Bridhim (also written “Briddim“) is situated in the Langtang National park. The inhabitants of Bridhim belong to the Tamang ethnic group. Legend has it that the village acquired its name due to the mysterious vanishing of a yak. Local folklore narrates that in ancient times, during a royal wedding ceremony in Tibet, the king commanded the slaughter of a yak and a bull to lavish the guests. Upon hearing the king’s order, the yak (mother of the bull) and the bull made a hasty escape from the palace. While the bull successfully reached Langsisha, the yak mysteriously disappeared at the location now known as Briddim. The name “Bridhim” is derived from “Brithim,” a combination of two words: ‘Bri,’ signifying “yak (mother of the bull)”, and ‘thim,’ indicating disappearance. This tale underscores the historical connections of the village with Tibet and its rich Tibetan cultural influences.
Culture, traditions and lifestyle of people of Bridhim being closely resembled by those of Tibetan villages. They are mainly yak (higher up in the Langtang valley), cow and goat herders, also growing some hardy grains and vegetables. Wheat, maize, potato, soybean, and millet are their staple food. The daily life of the local communities includes raising livestock, agriculture, and offering hospitality services to visitors passing by.
Like for all the Tamang village, Buddhism is the main religion in Bridhim. You can find a buddhist monastery at the top of the village (and an other little secret old one…). Moreover, many Buddhist traditions and celebrations take place in the village. Colourful performances can also be enjoyed during major festivals like Lhosar (February), Baisakh Purnima (April-May), Chhiju (December) or the Dawa Dangpo Tsechu festival (February-March)
Dawa Dangpo Tsechu Festival, a living tamang/tibetan culture museum in Bridhim
In our village Bridhim, you can assist to the Tsechu Festival, one of most attractive Buddhist festival celebrated by Tamangs. This gorgeous festival generally falls in end of February or beginning of March every year. The festival is celebrated after the 10 days of Gyalbo Lhosar at Briddim. This is considered as one of the living museum that reflects mix of Tamang and Tibetan culture, tradition and lifestyle. The festival lasts 4 days and the whole village takes part, dressed in traditional clothing. It features a number of traditionnal dance performances, prayers, songs and other spirituals, artistics and funny activities. If you’re come in our Pema Guesthouse during the festival, we’ll be delighted to guide you there. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you want to know when exactly the festival take place.
Some pictures of the Tsechu Festival in 2024 :
Bridhim, in the heart of the Himalayan nature
Bridhim is a peaceful village surrounded by a rich natural environment in the heart of the Himalayas. During your stay, you can explore the many trails that start from Bridhim and wind through the surrounding mountains. In spring, you can enjoy the luxuriant flora and the beautiful spectacle of the rhododendrons in flower. You can also take the opportunity to cool off by the waterfall.
During your walks, you may also have the chance to meet some of the local wildlife, such as the Nepal gray langur, a monkey that sometimes comes down from the mountains to frequent the outskirts of the village.
