Sola Travels

Punakha Dromchoe- Punakha Dzong
2026-02-24 09:00 - 2026-02-26 17:00 UTC | New York, 8 King Street, NY, 101, United States
Punakha Dromchoe (or Drubchen) is a vibrant, annual Bhutanese festival at Punakha Dzong, dramatically re-enacting the 17th-century victory over Tibetan invaders through mock battles by local militia (Pazaps) in full gear, alongside sacred dances honoring guardian deities and concluding with the symbolic immersion of a sacred relic (Rangjung Kharsapani) into the Mochhu River, celebrating Bhutan’s history and spiritual heritage.

Historical Commemoration: Celebrates Bhutan’s defense against Tibetan forces, a pivotal moment led by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel.
The “Pazap” Militia: Local men from Thimphu and Punakha form a militia, donning traditional armor and swords to stage battle scenes, a tradition from when Bhutan lacked a standing army.
Sacred Rituals: Features Cham (mask dances) and the Norbu Chushani ceremony, where the sacred relic is immersed in the river, symbolizing purification.
Location: Held at the historic and stunning Punakha Dzong.
Timing: Typically in the first month of the Bhutanese lunar calendar (February/March).
What to Expect:
Battle Reenactments: The dramatic Serda procession showing warriors marching to war.
Mask Dances: Performed by monks in elaborate costumes, representing deities and historical events.
Cultural Immersion: A chance to witness Bhutan’s deep spiritual beliefs and martial history.
Significance:
Honors protector deities like Mahakala and Palden Lhamo.
A powerful display of national identity, spiritual devotion, and cultural pride

Paro Tshechu- Paro
2026-03-29 08:00 - 2026-04-02 17:00 | Paro, Bhutan, Paro, Bhutan
The Paro Tshechu is a major 5-day Bhutanese spring festival held in Paro Valley to honor Guru Rinpoche. Featuring masked dances (Cham), vibrant costumes, and the Thongdrel unveiling (sacred scroll), it is held at Rinpung Dzong. The 2026 festival is scheduled for March 19–23, 2026.
Key Details About Paro Tshechu
Significance: It is one of Bhutan’s most popular and holiest festivals, drawing large crowds of locals and visitors for blessings and to gain merit.
Main Highlights:
Cham Dances: Monks and laymen wear elaborate masks and costumes to perform sacred dances.
Thongdrel Unveiling: A massive, sacred silk Thangka (scroll) is displayed at dawn on the final day, believed to cleanse sins of those who view it.
Atsaras: Entertaining clowns who interact with the crowd.
Timing: It usually takes place in March or April. The 2026 dates are March 19th to March 23rd.
Location: The event is hosted at the Paro Rinpung Dzong.
Cultural Experience: Attendees dress in traditional gho and kira, making it a prime time for cultural immersion and photography.
It is highly recommended to book accommodation months in advance as this is a peak tourist time.
