Held on the banks of the River Indus (River Sindhu) in Shey Manla, which is about 8 km from the city of Leh, the Sindhu Darshan Festival is attended by hundreds of tourists from all over the country. The celebration features such cultural events as musical shows, dance performances and art exhibitions, organised by artistes from around India. Also called the Singhe Kabaab Festival, it draws focus to the Sindhu river and promotes the waterbody as a symbol of the country’s communal unity and harmony.

Usually celebrated on the day of Guru Purnima, the festivities continue for three days. On the first day, a reception ceremony is held, which is followed by prayers conducted by lamas on the river banks. The day concludes with a bonfire at night. The second day is all about cultural exchanges, showcases of indigenous arts and crafts, and performances by artistes, which is followed by a puja (prayer).