PUNAKHA TSHECHU

Tsechus (Religious Festivals)

Tsechus (religious festivals) are an intrinsic part of Bhutan’s tradition and culture. These are performed and celebrated all around the country at different periods. Literally, Tshechu means the “Tenth Day,” and is observed on the tenth day of a month corresponding to the lunar calendar, the birthday of Guru Rimpoche (Guru Padmasambhava).

The origin of Tsechus can be traced back to the 8th century, wherein Guru Padma Sambhava and the Abbot Shanti Rakshita, introduced the dances and performed it when the first Buddhist temple was constructed at Samye in Tibet. It is said that through the performance of the dances, spirits living in the vicinity of the temple were subdued.

Tsechus became diverse and the number of Chhams (mask dances) increased as followers of Guru Rimpoche, especially treasure revealers (Tertons) and other enlightened masters, discovered instructions for such sacred dances, believed to be written by Guru Rimpoche and concealed in different places.

Every dance has a meaning and is a story narrated as the dances progress. Most are associated with the subduing of evil forces and in essence, speaks of the triumph of the good over evil.

From the secular point of view, Tsechus have social significances as it brings communities together, partaking in merrymaking, adorned in their best attires. People forget their mundane farm lives and celebrate.
While there are several Tsechus performed, we provide you an insight into some of the most popular ones. Your trips can be customised to include the Tsechus, along with other packages. Thus, we cannot provide a fixed itinerary. Based on the Tsechu you would like to visit, other interests and duration, we can weave itineraries that suit you.