Bhutanese people celebrate different festivals like the Bhutanese new year and other seasonal festivals like the summer solstice etc. But the most common festival is known as Tshechu. It is in fact a religious festival, and is celebrated all over Bhutan, usually after the end of harvest season. The Thimphu Tshechu in the capital of Bhutan is held in mid September.
The main highlight of the Tshechu is the performance of the masked dances by the monks. There are many kinds of masked dances all involving different moves, masks and costumes. All of them have special religious significance.
According to legend, all these dances appeared in the past Buddhist master’s vision during their meditation. The steps and moves are strictly followed as it was performed in the past. Alteration of the steps is seen as sacrilegious and would not be attempted by any masked dance teacher.
Date of Festivals in Bhutan for the Year of 2023
Punakha Dromchen | Punakha | 23 to 27 February |
Punakha Tsechu | Punakha | 28 February to 2 March |
Chorten Kora | Tashi Yangtse | 5 and 20 March |
Gom Kora | Tashigang | 27 to 29 March |
Paro Festival | Paro | 31 March to 4 April |
Ura Festival | Bumthang | 1 to 4 May |
Nimalung Festival | Bumthang | 24 to 26 June |
Kurjey Festival | Bumthang | 26 June |
Wangdi Festival | Wangdiphodrang | 21 to 23 September |
Thimphu Drupchen | Thimphu | 22 September |
Tamshingphala Choepa | Bumthang | 23 to 25 September |
Thimphu Festival | Thimphu | 23 to 25 September |
Gangtey Festival | Gangtey | 26 to 28 September |
Tangbi Mani | Bumthang | 27 to 29 September |
Jakar | Bumthang | 21 to 23 October |
Jambay Lhakhang Drup | Bumthang | 27 to 30 October |
Paker Festival | Bumthang | 28 to 30 October |
Mongar Festival | Mongar | 18 to 21 November |
Tashigang Festival | Tashigang | 19 to 22 November |
Nalakhar Festival | Bumthang | 25 to 27 November |
Trongsa Festival | Trongsa | 20 to 22 December |
Lhuntse Festival | Lhuntse | 20 to 22 December |