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Jakar Tshechu

Jakar Dzong Bumthang, Bhutan

The Jakar Tshechu spanning four days annually between October and November unfolds against the backdrop of the awe-inspiring Jakar Dzong, also known as the "Castle of the White Bird," majestically perched atop a hill overlooking the expansive Chamkhar Valley in Bumthang. The sheer beauty of this setting alone justifies the journey to this festival. Originally constructed in 1549 by Tibetan Lam Nagi Wangchuk, the Dzong served as a crucial defense fortress for the eastern districts of Bhutan. Its unique feature is the towering Utse, or Central tower, standing approximately fifty meters tall, setting it apart from other Dzongs in the country. Legend has it that during the selection of the Dzong's site, a lone white bird continuously circled overhead before landing on the hilltop, interpreted as an auspicious sign. Thus, the hill was chosen, and the Dzong adopted the name "White Bird" in its honor.

Pemagatshel Tshechu

Pemagatshel Dzong PemaGatshel, Bhutan

The three day festival features numerous Mask Dances, known as Cham, which are revered for bestowing blessings upon the audience and imparting the teachings of Buddhist dharma. Cham holds the belief of safeguarding against misfortune and purging malevolent forces, offering a shield of protection to those who witness them. This is an excellent festival to visit if you are in Eastern Bhutan.

Prakhar Duchhoed

Phodrang Lhundrup Deyang Lhakhang Bumthang, Bhutan

The Prakhar Duchhoed takes place at Prakhar Goemba, nestled in the scenic Chumey Valley of Bumthang, a mere half-hour drive from Chamkhar town. Serving as the primary temple of the village, Prakhar Goemba, constructed around the 16th century, is a tranquil sanctuary located just a brief 10-minute walk from the main road.

Chhukha Tshechu

Chukha Dzong Chukha, Bhutan

The Chhukha Tshechu festival in Bhutan is held at the courtyard of Chhukha dzong in Chhukha. It is held annually for three days as an offering to Guru Rinpoche. Different kinds of mask dances, traditional folk songs and dances are performed during the festival. On the third day, a Throngdroel of Guru Rinpoche is unfurled which is the highlight of the festival.

Dechenphug Tshechu

Dechenphug Thimphu, Bhutan

The tshechu venerates Gay Ngyen Jakpa Melen, a formidable guardian deity of Bhutan. Among the sacred dances showcased are the Zhananga Cham, Genyen Kunchaam, Shazam Cham, and Nga Cham, alongside a myriad of traditional and classical performances. A unique aspect of the festival is its exclusivity, as it is the sole day in the year when foreign visitors are granted access to Dechenphu Lhakhang.

Drametse Tshechu

Thechog Ugyen Namdrol Choling Monastery Mongar, Bhutan

Zhemgang Tshechu

Zhemgang Dzong Zhemgang, Bhutan

This festival takes you to Zhemgang Bhutan. This allows visitors to get close to the local community and appreciate the distinct culture of central Bhutan.

Punakha Drubchen

Punakha Dzong Punakha, Bhutan

In the 17th century, Bhutan faced multiple incursions by Tibetan forces who sought a highly prized relic, the Ranjung Kharsapani. Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, the leader of Bhutan, successfully repelled the Tibetan invaders, and in commemoration of this victory, he instituted the Punakha Drubchen festival. Consequently, Punakha Drubchen has since become an annual celebration in Punakha Dzongkhag.