| The tsechus
or religious festivals tend to take place in September or October in
just about every temple in Bhutan although there are a few at other
times in various locations. For that reason, peak season for
visiting the country and the consequent lack of accommodation is
worst during those months. Apparently Bhutan spends what
little of its fantasy GDP remains after accounting for its
non-existent infrastructure investments to add to its delusional GNH
by staging these events which are considered essential to maintain
their cultural heritage. It is for this reason that the
festivals are rather better funded than road building and, well you
can guess the rest... They range from
intimate local affairs in a tiny temple courtyard right up to
massive theatrical events staged in Thimpu for the one and only
camera of state TV. So whether it is atonal trumpets,
enthusiastic but decidedly amateur folk songs, medieval barn dancing
or demons in fancy dress, or even running headlong through a bonfire
for those with an inclination towards audience participation, there
will be one to satisfy your ethnic cravings.
Click on the images below to view Thangbi
tsechu (in the courtyard before the pyromaniacs are let loose),
Thangbi Fire Festival (in the field after the lunatics are allowed
to light their fires), Trashi Chhoe (the big one in Thimpu) and
Gangtey (more a load of chanting to a distinctly inattentive
audience than a festival). |
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