Dramese Lhakhang

Drametse Lhakhang, one of the most significant religious sites in eastern Bhutan, was established in the 16th century by Ani Cheten Zangmo, the granddaughter of the revered treasure revealer, Terton Pema Lingpa. The monastery was built to propagate Nyingmapa teachings and has since become one of the most prominent spiritual centers in the region. It attracts devotees from Dramedtse and surrounding districts, particularly during its annual festival.

The Drametse Ngacham or “Dance of the Drums of Drametse” originated in this monastery during the 16th century. This celebrated dance, now performed at all major festivals in Bhutan, holds profound cultural and spiritual significance. Legend attributes its creation to a saint who envisioned Guru Rinpoche’s celestial paradise, Zangtopelri. The dance features twelve male performers clad in yellow skirts and animal masks, representing Guru Rinpoche’s divine entourage. Their drumbeats and movements symbolize the victory of religion, offering liberation to those who witness it.

This iconic performance, designated a “Masterpiece of the Intangible Heritage of Humanity” by UNESCO in 2005, comprises two parts: a serene, meditative sequence embodying peaceful deities and a vigorous, athletic sequence symbolizing wrathful deities. A total of 16 masked dancers and 10 musicians participate, beginning with a prayer dance in the shrine before transitioning to the monastery courtyard.

Reaching Drametse Lhakhang requires a 1.5-hour drive from the Mongar-Trashigang highway. Despite the narrow, pebble-strewn road, the journey offers breathtaking views of valleys and distant mountains, including Udzorong village in Trashigang Dzongkhag.

The Drametse Ngacham, performed for nearly five centuries, remains an integral part of Bhutanese Tshechu festivals. Its spiritual, artistic, and cultural value continues to be celebrated worldwide, embodying the essence of Bhutanese identity.