Naked dancing, fire dancing, mask dancing – Jambay Lhakhang Drup has it all
A must-see religious and cultural festival in the town of Bumthang, this 4-day festival is an exhibition of the rich culture and heritage of Bhutan.
The festival is celebrated for two reasons – one being the celebration of the deeds of Guru Rinpoche and other being the celebration of the commemoration of the establishment of Jambay Lhakhang temple in the 7th century. It is marked by various dance rituals like the naked dance and dancing under the fire being the most famous. Like many other religious festivals across Bhutan, Jambay Lhakhang Drup is also celebrated as a way to thank deities for bestowing the land with prosperity and happiness.
The fire ceremony, Mewang, is considered the highlight. During the fire ceremony, locals sprint underneath a large flaming gate made from dry grasses. The other notable event is the Tercham (Dance of Treasure), where masked dancers perform naked in the middle of the night (pictures are not allowed). They believe this dance will bless infertile women so that they may bear children.
Duration: 4 days
When: Since this one of major Bhutan festivals, is celebrated according to the Lunar Calendar, it can fall anytime during October – November.
