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Nature
Royal Highland Festival
Laya Gasa, Bhutan
Black-necked Crane Festival
Phobjikha Valley Wangdi Phodrang, BhutanThe only alpine crane species in the world, the black-necked crane is considered a sacred bird in Bhutan and is celebrated every year during the Black-necked Crane Festival. The Festival is held in the courtyard of Gangtey Gonpa, located in the Phobjikha valley. This annual event aims to raise awareness and foster understanding about the significance of preserving the endangered Black-necked cranes. It also strives to reinforce the connections between conservation efforts, economic well-being, and sustainable livelihoods within the community.
Bird Festival
Zhemgang , BhutanZhemgang is a popular birding destination. With the Dzongkhag boundary intersecting with three protected areas – Royal Manas National Park, Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park and Phrumsengla NationalPark, Zhemgang is home to more than 500 species of birds. This festival brings together the community and nature lovers to celebrate birds in Bhutan.
Rhododendron Festival
Lamperi, Botanical Park, Dochula Thimphu, BhutanThe Rhododendron festival promotes biodiversity awareness within local communities. Bhutan boasts 46 rhododendron species, with 29 found in Lampelri Botanical Park, 35km from Thimphu. This festival, celebrating the profusion of rhododendron blooms in spring, features garden walks, exhibitions, cultural presentations, arts, crafts, traditional games, guided nature walks, and more. It showcases various rhododendron species in their natural habitat. Tourists can also enjoy Bhutanese culture, folk dances, exhibitions, traditional cuisine, and purchase souvenirs. Plan your trip around the Rhododendron Festival for a memorable Bhutan experience.
Tour of the Dragon / Dragon’s Fury
Bumthang , BhutanTour of the Dragon: An ultra-marathon mountain bike race exclusive to the Kingdom of Bhutan, the Tour of the Dragon spans a grueling 255 kilometers. Renowned as one of the most demanding one-day mountain bike races globally, it presents an exhilarating challenge for participants. The race commences in Bumthang, navigating through four formidable mountain passes: Kiki La (elevation: 2870 meters) Yotong La (elevation: 3434 meters) Pele La (elevation: 3430 meters) Dochu La (elevation: 3150 meters) Cyclists conquer these treacherous heights, their determination unwavering, until they reach the Thimphu town square—a triumphant finale to this extraordinarily challenging and adrenaline-fueled bike race. The Dragon's Fury Race will be from Lobeysa to Thimphu
Gangtey Goenpa Tshechu
Gangtey Goenpa Wangduephodrang, BhutanThe 2025 Gangtey Tshechu festival in Bhutan will take place over three days in the serene courtyard of Gangtey Monastery. Nestled in a quaint spur, the monastery offers a breathtaking view of the picturesque Phobjikha Valley, known as the winter sanctuary for rare black-necked cranes. The festival showcases traditional mask dances rooted in the rich Peling tradition, alongside vibrant folk performances by local residents. Culminating in "Needup Langwa," a spiritual ritual for bestowing wisdom and strength, the festival embodies Bhutan's cultural heritage and spiritual essence. The last day will witness the unfurling of the Thongdroel
Jomolhari Mountain Festival
The Jomolhari Mountain Festival celebrates the symbiotic relationship between communities residing near the Jhomolhari mountain and their natural surroundings, especially the graceful yet elusive snow leopard. Attendees can immerse themselves in snow leopard-themed folk performances by locals, Jigme Dorji National Park personnel, and schoolchildren, alongside engaging in traditional sports like Khuru (darts), shot put, as well as horse and yak riding. Gastronomic delights of local cuisine and exquisite handicrafts add to the festival's charm. This festival is an excellent addition to the popular Jhmolhari trek. Embark on the ultimate Jomolhari Mountain experience, traversing awe-inspiring mountain landscapes while gaining profound insights into the extraordinary communities that call these breathtaking vistas home.
Black-necked Crane Festival
The only alpine crane species in the world, the black-necked crane is considered a sacred bird in Bhutan and is celebrated every year during the Black-necked Crane Festival. The Festival is held in the courtyard of Gangtey Gonpa, located in the Phobjikha valley. This annual event aims to raise awareness and foster understanding about the significance of preserving the endangered Black-necked cranes. It also strives to reinforce the connections between conservation efforts, economic well-being, and sustainable livelihoods within the community.