Wangdue Tshechu is a three-day festival of masks and folk dances. It is founded by the 4th Temporal Ruler of Bhutan, Mr. Tenzing Rabgye (1638-1696), to commemorate the birth of Guru Padmasambhava. The festival is held in Wangduephodrang Dzong. The Bhutan festival is known for the dance of the Ox.
The Wangdue Tshechu festival is held in Wangdue Phodrang and is observed for three days in the autumn season. The festival is well known for the Raksha Mangcham or the dance of the Ox. Many different kinds of mask dances are performed during the festival. It concludes with the unfurling of the Guru Tshegye Thongdrel. You can also Trek Gangtey in Wangdi if you have enough time.
Wangdi Festival, also known as the Wangdi Tsechu, is an annual religious festival. It takes place in Wangdue Phodrang, a district in central Bhutan. The festival is held to honour Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava. He is believed to have brought Buddhism to Bhutan.
Wangdue Tshechu Overview
- During the Wangdi Tshechu, locals dress up in their traditional attire and gather at the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong. Its a majestic fortress-like monastery. The festival begins with the unfurling of the thongdrel, a large religious scroll. It is believed to bestow blessings on those who see it.
- The highlight of the Wangdi Festival is the Cham dance, a series of sacred mask dances performed by monks and laypeople. The Cham dance is believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck to those who witness it.
- Other festivities include the traditional archery competition, where participants use handmade bows and arrows. They display their archery skills and the display of sacred relics and statues.
- Food is also an important part of the Wangdi Festival. The visitors can enjoy traditional Bhutanese dishes like Ema Datshi, a spicy cheese and chilli dish. Ara traditional Bhutanese alcoholic drink made from fermented rice.
- Wangdi Festival is a beautiful and colourful celebration of Bhutanese culture and spirituality. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich traditions of Bhutan firsthand. Check the things you can do in Wangdiphodrang
Wangdue Tshechu Festival Date 2024
The Wangdi Tshechu date is from 11th to 13th September 2024. We can include your cultural tour to witness the festival at Wangdiphodrang. Check Bhutan Festival Dates for 2024/25.
Check similar festivals like the Tashigang Festival Tour for 2024
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ITINERARY OVERVIEW
- Day1 Arrival Paro Airport and drive to Thimphu | Driving Distance 60KM | Driving Time 1 Hour | Alt 2300M
- Day 2 Thimphu to Wangdi and attend Festival | Distance 66.9km | Driving time 1 Hours 48 Minutes | Altitude 1273m
- Day 3 Wangdi to Paro and City tour | Distance 108.8km | Driving time 2hrs 52mins | Altitude 2300m
- Day 4 Paro Departure. 15 Minutes drive from Hotel to Airport
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