Walung people


The Walung people are the indigenous inhabitants of the region around Olangchung Gola. They are descended from Tibetan settlers from the 7th century. The language spoken by Walung people is Walungge language, a dialect of Central Tibetan language. The primary occupation of the Walung people is trade and herding yaks and dzos.

Culture

Walung people practice Nyingmapa Buddhism. A large monastery, Deki Chholing Gompa, was built 450 years ago sits on top of the main village of Olangchung Gola. The chief deity at the monastery is Chenrezi. The Walung people revere the monastery as their shelter from anything untoward. Historically, they would also invite Tibetan monks from Lhasa to provide teaching in this monastery. Lhosar and Phutuk are the main festivals, which the people celebrate with full pomp and show. Lhosar celebrates the Tibetan New Year. Phutuk reenacts an historical local battle.