Uploaded May 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago

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In the remote Nubra valley of Ladakh, 9-year-old Urgan prepares to leave his village of Tangyer and enter a Buddhist monastery. At 3,800 meters above sea level, families live from sheep, goats and yaks, while maintaining traditions shaped by life in the Himalayas.

As the Tibetan New Year approaches, Urgan spends his final days with his family and cousin Norbou. Between village rituals, caravans crossing the Wori La pass and encounters with lamas and oracles, the journey reveals everyday life in this isolated region of northern India.

The film also explores local customs, including monastic education, polyandry, funeral rites and the role of Buddhism in village life.

After several days of travel through the mountains, Urgan reaches the monastery where his new life as a novice lama begins.

Documentary: Urgan, Child of the Himalayas
Directed by: Corinne Glowacki and Philippe Bigot
Production: ZED (2003)

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