Bhutan ready to make a splash as Bathing Carnival Bhutan (BCB) returns for its second edition at Telung, PemaGatshel
The Department of Tourism, Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment, Bhutan, in collaboration with the PemaGatshel Dzongkhag Administration, is pleased to share that the second edition of Bathing Carnival Bhutan (BCB) will be held from 6-8 November 2026 at Telung, Nganglam, PemaGatshel. This year, the Bathing Carnival Bhutan will be held on these dates taking into consideration the 108 Project in Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) and recognising the significance of this important Royal initiative. From 2027 onwards, the Bathing Carnival Bhutan will be held annually from 1–3 November at Telung, Pemagatshel. This three-day festival in the eastern district aims to offer a fresh and engaging experience for visitors seeking a unique water-based, cultural, and adventure-filled getaway.
The Bathing Carnival Bhutan (BCB), themed “Celebrating the Joy of Water,” is inspired by the cherished Bhutanese tradition of Thruebab, or Blessed Rainy Day, and the ancient practice of bathing in naturally occurring, blessed water. Water, representing life, memory, renewal, and joy, holds a special place in Bhutanese culture, where bathing in blessed waters has traditionally been associated with purification, renewal, well-being, and shared celebration. The first edition of the Bathing Carnival was celebrated alongside Thruebab, drawing inspiration directly from this deeply rooted cultural tradition.
Building on the spirit and significance of Thruebab, this year’s Bathing Carnival will be celebrated following the occasion, allowing participants and visitors to carry forward the experience of being blessed by the sacred waters and the cultural essence of this special time of year. The event reimagines this cherished tradition through a vibrant blend of community, culture, sports, water-based activities, and entertainment, set against the beautiful landscapes of Telung.
The Bathing Carnival is a vibrant three-day celebration that brings together community, sports, entertainment, and local culture against the breathtaking landscapes of Telung. Designed as a contemporary festival for people of all ages, the event offers a unique blend of fun, outdoor experiences, and cultural discovery, while showcasing the natural beauty and warm community spirit of the region. With a dynamic programme of activities, the Carnival creates an exciting new reason to visit PemaGatshel, inviting visitors and locals alike to come together, enjoy the outdoors, experience local traditions, and create unforgettable memories. By combining recreation, entertainment, and cultural experiences, the Bathing Carnival presents a fresh and engaging way to discover this lesser-explored part of Bhutan.
The program is packed with a diverse range of water-based and other activities designed to appeal to all interests. Highlights include a tug of water war, mass bathing, water fighting, bucket relay race with water, laser light show, fly fishing masher hunt and bamboo mat dining. Guests can also participate in a game of skills including balloon shooting, ring throwing, water balloon throwball competition and many more exciting activities.
Beyond the aquatic and recreational events, the carnival provides a rich cultural immersion. Visitors can explore local markets and see demonstrations of traditional crafts, including Tsatshi Buram (local sugar candy) and Dung and Jaling (traditional musical instruments). The festival also features a Valley Fruit Feast and a final group dance that captures the spirit of the celebration.
PemaGatshel is more than just a destination in eastern Bhutan, it is a place waiting to be discovered, explored, and experienced in its own unique way. With its beautiful landscapes, vibrant communities, rich cultural heritage, and authentic way of life, PemaGatshel offers travellers an opportunity to experience a side of Bhutan that feels fresh, intimate, and full of surprises. From connecting with local communities to enjoying the outdoors and discovering hidden corners of the region, every journey through PemaGatshel brings a sense of adventure and discovery. The Bathing Carnival adds an exciting new dimension to this experience, inviting visitors to see, experience, and enjoy PemaGatshel in a lively and unforgettable way.
