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Buddhist Festival
Jampa Lhakhang Drup
Jambay Lhakhang Bumthang, BhutanThe Jambay Lhakhang Drup festival stands as a cherished annual Buddhist celebration in Bhutan, drawing widespread enthusiasm. Held within the courtyard of the ancient 7th-century Jambay Lhakhang in Bumthang, this temple holds esteemed significance as one of the country's most renowned and possibly oldest temples. Legend attributes its creation to Songtsen Gampo of Tibet, who purportedly erected 108 temples, including this one, in just one day. The festival's atmosphere is electrified by bonfires and mesmerizing masked dances, paying homage to the temple's establishment by the Tibetan king centuries ago. A focal point of the festivities is the Ter Cham, also known as the "fire ritual" or colloquially as "the naked dance," captivating both locals and tourists who gather to witness this profound spectacle.
Wangdue Tshechu
WangduePhodrang Dzong Wangduephodrang, BhutanNestled amidst the majestic peaks of Bhutan's central region lies the picturesque district of Wangdue Phodrang. Every year, this tranquil haven comes alive with the vibrant hues and soulful melodies of the Wangdue Phodrang Tsechu, an annual religious and cultural festival that holds deep significance for the local community and visitors alike. The tshechu is performed at the dzong which has been rebuilt following a devastating fire over ten years ago. At the heart of the Wangdue Phodrang Tsechu lies a deep reverence for Bhutan's rich spiritual heritage. This three-day spectacle, held on the 10th day of the lunar month, is dedicated to celebrating the life of Guru Padmasambhava, a revered Buddhist teacher who played a pivotal role in introducing Buddhism to Bhutan. The festival's courtyard transforms into a mesmerizing stage for a series of captivating mask dances, each carrying symbolic meaning and embodying the teachings of Buddhism. The Shazam…
Jakar Tshechu
Jakar Dzong Bumthang, BhutanThe 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, BhutanThe 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.
Tshogoenpa Tshechu
Tshogonpa Lhakhang Trashigang, BhutanPrakhar Duchhoed
Phodrang Lhundrup Deyang Lhakhang Bumthang, BhutanThe 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, BhutanThe 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.
Wamrong Tshechu
Wamrong Lhakhang Trashigang, Bhutan
Trashigang Tshechu
Trashigang Dzong Trashigang, Bhutan
Dechenphug Tshechu
Dechenphug Thimphu, BhutanThe 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.