A multi-day festival, Gasa Tshechu is an important cultural festival celebrated by the Bhutanese. Having a spiritual significance, the Gasa Tshechu is held every year in a small district Gasa in Bhutan. During this festival, the mask dances and folk dances are performed by the monks and laymen which has a deep meaning. Being the largest festival in northwest Bhutan, Gasa Tshechu lights up the entire community with a variety of indigenous dance performances that are unique and cannot be witnessed in any other part of the world. The festival usually takes place in the main monastery i.e., the Gasa Dzong and people from in and around the region gather together for the celebration of this popular festival.

It is a strong belief of the Bhutanese people that every human should watch mask dance of as it washes away their sins. The prime reason behind the celebration of the festival is to bring the entire community together where they can socialize and receive blessings. It is during the Gasa Tshechu when Bhutanese mythology comes to life. For instance, during the dance performance, the Guru shows several wrathful forms in front of the audience. This is done to depict a story of a sinner who’s good deeds are outweighed by his bad ones. Meanwhile, a black demon escorts him into hell. The mask in the dance depicts a terrifying bull face who symbolises ruler and protector of the Three Worlds. Also, the dance of the Rakshas shows he has died and his sins and merits are to be judged.

The colourful costumes of the performers are decorated with ornaments and motifs along with wooden masks. This costume of Gasa Tshechu represents fierce gods and animals. As the dance unfurls, the costumes worn by the monks become a swirl of bright colours which entices the audience to immerse in the celebration.

Once done with witnessing the Gasa Tshechu, tourists can indulge in exploring the scenic beauty all around the destination the comprises pristine forests. The region is an environmentally protected area of the country with the Jigme Dorji National Park being the jewel if the region. Besides this, there are other places to see in the region like Gasa Dzong, also known as Tashi Thongmon Dzong and Gasa Hot Springs, where there a number of cosy guesthouses.