10 things to do in Punakha Drubchen Festival Punakha Bhutan
The Punakha Drubchen Festival is a vibrant and colorful celebration that takes place annually in Punakha, Bhutan. It is one of the most important festivals in the country and is attended by thousands of people from all over the world. The festival is celebrated in honor of Guru Rinpoche, the founder of the Drukpa Lineage of Buddhism. It is a time of celebration and reflection, when the people of Bhutan come together to remember the teachings of Guru Rinpoche and to pay homage to the power and beauty of nature. Here are 10 things you can do at the Punakha Drubchen Festival:
1) Visit the Punakha Dzong: The Punakha Dzong is the spiritual heart of the Punakha Drubchen Festival. This majestic fortress is the site of the festival’s main event, the Drubchen, which is a reenactment of the battle between the forces of good and evil. The Punakha Dzong is also home to the sacred relic of Guru Rinpoche and is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike.
2) Watch the Masked Dance: The Masked Dance is an important part of the Punakha Drubchen Festival. It is a traditional dance that is performed by monks wearing colorful masks. The dance is a symbolic representation of the battle between good and evil and is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the people of Bhutan.
3) Enjoy the Local Cuisine: Punakha is home to some of the best food in Bhutan. During the festival, you can sample some of the local delicacies such as momos (dumplings), ema datse (chili cheese), and phaksha paa (pork).
4) Go Shopping: The Punakha Drubchen Festival is also a great time to go shopping. The streets of Punakha are filled with vendors selling traditional Bhutanese handicrafts, jewelry, and clothing.
5) Explore the Local Monasteries: Punakha is home to some of the most beautiful monasteries in Bhutan. During the festival, you can visit these sacred sites and learn more about the Buddhist culture and traditions.
6) Visit the Punakha Tsechu: The Punakha Tsechu is a three-day festival that takes place in Punakha during the Punakha Drubchen Festival. It is a time of celebration and reflection, when the people of Bhutan come together to remember the teachings of Guru Rinpoche and to pay homage to the power and beauty of nature.
7) Take a Hike: The Punakha Valley is a great place to go for a hike. The area is filled with lush forests, majestic mountains, and picturesque rivers. You can explore the local trails and take in the stunning views of the valley.
8) Visit the Local Villages: Punakha is home to some of the most traditional villages in Bhutan. During the festival, you can visit these villages and learn more about the local culture and lifestyle.
9) Take a Rafting Trip: The Punakha Valley is also a great place to go for a rafting trip. The waters of the Mo Chu River are perfect for a leisurely rafting trip.
10) Attend the Fire Puja: The Fire Puja is an important part of the Punakha Drubchen Festival. During this ceremony, the people of Bhutan offer prayers to the gods and goddesses of Bhutan and ask for their protection and guidance.