the Students’ Welfare Board under the Education Department, Government of Sikkim, and produced by Teamwork Arts.
William Dalrymple, Mamang Dai Among Announced Speakers
The announced speaker line-up for the Sikkim Arts and Literature Festival 2026 includes writers and cultural figures such as Chuden Kabimo, Mamang Dai, Nawaraj Parajuli, Ranjit Hoskote, William Dalrymple, Yuvan Aves, Guru T. Ladakhi and Stephen Alter.
Their participation will bring together diverse literary voices and cultural perspectives, with discussions expected to explore storytelling, history, poetry and contemporary society. The festival will also create opportunities for audiences to engage with established authors and emerging creative voices.
Festival to Focus on Himalayan Culture and Regional Stories
The three-day event will explore themes of identity, memory and belonging, highlighting the relationship between literature, community and cultural heritage. Through conversations and performances, the festival will connect stories from Sikkim and the wider Himalayan region with broader literary and contemporary perspectives.
The programme will combine literary discussions with music, workshops and cultural presentations, encouraging participation from readers, students, writers and arts enthusiasts. It also aims to promote interest in reading and creative expression among young people.
Gangtok to Host Three-Day Cultural Programme
The Ridge Park in Gangtok will serve as the venue for the festival from October 28 to 30. The gathering is expected to bring together authors, cultural practitioners and audiences to engage with the region’s traditions, creative practices and evolving literary landscape.
Beyond its literary programme, SALF 2026 aims to showcase Sikkim’s cultural identity and strengthen the state’s profile as a destination for arts and cultural engagement. The festival will provide a platform for regional narratives to reach wider audiences while encouraging exchanges between local and international literary perspectives.
Sikkim Arts and Literature Festival 2026: Event Details
Event: Sikkim Arts and Literature Festival (SALF) 2026
Dates: October 28–30, 2026
Venue: The Ridge Park, Gangtok, Sikkim
Presented by: Students’ Welfare Board, Education Department, Government of Sikkim
