culture · Wangdue Phodrang, Bhutan
The Wangdue Tshechu and the ox dance
Like most dzongs in Bhutan, Wangdue holds an annual tshechu, a festival of masked dances performed by monks and laymen in honour of Guru Rinpoche. Wangdue's is held over three days in the 8th lunar month, which usually falls in September or October, close to the dates of the Thimphu Tshechu. Villagers from across the district come in their best gho and kira, with picnic lunches, to watch the dances and receive blessings.
The festival is known for the Raksha Mangcham, the dance of the ox, and on the final morning a large thangka, a thongdrel, is unfurled before sunrise. Seeing it is believed to bring merit. Because it overlaps with the Thimphu festival, it draws fewer tourists, and you can often get a better view and a more local atmosphere.
During the rebuilding of the dzong, the festival was held at a ground outside the old town, so ask your operator where it is being held in your year. Dates are set by the lunar calendar and change every year. Dress modestly, do not walk across the dance ground, and keep flash off. Hotels in Punakha fill early for these dates, so book ahead.
Good for
Questions people ask
Good to know
When is the Wangdue Phodrang Tshechu
It is held over three days in the 8th month of the Bhutanese lunar calendar, which usually falls in September or October, around the same time as the Thimphu Tshechu. Exact dates change every year. Ask your operator for the current calendar before booking, and reserve Punakha hotels early for those dates. Check current status before you travel.
What is special about the Wangdue Tshechu
It is known for the Raksha Mangcham, the dance of the ox, and for the large thangka unfurled at dawn on the last day. It is smaller and more local than the Thimphu Tshechu, so you are more likely to sit among village families than tour groups. Entry is free; you need your usual route permit and guide.
Can I combine the Thimphu and Wangdue festivals
Often yes, because they fall in the same lunar month and the two towns are about 2.5 hours apart over Dochula. A common plan is a day at the Thimphu festival, then a drive to Punakha and a morning at Wangdue's. Dates vary each year, so ask your operator to check both calendars before you fix the trip.
