Tshechus are lively festivals that pay tribute to Guru Rinpoche, who brought Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th century. Lasting up to four days, these events showcase captivating masked dances and double as important social and family gatherings. People dress in their finest traditional clothes, embellished with vibrant silk and stunning coral and turquoise jewelry, and bring picnic lunches to celebrate at grand dzongs and monasteries. At the same time, monks spend weeks in prayer and meditation to prepare for the sacred mask dances, which are believed to lead spectators toward enlightenment.