"A Tsechu is a Buddhist festival in honour of Guru Rimpoche, the saint who brought Buddhism to Bhutan." ~ Bhutan Travel Bureau

Paro Tsechu...

held since 1644... 

in the Paro Dzong...

is one of the most popular...

festivals...

in Bhutan.

Trained monks and lay people...

perform dances...

 in elaborate...

 masks...

and costumes.

 Ritual dances are performed...

in a fixed sequence...

 depicting the manifestations...

 of Guru Rinpoche...

 as he introduced Buddhism...

to the region.

Each Tshechu has its two jesters...

or Atsaras, who entertain the crowd... 

with their antics.

Merit is earned with attendance...

and smiling crowds are large.  

Our seats were filled quickly
 as we left the sights and sounds of the festival...

to enjoy a quiet lunch overlooking the valley of Paro...

at Gangtey Palace...

as the festival continued...

throughout the day.

Outside the festival walls...

a small market offered its own entertainment

 and local crafts were obtained.

 We finally had the chance for an up close look...

at Bhutans favorite sport of archery.

Our driver and guide...

pointed out the ubiquitous men...

 practicing their 'draw back' 

as we ventured throughout the country.

The men at each end cheer on a good shot from their teammates
and the games go on all day.
The camaraderie is real!

Another great example of the happiest place on earth.
(Although, full disclosure, alcohol and archery do not mix well😉)