Nalakhar Tshechu, also known as Nga Lhakhang Zhi, is a 3-day religious festival to honor the founder of the Ngang Lhakhang, Lama Namkha Samdrup.
The festival is celebrated with rituals and sacred, symbolic dances to bring happiness, prosperity, and good harvests. It is one of Bumthang’s spiritual festivals held annually at Ngang Lhakhang in Nalakhar village in the Choekhor valley of Bumthang Dzongkhag.
The Nalakhar Tshechu festival 2025 in Bhutan began on December 4, 2025.
Where is the Nalakhar Tshechu festival held?
The Nalakhar Tshechu festival takes place at Nga Lhakhang. Ngala Lhakhang is a private temple built in the 15th century by Lama Namkha Samdrup. It is located in Nalakhar village, north of Jakar town.
Accessible via a farm road, the scenic drive to Thangbi Lhakhang takes about 1 hour. From the end of the road, visitors need to cross the bridge on foot and then walk roughly 15 minutes along the left bank of the river to reach Ngang Lhakhang, also known as ‘Swan Temple.’
Nalakhar Tshechu Festival
Nalakhar Tshechu, also known as Nga Lhakhang Zhi, is a three-day religious festival held at Nga Lhakhang in Nalakhar village. The festival takes place from the 15th to the 17th day of the 10th month of the Bhutanese lunar calendar.
The festival honors Lama Namkha Samdrup, the 15th-century founder of the Ngang temple, and aims to bring happiness and prosperity to the community and the nation. It is also a time to pray for a plentiful harvest and the well-being of all living beings.
Highlights of the Nalakhar Festival
The highlights of the Nalakha festival include:
- Sacred cham (masked dances): The spiritual and symbolic dances performed by both monks and laypeople.
- Folk performances: Colorful traditional songs and dances.
- Spiritual teachings: Religious rituals and blessings offered throughout the function.
- Local culture: People from all over Bumthang come dressed in their finest clothes and enjoy traditional Bumthang cuisine.
Why attend Nalakha Tshechu?
The Nalakha Tshechu offers an authentic Bhutanese festival experience without crowds. You can truly immerse yourself in the festive spirit and learn the centuries-old culture and traditions of Bumthang Valley. You can attend the festivals of Bhutan with the Bhutan Festival Package.
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