Thimphu Tshechu (Festival)

The best way to explore the rich culture of Bhutan is perhaps to attend its annual Thimphu Festival, which is possible through this 8-day tour. The Thimphu Festival tour begins with your arrival at Paro, from where you drive to Haa Valley. After enjoying its natural beauty, drive to Thimphu to witness the enticing festivities in honor of Guru Rinpoche at the Tashichho Dzong.

The Thimphu Tshechu underwent a change in the 1950s, when the third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, introduced numerous Boed chhams (mask dances performed by lay monks). These additions added colour and variation to the festival without compromising its spiritual significance. Mask dances like the Guru Tshengye (Eight Manifestations of Guru), Shaw Shachi (Dance of the Stags) are enjoyed because they are similar to stage-theater.

Equally important are the Atsaras, who are more than just mere clowns. The Atsaras are the dupthobs (acharyas), who provide protection. The dances and the jesting of the Atsaras are believed to entrance evil forces and prevent them from causing harm during Tshechus. Modern Atsaras also perform short skits to disseminate health and social awareness messages. To farmers, the Tshechu is also seen as a break from farm life. It’s an occasion to celebrate, receive blessings and pray for health and happiness.

Itinerary,

Day 01

1Arrive in Paro

Day 02

2Halt in Thimphu

Today we drive to Thimphu after breakfast. A sightseeing tour around Thimphu, the melting pot of Bhutan, can give you a good introduction to the Bhutanese way of life. Today, we visit the popular Memorial Chorten in the heart of the city built in memory of the third King of Bhutan. A continues stream of Bhutanese and foreigners throng the place. The devout – both old and young – doing their pious rounds and monks saying prayers best represent the spiritual side of Bhutan. Other places of interest in Thimphu include the National Library, the School of Traditional Arts and Crafts, the Takin Preserve, the giant Buddha statue on the hill overlooking Thimphu city, the oldest dzong in Bhutan, Semtokha Dzong, built in 1629 by the founder of Bhutanese state, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal.

Day 03

3Attend Thimphu Festival

Day 04

4Thimphu to Punakha

Our journey today takes us across the Dochula Pass at 3,150 m above sea level. A coffee stop on the pass adorned with 108 stupas will give us an opportunity to enjoy the spectacular view of Jigme Singye Wangchuck mountain ranges sparkling in the distance.

From Dochula, we descend to Lobesa where we stop for lunch. Twenty-five minutes walk from the road point near Lobesa is Chimi Lhakhang. The temple, built by Tibetan Lama Ngawang Chogyal, is today associated with his cousin, Lam Drukpa Kinley, popularly known as Divine Madman. Popularly known as the Fertility Temple among tourists, it is believed to bless childless couples with children. The village around the temple is teeming with the painting of phallus in homage to the great Divine Madman. After the visit to the temple, we drive to Punakha.

Day 05

5Punakha to Paro

Day 06

6Hike to Taktshang

Day 07

7Departure