Festival tours in Bhutan

Journeys timed to a tshechu, when masked dances fill the dzong courtyard.

What to expect

Tshechus are religious festivals held in honour of Guru Rinpoche. Over several days, monks and lay dancers perform masked cham dances in the courtyard of a dzong or temple, and whole communities come in their finest clothes to watch, picnic and receive blessings.

Festival dates follow the lunar calendar and change every year. Hotels near the major festivals fill early, so we recommend planning well ahead.

Good to know

Major festivalsParo (spring), Thimphu (autumn)
Typical length8 to 11 days
BookSeveral months ahead

Journeys in this style

Questions travellers ask

When are the festivals?

Paro Tshechu usually falls in spring and Thimphu Tshechu in autumn, but exact dates move each year with the lunar calendar. We confirm dates when the official calendar is published. See our festival guide.

Can I take photographs?

Photography of the dances is usually allowed from the audience. Do not use flash, never walk across the dance ground, and ask before photographing people up close.

What should I wear?

Bhutanese dress in their best for festivals. Neat clothing that covers shoulders and knees is appropriate; some guests like to wear a gho or kira, which we can help arrange.

Tell us how you would like to travel

Share your dates, interests and preferred pace. We reply personally with ideas for your route and a clear quote.

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