Festivals “The essence of Bhutan”

At Bhutan’s heart are its festivals. The most important are the religious dance festivals, known as Tshechus held in different districts at specific times during the year. Click here for dates Festivals attract local communities who travel from the remotest of villages to celebrate. They are not somber formal religious affairs but occasions to get together, renew acquaintance and dress in their best costumes. They are riots of colors, smells and noise. A must see for any visitor who can either attend the full proceedings or dip in and out as required.

The Tshechus are celebrated for three to five days and commemorate the great deeds of Guru Rimpoche, the founding saint of Buddhism in Bhutan. Also important Dzongs have festival called Dromche, held in honor of Yeshi Gompo (Mahakala) or Pledon Lhamo (Mahakali) the two main protective deities of the nation.

Masked dances and other rituals are performed in the courtyard and temples. The origin of most mask dances can be traced to beyond the middle-ages and each dance has its religious significance performed by monks and villagers. In a swirl of colors and noise the gods and demons of Buddhist mythology come to life. The proceedings are lightened by the presence of the Atsaras (Jesters) who amuse the audience with their antics.
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