Festivals of Bhutan (Tshechu Calendar)
What happens at a tshechu, which festivals are worth planning a trip around and how to behave in the courtyard.
- Biggest festivals
- Paro (spring), Thimphu (autumn)
- Dates
- Follow the Bhutanese lunar calendar
- Dress
- Smart clothes, covered shoulders
Tshechus are religious festivals held in dzong and temple courtyards to honour Guru Rinpoche. Monks and laymen perform masked dances (cham) that teach Buddhist stories, while families arrive in their best clothes with picnics for the day.
Festivals worth planning around
- Punakha Drubchen and Tshechu (February/March) — including a re-enactment of a 17th-century battle.
- Paro Tshechu (March/April) — ends with the dawn unveiling of a giant thongdrel.
- Thimphu Tshechu (September/October) — the capital’s largest gathering.
- Jambay Lhakhang Drup (October/November) — famous for its midnight fire blessing in Bumthang.
- Black-necked Crane Festival (November) — a village celebration in Phobjikha.
Festival dates follow the lunar calendar and change each year. Ask us for the confirmed dates for your travel year.
Festival etiquette
- Dress smartly; avoid shorts and sleeveless tops.
- Do not walk across the dance ground or block the view of local families.
- Use photography respectfully and never use flash during dances.