Druk Wangyel Tsechu

Dochula Thimphu, Bhutan

Dochula Pass, situated between Thimphu and Punakha, is adorned with 108 memorial chortens, known as "Druk Wangyal Chortens," built by Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk, the eldest Queen Mother of Bhutan. Just above the pass, there's an open courtyard where the Druk Wangyel Festival takes place. This unique festival is performed by the Royal Bhutan Army, a departure from the usual involvement of monks or laypeople. Established in 2011, it commemorates the victory of the Fourth Druk Gyelpo and the armed forces in 2003. Soldiers receive three months of training in folk and mask dances preparing for the festival. The festival commences at 0900 and concludes at 1615, paying homage to the wise leadership of His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Fourth King of Bhutan. It also celebrates the ongoing dedication of the Royal Bhutan Army to safeguard the nation's sovereignty and stability. This exceptional Tshechu unfolds against the backdrop of…

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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.

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Buli Gonpa-Yoesel Lhendrup CholingBumthang Bumthang, Bhutan

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Tangsibi Dechenling Lhakhang, Ura Bumthang, Bhutan

Namgang Kora

Chorten Kora Trashiyangtse, Bhutan

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.

Gasa Tshechu

Gasa Dzong Gasa, Bhutan

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.