Festivals in Bhutan, known as “Tsechu,” are held at different times of the year and in various places. These festivals last between 3 to 5 days. During a Tsechu, you can see Bhutanese folk dances, religious dances, and mask dances called ‘Chaam,’ as well as other religious dramas and stories about famous Buddhist saints. Both monks and lay people perform these dances.
Atsaras, or clowns, are an important part of the festival. They wear expressive masks and entertain the crowd with jokes, often interacting with the monks. Atsaras are believed to represent religious masters (Acharyas) from India, and they are the only ones allowed to mock religion in a society where sacred matters are highly respected. During the Tsechu, Atsaras have the freedom to challenge social norms, but in a way that doesn’t upset the religious or social order.
Most Tsechus end with the unveiling of a large thangka (Buddhist scroll) called “Thongdroel.” This thangka is displayed at dawn to bring enlightenment to everyone who sees it. Buddhists believe that simply viewing the Thongdroel can help release a person from the cycle of reincarnation.
For Bhutanese people, these religious festivals are a chance to connect deeply with their faith and earn merit. It’s also a time for socializing, seeing others, and showing off their success. People dress in their best clothes and jewelry, and both men and women enjoy lighthearted conversations and flirting in a fun, friendly atmosphere.
Note: Please select from the recommended festival listed below and kindly contact us for a detailed itinerary.
The chosen festival can be combined with cultural and trekking tours based on your available travel duration.
Paro Festival (Tshechu):
Paro Tshechu is one of the most popular festivals in Bhutan. It takes place outside Paro Dzong in an open courtyard for five days, starting on the 10th day of the second month of the Bhutanese calendar. Many locals from nearby regions join in the celebration. Tsechus, celebrated for hundreds of years, are important cultural events in Bhutan, honoring Guru Rimpoche, who introduced Buddhism to the country. The festival features mask dances and other performances. Atsaras, who act as clowns, play a key role by protecting people and driving away evil spirits. They also perform short skits to share health and social messages. The Tsechu is a time for Bhutanese people to take a break from work, celebrate, and pray for health and happiness. People wear their best clothes and jewelry, and many tourists visit to experience Bhutanese spiritual life.
Thimphu Dromchoe:
In addition to the three-day Thimphu Tshechu, Thimphu also hosts a one-day festival called Dromchoe, which began in the 17th century. It was introduced by Chief Abbot Kuenga Gyeltshen in 1710, who was believed to be the reincarnation of Jampel Dorji. The Dromchoe is held three days before Thimphu Tshechu and features sacred dances dedicated to Bhutan’s protective deity, Palden Lhamo. Legend says the deity appeared to Kuenga Gyeltshen while he meditated and performed the dances. These dances were the inspiration for Dromchoe.
Thimphu Festival (Tshechu):
Thimphu Tsechu is one of Bhutan’s largest festivals. It takes place in the capital city over three days, starting on the 10th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar. The festival is attended by thousands of people and is preceded by several days of prayers and rituals. The festival began in 1867 under the 4th Desi (ruler) and originally only included dances performed by monks. In the 1950s, the 3rd King introduced mask dances performed by lay monks, adding variety to the festival while keeping its spiritual meaning. Dances like the Guru Tshengye (Eight Manifestations of Guru) and Shaw Shachi (Dance of the Stags) are popular. During the festival, government offices and schools are closed so people can participate and receive blessings.
Thimphu – Rhododendron Festival:
This festival is held at the Royal Botanical Park in Lam Pelri, about 40 minutes from Thimphu. It celebrates the blooming of rhododendrons across Bhutan and features a walk through the rhododendron garden, arts and crafts exhibitions, and cultural programs. Bhutan has 46 species of rhododendrons, 29 of which are found in this park.
Thimphu – Dochula Druk Wangyel Festival:
Established in 2011, this festival honors His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo and the Bhutanese military’s victory over insurgents in 2003. The festival is held at Dochula Pass, a beautiful location with stunning views of the Eastern Himalayan mountain ranges. The Druk Wangyel monastery, built from 2004 to 2008, commemorates the Fourth King’s leadership during the conflict.
Punakha Festival (Drubchen):
Punakha, located in western Bhutan, is historically significant, especially since the time of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in the 17th century. He led the Bhutanese to victory against Tibetan forces that sought a sacred relic. To mark this victory, the Punakha Drubchen was introduced, and it remains an annual festival today. The highlight of this festival is a dramatic recreation of the 17th-century battle, with local men dressed in traditional battle gear to re-enact the scene.
Punakha Festival (Tshechu):
In 2005, the Punakha Tshechu was introduced by the 70th Je Khenpo, Trulku Jigme Choedra, in response to requests from the local people. Both the Drubchen and Tshechu festivals are important for preserving Bhutan’s culture and traditions and offer spiritual opportunities for prayer and pilgrimage.
Bumthang – Jakar Festival (Tshechu):
Jakar Dzong, meaning “Fortress of the White Bird,” was built in 1667. Legend says a white bird circled the area, signaling it as a good place for the dzong. The Jakar Tshechu, held annually from the 7th to 10th of the ninth month of the Bhutanese calendar, is a four-day festival celebrating Bhutan’s traditions. It features sacred mask dances, which tell stories or convey special meanings. The festival often ends with the display of a giant Thanka (Buddhist scroll). Bumthang – Jambay Lhakhang Drup (Tsechu):
Jambay Lhakhang is one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, founded in the 7th century. It houses important relics, including a statue of the future Buddha. The Jambay Lhakhang Drup, a spectacular five-day festival held in November, features a fire ritual and a unique naked dance performed by participants in the evening.
Gangtey Festival (Tshechu):
Gangtey Monastery, established in 1613, is a major center of the Nyingma school of Buddhism. The Gangtey Tsechu, held annually from the 5th to 10th day of the eighth lunar month, is a vibrant festival featuring monks and laymen in colorful costumes performing mask dances. These dances share stories from the 8th century and pass on Bhutanese history, values, and blessings.
Laya – Royal Highland Festival:
Held every October in Laya, Bhutan’s northernmost region, the Royal Highland Festival brings together Bhutan’s nomadic highlanders to celebrate their unique culture. Visitors can enjoy traditional food, experience a ceremonial procession, and even try yak riding. The festival offers a chance to connect with the nomadic communities that have lived in this region for centuries.