Punakha Dzongkhag Tshechu: 10 Things to Do in Punakha, Bhutan
Punakha Dzongkhag Tshechu, or the Punakha Festival, is one of the most important festivals in Bhutan. It is held in the Punakha district of Bhutan and is celebrated annually in the month of February. The festival is a celebration of the victory of Bhutanese forces over the Tibetan invaders in 1639. The celebrations include traditional dances, masked dances, traditional music, and archery competitions. Here are 10 things to do in Punakha Dzongkhag Tshechu:
1. Attend the Masked Dance: The masked dance is one of the most popular attractions of the festival. The masked dancers wear ornate costumes and masks that represent different characters from Bhutanese mythology. The masked dance is usually performed by monks and is accompanied by traditional music.
2. Watch the Archery Competition: Archery is one of the most popular sports in Bhutan and the archery competition at the Punakha Dzongkhag Tshechu is a must-see. The competition is held in a large open field and the competitors are dressed in traditional Bhutanese costume.
3. Visit the Punakha Dzong: The Punakha Dzong is one of the most important historical monuments in Bhutan. The fortress is a spectacular example of Bhutanese architecture and is a popular tourist attraction. The dzong is open to visitors during the festival and there are several guided tours available.
4. Enjoy the Traditional Music: The traditional music of Bhutan is a unique mix of folk and classical music. During the festival, there are several performances of traditional music and it is a great way to experience the culture of Bhutan.
5. Sample Local Cuisine: Bhutan is known for its delicious cuisine and there are several restaurants in Punakha that serve traditional Bhutanese food. The local specialties include momos (dumplings), ema datse (chili cheese), and red rice.
6. Shop for Local Crafts: The Punakha district is famous for its traditional handicrafts and there are several shops that sell local items such as textiles, jewelry, and wood carvings.
7. Go Hiking: Punakha is surrounded by beautiful mountains and there are several hiking trails in the area. The trails are suitable for all levels of hikers and offer spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
8. Visit the Hot Springs: The Punakha valley is home to several hot springs and it is a popular destination for visitors to the area. The hot springs are believed to have healing properties and are a great way to relax after a day of sightseeing.
9. Attend a Cultural Performance: In addition to the masked dances, there are several cultural performances held during the festival. These performances include traditional dances, music, and theater.
10. Explore the Local Villages: The Punakha district is home to several small villages and it is a great way to experience the traditional Bhutanese culture. The villages are filled with friendly locals and there are several shops and restaurants that offer local food and handicrafts.
Punakha Dzongkhag Tshechu is a great opportunity to experience the culture and history of Bhutan. From attending the masked dance to exploring the local villages, there are plenty of things to do in Punakha. So, make sure to add Punakha Dzongkhag Tshechu to your list of must-see festivals in Bhutan.