There’s a certain magic that fills the air during Bhutan’s vibrant festivals—tsechus. You can hear the distant drumbeats, see monks swirling in colorful masks, and smell the faint hint of incense rising through the cool mountain air. These festivals aren’t just performances; they’re sacred celebrations of our history, faith, and identity.
And as a traveler, what you wear to these festivals matters—not because of rules, but because it’s a beautiful way of showing respect to the local culture that welcomes you in.
Bhutanese attire is deeply woven into our cultural fabric (quite literally!). For men, the Gho is a knee-length robe tied at the waist with a woven belt called a kera. It’s paired with long socks and leather shoes. For women, the Kira is a stunning ankle-length dress made from handwoven fabric, paired with a toego (jacket) and an wonju (blouse) underneath.
Each piece, from the patterns to the colors, tells a quiet story—of the region it was woven in, of family lineage, and sometimes even of one’s mood or occasion. During festivals, you’ll notice locals dressed in their finest, often adorned with kabneys (scarves) for men and rachus for women—symbols of status and respect.
You don’t need to wear a full Gho or Kira (though you can try one—it’s a wonderful experience!). What’s important is to dress modestly and neatly. Here are some simple guidelines:
For Women: Long skirts or trousers and sleeved tops. Avoid short skirts, spaghetti straps, or revealing clothing. A light shawl or scarf is always a good idea—it’s handy when entering temples or chilly valleys.
For Men: Long pants with collared shirts. A lightweight jacket or traditional-style outerwear looks great and fits in well.
Shoes: Comfortable flats or sneakers are fine, but remove them before entering temples or sacred sites.
Remember, Bhutanese festivals are religious events first and foremost, even if they feel festive and full of life.
Bhutan’s weather can be a little playful—it changes quickly from sunshine to sudden winds, especially in the mountains. So when packing for a festival trip, think layers.
Bring a warm jacket for mornings and evenings.
Carry a rain jacket or poncho during summer months (June–August).
A scarf will serve you well—for warmth, modesty, or even as a makeshift head covering when visiting monasteries.
And don’t forget a pair of sunglasses and hat for those high-altitude sunny days!
If you want to truly immerse yourself, many travelers love renting or buying a Gho or Kira for festival days. Locals appreciate the gesture—it’s seen as respect, not imitation. Just remember to wear it properly; if you’re unsure, any Bhutanese will happily help you tie and fold it right. (We take our pleats seriously!)
And who knows? You might just find yourself blending into the crowd, dancing along with locals, prayer flags fluttering above—feeling less like a visitor and more like part of the celebration.
Dressing respectfully in Bhutan isn’t about formality—it’s about harmony. When you choose to dress with care, you’re quietly saying, “I honor your traditions.” And in a place like Bhutan, that gesture goes a long way.
