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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Lumo Tour and Travel
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DTSTART:20170101T000000
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20171126
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20171129
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170131T094358Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170202T085817Z
UID:558-1511654400-1511913599@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Mongar Tshechu
DESCRIPTION:Monggar in eastern Bhutan is largely known as the “Bastion of the Zhongarps\,” after the illustrious Dzongpons of Zhongar that played significant role in the history of Bhutan. One can still see the ruins of the Zhongar Dzong next to the highway in Lingmethang before reaching Monggar. \nThe main inhabitants of this region are the Tshanglas and the Kurtoeps. They speak distinct languages known as Tshanglakha and Kurtoepaikha. This region is famous for its exquisite wood carvings. \nThe new Dzong in Monggar was built at the initiative of the third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in 1953. Today the dzong is the centre of administration where all important decisions are taken. \nThe most exciting local event is the annual three day Tshechu that is held every November. It is witnessed by people from as far as Trashigang and Lhuentse.\nThere are numerous local Tshechus in this region all with their own unique dances and traditions. They occur at various times throughout the year so visitors can be assured that no matter when they visit a fantastic and colorful local festival will be taking place. \n 
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/mongar-tshechu/
LOCATION:Mongar Dzong\, Mongar\, Mongar\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/festival_4.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20171111
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20171112
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170131T070310Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170202T085817Z
UID:506-1510358400-1510444799@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Black-necked Crane Festival
DESCRIPTION:The Annual Black-necked Crane festival is celebrated in the courtyard of Gangtey Gonpa\, in Phobjikha valley. The festival is an occasion for the locals to rejoice and celebrate the arrival of this endangered and majestic bird which becomes an inseparable part their daily lives during the winter months. \nThe annual black-necked crane festival is organized to generate awareness and understanding on the importance of conserving the endangered Black‐necked cranes; to strengthen the linkages between conservation\, economic welfare and sustainable livelihoods of the community; provide an avenue for the local community to renew their commitment to conservation of the black-necked cranes\, and to showcase their cultural heritage and skills. \nThe festival includes cultural programs such as folk songs and dances (some with black-necked crane themes) and mask dances performed by the local people\, crane dances and environmental conservation-themed dramas and songs by the school children.  The program usually starts by 9:30 am and lasts till late afternoon. \nThe festival is organized by the Phobjikha Environment Management Committee (PEMC)\, a local group composed of elected local leaders (with a strong female component)\, Government representatives\, business community representatives\, monks and Royal Society for the Protection of Nature (RSPN) representative.  The festival has become a part of the local culture in Phobjikha valley ever since it was first initiated by the RSPN in 1998. \nBackground \nNestled in the inner Himalayas at about 3000 metres above sea level\, Phobjikha is a wide alpine wetland valley that is considered the largest and the most significant wetland in the country. It is often cited for the harmonious co‐existence of its inhabitants with nature and the valley also holds great cultural significance. The valley is the most significant wintering ground of the rare and endangered Black‐necked cranes in Bhutan and has been protected since time immemorial by the local people’s traditional respect for all living beings. Every year\, over 300 of the estimated 500 cranes that migrate to Bhutan spend their winter months in this valley. Additionally\, the highly revered Gangtey Monastery that overlooks the wetlands surrounded by subsistence farms and natural forest areas makes Phobjikha a stunningly beautiful and sacred valley. Today\, this glacial valley is an attraction not just to tourists but also pilgrims. \nBesides being the home to the cranes\, Phobjikha is also the livelihood base for about 5000 subsistence farmers who have aspirations for economic development. Since the early 1990s\, the Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN)\, Bhutan’s only environmental NGO initiated an integrated conservation and development program with the sole objective of establishing a strong linkage between environment conservation and economic welfare of the local people. This approach was instituted because the RSPN felt that an unguided pursuit for economic development by the local community could not only severely undermine the ecological significance of the area but may also adversely affect the local livelihoods. \nThe Annual Black-necked Crane festival is an integral part of the Ecotourism (now Community based-sustainable tourism) initiative to promote local economic welfare through nature based tourism programs. \nThe success of the festival and its continuity depends entirely upon the support and contributions of the visitors and well-wishers of conservation. Continued appreciation and corresponding support are essential in maintaining strong linkages between conservation and economic welfare of the local people. By viewing and participating in the festival you reward the community for their continued conservation stewardship. Funds mobilized through the Black-necked crane festival and other activities of the committee are deposited in a community owned bank account and managed by the committee for activities of common benefit to the community. \n 
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/black-necked-crane-festival/
LOCATION:Gangtey Goenpa\, Phobjikha\, Wangdue Phodrang\, Phobjikha\, Wangdue Photrang\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/black-necked_Crane_festival-1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Phobjikha Environment Management Committee and RSPN Bhutan":MAILTO:rspn@rspnbhutan.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20171104
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20171107
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170202T081319Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170202T085817Z
UID:743-1509753600-1510012799@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Prakhar Drubchhoed
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/prakhar-drubchhoed/
LOCATION:Prakhar Lhakhang\, Chummi\, Bumthang\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/festival-14.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20171103
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20171108
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170202T074050Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170202T085817Z
UID:717-1509667200-1510099199@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Jambay Lhakhang Drup
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/jambay-lhakhang-drup/
LOCATION:Jambay Lhakhang\, Choekhor\, Bumthang\, Bumthang\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/festival-8.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20171103
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20171108
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170131T072552Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170202T085817Z
UID:525-1509667200-1510099199@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Jambay Lhakhang Festival
DESCRIPTION:Jambay Lhakhang is located in Bumthang and is situated on the way to the Kurjie Lhakhang. It’s a ten minutes drive to the temple from the Chamkhar town. \nJambay Lhakhang is one of the oldest temples in the kingdom. It was founded by\, Songtsen Gampo\, a Tibetan King in the 7th century AD.  The king was destined to build 108 temples known as Thadhul- Yangdhul (temples on and across the border) in a day to subdue the demoness that was residing in the Himalayas. The temple is one of the two of the 108 built in Bhutan. A second is located in Paro\, the Kichu lhakhang also built on the same day. \nLegend has it that Guru Rimpoche visited the site several times and deemed it exceptionally sacred. Chakhar Gyab\, the king of the Iron Castle of Bumthang renovated the temple in the 8th century AD. \nThe first king of Bhutan\,  Gongsa Ugyen Wangchuck constructed the Dus Kyi Khorlo (Kala Chakra- Wheel of Time) inside the temple\, to commemorate his victory over his rivals Phuntsho Dorji of Punakha and Alu Dorji of Thimphu after the battle of Changlimithang in 1885. Later\, Ashi Wangmo\, the younger sister of the second king of Bhutan\, built the Chorten lhakhang. \nThe main relics include the future Buddha\, Jowo Jampa (Maitreya) from whose name the present name of the temple is derived. The lhakhang also houses more than one hundred statues of the gods of Kalachakra built by the first king\, in 1887. \nOne of the most spectacular festivals in the country\, called Jambay lhakhang Drup is hosted here. The festival lasts for five days (check with your tour operator to confirm these dates). The highlight of the festival is the fire ritual that is held in the evening where crowds gather to witness the ritualistic naked dance.
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/jambay-lhakhang-festival/
LOCATION:Thimphu
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/jambay-lhakhang-festival.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20171030
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20171031
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170202T073624Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170202T085817Z
UID:712-1509321600-1509407999@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Dechenphu Tshechu
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/dechenphu-tshechu/
LOCATION:Dechenphu Lhakhang\, Dechenchholing\, Thimphu\, Thimphu\, 11001\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/festival-7.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20171029
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20171101
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170202T072847Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170202T085817Z
UID:710-1509235200-1509494399@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Jakar Tshechu
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/jakar-tshechu/
LOCATION:Jakar Dzong\, Bumthang\, Chamkhar\, 975\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/festival-6.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20171014
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20171016
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170131T072918Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170202T085817Z
UID:528-1507939200-1508111999@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Jomolhari Mountain Festival
DESCRIPTION:The festival celebrates the culture of the communities living in close proximity to endangered snow leopards. \n“A community based initiative for the conservation of snow leopards” \nJomolhari Mountain Festival is an exquisitely themed two-day event celebrated at the base of Mt. Jomolhari\, by communities located along one of the most scenic trekking routes in Bhutan. \nThe festival celebrates the culture of the communities living together with the natural wonders that surround them: one in particular\, the elusive\, yet elegant\, snow leopard! This endangered cat thrives in the region; several camera trap photos and definite signs have established the region as one of the best snow leopard habitats in Bhutan. \nThe communities of Soe Yaksa and Soe Yutoed\, located along the Jomolhari trek\, in collaboration with Jigme Dorji National Park (JDNP) and the Nature Recreation and Ecotourism Division (NRED) – with support from the Snow Leopard Conservancy (SLC) and Bhutan Foundation – bring together this festival as a community based initiative towards the conservation of snow leopard; to create awareness on the importance of conservation; engage and build on the perception and attitude to create harmony between this endangered cat and the people; provide a platform to bring in opportunities for sustainable livelihood\, and promote their culture. \nThe festival includes snow leopard themed folk songs and dances performed by the local people\, JDNP staff and the school children\, traditional sports such as Khuru (darts)\, shot put\, horse and yak riding\, sampling of local delicacies and boutique handicrafts\, and various picturesque guided hikes in and around Jomolhari. It also showcases various stalls set up by both local and international agencies to educate and promote conservation among those participating at the festival. \nThe festival was initiated in 2013 and endorsed by the government as an annual event. \nBACKGROUND \nJOMOLHARI SNOW LEOPARD CONSERVATION PROGRAM \nThe Jomolhari trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in Bhutan and passes through prime snow leopard and blue sheep habitat. Numerous camera trap photos\, signs\, and DNA sampling from the region has established the region as one of the best snow leopard habitats in Bhutan. The two communities of Soe Yutoed and Soe Yaksa lie along the Jomolhari trek. Yutoed has 28 households and Yaksa 18.  The residents are primarily yak herders as the area is mostly above tree line. While yak predation is prevalent in the area\, herders have generally been tolerant of some level of predation all along.  However\, public attitudes and perception towards snow leopards are fast changing. \nWhen community members begin to see real\, tangible benefits from snow leopard conservation\, they are more likely to support it. If a conservation program has buy-in and ownership of the local residents\, it is more likely to be sustainable in the long run. These are the foundations on which the Jomolhari Snow Leopard Conservation Program is built. \nThe Jomolhari Snow Leopard Conservation Program is a community initiative supported by the Jigme Dorji National Park\, the Nature Recreation and Ecotourism Division\, the Snow Leopard Conservancy and the Bhutan Foundation. It aims to guide tangible benefits of snow leopard conservation to the local residents so that the snow leopard is seen as an asset rather than a liability\, and hence something to be treasured. It seeks to use the snow leopard as the focus for holistic development of the communities through the following: \n\nReduction of GID disease in yak (one of the highest causes of yak mortality)\nOffsetting livestock predation through livestock insurance\nIncome generation through home stays\nIncome generation through boutique handicraft sales\nSnow leopard and prey monitoring by community members and park\nInstituting snow leopard festival as an annual tourism event\nUsing Soe Yutoed School for increasing awareness on snow leopard conservation
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/jomolhari-mountain-festival/
LOCATION:Dangochong\, Thimphu\, Dangochong\, Thimphu\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/jumolhari1920_A.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20171004
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20171007
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170202T072530Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170202T085817Z
UID:707-1507075200-1507334399@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Thangbi Mani
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/thangbi-mani/
LOCATION:Thangbi Lhakhang\, Chhoekhor\, Bumthang\, Bumthang\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/religion.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170930
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20171003
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170131T081308Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170208T045835Z
UID:542-1506729600-1506988799@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Thimphu Tshechu
DESCRIPTION:One of the biggest festivals in the country is the Thimphu Tshechu. This festival is held in the capital city for three days beginning on 10th day of the 8th month of lunar calendar. This Tshechu is witnessed by thousands of people many of which travel from neighboring Dzongkhags (districts) to attend the festivities. The actual Tshechu is preceded by days and nights of prayer and rituals to invoke the gods. \nWhen it was initiated by the 4th Desi\, Gyalse Tenzin Rabgay in 1867 the Tshechu consisted of only a few dances being performed strictly by monks. These were the Zhana chham and the Zhana Nga chham (Dances of the 21 Black Hats)\, Durdag (Dance of the Lords of the Cremation Ground)\, and the Tungam chham (Dance of the Terrifying Deities). \nThe Thimphu Tshechu underwent a change in the 1950s\, when the third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck\, introduced numerous Boed chhams (mask dances performed by lay monks). These additions added colour and variation to the festival without compromising its spiritual significance. Mask dances like the Guru Tshengye (Eight Manifestations of Guru)\, Shaw Shachi (Dance of the Stags) are enjoyed because they are similar to stage-theater. \nEqually important are the Atsaras\, who are more than just mere clowns. The Atsaras are the dupthobs (acharyas)\, who provide protection. The dances and the jesting of the Atsaras are believed to entrance evil forces and prevent them from causing harm during Tshechus. Modern Atsaras also perform short skits to disseminate health and social awareness messages. \nTo farmers\, the Tshechu is also seen as a break from farm life. It’s an occasion to celebrate\, receive blessings and pray for health and happiness.
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/thimphu-tshechu/
LOCATION:Tashichhodzonng\, Thimphu\, Thimphu\, Thimphu\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/people_1920_a.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170929
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20171002
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170202T080432Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170202T085817Z
UID:737-1506643200-1506902399@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Tamshing Phala Chhoepa
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/tamshing-phala-chhoepa/
LOCATION:Tamshing Lhakhang\, Tamshing\, Bumthang\, Bumthang\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/festival-13.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170928
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20171001
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170202T072255Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170202T085817Z
UID:704-1506556800-1506815999@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Wangdue Tshechu
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/wangdue-tshechu/
LOCATION:Tencholing Army Ground\, Wangdue Phodrang\, Wangdue Phodrang\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/festival__zhana_Chham.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170926
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170930
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170131T081622Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170208T045433Z
UID:546-1506384000-1506729599@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Thimphu Dromchoe
DESCRIPTION:Besides the annual three day Tshechu\, Thimphu also celebrates a one day festival known as the Thimphu Dromchoe. The day long festival dates back to the 17th century. It was first introduced by Kuenga Gyeltshen in 1710\, who was recognized as the reincarnation of Jampel Dorji\, son of Zhabdrung Nawang Namgyel. The dromchoe is celebrated 3 days prior to the Thimphu Tshechu. \nThe Dromchoe showcases the sacred dances dedicated to the chief protective deity of Bhutan\, Palden Lhamo. Legend has it\, that the deity Pelden Lhamo appeared before Kuenga Gyeltshen and performed the dances while he was in meditation. Based on these dances\, Kuenga Gyaltshen initiated the Dromchoe.
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/thimphu-dromchoe/
LOCATION:Tashichhodzonng\, Thimphu\, Thimphu\, Thimphu\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/festivaLpgyamtsho1920_a.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170902
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170903
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170202T080846Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170202T085842Z
UID:741-1504310400-1504396799@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Tour of the Dragon (bicycle race)
DESCRIPTION:A one-day bicycle race from Bumthang to Thimphu.
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/tour-of-the-dragon-bicycle-race/
LOCATION:Thimphu
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/bumthang_1_1920.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170823
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170825
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170131T073811Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170202T085843Z
UID:531-1503446400-1503619199@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Matsutake Festival
DESCRIPTION:Celebrate the start of another mushroom season alongside the people of Ura. The season brings with it the opportunity to not only to sample some truly delicious meals but to cultivate a deeper insight into the rhythms of Bhutanese village life. \nLearn to identify and harvest the fabled wild Matsutake mushrooms of Bhutan. Prized by gourmets in Japan\, this fungi is native to the forests of Ura valley in central Bhutan.  Hike the valley’s fragrant trails and give in to the thrill of discovering your own private patch of this most coveted of mushrooms. You can always visit the region’s exquisite temples and monasteries which rank amongst the most prized historical treasures of Bhutan. \nThings to do and see \nThis festival is scheduled during the 4th weekend of August and takes place in beautiful Ura valley. Ura is renowned for being one of the most picturesque valleys in the entire kingdom. Its inhabitants\, the Uraps are a cheerful\, hospitable people. Ura provides one of the most authentic experiences of traditional rural Bhutanese life available.  At the festival\, visitors will be learn to identify these fabled mushrooms as they embark on mushroom picking excursions around the pristine forests and hills. They’ll be able to sample delicious Matsutake recipes\, engage in songs and dances together with the locals\, hike through the stunning Himalayan landscape and even relax in traditional open-air mineral baths. \nYou’ll take a step back in time when you visit mystic Ura valley.
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/matsutake-festival/
LOCATION:Thimphu
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/ura-village-TCB.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170815
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170817
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170202T071934Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170202T085843Z
UID:701-1502755200-1502927999@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Mushroom Festival
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/mushroom-festival/
LOCATION:Genekha\, Thimphu\, Genekha\, Thimphu\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/tashi-chhodzong1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170705
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170706
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170131T072000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170202T085843Z
UID:521-1499212800-1499299199@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Haa Summer Festival
DESCRIPTION:Set among pristine lakes and high alpine valleys\, the Haa summer festival is a lively and uplifting celebration of traditional living-culture\, nomadic lifestyles\, unique Bhutanese cuisine\, traditional sports and religious performances. \nIt provides unparalleled insight into the lives and traditions of Bhutan’s nomadic herders. Immerse yourself in this one of a kind experience by playing the local sports\, sampling the delicious home-cooked cuisine and enjoying traditional songs and dances all while imbibing the heady local liquor (Ara). \nHaa valley is located very close to the international airport at Paro. To get to Haa you must travel two hours by road and cross the Chelela mountain pass\, Bhutan’s highest road pass. \nWith its pristine forests and rugged hills Haa is an excellent location to enjoy some of the best hiking to be found in the Himalayas. Walk along centuries old trails through mountain slopes covered in Primula Pedicularis\, Ranaculus\, Aster and several varieties of ferns. You’ll lose yourself amidst fields of white poppies\, dense forests of fir trees and crystalline streams brimming with rainbow trout. \nAt the Haa Summer festival you will be able to see the rare White Poppy (Meconopsis superba). This flower typically grows to 1-1.5m in height at high altitudes around 4000m. The White Poppy is endemic to Haa and cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/haa-summer-festival/
LOCATION:Haa\, Haa\, Haa Town\, Haa\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/haa-summer-festival.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170703
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170704
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170131T070603Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170202T085843Z
UID:512-1499040000-1499126399@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Bumthang Kurjey Festival
DESCRIPTION:The festival takes place at Kurjey Temple\, located at Kurjey in the Chokhor valley in Bumthang district. It is a 15 minute drive from Chamkhar town to arrive at the temple grounds. \nThe history of the temples at Kurjey is associated with Sindhu Raja and Guru Rinpoche. Sindhu Raja invited Guru Rimpoche from Nepal to Bhutan to subdue some evil spirits that had been plaguing the land. Upon invitation\, Guru Rinpoche visited Bumthang and meditated in a cave that resembled a pile of Dorjis (stylized thunderbolt used for Buddhist rituals). After subduing the evil spirits and demons\, imprints of the Guru’s body remained in the rock face. Thereafter\, the name came to be known as Kurjey meaning – “Imprint of the body”. The Lhakhang is now a blessed site of great historical significance. \nThere are three main temples at Kurjey. The oldest temple was constructed on the site where Guru Rinpoche meditated by Minjur Tenpa the first Trongsa Penlop (Governor of Trongsa) in 1652. \nThe second temple was founded by Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck in 1900 while serving as the 13th Trongsa Penlop.  This temple is the most sacred as it was built in the place where Guru Rinpoche left his body imprint. \nThe third temple was built in the 1990s. It was sponsored by the Queen Mother Ashi Kezang Choden Wangchuck. It houses the images of Guru Rinpoche\, King Thrisong Detsen and Pandit Santarakshita. \nIn front of the temples are Chortens dedicated to the first three kings of Bhutan. \nThe Kurjey festival is an important occasion not only for the local people of Bumthang but for all Bhutanese. The festival brings together tourists and Bhutanese from all over as it presents the perfect occasion to not only receive blessings by witnessing age-old mask dances but also to enjoy this unique culture whilst basking in the natural beauty of Bhutan’s spiritual heartland.
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/bumthang-kurjey-festival/
LOCATION:Kurjey Lhakhang\, Chhoekhor\, Bumthang\, Bumthang\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170701
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170704
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170131T074244Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170202T085843Z
UID:534-1498867200-1499126399@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Nimalung Festival
DESCRIPTION:Nimalung Lhakhang is located in Chumey in Bumthang. It is approximately a 15 minute drive from the road that branches off from the village of Chumey. \nThe Lhakhang was co-founded by Dasho Gonpo Dorji and Doring Trulku Jamyang Kunzang\, the third mind-aspect reincarnation of Terton Jigme Lingpa in 1935. \nThe main relic of the two-storied temple is a magnificent statue of Guru Rimpoche. The monastery is decorated with murals of the Nyingmapa and Drukpa traditions. There are also paintings of Guru Rimpoche and his disciples\, the lineage of Terton Pema Lingpa\, and several Buddhist masters affiliated with the monastery. \nOne of the most important festivals held at the Lhakhang is the Kaling Zhitro Drubchen. It was initiated by Doring Trulku and he was the first person to have started the rite in Bhutan. It is held on the first fifteen days of the first month of the Bhutanese calendar. \nThe local Tshechu is held once a year in the 5th month of the Bhutanese calendar. During the Tshechu an awe-inspiring Thongdrol (gigantic scroll painting) of Guru Rimpoche is put on display for attendees. The Thongdrol is nine meters long and twelve meters wide and in addition to inspiring wonder is said to cleanse the sins of all those who look upon it. The Thongdrol which was donated by Lopen Pemala and was consecrated in June 1994 in the presence of a large crowd of villagers by Lhalung Thuksey Rimpoche\, the reincarnation of mental aspect of Pema Lingpa. During the festival\, a series of colorful and spectacular mask dances are performed.
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/nimalung-festival/
LOCATION:Nimalung Monastery\, Chumey\, Chumey\, Bumthang\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170507
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170511
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170202T071806Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170202T085843Z
UID:698-1494115200-1494460799@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Ura Yakchoe
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/ura-yakchoe/
LOCATION:Ura Lhakhang\, Ura\, Bumthang\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/ura-village-TCB.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170414
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170417
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170202T071420Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170202T085843Z
UID:692-1492128000-1492387199@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Rhododendron Festival
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/rhododendron-festival/
LOCATION:Lamperi\, Dochula\, Thimphu\, Thimphu\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/rhodo_pg2016-1920.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170411
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170427
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170118T194219Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170202T085843Z
UID:425-1491868800-1493251199@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Chorten Kora Festival
DESCRIPTION:The Chorten Kora Festival is one of the most popular festivals in eastern Bhutan. ‘Kora’ means circumambulation. The biggest activity of the festival is circumambulating the Chorten Kora Stupa. It also attracts people from the neighboring Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh. It brings out colorful aspects of Bhutanese culture such as mask dances\, the rich textiles and brocades worn by the locals and the triumphant atmosphere of the festival itself.
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/chorten-kora-festival/
LOCATION:Chorten Kora\, Trashi Yangtse\, Trashi Yangtse\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/chorten-kora_TCB.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170409
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170412
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170202T071246Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170202T085843Z
UID:689-1491696000-1491955199@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Chukha Tshechu
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/chukha-tshechu/
LOCATION:Chukha Dzong\, Chukha\, Tsimasham\, Chukha\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/festival_1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170407
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170412
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170131T075358Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170202T085843Z
UID:538-1491523200-1491955199@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Paro Tshechu
DESCRIPTION:The Paro Tshechu is held every spring and is one of the most colorful and significant events in Paro Dzongkhag (district).The Tsehchu is considered a major attraction and people travel from neighboring districts to participate in the festivity. The Tsechu is observed for five days. The first day is held inside the dzong (fortress) and rest of the four days are held outside the dzong. In this entire five days\, the mask dances performed includes Shinje Yab Yum (Dance of the Lord of Death and his Consort)\, Durdag (Dance of the Lords of the Cremation Grounds)\, Shanag (The Black Hat Dance)\, Dramitse Ngacham ( Dance of the Drum from Dramitse)\, Degye (Dance of the Eight Kinds of Spirits)\, Chhoeshay (Religious Song)\, Shanag Nga Cham (Dance of the Black Hats with drums)\, Gingsum (Dance of the Three Kinds of Ging with sticks)\, Durdag (Dance of the Lords of the Cremation Grounds)\, Driging (Dance of the Three Kinds of Ging with drums)\, Shawa Shachi (Dance of the Stag and the Hounds)\, Tungam (Dance of the Terrifying Deities)\, Guan Drug Pawo (Dance of the Heroes with six kinds of ornaments)\, Pholeg Moleg (Dance of the Noblemen and Ladies)\, Sha Tsam (Dance of the Four Stags)\, Raksha Mangcham (Dance of the Judgement of the Dead)\, Dramitse Nga Cham (Dance of the Drums from Dramitse)\, Pacham (Dance of the Heroes)\, Dance of the Ging and Tsholing and Dance of the Sixteen Fairies. \nOn the last day of the celebration the monks display a gigantic thangkha (embroidered painting)\, the Guru Throngdel\, inside the dzong. Thongdrols are especially impressive examples of Buddhist art and never fail to amaze viewers. They are considered so sacred that simply seeing a Thongdrol is said to cleanse the viewer of sin.
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/paro-tshechu/
LOCATION:Rinpung Dzong\, Paro\, Paro\, Paro\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/paro-tshechu-TCB.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170404
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170408
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170202T071024Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170202T085843Z
UID:685-1491264000-1491609599@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Zhemgang Tshechu
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/zhemgang-tshechu/
LOCATION:Zhemgang Dzong\, Zhemgang\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/festival-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170404
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170407
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170202T070554Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170208T045307Z
UID:677-1491264000-1491523199@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Talo Tsechu
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/talo-tsechu/
LOCATION:Talo Goenpa\, Talo\, Punakha\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/festival_durda-chham.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170404
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170407
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170131T071615Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170208T045318Z
UID:518-1491264000-1491523199@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Gomphu Kora Tshechu
DESCRIPTION:Gomphu Kora lies in the heart of the agrarian belt of eastern Bhutan. It is 23 kilometres from Trashigang Dzong\, the headquarters of Bhutan’s most populous district\, and two kilometers from Duksum\, a quaint hamlet consisting of a few shops. \nGomphu means “Meditation Cave” and Kora means “Circumambulation”. The name is derived from a cave formed out of a rock-face next to a temple that has been built as a tribute to this sacred site. \nThe story of Gomphu Kora goes back to the 8th century AD. Legend has it that an evil spirit named Myongkhapa escaped from Samye in Tibet when Guru Padmasambhava\, the progenitor of the Nyingma strand of Buddhism\, was spreading the Dharma in the Himalayas. Myongkhapa followed the course of the present-day Kholongchhu stream and concealed himself inside a rock where Gomphu Kora stands today. The Guru followed the evil\, mediated for three days inside the rock cave and finally vanquished it. \nSeveral prominent religious personalities have undertaken pilgrimage to Gomphu Kora and the earliest was Gongkhar Gyal\, grandson of Lhasay Tsangma. He built a small shrine at Gomphu Kora around the 10th century A.D. In the 14th century\, Terton Pema Lingpa\, visited Gomphu Kora and enlarged the existing shrine. It was renovated and enlarged in the 15th century by Yongzin Ngagi Wangchuk\, the grandfather of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. He also inscribed murals on the walls of the temple. \nThe biggest attraction of Gomphu Kora is the circumambulation. “Go around Gomphu Kora today for tomorrow may be too late”\, advises a local song that entices devotees to visit Gomphu Kora. The place comes alive\, once every year from 23rd to 25th March (check with your tour operator to confirm these dates)\, when people all over eastern Bhutan descend upon the narrow valley\, dressed in their finery\, to partake in the festivity\, to worship and to reaffirm their connection with the past. \nThe sanctity of the three day religious festival even draws the Dakpa tribe from neighboring Arunachael Pradesh (India). They endure days of travel on foot through rugged environs with entire families in tow. Some say the Dakpas have done this for more than a millennium\, beginning shortly after Guru Padmasambhava sanctified the place in the 8th century A.D. \nThe Guru is attributed to have said that devotees will flock to Gomphu Kora for eons to celebrate the triumph of good over evil. There couldn’t be a more accurate prophesy. \n 
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/gomphu-kora-tshechu/
LOCATION:Thimphu
CATEGORIES:Festivals
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170403
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170407
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170202T070834Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170208T045204Z
UID:681-1491177600-1491523199@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Gasa Tshechu
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/gasa-tshechu/
LOCATION:Gasa Dzong\, Gasa\, Gasa\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/festival1920_c.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170312
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170313
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170118T193016Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170208T045136Z
UID:422-1489276800-1489363199@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Tharpaling Thongdrol
DESCRIPTION:Tharpaling Thongdrol festival is held annually at Tharpaling Monastery in Bumthang. Tharpaling festival is mainly a display of the giant thongdrol (appliqué silk work with Buddhist images)\, preceded by prayers and ceremonies. It is a very popular festival in Bumthang.
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/tharpaling-thongdrol/
LOCATION:Tharpaling Lhakhang\, Chumey\, Chumey\, Bumthang\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/festival_4.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170307
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170310
DTSTAMP:20260613T152726
CREATED:20170118T192007Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170208T044903Z
UID:416-1488844800-1489103999@www.bhutanlumotours.com
SUMMARY:Punakha Tsechu
DESCRIPTION:Punakha is located in the western part of Bhutan is the winter home of the Je Khenpo\, the Chief Abbot of Bhutan. Punakha has been of critical importance since the time of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in 17th century. \nZhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal is known as the unifier of Bhutan as a nation state and he was the one who gave Bhutan and its people the distinct cultural identity that identified Bhutan from the rest of the world. \nDuring 17th century Bhutan was invaded several times by Tibetan forces seeking to seize a very precious relic\, the Ranjung Kharsapani.  Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal led the Bhutanese to victory over the Tibetans and to commemorate the triumph he introduced the Punakha Drubchen. Since then Punakha Drubchen (also known as Puna Drubchen) became the annual festival of Punakha Dzongkhag. \nThe Punakha Drubchen is a unique festival because it hosts a dramatic recreation of the scene from the 17th century battle with Tibetan army. The ‘pazaps’ or local militia men\, dress in traditional battle gear and reenact the ancient battle scene. This reenactment harkens back to the time when in the absence of a standing army\, men from the eight Tshogchens or great village blocks of Thimphu came forward and managed to expel the invading forces from the country. Their victory ushered in a period of new-found internal peace and stability. \nIn 2005 another festival known as Punakha Tshechu was introduced by the 70th Je Khenpo Trulku Jigme Choedra and the then Home Minister His Excellency Lyonpo Jigme Yoedzer Thinley. The Tshechu was introduced in response to the requests made by Punakha District Administration and local peopleto host a Tshechu in order to better preserve Buddhist teachings and keep alive the noble deeds of Zhabdrung Rimpoche. \nThese two festivals not only play an important role in preserving Bhutan’s rich culture and traditions but also provide devout Buddhists with an opportunity for prayer and pilgrimage. They reflect the richness of the Bhutanese cultural heritage and are very special in the eyes and hearts of both Bhutanese and tourists who visit Bhutan. \n 
URL:https://www.bhutanlumotours.com/event/punakha-tsechu/
LOCATION:Punakha Dzong\, Punakha\, Punakha\, Punakha\, 975\, Bhutan
CATEGORIES:Festivals
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END:VCALENDAR