At various times of the year, Bhutanese in towns and villages congregate to witness mask dance festival known as,”Tshechus”. This colorful events draw thousands of locals some of whom have to walk for days while the underlying purpose is spiritual, the dances are more often like plays where good triumphs over evil or depicts significant historical events expecially about the life of Bhutan’s patron saint, Guru Padmasambhava. There is inevitably a great deal of socializing; it is an opportunity for people to relax and forget daily routines, to dress intheir finest clothes and jewelry but, more importantly, it is an occassion for prayer and blessings.
Tshechus mainly comprise mask dances in addition to some folk dance entertaintment. Festivals are not peagent or events and definitely not held as Tourist attractions. They are genuine manifestations of ancient religious traditions, which outsiders are given the privilage to witness.
Please click the link below for the festival dates:
Tentative Bhutan festival dates 2012