TALES FROM THE REBO
For generations, the Changpas have carried their worldview in the form of folk stories and legends—narratives that flow like the highland winds across the Changthang plateau. These tales, told around the warmth of a rebo (traditional nomadic tent), offer a window into a worldview deeply intertwined with the land, its wildlife, and the rhythms of pastoral life.
Sitting with elders in Korzok, we listened to these voices of the past—sometimes wistful, sometimes playful, always rooted in the wisdom of lived experience. From these conversations emerged Tales from the Rebo, the first in a planned series of Changpa oral heritage collections. This inaugural volume presents three evocative stories from Korzok that celebrate the natural world, each steeped in cultural symbolism and the intimate knowledge of the plateau.
Beautifully brought to life with illustrations by Kunga Thinlay, the book stands as a proud testament to the enduring Changpa tradition of storytelling. Published in both English and Ladakhi, Tales from the Rebo has found a home in 150 government school libraries across Ladakh, ensuring that the voices of the plateau reach a new generation of listeners and readers.
CULTURE & NATURE IN EDUCATION
The Culture and Nature in Education program aims to pass on the rich natural and cultural heritage of Ladakh to young schoolchildren through engaging, hands-on experiences.
In collaboration with the Government High School, Kharnakling, and Rigjung Public School, two guided nature walks were organised and led by the Young Naturalists of Ladakh (YNL). Students explored the Spituk and Shey marshes, learning the basics of butterfly and birdwatching.
In 2023, a month-long theatre workshop was conducted at the Government High School, Kharnakling, led by theatre practitioner Tsering Yangchan. The students created and performed Yul Tsa Gatpo and the Lakes, a play on the creation of Ladakh’s lakes. The performance, held on World Environment Day, was attended by Chief Guest Shri Tundup Nurbu, Councillor, LAHDC, and Smt. Rigzen Angmo, Zonal Education Officer.
In 2025, a storytelling session was held at the Moravian Mission School, led by Italian storyteller Valentina Zocca and Tsering Yangchan. Children were introduced to the stories of Changthang from Tales from the Rebo, bringing to life the region’s unique folklore and connection to the natural world.
