EL PASO, TEXAS (KFOX14/CBS4) — A weeklong celebration at the University of Texas at El Paso will highlight the school’s long-standing relationship with Bhutan through tours, exhibits, and a cultural festival open to students, employees, and the community.

Bhutan Days will run Monday, April 13, through Friday, April 17, across the UTEP campus. The annual event was first held in 2005 to celebrate UTEP’s special relationship with Bhutan, which began with architecture in 1917 and has since expanded to include Bhutanese students studying at UTEP, research and study-away opportunities in Bhutan, and an international opera performance as part of the Centennial Celebration.

Among the scheduled activities are daily Lhakhang Tours from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 13-17, featuring murals, figures, and traditional artwork reflecting Bhutanese craftsmanship and storytelling.

A Gallery Exhibition will also be open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the Union Gallery. The exhibit includes a visual tribute to His Majesty the 4th King and highlights Bhutan’s native rhododendrons.

Additionally, a Bhutanese Festival, hosted by UTEP’s Bhutanese students, took place on Wednesday at the Union Breezeway and included music, hands-on activities, dancing, and art.

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