10 Things to Do at the Punakha Dzongkhag Tshechu Festival in Bhutan
Located in the Punakha District of Bhutan, the Punakha Dzongkhag Tshechu Festival is one of the most important festivals in the country. The festival is held annually on the 10th day of the second month of the Bhutanese calendar and lasts for three days. It is a celebration of religious and cultural heritage and is attended by thousands of locals and tourists alike. Here are 10 things to do at the Punakha Dzongkhag Tshechu Festival.
1. Attend a Mask Dance Performance: Mask dances are an important part of Bhutanese culture and the Punakha Dzongkhag Tshechu Festival is the perfect opportunity to witness one. The dances are performed by monks and lay people wearing colorful masks and costumes, and depict stories from Buddhist mythology.
2. Enjoy Bhutanese Cuisine: Bhutanese cuisine is unique and delicious. The Punakha Dzongkhag Tshechu Festival is a great opportunity to sample some of the country’s specialties. Try some momos (dumplings), ema datse (chili and cheese dish), and jasha maroo (spicy chicken stew).
3. Shop for Handicrafts: The Punakha Dzongkhag Tshechu Festival is a great place to shop for traditional Bhutanese handicrafts. You’ll find everything from colorful textiles and jewelry to carved wooden masks and painted masks.
4. Take in the Views: Punakha is set in a beautiful valley surrounded by lush green mountains. Take some time to explore the area and take in the stunning views.
5. Visit the Punakha Dzong: The Punakha Dzong is one of the most impressive and important dzongs (fortresses) in Bhutan. It was built in 1637 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The dzong is open to visitors during the festival and is a must-see.
6. Explore the Local Monasteries: Punakha is home to several important monasteries, including the Chimi Lhakhang monastery. This is a great opportunity to learn more about Bhutan’s Buddhist culture and visit some of the country’s most sacred sites.
7. Hike in the Area: Punakha is surrounded by beautiful mountains and valleys, making it a great place for hiking. There are several trails to choose from, ranging from easy day hikes to more challenging multi-day treks.
8. Attend a Festival Procession: During the Punakha Dzongkhag Tshechu Festival, a procession is held from the Punakha Dzong to the Chimi Lhakhang monastery. The procession is led by monks and features colorful flags, traditional music, and dancing.
9. Participate in Local Games: The Punakha Dzongkhag Tshechu Festival is a great place to participate in some of Bhutan’s traditional games. Archery, darts, and tug-of-war are all popular activities.
10. Enjoy the Festivities: The Punakha Dzongkhag Tshechu Festival is a great opportunity to experience Bhutan’s unique culture and traditions. Enjoy the music, dancing, and other festivities that take place during the festival.
The Punakha Dzongkhag Tshechu Festival is an unforgettable experience and a great way to explore Bhutan’s culture and heritage. Whether you attend a mask dance performance, sample Bhutanese cuisine, or explore the local monasteries, there is something for everyone at this vibrant festival.