Domkhar Tshechu - A three-day local festival staging various forms of sacred mask dances and local folk performances

Bumthang is religious heartland of Bhutan and houses many sacred, ancient monasteries and temples dotted throughout the idyllic valley. The district of Bumthang comprises of four valleys namely Chumey, Choekhor, Tang and Ura. Domkhar is a small village, located in Chumey valley, about 15-minute drive from heart of town.

The annual Domkhar Tshechu (festival) is held around Apr / May at Domkhar Lhakhang (temple), that was built by Serkhong Turuelku during the 18th century. During three-day festival various Cham (mask dances) and local folk dances are performed by local people. The chams are mainly of the Peling traditions, those were composed by Terton Pema Lingpa. In between the Chams, there are various folk dances showcased by the villagers, who all dressed in their beautiful traditional dresses.

The highlight of the festival is unfurling of Thongdroel (large tapestry), to bless the people of Domkhar village. The locals believe that by attending festival and witnessing Chams and Thongdroel on last day one can have enormous blessings and get rid of all bad deeds and sins.

Domkhar Tshechu adds an intimate festive mood all around the Chumey valley. Apart from Chumey valley, people from all around Bumthang and nearby places also attend the festival and there exists a small carnival like atmosphere.