The 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.
Zhemgang 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.
This festival takes you to Zhemgang Bhutan. This allows visitors to get close to the local community and appreciate the distinct culture of central 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.
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.
