Paro Tsechu — annual mask dance festival

Paro Tsechu is one of Bhutan's largest and most spectacular festivals, held annually in the Paro dzong courtyard over 5 days in March or April. It honours Guru Rinpoche with a sequence of masked cham dances performed by monks. The festival climaxes on the final morning with the dawn unveiling of the Thongdrel — a 35-metre-tall silk thangka that is said to bless all who see it. Book your 5-night Bhutan trip to coincide. Expect crowds of both locals and tourists. Dress code: modest, preferably Bhutanese national dress (tour operators can arrange rental).