Tashiyangtse Tsechu

Tashiyangtse Tsechu is a vibrant annual festival celebrated in Tashiyangtse, a town in the eastern part of Bhutan. This festival is held to honor the local deities and to commemorate the teachings of Buddha. It takes place at the Tashiyangtse Dzong and typically occurs in the 10th month of the Tibetan lunar calendar, around October or November.

The highlight of the Tashiyangtse Tsechu is the performance of Cham dances, which are performed by monks in colorful, elaborate costumes and masks. These dances represent various Buddhist deities, protective spirits, and symbolic stories that aim to purify the environment and bring blessings to the community.

In addition to the dances, the festival features prayers, offerings, and mantra recitations. The Tsechu fosters a strong sense of spiritual devotion, community bonding, and cultural celebration while promoting peace and prosperity within the region.

Trashiyangtse Tsechu is held each year for 5 days from the 7th day of the first month of Bhutanese calender (Dawa Dangpa). The festival is held in the courtyard of the old Dzong. The first day is the rehearsal and on the final day, the Buddhist Thongdrol (giant applique) is unfurled with final rites and blessing.