Thimphu Drubchen

Today was the "Thimphu Drubchen" at the Dzong (monastery/temple) courtyard. We arrived around 9:30 and waited with all the locals and a few tourists for the blessings of the Palden Lhamo dance. This was the 300th year of uninterrupted Drubchens. Many Lamas, including the Je Khenpo, monks and lay persons watched the negativities be invited and subdued for the upcoming year. The sun was out and quite warm during the ceremony. This dance is the official ceremony. The Thimphu Tsechu is more of the entertainment version where photography and video is allowed. Emma, Henry and I attended in our full Bhutanese attire- a requirement for entry. We will go to watch the Thimphu Tsechu later this week at the Dzong amphitheatre. Even though we were told, "no photographs," several people were taking pictures on phones-so I did get a few. I'll post once I find my iPhone USB cord (must be with Emma or Henry).