Tsechus (festivals) are one of the best ways to experience the ancient living culture of Bhutan. A Tsechu is a Buddhist festival in honour of Buddhist Saint Padmasambhava, popularly known as ‘Guru Rimpoche’, the saint who was responsible for introducing Buddhism to Bhutan. The Tsechu draws hundreds of Bhutanese people in a spirit of reverence, blessing, festivity and celebration. The Tsechu comes to life with colour, music, dance and drama as villagers and townspeople gather to witness the masked dances, sword dances and other sacred rituals. These events, most of which are performed by monks in colourful and elaborate costumes bring blessings to the onlookers, as well as instructing them about the Buddhist Dharma.

There are various Tsechus held all year around at temples, Dzongs and monasteries throughout Bhutan.

For a full list of 2012 Bhutan Tsechu festival dates, please click here.

Bhutan Travel Bureau can easily tailor your tour of Bhutan to incorporate one of these striking celebrations of Bhutanese culture. In our festival tours section we have featured a range of suggested itineraries featuring various popular Bhutanese Tsechus such as the Thimphu Tsechu, Paro Tsechu and Punakha Tsechu. We also have suggested itineraries for two festivals held in Bhutan's psiritual heartland, Bumthang; Jambay Lhakhang Drup and Bumthang Ura Tsechu.

For something a little different, we also have an intinerary featuring the Black-Necked Crane Festival, held in honour of this remarkable bird that roosts in the Phobjikha Valley during the months of Nov-Mar. All of these tours also include visits to Dzongs, temples, palaces, monasteries, markets, farmhouses, schools & museums. All our tour programs are flexible and can be easily tailored to suit. 

Guests have the option of staying in either our range of carefully selected, government approved tourist class hotels and lodges, or upgrade (additional costs) to superior, luxury hotels and resorts. Further upgrade options including specialised transport can be utilised as part of our Raven Crown Prestige Tour programs.

To enhance your Bhutan cultural tour why not consider a specialised activity including rafting, birding and meditation as featured on our Feature Tours page, or one of our many Value-Added Options to provide an more in-depth experience of Bhutanese culture.