UNESCO & Royal Enfield launch 3rd edition of ‘The Great Himalayan Exploration’

Focus on intangible cultural heritage of Sikkim

UNESCO and Royal Enfield have launched the third edition of Great Himalayan Exploration, documenting Sikkim's Intangible Cultural Heritage focussing on traditions like the Bhumchu Festival and Lepcha healing practices.

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has partnered with Royal Enfield, an Indian multinational motorcycle manufacturer for the the third edition of the Great Himalayan Exploration, a motorcycling expedition aimed at documenting the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of the Indian Himalayan region.

In a press statement, UNESCO says that this year’s journey focuses on Sikkim, with rider-researchers set to explore and preserve 10 unique cultural practices.

The statement adds that the expedition was flagged off on Monday in Gangtok by Aditya Golay (Tamang), a member of the Sikkim Legislative Assembly.

UNESCO adds that over the next one months, from March 3 to April 3, two groups of riders will traverse distinct routes across Sikkim’s breathtaking landscapes.

The statement says that ICH encompasses practices, expressions, and knowledge recognised as cultural heritage by communities and this year’s exploration highlights key traditions of Sikkim, including the sacred Bhumchu Festival at Tashiding Monastery, Lepcha healing practices blending herbal remedies with spiritual rituals, and sustainable cardamom cultivation in high-altitude farms.

The statement adds this initiative aligns with UNESCO’s mission to safeguard living heritage while fostering resilience and sustainability. By documenting these practices, the expedition aims to raise awareness about preserving cultural identities amidst modernisation.

UNESCO says that this multi-year collaboration with Royal Enfield underscores commitment to promoting cultural heritage through immersive exploration.