Tshechu Festivals
List of Tshechu festivlas along with the dates are provided below:
Punakha Tshechu Punakha Dzong, Punakha | 19th – 21st Feb
This three-day festival celebrates Guru Rinpoche, the revered founder of Tantric Buddhism in Bhutan. Witness captivating “Cham” dances, performed by monks in elaborate costumes and masks, depicting stories of deities and spiritual battles.
Talo Tshechu Talo Gonpa, Punakha | 17th – 19th March
The Talo Tshechu commemorates Guru Rinpoche’s subduing of a malevolent spirit at Talo. This three-day festival showcases unique masked dances and rituals, offering blessings and renewal to devotees.
Gasa Tshechu Gasa Dzong, Gasa | 17th – 19th March
The Gasa Tshechu is the largest festival in northwest Bhutan, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of the region. Witness masked dances and folk performances unlike any other, reflecting the customs and stories passed down for generations.
Zhemgang Tshechu Zhemgang Dzong, Zhemgang | 17th – 19th March
The Gasa Tshechu is the largest festival in northwest Bhutan, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of the region. Witness masked dances and folk performances unlike any other, reflecting the customs and stories passed down for generations.
Paro Tshechu Rinpung Dzong, Paro | 21st – 25th March
Originally held to consecrate the Rinpung Dzong in the 17th century, Paro Tshechu has become a cornerstone of Bhutanese culture. Witness a vibrant display of masked dances (“Cham”) performed by monks and laypeople, each depicting stories from Bhutanese mythology and Buddhist teachings.
Domkhar Tshechu Domkhar, Chumi, Bumthang | 18th – 20th April
The Domkhar Tshechu commemorates the legendary Indian saint Guru Rinpoche, credited with introducing Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th century. This three-day festival showcases unique masked dances and rituals, offering blessings and spiritual renewal to devotees.
Nimalung Tshechu Nimalung Dratshang, Chumi, Bumthang | 14th – 16th June
The Nimalung Tshechu commemorates the triumph of Guru Rinpoche, the founder of Tantric Buddhism in Bhutan. Legend tells of his arrival in the valley, subduing evil spirits and ushering in an era of peace and prosperity.
Kurjey Tshechu Kurjey Lhakhang, Choekhor, Bumthang | 16th June
The Kurjey Lhakhang, meaning “Body Print Temple,” houses a sacred cave where Guru Rinpoche is believed to have left his body imprint. This revered site draws pilgrims and devotees from across the country, seeking blessings and spiritual renewal.
Wangdue Tshechu Wangduephodrang Dzong | 11th – 13th September
The highlight of the first day is the Drubchen, a unique ceremony featuring dances dedicated to protective deities. Witness the “Machhap” dance, performed by monks wearing elaborate black and white costumes and wielding swords and tridents.
Thimphu Tshechu Tashi Chhodzong, Thimphu | 13th – 15th September
Immerse yourself in a dazzling spectacle of culture and spirituality at the Thimphu Tshechu, Bhutan’s grandest and most popular festival. Held from September 13th to 15th at the majestic Tashi Chhodzong fortress in Thimphu, this three-day extravaganza explodes with vibrant masked dances, lively music, and a festive atmosphere that’s truly unforgettable.
Gangtey Tshechu Gangtey Gonpa, Wangduephodrang | 16th – 18th September
The Gangtey Tshechu commemorates Guru Rinpoche and serves as a vital part of the spiritual life of the Black Mountain communities. Witness a captivating display of masked dances (“Cham”) performed by monks from the Gangtey Gonpa. These dances depict stories from Bhutanese mythology and Buddhist teachings, captivating audiences with their symbolism and intricate choreography.
Chhukha Tshechu Chhukha Dzong, Chhukha | 9th to 11th November
The vibrant Chhukha Tshechu festival explodes with color and cultural richness in Chhukha Dzong, Bhutan, from November 9th to 11th. This three-day celebration offers a captivating window into Bhutanese traditions and spirituality, leaving a lasting impression on all who witness it.
Pemagatshel Tshechu Pemagatshel Dzong, Pemagatshel | 9th – 11th November
A Celebration of Blessings: The Pemagatshel Tshechu is a vibrant three-day festival held annually at the Pemagatshel Dzong. It’s a joyous celebration of Bhutanese culture, religion, and tradition, offering blessings to all who attend.
Jakar Tshechu Jakar Dzong, Choekhor, Bumthang |10th – 12th November
The Jakar Tshechu, also known as the Bumthang Tshechu, is a vibrant three-day festival held from November 10th to 12th at the historic Jakar Dzong in Choekhor, Bumthang, Bhutan. This grand celebration is one of the most popular festivals in the eastern region of Bhutan, drawing visitors from all over the country and beyond.
Dechenphu Tshechu Dechenphu Lhakhang, Thimphu |11th November
This one-day festival is dedicated to Gay Ngyen Jakpa Melen, a powerful guardian deity of Bhutan. It’s considered one of the most important religious festivals in the country. This is the only day of the year when foreign tourists are allowed to enter the Dechenphu Lhakhang temple.
Mongar Tshechu Mongar Dzong, Mongar | 8th – 10th December
The Mongar Tshechu is a vibrant three-day festival held annually at the Mongar Dzong, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and religious traditions of eastern Bhutan.
Trashigang Tshechu Trashigang Dzong, Trashigang | 9th – 11th December
The Trashigang Tshechu is a major three-day festival celebrated in eastern Bhutan. It’s a vibrant celebration of culture, religion, and community, attracting people from all over the region.
Druk Wangyel Tshechu Douchula, Thimphu | 13th December
The Druk Wangyel Tshechu, also known as the Dochula Pass Festival, is a unique celebration held annually at the Dochula Pass, commemorating the victory of the Royal Bhutan Army over insurgent groups in southern Bhutan in 2003.
Nalakhar Tshechu Ngaa Lhakhang, Choekhor, Bumthang |15th – 17th December
The Nalakhar Tshechu is a charming three-day festival held annually in the remote village of Nalakhar. It’s a heartfelt celebration organized by the local community, offering a unique glimpse into Bhutanese rural life.
Lhuentse Tshechu Lhuentse Dzong, Lhuentse | 8th – 10th January
Nestled in eastern Bhutan, Lhuentse Tshechu is a vibrant three-day festival held annually at the magnificent Lhuentse Dzong. It’s a captivating celebration of Bhutanese culture, religion, and heritage, attracting people from all over the region.
Trongsa Tshechu Trongsa Dzong, Trongsa | 9th – 11th January
Held within the majestic Trongsa Dzong, the Trongsa Tshechu is a vibrant three-day festival celebrating Bhutanese culture, religion, and history. Mark your calendars for January 9-11, 2025, to witness this captivating spectacle.
Samdrupjongkhar Tshechu Samdrupjongkhar | 11th – 13th January
Held within the majestic Trongsa Dzong, the Trongsa Tshechu is a vibrant three-day festival celebrating Bhutanese culture, religion, and history. Mark your calendars for January 9-11, 2025, to witness this captivating spectacle.