This traditional Tamang dance was performed as part of a promotion of the heritage trip in the area. Conservation of traditions such as this, while still avoiding the commodification of culture is a big challenge. Question is: should they be performing this traditional dance in front of oogling tourists for money? The dances actually have a purpose and timing....
The name Tamang, normally it is Tamag in Tibetan, means horse warriors, Tamags were border police sent by king Trisong of Tibet around 755. They are also good mountaineers and trekking guides. Many of Tamang have been recruited to serve in Indian and British Gurkha regiments since British Raj.
