Tour Guide, Thimphu, Bhutan
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Paro Tsechu is one of the most popular festivals in Bhutan. It includes dances performed by trained monks and laymen in amazing masks and costumes, Tsechus (festivals) are also one of the best ways to experience the ancient living culture of Bhutan.
A Tsechu is a Buddhist festival in honour of Guru Rimpoche, the saint who brought Buddhism to Bhutan. A highlight of the Paro Tsechu is the unfurling of the silk Thangka – so large that it covers the face of an entire building and is considered as one of the most sacred blessings in whole Bhutan.
The ‘Thangka, known in Bhutan as a ‘thongdroel’ is a religious picture scroll, and is only exhibited for a few hours at daybreak on the final day of the festival enabling the people to obtain its blessing. This holy scroll “confers liberation by the mere sight of it” (the meaning of the word ‘thongdroel’ in Bhutanese). The ‘Paro Tsechu’ festival is considered as one of Bhutan’s most popular festival and joined by locals in a colorful celebration of Bhutanese culture and faith.
One can view sacred dances and rituals performed by monks and laymen in elaborate costumes. Join in with the locals in a special occasion of celebration, blessings and socializing. Witness the unfurling ceremony of the sacred ‘thongdroel’ scroll at daybreak and discover some of the most sacred Buddhist monasteries and temples in the Himalaya.