Season: February

Location: Trongsa Dzong, Trongsa

The Pelden Lhamoi Drupchen is a festival dedicated to the dominant female protective deity of Bhutan, Pelden Lhamo (Mahakali). The festival was first introduced in 1710 at Thimphu Dzong by Kuenga Gyeltshen who is recognized as the reincarnation of Jampel Dorji, son of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. According to legend, Pelden Lhamo appeared in Kuenga Gyeltshen’s dream and showed him some tantric teachings through dances. In 1988, the festival was introduced in Trongsa Dzong by His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck and the 68th Je Khenpo (chief abbot) His Holiness Tenzin Dendup. Different dances are performed during the festival, including a Nangcham (secret performance) that is performed exclusively in the shrine with dancers circumabulating the mandala. Other dances also showcased for the public to witness.