Zhemgang Tshechu – A religious and cultural celebration showcasing unique culture and traditional highlights of the south-central Bhutan

Zhemgang lies to south-central part of Bhutan and the district is part of wildlife corridor constituting the famous Royal Manas National Park, the Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, and the Phrumshingla National Park. The region is blessed with incredibly rich biodiversity. The inhabitants of Zhemgang are famous for their rich culture, particularly the folk song & dances and their handicrafts items such as Bangchungs (matted bamboo bowls) Palangs (alcohol containers), Balaks (hats) and pottery.

Lama Zhang Dorje Drakpa, a renowned scholar sage of Drukpa Kayupa school of Buddhism who lived in the 12th century is said to have founded the Zhemgang Dzong. Lama Zhang set up a hermitage on the present site of the Dzong and settled there for many years. In 1655 a single-storied Dzong was built on the hermitage to defend the area against invaders led by Choestse Penlop. Khenrig Namsung is the ancient name of Zhemgang which literally means the three divisions of Kheng: Upper (Chikhor), Middle (Namkor), and Lower (Tamachok) Kheng.

Held at district’s Dzong, Zhemgang Tshechu was first time observed in 1975. During this annual festival celebrated in spring, different mask dances are performed for three-days aside variety of regional folk songs and dances. The festival concludes with unfurling of huge thongdroel (large tapestry) of Guru Rinpoche, on last day. Apart from its religious significance, festival is also an occasion for locals to get together, socialise, forge new alliances all against backdrop of colourful religious ceremony.

(Image credit: Zhemgang Dzongkhag Administration)