Skip to main content

Wayfinders Circle Lhoba

  • Geographic Location Nepal (Lo-menthang in Upper Mustang of Nepal)
  • Size of Territory A village consisting of 170 households with nearby agriculture land and vast areas of surrounding pasture
  • Communities 5 wards or clusters: Ghudang, Dhomalang, Jhyadang, Potaling, and Tsode
  • Population 569
  • Language(s)|t Lhoba

The Lhoba Indigenous culture is deeply rooted in traditional institutions integral to their cultural identity and worldview. Lo-menthang village is structured into four traditional wards or clusters.

Central to the Lhoba community's governance are their customary values, exemplified by the Kghyamba/Ghyamba system. This system emphasizes collectiveness and collective action, promoting social cohesion and harmony between nature and human society. Roles within this system are not determined through formal elections; instead, community members rotate responsibilities annually, fostering a culture of shared accountability and responsiveness to community needs.

Decision-making processes within the Lhoba community are consensus-based and guided by customary laws. Leaders facilitate discussions according to established customs. Conflicts or matters requiring action are resolved collectively by community members and the Kghyamba. This participatory approach ensures that every household has a voice in decision-making processes.

The customary Kghyamba system is vital to the livelihoods of the Lhoba people, particularly in managing irrigation water in the arid climate of their trans-Himalayan village. Moreover, the Lhoba community is actively engaged in preserving and renovating monasteries and sacred places, maintaining irrigation canals crucial for their livelihoods, and implementing waste management training to address the environmental challenges posed by increasing tourism and waste accumulation in their village. These initiatives underscore the community's commitment to preserving their cultural heritage and sustainable way of life.

 

More Lhoba

Related Stories

Thumbnail Video of Chi Suwichan Performing
Video

November 20, 2024

Chi Suwichan (Hin Lad Nai) Musical Performing “Taw Mea Pah” (Ancestral Ways)

Under the vast Mongolian sky at the Wayfinders Circle 2024 gathering, Chi Suwichan from Hin Lad Nai, Thailand, drew on ancient truths through his tehnaku, a sacred harp of the Karen people.

Watch
Video

November 11, 2024

As Far As The Eye Can See

The second global Wayfinders Circle gathering happened in Mongolia and brought together 14 of the 15 members of the alliance.

Watch
“The Wayfinders” premiered at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City during Climate Week.
Article

September 24, 2024

Film Series Spotlighting Vital Role of Indigenous Peoples in Safeguarding the Planet Premieres at American Museum of Natural History

American Museum of Natural History Climate Week NYC programming kicks off with launch of “The Wayfinders” Film Series, which centers global Indigenous Leaders.

Read