UK +44 (0)1367 850566

USA 1-855-216-5040

Buddhist culture and Religious Festivals in Bhutan

buddhist culture and religious fesativals in bhutan.jpg

A unique and unspoilt Buddhist culture set amidst stunning mountain scenery.

Many people will be drawn to Bhutan if they have an interest in Buddhism – whether they are practicing it or not. Bhutan practices four different types of Buddhism and this extremely gentle belief is ever present in all the wonderful, gentle and calm Bhutanese people that you meet.

For those that are particularly interested in the topic, we will try and arrange a visit with the Chief Abbott to discuss this subject privately, over a meal for example. This is a huge privilege and not something that is open to tourists and is entirely discretionary, but rather depends upon our relationship that we have built with these people over a period of time.

It is also a fantastic way to meet such esteemed individuals like this, who study philosophy for nine years. A large part of Bhutan in terms of icons or landmarks is dominated by its dzongs. These dzongs are generally speaking inhabited by the monks and not only can one take in the magnificent architecture, built in the traditional and vernacular style on a grand scale, but also one can see the monks going to prayer and conducting their every day lives, adorned in their rich, red robes.

One might even partake in a religious debate which again, can be arranged on an ad hoc basis and one donates an evening meal for all the monks. Hear this wonderful, animated discussion revealed and translated to you via your guide. This is completely authentic and fascinating!

Religious Festivals or tesechus as they are locally known, are another main reason that so many tourists want to visit Bhutan. Dating back from the 17th Century, these religious festivals are held at different times each year and in each different region, generally speaking from the dzongs. These are arranged in Spring or Autumn, around the Lunar calendar.

Each of the dances has their own spiritual importance and is based around the Buddhist teachings. They also ask for a good harvest. After the flag ceremony, there is much merriment and traditional dancing and sword fighting with fabulous, energetic displays in colourful costumes and face masks.

Prior to dawn on the last day, a huge tapestry is unfurled and left in the courtyard to bring spiritual liberation. We will often suggest visiting the ceremonies that are further away and less frequented by tourists for a more pristine experience. The largest tsecchus occur in Thimphu, Paro and Bumthang. If travelling on a holiday to Bhutan, then try and take in a tsechhu!


The Explorations Company, where no two journeys have ever been the same

Would you like to know more?

Our team can help prepare a unique itinerary that best suits your personal interests  – no pressure, just
support and advice. Please complete your information and we will be in touch in no time.

As a guide, the cost of our extraordinary and utterly bespoke journeys tends to start from $1200 per person per day excluding international flights.

Can we take your details

About your journey

30 years badge

How many people in your party?

Adult
Children under 12

Explore with The Explorations Company

By Marcela Kunova - 20th April 2017

Nicola Shepherd, founder and CEO of The Exploration Company, organises unusual trips for HNW and UHNW clients ranging from birthday parties at an Indian Maharajah's palace to reliving Sir Vivian Fuchs's 1950s expedition to the South Pole. Citywealth caught ...

View Forward facing arrow

Our Guarantees To You

Premium service from one of the world's most knowledgeable travel companies

24/7 contact number

Your holiday is fully protected by the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018

Flight-Inclusive Bonding: We are licensed by the Civil Aviation Authority and hold ATOL Number 7159

Flight-Exclusive bonding: Your holiday is further protected by our membership of ABTOT Membership Number 5197

logo