ASIA-PACIFIC

Leh June 1-3

Sindhu Darshan Festival Known to have given India her name, the Indus or Sindhu river is celebrated each year amid snowcapped mountains and pristine lakes. It is understood as a symbol of multidimensional cultures existing in harmony, peace and love. A number of arts that reflect Indian culture are performed on the banks of this river.

goindia.about.com

Magelang June 2

Waisak This is perhaps the holiest Buddhist festival in Indonesia, where it is better known as Vesak. Buddhist temples around the country perform rituals such as chanting hymns, a pre-dawn holy ceremony, Buddhist flag hoisting, and the lighting of lanterns. It is a celebration of three stages in the life of Gautam Buddha: birth, enlightenment and death.

allindonesiatravel.com

Dharamshala

June 11-13

Dharamshala Film Festival A large number of film makers from around the world use this as a platform to present their creativity. Each independent film is screened by a panel before being showcased. The primary theme revolves around social and environmental issues and trends.

goindia.about.com

Singapore June 16 July 4

The O.P.E.N An initiative from the Singapore International Festival of Arts (SIFA), it is a public initiative that questions humanity and the world we live in. Artists, cultural managers and activists get together to perform and creatively express themselves in casual and/or intimate settings. The mix of events include films, concerts, performances and salons. sifa.sg

Hong Kong

June 20

Hong Kong Dragon Boat Carnival The Chinese festival attracts an impressive crowd from all parts of the globe. Onlookers line up along the Victoria harbour to cheer the Dragon Boat Races. Each boat is dressed in vibrant colours. To beat the heat, cold beer and live music add to the entertainment.

hong-kong-traveller.com