Top 5 Festivals of Bhutan

Festivals in Bhutan are rich in religious significance and meaning. They are considered very special by the people of Bhutan - who are religious, spiritual and strongly believe in next life. It is believed that attending religious festivals will bring merits. Thousands of people witness these special events. The events are held across the country.

 

The origin of religious festivals (called Tshechus in local language) is very interesting. Tshechus are held to honor Guru Rinpoche (Precious Teacher), who came to Bhutan with Bhutan holiday packages and introduced Buddhism in the 7th century. Guru Rinpoche subdued demons and transformed them into protecting deities.

 

Guru Rinpoche's biography is highlighted by 12 episodes based on the model of Buddha Shakyamuni's life. The festivals in Bhutan highlight and commemorate the episodes of Guru Rinpoche's life. Tshechu actually means the 10th day of the Bhutanese lunar calendar. That is why most festivals in Bhutan are usually held on the 10th day of a Bhutanese month.

 

Festivals in Bhutan are comprised of elaborate mask dances, unfurling of huge scrolls (Thongdel), religious drama explaining the intricacies of life and death. Making the events exciting, you can see clowns in the crowd wearing ferocious masks and holding phalluses.

 

It is believed that one will get cleansed of sins and gain merits upon seeing the Thongdel. The rough translation of Thongdel means liberation from samsara upon getting sight of it.

 

Apart from the religious significance, the Bhutanese festivals are considered events of social gatherings of people who are usually busy with their farm works. People come to the festivals and also enjoy in Bhutan trekking tours  and dressed in their best attire of gho (dress for man) and kira (dress for woman). The designs of their dress are most intricate that display the richness of Bhutan's textile.

 

During the festivals or peak seasons many new married couple come with Bhutan honeymoon package, hundreds of tourists are seen in the Bhutanese crowds. They enjoy with the people of Bhutan (some even share meals) out door with Bhutanese families. People who attend Tshechus bring their packed lunch.

 

Some of the most popular religious festivals are Thimphu (capital city) Tshechu (held in September), Paro Tshechu (February-March) Punakha Tshechu (February-March), Bumthang Jambay Lhakhang Drup (October - at this festival naked dances are performed to ward off evil spirits).

 

There are other festivals popular among tourists like Takin (national animal) festival, Haa festival and Rhododendron festival festival to list a few.