2026 Festival Calendar
Bhutan’s festival calendar is a vibrant expression of its spiritual and cultural heritage. Throughout the year, communities across Bhutan come alive with tshechus – colorful religious festivals held in monasteries and dzongs, featuring masked dances, traditional music, and communal celebrations. These festivals are not only sacred rites but also important social gatherings that bring families and villages together. In addition, Bhutan also celebrates nature through festivals such as the Black Necked Crane or the Rhododendron festivals. From the grand Paro Tshechu in spring to the intimate Haa Summer Festival and the unique nomadic festivals of the north, Bhutan’s festivals offers visitors wide ranging options to experience and get insights into living traditions and timeless values that define Bhutan. You can download the festival calendar for 2026 here. Visit some of our tours here and let us know if you would like to plan your holidays around a specific festival.
Simply Bhutan’s Guide to Bhutan Festivals
Bhutan’s festivals are vibrant and joyous celebrations that bring the country’s rich culture, history, and spirituality to life. These events unite communities through mesmerizing dances, colourful costumes, and sacred rituals, offering a unique glimpse into Bhutanese traditions. Many festivals honour Guru Rinpoche, the revered saint who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan in the eighth century, and feature mystical dances, fire ceremonies, and historical reenactments that beautifully highlight the country’s cultural heritage. To truly experience the essence of Bhutan, attending these festivals is a must. Here, we highlight some of the key festivals that will enrich your journey. For more details, please check our festivals calendar. Punakha Dromchoe and TshechuThis is a unique festival known for reenacting the 17th-century battle against the Tibetan army, Punakha Dromchoe features local militia dressed in traditional battle gear, recreating historical scenes with swords and armour. These events are a tribute to the villagers who defended their…