Punakha Dromchoe
The festival at Punakha Dzong that re-enacts the 17th-century victory over Tibetan invaders, with warriors in period dress.
Overview
The Punakha Dromchoe, also called the Punakha Drubchen, is held at Punakha Dzong in late winter or early spring. It is unlike any other festival in Bhutan: alongside the religious rituals, it re-enacts a battle.
In the 17th century, Tibetan forces invaded Bhutan several times, trying to capture Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and a sacred relic he had brought from Tibet. The festival commemorates their defeat. Men dressed as pazaps, the local militia of the time, perform a martial dance and procession, and the monastic body carries out a ceremony at the river below the dzong.
Festival dates
| Dates | Status | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 24 to 26 Feb 2026 | Tentative | |
| 13 to 15 Feb 2027 | Tentative |
Festival dates follow the Bhutanese lunar calendar and change every year. Dates shown are tentative, from the Association of Bhutanese Tour Operators festival lists (2026 list updated 23 January 2025; 2027 list updated 14 February 2025). We confirm dates with the organisers before you book. Last checked 27 September 2026.
History and meaning
The festival celebrates the unification and defence of Bhutan under the Zhabdrung, and the sacred relic at the heart of the story. It is followed by the Punakha Tshechu.
How to attend
Dress smartly and modestly: long sleeves and long trousers or skirts. Arrive early to find a place around the courtyard, and bring a hat, sunscreen and water. Never walk across the dance ground during the performances, keep a respectful distance from the dancers, and do not use flash. Your guide will explain the meaning of each dance as it happens.
Travel and accommodation
Hotels near the big festivals fill months in advance. If you want to attend, tell us your dates as early as possible so we can secure rooms and plan the rest of your route around the festival days.
Where it takes place