Bhutan festivals

The biggest festivals take place in the western city of Paro during the spring, and in the capital, Thimphu, during the autumn. The reason for their popularity is probably due to their proximity to Bhutan’s international airport as well as the time of year. Festivals in east and central Bhutan are also vibrant and worth seeing; ideal if you have a few more days to spare.

Whichever festival you’re heading to in Bhutan it’s always wise to do your research into traditional customs and etiquette. Your holiday company and Bhutanese guide will be more than happy to explain dress codes and what you’re watching as well as encouraging you to join in. Doing a bit of research or attending with a knowledgeable local guide is definitely a good way to make the most of the experience.

As one of Bhutan’s largest festivals, Thimphu Festival brings the capital pretty much to a standstill for three days, starting on the 10th day of the eighth month of the Tibetan lunar calendar (typically late September or early October). Thousands of Bhutanese will travel from rural villages across the country to attend, with the ‘Dance of the Black Hats’ and the ‘Dance of the Terrifying Deities’ just a couple of the most revered traditional performances. Aside from the theatrical elements of the festival, audiences also take great delight in being entertained by atsaras, who dance and fool about like jesters in order to mystify evil spirits. Dramatic or comedy skits are also performed, to highlight local health and safety initiatives.

Also held in Bumthang district, Thangbi Mani is one of the most popular festivals in Bhutan because of its extraordinary fire dance. Called the mewang, this fire blessing involves local monks leaping over flames and through flaming arches to purify themselves. The festival takes place around the Thangbi Lhakhang (monastery) in late September or early October, and features masked dances and rituals, as well as some rather unique traditions involving throwing dough balls and offering buckwheat noodles to guests – make sure you have some ngultrum ready to offer in return.

Established in 2011, this is one of Bhutan’s newest festivals. It takes place each December in Dochula Pass, around 22km from Thimphu, and commemorates a victory by the Bhutanese Army over Indian insurgent forces in 2003. This festival is unique because the dances and rituals are performed by the Royal Bhutan Army rather than monks or lay people.