Festivals in Bhutan are called Tshechus. The term ‘Tshechu’ literally translates to the 10th day of the Bhutanese calendar, which is considered auspicious. During Tshechus, monks and laymen alike perform religious masked dances. Besides the religious songs and dances, there are atsaras (clowns) who usually wear masks with big red noses. To most, atsaras are the soul of the Tshechus. They are the ones who maintain order by injecting humor into the festival. So these festivals are therefore cultural and religious festivals.

For detailed list of all festivals in Bhutan in 2024, please see the attached document:  Bhutan Festival Dates for 2024 You can work with our travel specialists to ensure that any tour package you choose, includes a Festival. You won’t regret it!

Bhutan Festival by Popularity

Paro Tshechu and Thimphu Tshechu are by far the most popular festivals in Bhutan. There are two main reasons why they are so popular. Firstly, they are located in the Western part of Bhutan, an hour drive away from Paro Airport. So it is possible for you to do a four days visit just to attend the festival. If the festival is taking place in Eastern Bhutan, you would have to visit Bhutan for a minimum of 10 days. Secondly, Paro and Thimphu Festivals take place in spring and autumn respectively, 2 of the best seasons to visit Bhutan.

Bhutan Festivals We Highly Recommend

The road less traveled will take you to these festivals that are rich in color and tradition, but are typically much smaller in scale, and lower in visitor attendance but definitely worth your time and provides the local intimacy that Paro Tshechu and Thimphu Tshechu does not offer.

Punakha Drubchen and Punakha Tshechu (Punakha Dzong, Punakha) – A much less attended festival, that usually happens in February is one of our favorites. Punakha Festival retells the story of how the Bhutanese outsmart and repel the Tibetans invaders during Zhadrung’s time. Participants dress up as ancient soldiers and horsemen and reenact the various battles at the majestic Punakha Dzong towards the end of winter which is really a very pleasant weather in the valley of Punakha. The festival will also have various mask and other cultural dances.

The Bumthang Jakar Tshechu Festival is a significant celebration in Bhutan that honors the Birth Anniversary of Guru Rinpoche, Padmasambhava. Taking place for three days inside the majestic Jakar Dzong, this festival marks Bumthang’s official festival and is observed on the auspicious 10th day of the Bhutanese calendar. The entire district of Jakar or Bumthang shuts down during these three days as people gather to witness the vibrant and lively festivities of the annual Tshechu. Mask dances and songs are performed by both Buddhist monks and local villagers, creating a festive and spiritual atmosphere. It serves as a crucial occasion for people from across the country to come together, discuss important matters, and offer prayers for a successful year.

Royal Highland Festival (Laya, Gasa) – The Royal Highlander Festival is hosted at an elevation of 4000 meters above sea-level. An initiative by His Majesty the King, the festival was first introduced on 16th Of October in 2016 to mark the celebration of the birth of HRH the Gyalsey, it allows visitors to get first hand experience of life & culture of the highlanders from the surrounding villages.