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.
Immerse yourself in Bhutan’s ancient traditions during the Punakha Tshechu festival! Held during March, this colorful celebration features mesmerizing masked dances performed by monks. Between dances, lively clowns (atsaras) entertain the crowd with jokes and antics. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring unfurling of the Thongdrol—a giant silk painting—on the festival’s final day. It’s a joyous blend of spirituality, art, and community.
Chorten Kora, located in Eastern Bhutan, stands as a beloved tourist destination and a revered stupa. Its splendid design and serene atmosphere captivate visitors. Inspired by Nepal’s iconic Boudhanath Stupa, Chorten Kora showcases intricate Buddhist architecture. Set alongside the glistening Kulong Chu River in Trashiyangtse, this magnificent structure holds deep religious and cultural significance. Lama Ngawang Loday, the nephew of the revered Lama Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, dedicated 12 years to its construction in the 18th century. The Chorten Kora Festival, also known as the Circumambulation Festival, involves Bhutanese people (specifically the Drukpa community) performing a sacred circumambulation around the famous Chorten Kora stupa. This takes place during the 15th day of the buddhist month.
Tharpaling Thongdrel is a one-day celebration held in Bumthang. The festival centers around a giant thongdrel—a magnificent tapestry—depicting revered figures: Jowo Jampa and Kuenkhen Longchen Rabjam. For 10 days, the monks of Tharpaling Monastery engage in Moelam Chenmo rituals, connecting with the local community in Chumey, Bumthang. Unlike other Bhutanese festivals, Tharpaling Thongdrel doesn’t feature mask dances. Instead, it’s a serene and introspective affair, where spirituality takes center stage. Witness the intricate thongdrel, feel the ancient energy, and connect with Bhutan’s profound culture. Let the peaceful vibes of Tharpaling envelop you
In the heart of Bumthang, the Tangbi Mani Festival unfolds—a vibrant celebration steeped in tradition. Held at the Tangbi Temple, this three-day festival unites the people of three Bumthang villages: Tangbi, Goling, and Kharsath. The ancient temple comes alive with colors, music, and devotion. The festival showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. Monks perform sacred rituals, and locals gather to honor their ancestors and connect with their roots. Bhutanese believe that the Tangbi Mani Festival brings happiness, ensures a bountiful harvest, and ushers in prosperity for the village. It’s a time of reverence, joy, and community spirit. So, if you’re in Bumthang, join the festivities, soak in the ancient vibes, and witness Bhutan’s soulful traditions!
The Chhorten Kora festival takes place in Trashi Yangste, the easternmost district of Bhutan. Chorten Kora, a stupa modeled after Nepal's Boudhanath, is located a two-hour drive away from Trashigang. In February or March, this stupa becomes a focal point for both local residents and the Dakpa people from Arunachal Pradesh, India. They assemble for a festival centered around circumambulating the chorten.
Gomphu Kora Tshechu, nestled in eastern Bhutan, is a sacred site 23 kilometers from Trashigang Dzong. Its name, "Gomphu Kora," signifies a "Meditation Cave" and "Circumambulation," referencing a cave and temple complex. The central practice here is circumambulation, as encouraged by a local song that urges people to seize the moment. Once a year, the narrow valley springs to life as devotees from eastern Bhutan gather, donning their finest attire, to celebrate, worship, and strengthen their ties to their cultural heritage. The festival's significance extends beyond borders, attracting the Dakpa tribe from neighboring Arunachal Pradesh in India, who undertake arduous journeys on foot with their families to participate.
Gasa Tshechu stands as the largest festival in the compact Gasa district in the northwest of Bhutan. Gasa is inhabited by highlander communities, and amidst the numerous mask dances, the local folk performances hold a distinct and remarkable character that contributes to the lively atmosphere of the celebration.
Colorful Celebration in Bhutan. Welcome to the enchanting Talo Tshechu Festival! Here’s what makes it special: For three vibrant days, Talo comes alive with masked dances and lively atsara performances. Imagine swirling colors, intricate masks, and rhythmic movements—it’s a feast for the senses! As the sun sets, the Mani Sum songs take center stage. Each day, a different song: Samyi Sala, Drukpa Dungey, and Thowachi Gangi Tselay. These soulful tunes resonate with the pride of the Talo community. Be part of this cultural tapestry—immerse yourself in Bhutanese traditions. Let the music, dance, and community spirit sweep you away.
Paro Tshechu, the Paro Festival, is a renowned event in Bhutan that attracts attendees from nearby regions. On the festival's final day, monks unveil a grand embroidered painting, known as a Thangkha or Thongdrol. It is believed that merely gazing upon a Thongdrol can purify the sins of the observer. This is one of the most popular festivals for visitors into Bhutan.
Domkhar Tshechu is conducted at Domkar Lhundrup Choling Monastery, situated in Chumey Valley within the Bumthang district. Founded by Lama Kuenkhen Longchen Rabjam in the 16th century, this festival is an annual event and features sacred dances such as the black hat dance, the Three Ging, and the Drummers of Drametse. The special Peling Chams dance, a composition of Terton Pema Lingpa, is also performed. On the festival's final day, a large Thongdrol is displayed to bestow blessings upon the people of Domkhar village.
Ura Valley, situated in Bumthang, is renowned for its distinctive Ura Yakcho dance. This traditional mask and folk dance are showcased annually in Apr/May during a festival. Additionally, a sacred relic is exhibited for people to receive blessings. The festival is a local celebration in the Ura Valley, dedicated to fostering joy, bountiful harvests, and prosperity for both the villages and the entire nation. Ura Yakchoe is popular with our guests.
