A Whirling Spectacle of tradition

The Festivals of Bhutan

     The sacred festivals of Bhutan—or tsechus—are the perfect way to take in the rich Buddhist heritage of the country known as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon.” Filled with the sounds of flutes, cymbals, and trumpets and the sight of people dancing in magnificent, brightly colored traditional dress, the festivals take place around the country throughout the year. The largest are usually held in the courtyards of the great dzongs—fortified monasteries that are the centers of religion, education, and government in each district of the small Himalayan kingdom.

 Bhutan's festivals involve dances and processions with demons

     Of the nearly two dozen annual festivals in Bhutan, the most famous is the Paro Festival. Taking place in mid-March in the city of Paro, it’s a celebration held in honor of Guru Padmasambhava (aka Guru Rinpoche), who introduced Tantric Buddhism to the Himalayan region in the 8th century. The event draws throngs of joyful Bhutanese from all over the valley, while monks or trained laymen wear magnificent masks and costumes, taking on aspects of deities, demons, and animals, dancing and reenacting Himalayan Buddhist legends and visions seen by Buddhist saints. The performances are meant to bring blessings and protection to onlookers. 

      Another of the country’s major festivals, created in 1670 to celebrate the birth of Guru Rinpoche, is held in the capital city of Thimphu at the beginning of October. It takes place in the courtyard of the Tashichho dzong, drawing crowds from miles around. Later that month, as part of the celebrations during the Bumthang Fire Dance Festival, participants gather behind a procession of monks who lead them to a field where a huge arch is set on fire.It is believed that this will purify the souls of those who dare dance through the flames. The festival, held in Punakha in late February, reenacts the 17th-century Bhutanese victory over the Tibetan army.

Where: Paro is 40 miles/65 km west of the capital city of Thimphu. 
Visitor info: www.tourism.gov.bt. How: U.S.-based Geographic Expeditions offers 7–14-day tours to all the major festivals. Tel 800-777-8183 or 415-922- 0448; www.geoex.com. 
Cost: 7-day trip from $3,150, all-inclusive. Originates in Paro.
When: Feb or Mar for Punakha; Mar or Apr for Paro; Sep or Oct for Thimphu; Oct or Nov for Jambay; Dec or Jan for Trongsa.

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