Tshechus are among the most unforgettable experiences in the Himalaya. Held on the tenth day of a lunar month to honour Guru Padmasambhava, they bring entire communities together in their finest ghos and kiras.
The dances
Monks and laymen perform the cham — masked dances that tell stories of good triumphing over evil and of Guru Rinpoche’s life. Watching them is believed to bring blessings and cleanse wrongdoing.
The thongdroel
At several festivals, including Paro, a giant appliqué thangka is unfurled at dawn on the final day. Its name means “liberation on sight”.
Etiquette
Dress respectfully, never walk across the dance ground, ask before photographing people and keep flash off during sacred dances.
Which festival?
See our festival calendar for upcoming dates, and pair a festival with one of our journeys for the best seats in the house.
