Witness sacred mask dances, colourful traditions and Bhutan's famous festivals.
Tshechus are annual religious festivals held at temples, monasteries and dzongs throughout the country. Tshechu means "tenth day": each festival falls on the tenth day of a lunar month associated with the birth of Guru Padmasambhava, and the exact month varies from place to place.
Whole communities gather to watch masked dances, receive blessings and celebrate together, alongside colourful folk dances and entertainment. It is traditionally believed that everyone should attend a tshechu and see the mask dances at least once to receive blessings and wash away their sins. Many of the dances recount stories dating back to the 8th century and the life of Guru Padmasambhava; they are performed by monks in monasteries, and by monks and village men together in remote villages. The Paro and Thimphu Tshechus are the largest and best known, drawing international visitors as well as locals.
The Thimphu Festival (Tsechu) is one of the grandest of Bhutan’s festivals and attracts the largest audience. Featuring dances performed by trained monks and laymen in am...
Paro Tsechu is one of the most popular festivals in Bhutan. Featuring dances performed by trained monks and laymen in amazing masks and costumes, Tsechus (festivals) are...
Every November the glacial valley of Phobjikha celebrates the return of the endangered black-necked cranes from the Tibetan plateau. The Black Necked Crane Festival is he...
Thangbi Mani festival is one of the most popular festivals held in Chhoekhor Gewog in Bumthang. The highlight of the festival is the fire blessing (Mewang) ceremony, perf...
Every journey can be customised — combine a festival with a trek, add a monastery stay or slow the pace. We’ll design it with you.
