Bhutan, the Himalayan Kingdom, home to some of the most incredible cultures in the world, has a lot to offer to anyone traveling there. From the people and their food, to the vibrant festivals they celebrate, everything about this magical land makes it an absolutely must visit destination.
THIMPHU TSECHU
Tsechu, or Tenth Day, is typically a religious festival celebrated on the tenth day of the lunar calendar month, in correspondence with the birthday of Guru Rimpoche (Guru Padmasambhava). Thimphu Tsechu has been celebrated in the capital of Bhutan every year since 1867.
DATES – 7th, 8th and 9th OCTOBER
The festival will take place from the 7th of october to the 9th of october this year (2019). The days leading up to the festivities include prayer and rituals, while the three days of celebration see plenty of colorful and musical performances.
THINGS YOU’LL EXPERIENCE DURING THE FESTIVAL
The Thimphu Tsechu is a very important festival for the Bhutanese people. It is attended by over 3000 people from all around the world. The monasteries and Dzongs are bursting with color and everybody is mesmerized by the festivities. The famous Chams dance is performed by monks in bright and vibrant costumes. This dance is an important part of many Buddhist celebrations across Bhutan and Tibet. Another significant ritual involves the unravelling of Guru Rimpoche’s sacred scroll, which only takes place once every year for only a brief moment of time.
Join our Bhutan Group Trip to Thimphu for this Vibrant Festival
GETTING TO THIMPHU
BY AIR
Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, is 47 km from the closest airport (Paro).
BY ROAD
The city is also accessible by road, and will take an 8 hour drive from Bagdogra, West Bengal. The entry point into Bhutan is through Phuentsholing.
STAY IN THIMPHU
Thimphu is home to many fine homestays and guesthouses.
Damchoe’s Homestay in Thimphu is a very popular site for accomodation. The hostess is friendly and accommodating while her cooking is quite remarkable.
When in Bhutan, try out a homestay over a hotel for an authentic and exciting Bhutanese living experience.
To check out more blissful Homestay experiences in Bhutan, click here.
OTHER EXPERIENCES IN THIMPHU
The festival isn’t the only point of interest in this city. There’s plenty of ways to keep yourself amused, from the scenic Tashichho Dzong, to the historic Folk Heritage Museum. Bhutan has plenty of trekking to offer if that’s your kind of adventure. Meet the locals at Mojo Park, a live music bar with a lovely, cozy ambience. Thimphu is packed with fun waiting to be had and memories waiting to be made.
Be sure to check out these amazing experiences across Thimphu the next time you visit:
1) Visit one of the tallest Buddha statues in the world, standing at over 200 ft tall.
2) Relax and enjoy some hot coffee and homemade cakes at Ambient Café.
3) Visit the Changangkha Lakhang, which many claim to be the oldest (12th century) monastery in the country.
4) Learn to cook and enjoy a traditional Bhutanese meal with a local family.
There are many such colorful and energetic festivals across Bhutan, to browse Bhutan Travel Packages, visit Offbeat Tracks Destinations Page.
