Jambhay Lhakhang Festival, an exhilarating cultural event, showcases lively traditional dances in the Bumthang region of Bhutan. During the festival, performers joyously participate in the vibrant dances while clad in traditional attire. The captivating dances, accompanied by rhythmic music and chanting, enthral locals and visitors.
Jambay Lhakhang Festival Overview
The Tibetan king, Songtsen Gampo, built Jambay Lhakhang, one of 108 Buddhist temples, in the 7th century. Revered as one of the oldest landmarks of the arrival of Buddhism in Bhutan, this temple holds a unique Tshechu or festival. The fire dance, performed to purify sins and augur a good harvest, highlights this festival. Naked dance is performed by men and is considered very auspicious.
- Jambay Lhakhang Mewang (Fire Dance): Witness the unique and mesmerizing fire dance performed by monks to purify sins and bless the spectators.
- Traditional Mask Dances (Cham): Enjoy various mask dances that depict religious stories, performed by monks in colourful costumes.
- Tercham (Naked Dance): A rare and sacred dance performed at midnight, symbolizing fertility and the victory of good over evil.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience the rich culture of Bhutan through its traditional music, dance, and local customs.
- Visit Jambay Lhakhang: Explore the ancient Jambay Lhakhang temple, one of the oldest in Bhutan, and learn about its historical significance.
- Explore Bumthang Valley: Discover the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, with visits to other monasteries, temples, and beautiful valleys.
Jambhay Lhakhang Festival Tour Itinerary Over View
- Day 1 Arrival at Paro Airport for Jambay Lhakhang Festival. Acclimatize at Paro. Altitude 2300M
- Day 2 Paro Tiger Nest Hike. Distance 15 KM | Walking time 4 Hours | Altitude 3120M above sea level.
- Day 3 Paro to Thimphu and Sightseeing. |Distance 60Km| Time Taken 1 Hour Drive | Altitude 2400M.
- Day 4 Thimphu City Tour. Altitude 2400M above sea level.
- Day 5 Thimphu to Wangdue with excursion to Punakha | Distance 66.9KM | Driving time 1 hour 48 minutes | Altitude 1273M above sea level.
- Day 6 Wangdue to Trongsa, with excursion to Gangtey | Distance 118.9KM | Driving time 3 hours 7minutes | Altitude 2108M above sea level
- Day 7Trongsa to Bumthang. Distance 78.2KM | Driving time 2 hours 17 minutes | Altitude 2800M above sea level.
- Day 8 Attend Jambhay Lhakhang Festival. Altitude 2600M above sea level.
- Day 9 Bumthang to Ura Valley Excursion | Altitude 2800M above sea level
- Day 10 Bumthang to Paro Via Domestic Flight. Flight time 25 to 30 Minutes | Altitude 2300M.
- Day 11Paro to Haa Valley via Chelela Pass. Distance 66.9KM | Driving time 2 hours 7 minutes | Altitude ranges from 1000 to 5600M above sea level.
- Day 12 Haa to Paro via Chele La Pass and Kila Goenpa Hike. | Hike Distance 15.4 KM | Hiking time 3 hours 48 minutes | Altitude 3500M above sea level
- Day 13 Drop and See Off at Airport. Altitude 2300M.
Jambhay Lhakhang Festivals Date:
The Jambhay Lhakhang festival also called the naked dance festival, will occur from 15th November to 18th November 2024. Jambay Lhakhang Monastery holds the most popular and secret festival.
Trip Length: 13 Days/12 Nights
Festival Tour Costs:
All our tour cost includes SDF of USD 100 per person per night, Visa Fees and cost for meals, Guides, Transport and Daily sightseeing.
- Solo travellers Cost US $3710.00
- 2 persons US $3570 each.
- 3 & more US $3150 each.
Packing Essentials
- Clothing: Warm layers, as it can get cold, especially in the mornings and evenings.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes for festival grounds and monastery visits.
- Miscellaneous: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the vibrant moments.
Cultural Etiquette
- Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly and be mindful of local customs, especially when visiting temples and during the festival.
- Photography: Ask for permission before taking photos of locals, particularly during sacred rituals.
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Jambay Lhakhang Festival Highlights
- Explore Bumthang Valley
- Visit Jambay Lhakhang
- Enjoy the Festival