If you’re aiming to steer clear of the crowds but still enjoy vibrant dances and processions, no visit to the Kingdom is complete without taking part in one of its many festivals, or “tshechus”. They often span several days and represent a significant part of the country’s cultural heritage and victory over invading forces.
CRANE FESTIVAL
Marking the start of the season on November 11, the Crane Festival is a secular celebration to welcome the safe arrival of the Phobjika (Gangtey) Valley’s famous feathered friends, the black-necked cranes, to their winter nesting ground. It is held in the courtyard of 17th-century Gangtey Monastery (Goemba) to generate awareness and understanding on the importance of conserving these majestic, feathered friends. Children dress in crane costumes and perform a series of dances, and the locals take part in the national sport of archery, which isn’t just a competition, but a way to strengthen bonds, fostering camaraderie and a shared sense of community. Before these “birds of heaven” depart each spring, they circumambulate the same monastery three times before heading back to their summer home in Tibet.
TRONGSA TSHECHU
If you’re seeking a cozier festival vibe, the Trongsa Tshechu in central Bhutan is one of the oldest festivals in Bhutan, attracting people from all over the region to celebrate the day as a community. Taking place between December 9 and 12, it honors Guru Rinpoche (Guru Padmasambhava) and celebrates his arrival in the 8th century as a triumph of Buddhism over darkness through the performance of sacred mask dances.
Incidentally, before leaving the earthly realm, Guru Rinpoche promised that he would return on the 10th day of each month in the Bhutanese lunar calendar. For this reason, the word Tshechu which means tenth, is considered a very auspicious day.
PUNAKHA DROMCHE
Punakha's winter months remain temperate, in contrast to the snow-blanketed peaks of Bhutan’s higher regions. During this time, the royal court and government of Bhutan relocate here. Every year in mid-February, this second capital buzzes with a week of vibrant dances and processions against the stunning backdrop of Punakha Dzong. It tells the story of Bhutan’s victory against Tibet in the 17th century, and masked dances performed during the festival are inspired by real events.
