Thangbi Mewang

Where it happens

Thangbi Lhakhang is a village temple, not a dzong (fortress). It stands in the Choekhor valley, which is usually described as the central one of Bumthang’s four valleys (Choekhor, Chumey, Tang and Ura).

History

Thangbi Lhakhang dates to the 14th century. The temple and its festival are often described as part of the religious landscape of Bumthang that Pema Lingpa (1450–1521) shaped.

Rituals

The festival is often described as defined by a fire rite rather than by the mask dances of a tshechu (a festival honouring Guru Rinpoche). Masked cham (sacred dances) are usually described as accompanying that rite.

Being there

Thangbi is remote. The temple sits off the motor road, and you reach it from Jakar by a gentle hike across a suspension bridge.