Talo Tsechu Festival

Talo Tsechu is held in the grounds of Talo Dzong or Monastery. The village of Talo, and its Dzong (fortress/monastery), is located high on the hill above Punakha valley at an altitude of 2800m. The village is scattered along the hill slopes. Talo Dzong, also known as Talo Sangnacholing, is built on a plateau with a majestic view of the surrounding villages. The 7th Zhabdrung, Jigme Dorji, retired to Talo Monastery and passed away here in 1931.

The three-day Talo Tsechu is well known for its mask dances and atsara (clown) dances. An equally popular attraction, which holds deep religious and historical significance, is the Zhungdra (classical dance) performed by the Talo dance troupe. The three songs of Mani Sum, which comprise the Zhundra set, are performed as the closing item on each day of the three days of the Tshechu. The three songs – Samyi Sala (performed on the first day), Drukpa Dungey (second day), and Thowachi Gangi Tselay (final day) – are the pride of the Talo community.

Talo Village, situated at a height of 2,800m, extends along the hill slopes and is renowned for its cleanliness and hygiene among Punakha villages. Talo Dzong- aslo called Sangnacholing is constructed on a plateau and offers magnificent views of adjoining villages. The stunning farmhouses of the village have their own flower gardens, and on the hill slope, corn and sweet peas are grown in abundance.