Samdrupjongkhar Tshechu

Samdrupjongkhar , Bhutan

The Samdrup Jongkhar Tshechu is a vibrant spiritual and cultural festival held annually at the Samdrup Jongkhar Dzong. Dedicated to Guru Rinpoche, the festival features sacred Cham mask dances, ritual offerings, and the dramatic unfurling of a Thongdrel - a giant tapestry believed to cleanse the sins of all who view it. Monks, lay dancers, and community members come together in a celebration of Bhutanese faith and tradition, with locals dressed in their finest attire and traditional music filling the air. Set against the lush, scenic backdrop of southeastern Bhutan near the Indian border, the festival also attracts visitors from neighboring regions. Food stalls, folk performances, and warm hospitality make it not just a religious event but a communal celebration. Whether you’re drawn by the spirituality, the cultural richness, or the serene setting, the Samdrup Jongkhar Tshechu offers an unforgettable glimpse into Bhutan’s living heritage.

Nabji Lhakhang Drup

Nabji Lhakhang, Nabji Trongsa, Bhutan

The Nabji Lhakhang Drup, also known as the Nabji Lhakhang Festival, unfolds in the picturesque village of Nabji. Accessible via a brief trek from Reotala, nestled between Trongsa and Zhemgang, Nabji Village welcomes visitors with its serene charm. The festival's highlights include the Tercham, or Dance of the Treasure, and Mewang, the Fire Dance, along with other sacred mask dances honoring Terton Pema Lingpa. The Tercham, a particularly revered ritual, is believed to bestow blessings upon infertile women, and is performed by dancers clad only in facial masks amidst the flickering glow of a bonfire during the nocturnal hours.