Thimphu Lhamoi Dromchoe, the “great achieving prayer of the female deity”, is a one-day annual sacred religious festival held in the open courtyard of Tashichho Dzong. The festival showcases the sacred Lhamoi Tshomi Kuncham dedicated to Palden Lhamo, Bhutan’s chief protective female deity. Je Kuenga Gyaltshen first instituted it between 1705 and 1710.
The Thimphu Drubchoe has been performed for more than 300 years. It is held annually on the 6th day of the 8th month of the Bhutanese calendar. This year, the Thimphu Drubchen will be held on 17 September 2026. The Domchoe will be followed by the popular three-day annual Thimphu Tshechu festival in Tendrelthang, outside the Dzong.
History of Thimphu Lhamoi Drubchen
According to the origin story, Je Kuenga Gyaltshen (Gyalse Ganapati), the reincarnation of Jampel Dorji, one of the heart sons of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the founder of Bhutan in the 18th century, started the Thimphu Drubchoe.
Legend has it that Pelden Lhamo (goddess Mahakali) appeared before Je Kuenga Gyeltshen during a 1-year retreat at Cheri Monastery and performed the wrathful dance. Based on these visions, he initiated Thimphu Drubchoe and the sacred dance of Lhamoi Tshomi Kuncham.
Today, the monks of Tashichho Dzong undertake the 14-day Lhamo Dromchey retreat, and the sacred dance of Palden Lhamo and her 20 manifestations is revealed to the public.
Historical Significance of Thimphu Lhamoi Dromche
The Thimphu Drubchen was initiated to honor Palden Lhamo, who is believed to have safeguarded Bhutan, and to celebrate Bhutan’s victory over a Tibetan invasion in the 17th century. Today, the festival is performed to seek her continued blessings to protect the nation from both internal and external threats from all directions.
Thimphu Lhamoi Dromche
The Thimphu Drubchoe begins with the monks conducting the Lhawang Drupchhoe for about 15 days in the inner sanctums of Tashichho Dzong.
On the 15th day, which falls on the 6th day of the 8th month of the Bhutanese calendar, the sacred Lhamoi Tshomi mask kept inside the kilkhor is revealed to the public after the prayers.
This main mask dance, Lhamoi Tshomi Kuncham (Pelden Lhamo Cham), is performed by monks of the Central Monastic Body, which portrays the fierce yet compassionate wrath of the goddess Pelden Lhamo as she destroys evil and defends the Buddha Dharma. It also expresses divine generosity and compassionate blessings.
The festival includes the Raksha Mangcham, known as the ‘Dance of the Judgement of the Dead,’ a theatrical performance inspired by Buddhist teachings on life and death. Throughout the day, monks from the Central Monastic Body and artists from the Traditional Performing Arts and Music Division perform sacred mask dances and songs.
Dedicated to Palden Lhamo, the sacred dance is believed to bless and purify misfortunes and negative deeds for an entire year. Thousands of devotees dressed in their finest attire gather to witness the sacred Palden Lhamo Cham.
When is Thimphu Lhamoi Dromchoe held?
The Thimphu Drubchen usually takes place on the 6th day of the 8th month in the Bhutanese lunar calendar. If you’re traveling to Bhutan during this period, it’s advisable to arrive in Thimphu a few days early, since the Drubchen takes place 3 days before the Thimphu Tshechu. This way, you can partake in both the spiritual rituals of the Drubchen and the lively, community-oriented festivities of the Tshechu.
Conclusion
The Thimphu Drubchen is not merely a festival; it is a lively tribute to Bhutan’s spiritual resilience and rich history. Held in the historic fortress of Tashichho Dzong, the festival not only commemorates a significant event in Bhutanese history but also celebrates the enduring spiritual practices that continue to protect and influence the kingdom. The festival is a major cultural occasion that highlights Bhutan’s rich spiritual heritage and community values.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Thimphu Lhamoi Dromchoe?
Thimphu Lhamoi Dromchoe is an annual religious festival held in Thimphu to honor the protective deity Lhamo Drubchen. It features sacred rituals, masked dances (cham), and prayers performed by monks to invoke blessings, remove obstacles, and promote peace and prosperity for the community.
Where does Thimphu Lhamoi Dromchoe take place?
Thimphu Lhamoi Dromchoe is held in the open courtyard of Tashichho Dzong in Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan.
What happens during Thimphu Lhamoi Dromchoe?
The festival centers on religious ceremonies led by monks, including chanting, offerings, and the performance of sacred cham dances that depict stories of deities and moral lessons. Devotees gather to receive blessings, make offerings, and participate in prayers for protection and well-being.
Can tourists attend Thimphu Lhamoi Dromchoe?
Yes, tourists are generally welcome to observe Thimphu Lhamoi Dromchoe, provided they respect local customs and dress modestly. Visitors should maintain silence during rituals, avoid using flash photography, and follow guidance from event organizers or monastery staff.
Is there an entry fee for Thimphu Lhamoi Dromchoe?
Yes. There is an entry fee for attending Thimphu Lhamoi Dromchoe, as the festival is held inside the fortress.
What should visitors wear to Thimphu Lhamoi Dromchoe?
Visitors should dress modestly out of respect for the sacred nature of the event. Shoulders and knees should be covered, and hats or sunglasses should be removed inside temple areas. Comfortable footwear is recommended, as seating may be on the floor or ground.
How can I reach the venue for Thimphu Lhamoi Dromchoe?
Most festival venues in Thimphu are accessible by taxi, private vehicle, or local bus. During the festival, traffic may be heavier than usual, so it’s advisable to arrive early and allow extra time for parking or walking to the site.
Are photography and videos allowed at Thimphu Lhamoi Dromchoe?
Photography may be permitted in outer areas, but flash photography and video recording are often restricted inside temple halls and during sacred rituals. Always ask for permission from monks or organizers before taking photos, and be prepared to put your camera away if requested.
When is Thimphu Lhamoi Dromchoe held each year?
Thimphu Lhamoi Dromchoe is held annually on the 6th day of the 8th month of the Bhutanese calendar.
