Festival Calendar

PHURBA DUBCHEN

12 - 19 February | Venue: Doedel Pemacholing Lhakhang, Ramjar, Trashiyangtse

This festival is observed in Trashiyangtse, located inthe far eastern part of Bhutan. “Drubchen” means“great accomplishment” in Tibetan and is one of themost elaborate forms of Vajrayana Buddhist practice. Apart from watching the mask dances and cultural programmes, sincere participation in a drubchen is saidto generate merit and potential realisation equal to oneyear of retreat.

LICHIBI TSHECHU

15 February | Venue: Li Chi Bi, Goshing, Zhemgang

During this festival, mask dances are performed and prayers recited during the day, while cultural dances and songs are performed towards the evening.

PUNAKHA TSHECHU

15 - 17 February | Venue: Punakha Dzong, Punakha

The Punakha Tshechu is one of the most popular tshechus in the country. It is held right after the popular Punakha Drubchen. The unfurling of the thongdrol (a large tapestry) of Guru Rinpoche on the last day is the main attraction of the festival. It is believed that a mere sight of the thongdrol liberates an onlooker and cleanses him of his sins.

NAKTSHANG TSHECHU

15 - 18 February | Venue: Nyalamdung Naktshang, Khoma, Lhuentse

Naktshang is believed to be the seat of Guru Chowang. A five-day festival is celebrated in Naktshang, where local mask dancers perform.

NGANGLAM TSHECHU

17 - 19 February | Venue: Nganglam Lhakhang, Zobel, Pemagatshel

Nganglam Tshechu is held in Nganglam Lhakhang in Zobel, Pemagatshel. Several sacred mask dances are displayed to the public. The local folk dances are also showcased to the public.

TANGSIBI MANI

18 - 22 February | Venue: Tangsibi Lhakhang, Ura, Bumthang

Tangsibi Mani is a religious ritual celebrated in Ura Gewog under Bumthang Dzongkhag. The chams/ dances include all the terchams composed by the great saint Terton Pema Lingpa and other dances as well.

THARPALING THONGDROL

19 February | Venue: Tharpaling Lhakhang, Chumey,Bumthang

Tharpaling Thongdrol is a one-day festival and is mainly a display of a giant thangka or thongdrol (applique silk work with Buddhist images) of Jowo Jampa and Kuenkhen Longchen Rabjam, and is preceeded by prayers and. No chams (dances) are performed during the entire festival.

CHENGA KORA

19 February | Venue: Chorten Kora, Trashiyangtse

This festival is very popular in Bhutan. It is held at Chorten Kora in Trashiyangtse. It is also known as the Tse-Chenga Kora, and is a celebration on the 15th day of the first month of the Bhutanese calendar. This festival is so significant that the devotees from Tawang in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh join the local Bhutanese in this grand event.

BIRD FESTIVAL

19 - 21 February | Venue: Berti/Trong Gewog, Zhemgang

Different artwork and local foods of all eight gewogs within Zhemgang will be showcased. For nature lovers or bird photography enthusiasts, birding and photography tours are also organized, so that you can catch a glimpse of the vast varieties of bird species within Bhutan.

GOMKORA TSHECHU

14 - 16 March | Venue: Gomphu Kora, Trashiyangtse

Gomphu Kora lies in the heart of the agrarian belt of easternBhutan. It is 23km from Trashigang Dzong, the headquartersof Bhutan’s most populous district in the eastern Bhutan.Gomphu means “Meditation Cave” and Kora means “Circumambulation”.The name is derived from a cave formed outof a rock-face next to a temple that has been built as a tributeto this sacred site. The biggest attraction of Gomphu Kora isthe circumambulation. “Go around Gomphu Kora today fortomorrow may be too late”, advises a local song that enticesdevotees to visit Gomphu Kora. The place comes alive onceevery year when people all over eastern Bhutan descend uponthe narrow valley, dressed in their finery, to partake in thefestivity, to worship and to reaffirm their connection withthe past. The sanctity of the three-day religious festival evendraws the Dakpa tribe from neighboring Arunachael Pradesh(India). They endure days of travel on foot through ruggedenvirons with entire families in tow.

ZHURI DUECHOED

1 - 2 March | Venue: Zhuri Lhakhang, Chumey, Bumthang

Zhuri Duechoed is observed in Zhuri Lhakhang in Chumey,Bumthang. Bumthang is considered as country’s most sacredplace being blessed by numerous great saints in olden days.

GAYDEN CHOEDPA

4 - 6 March | Venue: Gayden Lhakhang, Ura, Bumthang

This festival takes place in the sacred Gayden Lhakhangin Ura, Bumthang. It is a small festival for the temple.

PARO TSHECHU CHHENMO

17 - 21 March | Venue: Ringpung Deyangkha, Paro

Paro Tshechu is one of the biggest festivals in thecountry and is held over five days. On the first day, allmask dances are held inside the courtyard of the dzong.On the subsequent days, the festival will then be heldat the courtyard outside the dzong. A thongdrol (largetapestry) will be unfurled on the last day of the festival.

PANTANG TSHECHU

19 March | Venue: Dzongdrakha Lhakhang, Luni, Paro

The mask dances are similar to Pe-ling Cham of the Gangtey Goenpa and are performed for three days.

GASA TSHECHU

13 - 16 March | Venue: Gasa Dzong, Gasa

The Gasa Tshechu is the biggest festival in the smalldistrict of Gasa in northwest Bhutan, which is hometo highlander communities. Many mask dances areperformed and the local folk dances are very unique anddistinct, adding to the festive mood of the celebration.

NAMGANG KORA

6 March | Venue: Chorten Kora, Trashiyangtse

Namgang Kora is one of oldest religious festivalsof eastern Bhutan, which is held annually at theChorten Kora, Trashiyangtse. This festival involvescircumambulating the famous Chorten Kora on thelast day of the auspicious first month of the Bhutanesecalendar. It is preceded by Chenga Kora. Local devoteesand devotees from Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh state ofIndia, come together annually during this festival.

GASA TSHECHU

13 - 16 March | Venue: Gasa Dzong, Gasa

The Gasa Tshechu is the biggest festival in the smalldistrict of Gasa in northwest Bhutan, which is hometo highlander communities. Many mask dances areperformed and the local folk dances are very unique anddistinct, adding to the festive mood of the celebration.

ZHEMGANG TSHECHU

13 - 16 March | Venue: Zhemgang Dzong, Zhemgang

Different mask dances are performed for three days withthe unfurling of a huge thongdrel (large tapestry) ofGuru Rinpoche on the fourth day.

TSIRANG TSHECHU

14 - 16 March | Venue: Ragbey Dratshang, Tsirang

The annual tshechu is the biggest festival in the southerntown of Tsirang. The festival attracts people from allover the region. Several different kinds of mask dancesare performed. Local and traditional dances and musicadd colour to the festive mood. The thongdrol (largetapestry) of Guru Rimpoche is unfurled on the last dayof the tshechu.

PREWCHOED

16 March | Venue: Buli, Zhemgang

No mask dances are performed and the public is offered only with potatoes during this event.

DZONGDRA TSHECHU

16 - 22 March | Venue: Dzongdrakha Lhakhang, Luni, Paro

It is believed that the Paro Tshechu Chhenmo started from Dzongdrakha and ends at Dzongdrakha.

BHUTAN SPORTS FESTIVAL

6 April | Venue: Phobjikha, Gantey, Wangdue

Bhutan Sports Festival is an international trail runningand mountain biking event, scheduled for the firstSaturday of every April, with the inaugural year being2019 (April 6th) at Phobjikha, Gangtey. The proposedtwo tiers of the ultra-race comprises of a full race with adistance of 50km and a half-race of 25km, run and bikeevent.

DUNGKHAR TSHECHU

13 - 15 April | Venue: Dungkhar Lhakhang, Khar, Pemagatshel

The three–day festival showcases sacred dances such asthe Black Hat Dance, the three Ging, and the drummersof Drametse. A small thongdrol ((large tapestry),representing the future Buddha Maitreya (Jampa), isunfurled for the public to receive blessings and it isthe highlight of the festival. A distinction of DungkharTshechu is that people are given the blessings of thelake. During this festival, the local deity of Khar village,Nalu Thoepa, is propitiated and offerings are made tohim. It is believed that the local deity would not protectthe community if he is not given his due reverence andthat natural calamities like heavy rainfall and stormswould bring havoc to the community.

RAWABI TSHECHU

13 - 15 April | Venue: Rawabi Goenpa, Maenbi, Lhuentse.

A small thongdrol ((large tapestry),representing the future Buddha Maitreya (Jampa), isunfurled for the public to receive blessings and it isthe highlight of the festival. A distinction of DungkharTshechu is that people are given the blessings of thelake. During this festival, the local deity of Khar village,Nalu Thoepa, is propitiated and offerings are made tohim. It is believed that the local deity would not protectthe community if he is not given his due reverence andthat natural calamities like heavy rainfall and stormswould bring havoc to the community.

DOLAY DRUPCHEN

14 April | Venue: Neyphu Goenpa, Shaba, Paro

This festival is held every year. Monks from Nephu Monastery participate in the festival as mask dance performers.

URA YAKCHOED

16 - 20 April | Venue: Ura Lhakhang, Bumthang

Ura Lhakhang is situated in the middle of Ura villagein Bumthang, and the temple is about the size of theNational Library at Kawajangsa, Thimphu. It was builtin the 1980s. Inside the temple is a huge statue of GuruRinpoche and beautiful paintings. The main statue inthe temple is that of Guru Nangsay Zilnoen. Highlightof the event is invoking and escorting of the deityYidam Chhana Dorjee from Gaythen to Ura.

DOMKHAR TSHECHU

14 - 16 April | Venue: Domkhar Lhakhang, Chumey, Bumthang

Domkhar Lhakhang was built by Serkhong Truelku during the 18th century and it is said that the lhakhang is the residence for the Trulku. Domkhar Tshechu is a three-day festival, which includes chams and dances that are performed by the local people of Domkhar village. The chams include mainly the Peling Chams (composition of Terton Pema Lingpa). On the last day of the festival, the lhakhang displays large thongdrels (large tapestries) to bless the people of Domkhar village.

RHODODENDRON FESTIVAL

19 - 21 April | Venue: Lamperi Botanical Garden, Dochula, Thimphu

The festival celebrates the rhododendron flower,which blossoms abundantly in Bhutan. It features therhododendron garden walk and exhibition, local cultureand cuisines, arts and crafts, traditional games, culturalprogrammes, guided walks and activities. The festivaldisplays different species that are in full bloom in theirnatural habitat.

DUMATI TSHECHU

29 April | Venue: Dumati, Lichibi, Zhemgang

People gather to witness different types of mask dancesand cultural items. It is also a time for people to cometogether to meet each other.

PREW KHOWCHUNG

12 June | Venue: Gangzur, Lhuentse

Khowchung in Gangzur, Lhuentse is the residence of the famous terton (treasure revealer) Pema Lingpa. The stone bathtub and a footprint of the horse that used to belong to him can still be found here. The festival held here at Khowchung is when the public can receive blessings from relics.

PREW

12 - 14 June | Venue: Jasabi, Kurtoe, Lhuentse

Prew is celebrated yearly to offer prayers to GuruRinpoche to protect from any misfortune and to havebountiful production in the year. Some say Prew is toobserve the birth anniversary of Guru Rinpoche.

ZOBEL TSHECHU

15 - 17 June | Venue: Zobel Lhakhang, Zobel, Pemagatshel

Zobel gewog under Pemagatshel Dzongkhag is knownfor its many sacred religious monuments: it has about13 temples and 50 chortens. The popular Zobel Tshechuis held in the Zobel Lhakhang in Zobel gewog underPemagatshel Dzongkhag.

BONCHOED

16 June | Venue: Trong/Dangkhar, Zhemgang

People from the community offer offerings (Tshog)to the god and pray for wellbeing and happiness foranother year. Religious dances and local folk songs arealso performed during the event.

THE HAA SUMMER FESTIVAL

2nd weekend of July | Venue: Dzongkhag Ground, Upper market, Haa

The Haa Summer Festival is a lively and uplifting celebration of traditional living-culture, nomadic lifestyles, unique Bhutanese cuisine, traditional sports and religious performances. It provides unparalleled insight into the lives and traditions of Bhutan’s nomadic herders. It showcases a lively traditional living culture, nomadic lifestyles, and demonstration of local cuisines, brewing of local ara, traditional sports, religious performances, dances, songs, artifacts and natural alpine flowers. Tourists can also experience the night at one of the many village home stays and enjoy the hospitality of the local people of Haa Valley.

DECHENLING TSHECHU

10 - 12 July | Venue: Dechenling Lhakhang, Dechenling, Pemagatshel

This festival is held in the lhakhang of Dechenlinggewog under Pemagatshel Dzongkhag. Mask dances,along with different varieties of cultural items, make upthe main highlights and entertainment of the festival.There is another Dechenling Tshechu taking place inDecemeber, so if you miss this one, it’s still possible toattend it later in the year.

DER-CHOED

9 - 11 July | Venue: Bjoka Trong, Zhemgang

Different types of mask dances are performed on this day to entertain and bless the locals.

TENDRA TSHECHU

11 July | Venue: Geokar Lhakhang, Yalang, Trashiyangtse

The Geokar Teldha Tshechu is held in Geokar Lhakhang in Yalang, Trashiyangtse.

NIMALUNG TSHECHU

10 - 12 July | Venue: Nimalung Dratshang, Bumthang

Nimalung Tshechu is a three-day festival. It startswith the usual chams and dances performed in otherdzongkhags but on the final day, people are blessed withthe display of Guru Tshengye thongdrel (large tapestry)in the morning. On the final day of the festival, theGuru Tshengye cham and Drametse Nga cham areperformed by the monks of Nimalung Dratshang.

KHAMDANG TENDRA TSHECHU

11 July | Venue: Shaksinggoenpa, Khamdang, Trashiyangtse

The annual tshechu is performed on the 10th day of the second month as per the Bhutanese calendar which is considered a female month for the year.

KURJEY TSHECHU

11 July | Venue: Kurjey Lhakhang, Choekhor, Bumthang

Kurjey Tshechu is celebrated in the popular Kurjey Lakhang in Bumthang. People of Jakar and Kurjey villages attend the tshechu to pay obeisance to Guru Rinpoche who brought Buddhism to Bhutan. It is a one-day festival and the chams/dances include the Guru Tshengye and Shinjay cham performed by the monks of Kurjey Lhakhang. The festival closes with the unfurling of a giant Buddha/Guru thangka painting known as thongdrol. The festival is fully supported and funded by the government of Bhutan.

HA FESTIVAL

11 - 15 July | Venue: All Chiwogs in Jarey, Lhuentse

Ha festival is part of the Bon tradition, which has unique and special characteristics. All villages under Jarey Gewog take part in the Ha festival.

KHANGMA TSHECHU

11 - 13 July | Venue: Khangma Lhakhang, Yurung, Pemagatshel

Khangma Tshechu takes place in Khangma Lhakhang in Yurung, Pemagatshel. Various mask dances and traditional cultural programmes are performed during the festival.

DUNGSINGMA TSHECHU

11 July | Venue: Dungsingma, Yurung, Pemagatshel

Dungsingma Tshechu is a festival held in Dungsingma village in Yurung, Pemagatshel. People gather during the festival to witness mask dances and receive blessings.

HUNGLA CHOKHOR

28 - 30 August | Venue: Tokaphu Lhakhang, Tongzhang, Trashiyangtse

Hungla Chokhor festival takes place in Tokaphu Lhakhang in Tongzhang, Trashiyangtse.

LHAMOI DOEY-PHANG

29 August | Venue: Ringpung Dzong, Paro

Lhamoi Doey-Phang is performed annually by the Ringpung Rabdey monks as rituals to their local deity and protector.

TAKILA CHHAM

11 - 13 September | Venue: Takila Lhakhang, Lhuentse

Takila is one of the most sacred historical andreligious places in Lhuentse. Many important festivalsof nearby communities take place at Takila. This iswhere the country’s largest statue of Guru Rimpocheis located. The popular festival of Kurtoe region called“Chha” also takes place here.

CHUKOR

27 - 29 September | Venue: Shaksinggoenpa, Khamdang, Trashiyangtse

Chukor festival is most popular in easterndzongkhags. Trashiyangtse, which is located in thefar-eastern part of Bhutan, is particularly famous forthis festival. Visitors will have a nice time attendingthis festival and interacting with the local people of Trashiyangtse.

CHHA FESTIVAL

30 Sept – 02 October | Venue: Kurtoe, Lhuentse

Chha is celebrated every year by the people of Phagidoong, Tagmochhu, Kamdhar, Kusumphel, Khaashaling and Takila for four days. Chha is an offering made to the local deities and originated from the bonism religion. During the festival, people from the six villages gather to make offerings to local deities such as Wokhor Zhelngo, Kharshong Zhelngo, Chhami, Gyem and Lham.

CHHA

30 Sept – 02 October | Venue: Kurtoe, Lhuentse

Chha is celebrated to welcome Byul Lha and to protect any misfortune from happening in the year.

THIMPHU DROMCHOE

4 October | Venue: Tashichho Dzong, Thimphu

Thimphu Dromchoe precedes the popular three-day Thimphu Tshechu. The Dromchoe showcases the sacred dances dedicated to the protecting deity of Bhutan, Palden Lhamo.

BUM TASHI FESTIVAL

5 October | Venue: Gasa Dzong, Gasa

The Bum Tashi Festival of Gasa has been named after the region’s protecting deity Tashi Thongoen. It basically involves making offerings and prayers to this protecting deity.

DROMCHE

5 October | Venue: Rinpung Dzong, Paro

Sacred mask dances are performed during the dromche. During this one-day event, all regional offices, private sectors, and government institutions are closed for the public to witness the dromche.

WANGDUE TSHECHU

6 - 8 October | Venue: Tencholing Army Ground, Wangduephodrang

The festival is held in Wangduephodrang and is observed for three days in the autumn season. The tshechu is well known for the Raksha Mangcham or the Dance of the Ox. Many different kinds of mask dances are performed during the festival. It concludes with the unfurling of the Guru Tshengye Thongdrel (large tapestry).

KOTHAKPA TSHECHU

6 – 8 October | Venue: Shumar/Kothakpa, Pemagatshel

Kothakpa Tshechu takes place in Shumar, Khothakpa, in Pemagatshel. This is where the country’s largest gypsum mine is located.

GOENPUNG TSHECHU

6 – 8 October | Venue: Shumar/Goenpun, Pemagatshel

This festival is observed in Shumar, Goenpung under Pemagatshel Dzongkhag.

TERCHEN DRUPCHEN

6 - 18 October | Venue: Kichu lhakhang, Paro

The annual Terchen Drupchen is performed under the patronage of Her Majesty the Queen Mother Ashi Kezang Choden Wangchuck.

GELING GOENPA TSHECHU

7 - 8 October | Venue: Geyling Goenpa, Chhukha

It was said that during the olden days, the tshechu was performed to subdue the demons obstructing the construction of the Goempa. All the chams/dances are the usual ones performed in other dzongkhags and the festival is celebrated annually.

SHAKSING GOENPA TSHECHU

7 - 9 October | Venue: Shaksinggoenpa, Khamdang, Trashiyangtse

Shakshing goenpa is located in Khamdang, Trashityangtse. You will also go through this monastery if you happen to trek to the popular Omba Ney, which is dubbed as the Taktshang of the East.

SHAKSING GOENPA TSHECHU

7 - 9 October | Venue: Shaksinggoenpa, Khamdang, Trashiyangtse

Shakshing goenpa is located in Khamdang, Trashityangtse. You will also go through this monastery if you happen to trek to the popular Omba Ney, which is dubbed as the Taktshang of the East.

DORJITSE KUCHOED

7 - 10 October | Venue: Dorji Gompa, Tang, Bumthang

Dorjitse Kuchoed takes place in Dorji Goenpa in Tang, Bumthang.

JANGCHUBLING WANG

8 October | Venue: Gangzur, Lhuentse

This occasion marks the discovery of a treasure or terton, Tsepamey (Buddha Amitayus) and has been held every year since. During this event, one can see relics, such as the nabza (dress), leather boots and cap from the 16th Karmapa, a cup and rosary of the former Situ Rinpoche, among others. One can also see the lama Ngawang Samten’s holy water.

THIMPHU TSHECHU

8 - 10 October | Venue: Tashichho Dzong, Thimphu

One of the biggest festivals in the country is the Thimphu Tshechu. This festival is held in the capital city for three days. The Tshechu is witnessed by thousands of people, both local and tourists. The actual Tshechu is preceded by days and nights of prayer and rituals to invoke the gods. Mask dances like the Guru Tshengye (Eight Manifestations of Guru Rinpoche), Shaw Shachi (Dance of the Stags) and many more are performed.

TAMSHING PHALA CHOEDPA

8 - 10 October | Venue: Tamshing Lhakhang, Choekhor, Bumthang

The festival of Tamzhing Lhakhang is held for three days. People from different parts of Bumthang and also from other parts of Bhutan gather to witness the dances of terton (treasure revealer) Pema Lingpa (Peling Sung Cham), which are performed by the monks of Tamzhing Monastery. The chams (dances) include the Phagchham (pig dance), which is performed on the first night and was composed by the great saint Mewang. The festival is concluded by Pholay Molay cham.

HAA TSHECHU

10 October | Venue: Lhakhang karpo, Haa

The Haa Tshechu was introduced in 1990 and performed at the Lhakhang Karpo. The annual Haa Tshechu, which is held to honour Guru Rinpoche, is the biggest festival in the district and attracts people from all over western Bhutan. The three-day Haa Tshechu concludes with the unfurling of the Guru thongdrel (large tapestry) on the last day.

DUNGSINGMA TSHECHU

11 - 13 October | Venue: Dungsingma, Yurung Pemagatshel

Dungsingma Tshechu is observed in Dungsingma village in Yurung gewog under Pemagatshel Dzongkhag. Different mask dances and traditional folk dances are showcased to the public.

DANKALA MANI (MANTRA) TSHECHU

13 October | Venue: Dankala lhakhang, Shaba, Paro

Dankala Mani Tshechu is performed every year with Shingjay yabyum cham and followed by the display of some culture items.

KHOMSHAR KHARPHU

13 October | Venue: Khomshar, Zhemgang

People gather to offer cash and kind or wine to their bon priest to receive blessings. It is believed that the Bonpo presides over the event.

NANGKOR TSHECHU

11 – 13 October | Venue: Shumar, Pemagatshel

This festival takes place in Shumar, Pemagatshel. The people from nearby communities gather to witness mask dances and enjoy the festival.

THANGBI MEWA

11 - 14 October | Venue: Thangbi Lhakhang, Choekor, Bumthang

The four-day festival is a display of the rich tradition and celebrates the cultural heritage of the ancient Thangbi Lhakhang. The main highlight of the festival is the Mewang ceremony. Mewang ceremony (Fire Blessing) is performed in an open ground. The Gomchens performs purification rituals, while all the people and guests jump over the flames to get themselves purified from their sins and evil deeds. It is believed that if one is able to jump over the flame three times, he or she is protected from ill luck and misfortunes are removed for that entire year. That is why people from all walks of life attempt to jump across the flame three times to be blessed for the whole year. Then, mask dances and folk dances are performed as scheduled in the enclosed courtyard of the temple.

KADAM TSHECHU

12 – 14 October | Venue: Kadam Lhakhang, Khar, Pemagatshel

Kadam Tshechu takes place in Kadam Lhakhang in Khar gewog of Pemagatshel.

PHUENTSHOLING TSHECHU

13 October | Venue: Pelden Tashichoelling Shedra, Phuentsholing

The three-day tshechu is performed at Pelden Tashichoelling Shedra, Phuentsholing. Badza Guru Dungdup recitation is one of the major events apart from the mask dance performances.

JOMOLHARI MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL

14 - 15 October | Venue: Jangkothang, Upper Paro

Jomolhari Mountain Festival is an exquisitely themed two-day event celebrated at the base of Mt. Jomolhari by communities located along one of the most scenic trekking routes in Bhutan. The festival celebrates the culture of the communities living together with the natural wonders that surround them: one in particular is the elusive, yet elegant, snow leopard! This endangered cat thrives in the region; several camera trap photos and definite signs have established the region as one of the best snow leopard habitats in Bhutan.

LAYA AULAY

15 – 16 October | Venue: Laya, Gasa

The Laya Aulay, also spelled as Laya Aulay, is held in Laya gewog of Gasa. Visitors can join this festival and experience the lifestyle of the country’s highland community.

ROYAL HIGHLANDER FESTIVAL

23 – 24 October | Venue: Laya, Gasa

The Royal Highlander Festival will be organised in Laya this October. Driven by the underlying goal of making the highlands a vibrant and thriving economy, the festival aims to promote the sustainable livelihood of highlanders, showcase highlander’s innovation, and exhibit the highlands as a pride of Bhutan. The festival brings together highlanders from other parts of Bhutan to exchange values, knowledge, skills, and best practices related to highlands and yak farming. The festival is a landmark activity of Gasa dzongkhag’s “Good to Great Gasa”, a vision inspired by His Majesty’s passion to make our country great.

BHO-YAK

3 November | Venue: Janka-kha, Upper valley, Haa

Bho-Yak is also popularly celebrated as ‘Ap Chundu’s’ birthday. The festival begins at Lhakhang Karpo, the residence of the local deity. As early as 2.30am, the monastic body recites prayers to appease Ap Chundu until 5.30am. After that, Ap Chundu’s ride, a well-decorated horse, is brought to the lhakhang from the new dzong area and a cleansing ceremony is performed. Led in a traditional ‘Chipdrel’ procession with sounds of drums, bells and singing of melodious traditional songs of praises and wellwishes for all sentient beings, Ap Chundu is then ushered to Janka-kha, the place where the actual event for the day is held. As the Chipdrel proceeds, it is compulsory that they stop at the old Haa dzong for the marchang ceremony. Stopping at around six different places on the way for traditional ‘Marchang Ceremony’ (wine-offering ceremony), the procession takes around four hours and covers around 10km, making it the longest Chipdrel processions in the country. The procession is then greeted by a cheerful crowd dressed in their best colourful attire at Jankakha.

SHINGKHAR RABNEY

2 - 6 November | Venue: Shingkhar Lhakhang, Ura, Bumthang

The Shingkhar Rabney is held at the historic temple, Shingkhar Dechenling Lhakhang, in Ura valley in Bumthang. Several mask dances are performed during the festival. The highlight of the festival is the role of an old man, locally called Chath Dorji, who wears a brown wrinkled mask and blesses women with a wooden phallus.

JAKAR TSHECHU

3 - 7 November | Venue: Jakar Dzong, Bumthang

The Jakar Dzong or “the Dzong of the White Bird” is perched on the hillock overlooking Chamkhar town and places surrounding it. The interesting thing about the Dzong is that there is a water tower four stairs down behind the Dzong, leading to a water reservoir used for drawing water during battle times in olden days. The three-day festival displays several sacred mask dances. The festival also hosts different types of folk songs and dances. People visit the festival dressed in their finest clothes and the festival is also popular among tourists.

UGYENCHOLING KANGSEL

4 - 6 November | Venue: Ugyencholing Dzong, Tang, Bumthang

Ugyencholing Kangsel is held in Ugyencholing Dzong in Tang gewog under Bumthang Dzongkhag. The popular Ugyencholing Dzong has played a vital role as a religious centre in the history of Bhutan. Today, it houses one of the most interesting museums of the country. It is a must-visit site for tourists.

JAKAR TSHECHU

3 - 7 November | Venue: Jakar Dzong, Bumthang

The Jakar Dzong or “the Dzong of the White Bird” is perched on the hillock overlooking Chamkhar town and places surrounding it. The interesting thing about the Dzong is that there is a water tower four stairs down behind the Dzong, leading to a water reservoir used for drawing water during battle times in olden days. The three-day festival displays several sacred mask dances. The festival also hosts different types of folk songs and dances. People visit the festival dressed in their finest clothes and the festival is also popular among tourists.

CHHUKHA TSHECHU

4 - 6 November | Venue: Chhukha Ngedrubtse Dzong, Chhukha

The tshechu is performed annually as an offering to Guru Rinpoche. Different mask dances are performed during the festival, as well as traditional folk songs and dances. The highlight of the festival is the unfurling of the thongdrol (large tapestry) of Guru Rinpoche.

LANYIRI TSHECHU

4 - 6 November | Venue: Lanyiri Lhakhang, Dungmin, Pemagatshel

The Lanyiri Tshechu takes place in Lanyiri Lhakhang in Dungmin, Pemagatshel. People gather to witness mask dances and cultural programs.

TSHEBAR TSHECHU

5 - 7 November | Venue: Tshebar Lhakhang, Khar, Pemagatshel

Tshebar Tshechu is held in the Tshebar Lhakhang in Khar under Pemagatshel Dzongkhag. Different mask dances and cultural programmes are performed during the festival.

GOENKAR TSHECHU

6 – 8 November | Venue: Goenkar, Khoma, Lhuentse

This three-day festival is celebrated annually. Lama Choni Rangdol is the founder of this place. Local lay monks perform the dances.

PEMAGATSHEL TSHECHU

10 - 12 November | Venue: Pemagatshel Dzong, Pemagatshel

People from all over the district come to the district Dzong where the festival is held and all public offices remain closed for three days when the festival is in process. Different kinds of mask dances are performed together with many traditional and classical dances.

DUNGMED TSHECHU

10 - 12 November | Venue: Dungmed Lhakhang, Dungmin, Pemagatshel

Dungmed Tshechu takes place in Dungmed Lhakhang in Dungmin, Pemagatshel. Local people gather at the Lhakhang to enjoy the festival.

BLACK-NECKED CRANE FESTIVAL

11 November | Venue: Gangtey Goenpa, Phobjikha, Wangdue Phodrang

The annual Black-Necked Crane festival is celebrated at the courtyard of Gangtey Goenpa in Phobjikha valley. The festival is an occasion for the locals to rejoice and celebrate the arrival of this vulnerable and majestic bird that has become an inseparable part in their daily lives during the winter months. The annual black-necked crane festival is organised to generate awareness and understanding on the importance of conserving the birds. The festival includes cultural programmes, such as folk songs and dances (some with black-necked crane themes), mask dances performed by the local people, crane dances and environmental conservation-themed dramas and songs by school children.

TSHEPAMI THRONGDREL

12 November | Venue: Ringpung Deyangkha, Paro

The Tshepamey- Throngdrel (Life Long Throngdrel) is unfurled every year to the public.

BARDO KHARPHU

12 November | Venue: Bardo, Zhemgang

People gather to offer cash and kind or wine to their bon priest to receive blessings. It is believed that the Bonpo presides over the event.

JAMBAY LHAKANG DRUP

12 - 15 November | Venue: Jambay Lhakhang, Choekhor, Bumthang

The 7th century Tibetan king Songsten Gampo is said to have built 108 temples in one day and Jambay Lhakhang in Bumthang is believed to be one of them. The Jambay Lhakhang Drup is one of the most interesting events held there. During this festival, the chams (dances) include Terchham (Naked Dance), which was formerly initiated by Terton Dorje Lingpa, Mewang, Macham, Ging Tsholing, Dramtse Ngacham, Zhana Cham etc,. The dances are performed by the local villagers of Norgang, Changwa and Nangsiphel. The festival is a five-day programme.

PRAKAR DUECHOED

13 - 15 November | Venue: Prakar Lhakhang, Bumthang

Prakhar Tshechu is performed in Prakhar Lhakhang ever year. It is a three-day festival and the chams (dances) performed during the tshechu are the usual chams performed in other dzongkhags. On the third night of the tshechu, the people are given the opportunity to get blessings from Thuktshe Dawa.

PANBANG TSHECHU

17 – 19 November | Venue: Sonamthang Dratshang, Zhemgang

Different mask dances are performed with the unfurling of a huge Thongdrol (large tapestry) of Guru Rinpoche.

SERZHONG TSHECHU

19 November | Venue: Do-Ngag Kuenzangcholing Lhakhang, Serzhong, Sarpang

Serzhong Tshechu is an annual event where mask dances are performed by the monks. It is a one-day tshechu that coincides with the Descending Day of Lord Buddha. The Guru Tsengye thongdrol (large tapestry) is also displayed to the public for blessings. About 10 relics from the lhakhang are also displayed.

SUMTHRANG KANGSEL

22 - 26 November | Venue: Sumthrang Lhakhang, Ura, Bumthang

This annual festival is held at the 13th century monastery of Sumthrang Lhakhang in Ura valley in Bumthang. This festival was initiated by the founder of the monastery, Nyoton Trulzhig Chojey, a great yogi and one of the sons of Nyo Gyelwa Lhanangpa, the founder of Sumthrang monastic establishment. The Sumthrang Taacham (horse dance) is one of main mask dances performed during the festival.

KHOMSHAR KATAG

25 November | Venue: Khomshar, Zhemgang

People gather to offer cash and kind to the Bonpo to receive blessings in return. People dances and sing to celebrate the day.

YESHEY GOENPOI DRUPCHEN/ FESTIVAL OF MAHAKALA

1 - 3 December | Venue: Trongsa Dzong, Trongsa

This festival is dedicated to the dominant male protective deity of Bhutan, Yeshey Goenpo (Mahakala). It was first introduced by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in the 17th century in Punakha Dzong to commemorate the victory over Tibetan invasions. In 1988, Yeshey Goenpi Drupchen was introduced in Trongsa Dzong by His Majesty the 4th King and the 68th Je Khenpo His Holiness Tenzin Dendup.

DRUK WANGYEL TSHECHU

13 December | Venue: Dochula,Thimphu

The Druk Wangyel Tshechu is a unique festival performed by the Royal Bhutan Army rather than monks or lay people. It is a tribute to the wise leadership of His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Fourth King of Bhutan. It also celebrates the continuous efforts of the Royal Bhutan Army in protecting the sovereignty and the stability of the country. This one-of-a-kind tshechu is performed at the festival round near Dochula Pass, against the backdrop of the magnificent Jigme Singye Wangchuck mountain range.

TRASHIGANG TSHECHU

3 - 5 December | Venue: Trashigang Dzong, Trashigang

The annual Trashigang Tshechu is one of the biggest festivals in eastern Bhutan. People from all over eastern Bhutan come to the festival. The nomadic community of Merak and Sakteng, called the Brokpas, stand out from the crowd with their unique dress and appearance. Different sacred mask dances are performed during the festival, as well as other traditional folk songs and dances. The highlight of the festival is the unfurling of the thongdrel (large tapestry) of Guru Tshengyed (eight manifestations of Guru Rinpoche). Another thongdrol of Neten Chudrug (Sixteen Arhats) is also unfurled for the public.

MONGGAR TSHECHU

3 - 6 December | Venue: Monggar Dzong, Monggar

People from all over the region as far as Trashigang and Lhuentse come to attend the festival. A lot of unique dances indigenous to the region are also performed.

DECHENLING TSHECHU

4 - 6 December | Venue: Dechenling Lhakhang, Dechenling, Pemagatshel

This is the second Dechenling Tshechu taking place in Dechenling Lhakhang in Pemagatshel. Mask dances, along with different varieties of cultural items, make up the main highlights and entertainment of the festival. If you have missed the similar festival in July, you can still attend it this time round.

MENCHU PEMAPHUENDEY

4 - 6 December | Venue: Norbugang, Pemagatshel

This festival is held in Norbugang gewog, Pemagatshel. Norbugang gewog is a part of Nganglam Dungkhag and it has its own festival to celebrate.

THRICHU GOENPA TSHECHU

4 - 6 December | Venue: Thrichugoenpa, Tongzhang, Trashiyangtse

Thrichugoenpa Tshechu is a festival that takes place in the sacred Thrichu goenpa in Tongzhang, Trashiyangtse. Tongzhang is located on the Trashigang-Trashiyangtse highway, just before reaching the popular Gomphu Kora temple.

TANG NAMKHAR RABNEY

5 - 6 December | Venue: Tang Namkhar Lhakhang, Tang, Bumthang

The Tang Namkhar Lhakhang Rabney is a three-day annual festival commemorating the founding of the Namkha Lhakhang by Lama Namkha Samdrup. It is also performed for the peace and prosperity of the community.

PEMA YOESELCHOLING GOENPA TSHECHU

5 - 7 December | Venue: Kencholing, Shompangkhag, Sarpang

The one-day tshechu is held at the lhakhang. The mask dances are performed by the monks of the lhakhang and women perform the folk dances.

GEOKAR LHAKHANG TSHECHU

6 - 12 December | Venue: Geokar Lhakhang, Yalang, Trashiyangtse

This festival takes place in Geokar Lhakhang in Yalang, Trashiyangtse. Local people gather at the temple to attend the festival and receive blessings.

GAMUNG TSHECHU

10 - 12 December | Venue: Shumar/Gamung, Pemagatshel

Gamung Tshechu takes place in Shumar in Gamung, Pemagatshel. People gather to celebrate the festival and get blessings.

GOSHING TSHECHU

10 - 12 December | Venue: Goshing Trong, Zhemgang

During this festival, different forms of mask dances and cultural items are showcased to the public.

BULI TSHECHU

10 - 12 December | Venue: Buli, Zhemgang

Different types of mask dances are performed with the unfurling of a huge thongdrol (large tapestry) of Guru Rinpoche on the last day of the event.

SHINGKHAR TSHECHU

10 - 12 December | Venue: Shingkhar, Zhemgang

During the tshechu, different forms of mask dances along with cultural items are performed.

WAMLING TSHECHU

10 - 12 December | Venue: Wamling, Zhemgang

During the tshechu, different forms of mask dances along with cultural items are performed.

THRISA TSHECHU

10 - 12 December | Venue: Thrisa, Zhemgang

During the tshechu, different forms of mask dances along with cultural items are performed.

PHUMITHANG TSHECHU

10 - 12 December | Venue: Phumithang Dratshang, Zhemgang

During the tshechu, different forms of mask dances along with cultural items are performed.

GONGPHU TSHECHU

10 - 12 December | Venue: Gongphu, Zhemgang

During the tshechu, different forms of mask dances along with cultural items are performed.

BJOKA TSHECHU

11 - 14 December | Venue: Bjoka Trong, Zhemgang

Different forms of mask dances and traditional songs are performed to entertain the public.

LADRONG RABNEY

11 - 15 December | Venue: Ladrong Lhakhang, Jarey, Lhuentse

Ladrong Rabney is an annual festival held at Ladrong Lhakhang. Ladrong Lhakhang was built by terton (treasure revealer) Drimed Lingpa. The main relic is the Jowo Jampa, the main statue of the lhakhang. Upon completion of the lhalkhang, the consecration ceremony (Rabney) was held on the 18th day of the 10th month of the Bhutanese Calendar. Five days later, the tshechu was initiated by the late Aja Rinpoche. This festival is conducted to honour the lhakhang.

CHOJAM RABNEY

11 - 15 December | Venue: Chojam Lhakhang, Tang, Bumthang

The name ‘Chojam’ was originally derived when Yidam Khorlo Dompo (presently one of the most important relics of the Lhakhang) was brought down to the village. The local people noticed that the statue’s expression looked sad and got its name as Chojam Lhakhang. Chojam Rabney is celebrated for five days and is financially supported by the villagers of Tang, which includes four chiwogs (Chitsum, Nimlung, Gawjud and Sakarmed). The Tshogpa also seeks funds from any visitors in Tang for the Lhakhang. The chams/ dances includes the Yakcham, Lhamgyem (performed in two types), Tempa Phuensum (which is said to have originated from Tibet) and many other cham/dance varieties performed in other dzongkhags, all of which are performed by the monks, the local villagers and students.

NANGLA TSHECHU

12 December | Venue: Nangla, Trong, Zhemgang

During the tshechu, different forms of mask dances and cultural items are show cased to the public.

MAMUNG TSHECHU

12 December | Venue: Mamung Trong, Zhemgang

The community of Mamung Trong marks the occasion by performing annual ritual with the dances of Pawo and Pamo.

KHARPHU BONCHOED

12 December | Venue: Shingkhar/Thrisa/Wamling/Radi/Nimshong, Zhemgang

This festival brings together people from different places like Shingkhar, Wamling, Thrisa, Nimshong and Radi to do rituals and make offerings to their local deity. This is mainly done to bring peace and good harvest in the year.

TASHIBI TSHECHU

12 December | Venue: Tashibi, Zhemgang

No mask dances are performed but people gather annually and offer the SOL-KHA in the lhakhang. The tshechu is presided by the Meshey Lam and local Gomchens.

BONCHOED

12 December | Venue: Buli/Tali/Kikhar/Nangkhor, Zhemgang

People perform rituals and make offerings to their local deity on this day. This is mainly done to bring peace and good harvest in the coming year.

KHOMSHAR TSHECHU

12 December | Venue: Khomshar, Zhemgang

During the tshechu, different forms of mask dances and cultural items are performed with unfurling of thongdrel (large tapestry) to the public on last day.

LANGDURBI BONCHOED

12 December | Venue: Langdurbi, Zhemgang

People perform rituals and make offerings to their local deity. This is mainly done to bring peace and good harvest in the year.

BONCHOED

12 December | Venue: Trong/Dangkhar, Zhemgang

People from the community make offerings (tshog) to the god and pray for well-being and happiness for another year. Religious dances and local folk songs are performed.

DEKIDLING TSHECHU

21 December | Venue: Lungtok Tharchen Goenpa, Dekidling, Sarpang

The one-day Dekidling annual tshechu is held at the lhakhang. The mask dances are performed by the dzongkhag mask dancers, while the folk dances are performed by a group of women.

JAMBAY LHAKANG SINGYE CHAM

12 December | Venue: Jambay Lhakhang, Choekhor, Bumthang

The Singye Cham (lion dance) is held at the Jambay Lhakhang in Bumthang. The Jambay Lhakhang Singye Cham is performed once a year.

NGA LHAKHANG ZHI

12 - 14 December | Venue: Nga Lhakhang, Choekhor, Bumthang

The festival is held at the Nga Lhakhang in Nalakhar village in Bumthang. The three-day festival is one of the popular festivals in the Choekhor valley and attracts people from all over Bumthang, dressed in their finest clothes. This festival is celebrated to bring happiness and prosperity to the village and the country as a whole. It is also a symbolic prayer for good harvest and for the wellbeing of everyone.

PANGKHAR CHOEDPA

21 - 26 December | Venue: Pangkhar Lhakhang, Ura, Bumthang

The festival is held at Pangkhar monastery in Ura, Bumthang. Legend says that when the monastery was under construction, langurs helped at night while humans used to work during the day. Hence the name Prakar, which literally translates to white monkey. This festival celebrates the origin of this temple.

DOEDEL PEMACHOLING TSHECHU

28 Nov - 13 December | Venue: Doedel Pemacholing Lhakhang, Ramjar, Trashiyangtse

The festival is very popular in Ramjar gewog in Trashiyangtse. It takes place in Doedel Pemacholing Lhakhang in Ramjar gewog.

JANGCHUBLING TSHECHU

24 - 25 December | Venue: Gangzur, Lhuentse

This festival takes place at the Jangchubling monastery in Gangzur, Lhuentse. The Jangchubling Monastery is an important religious seat and place worth visiting. It was founded in the 18th century by Pekar Gyatso and until recently was under the patronage of the 16th Karmapa Rangjung Rigpe Dorji. The daughter of first King, Ashi Wangmo, lived here at the monastery as a nun. The monastery is easily accessible by a feeder road.

LOMBA

25 - 26 December | Venue: Individual house, Haa and Paro

Lomba is an important occasion for the people of Haa and Paro. In the olden days, they considered this day as New Year’s Day. It is also a time when all crops have been harvested and people get some free time before they begin their work again. During Lomba, families get together in their villages and treat themselves to a good meal. Haaps and Parops make their special dish called hoentey (buckwheat dumplings) and distribute them to friends and relatives. Men also play archery matches and other traditional games. People sing a rhyme “Lolay Lolay”, thanking god for the good year they had and to make wishes for the New Year. During this festival, people greet each other “Lolay”, meaning “good new year”. They also perform a small ceremony at home to drive away evil and bring in good health, happiness and prosperity for the New Year.