+1 612 869 4949Druk Wangyel Festival
Dochula Pass · Western Bhutan
Druk Wangyel Festival was established in 2011 to honor His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, and to commemorate the Royal Bhutan Army’s victory over Indian insurgent groups in southern Bhutan in 2003.
- Where
- Dochula Pass
- Usually held
- December
- Region
- Western Bhutan
About the festival
The festival is held annually on December 13 at Dochula Pass, located about 25 km (approximately a 40-minute drive) from Thimphu. This distinctive celebration is performed by members of the Royal Bhutan Army, paying tribute to the Fourth King’s visionary leadership and highlighting the army’s continued role in safeguarding Bhutan’s sovereignty, peace, and stability.
Her Majesty the Queen Mother Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, founder and patron of the Druk Wangyel Festival, played a pivotal role in the construction of Druk Wangyel Lhakhang and the iconic 108 Khangzang Chortens at Dochula Pass.
Situated at an altitude of 3,100 meters, Dochula Pass offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range, making it one of Bhutan’s most scenic and symbolic locations. The festival features a series of unique mask dances and military-themed performances, found nowhere else in Bhutan, blending spiritual devotion, national pride, and cultural expression.
All dates
| Year | Dates | Days | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 13 Dec – end date being confirmed | – | Held |
| 2025 | 13 Dec – end date being confirmed | – | Held |
| 2026 | 13 Dec – end date being confirmed | – | Being confirmed |
| 2027 | 13 Dec – end date being confirmed | – | Being confirmed |
| 2028 | 13 Dec – end date being confirmed | – | Being confirmed |
Dates follow the lunar calendar and are set by the monastery or local community, usually a year ahead. We re-check them with our local office each season.