Wangdue Phodrang Tshechu

Wangdue Tshechu is a three-day celebration of masks and folk dances inaugurated by Bhutan's 4th Temporal Ruler, Tenzing Rabgye, to honor the legendary Buddhist saint, Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava, who is revered for introducing Buddhism to Bhutan. Held annually in the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, a majestic fortress that overlooks the confluence of the Punakha and Wangdue rivers, the Tshechu is a vital part of Bhutanese culture.

Locals dress up in traditional garb and congregate at the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, a spectacular fortress-like monastery, for the Wangdi Tshechu. The event begins with the unfolding of the thongdrel, a giant holy scroll thought to confer benefits on all who witness it.

The Cham dance, a sequence of religious mask dances performed by monks and laypeople, is the climax of the Wangdi Festival. The Cham dance is said to ward off evil spirits and provide good luck to those who observe it. Other events include a traditional archery tournament in which competitors utilize handcrafted bows and arrows to demonstrate their archery abilities, as well as the presentation of spiritual relics and sculptures.

The Wangdi Festival also includes traditional Bhutanese cuisines such as Ema Datshi, a hot cheese and chili dish, and Ara, a traditional Bhutanese alcoholic drink made from fermented rice.

Date: 11th to 13th of September