Himalayan Trekking Adventures

08 Days

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A Celebration of Bhutan’s Valor

The Druk Wangyal Festival Tour offers a unique blend of Bhutan’s cultural heritage, spiritual traditions, and historic pride. Celebrated annually on 13th December at Dochula Pass, this festival honours Bhutan’s military victory under His Majesty the Fourth King and pays tribute to national resilience. Visitors will witness vibrant masked dances and traditional rituals performed against the breathtaking backdrop of the Himalayas. Alongside the festival, the journey includes exploring Bhutan’s iconic landmarks like Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang, and the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

This tour is perfect for those seeking to immerse themselves in Bhutanese history, spiritual traditions, and festive celebrations while enjoying the natural beauty of valleys, monasteries, and Himalayan peaks.

Tour Highlights
  • Witness the Druk Wangyal Festival at Dochula Pass, with masked dances and traditional performances.
  • Attend Bhutan’s National Day celebrations in Thimphu with locals.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas from Dochula Pass.
  • Explore Bhutan’s iconic sites: Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang, and Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten.
  • Experience a hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang) in Paro.
  • Visit Thimphu’s cultural landmarks: Buddha Dordenma, National Memorial Chorten, Tashichhodzong, and more.
  • Discover Bhutan’s spiritual and historic Dzongs like Semtokha Dzong.

Itinerary

Arrive at Paro with stunning aerial views of the Himalayas, including Jumolhari and Jichu Drake peaks. After arrival, visit Paro Dzong, cross the traditional cantilever bridge, and explore the National Museum (Ta Dzong). Later, continue your journey to Thimphu, Bhutan’s charming capital. Overnight in Thimphu.

We will have time to explore the capital today and visit one of the largest Buddha bronze statues in the world. Plan on visiting the following local sites; The Memorial Chorten, Painting School, National Library, Paper Factory and the zoo to see the National animal (Takin). Overnight in Thimphu.

After breakfast, drive to Dochula Pass (3,100m), where you’ll witness the vibrant Druk Wangyal Festival. Against the backdrop of the Himalayas, monks and laymen perform colorful masked dances and cultural rituals that pay tribute to Bhutan’s history. Later, descend into the subtropical valley of Punakha and settle in for the night.

After breakfast drive and hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten. After Lunch visit the majestic Punakha Dzong (Palace of Great Happiness), dramatically set between two rivers and suspension bridge. Later, hike to Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility). Overnight in Punakha.

Visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhendup Nunnery before driving back to Paro. En route at Semtokha Dzong, Bhutan’s oldest fortress. Arrive in Paro by evening and check into your hotel.

After breakfast, you will hike to the magnificent Taktshang Monastery at 3100m. after exploring the monastery, you enjoy a lunch at the Taktshang cafeteria. After lunch you will walk further down to the valley where your transport will be waiting to transfer you back to the town. Explore the Paro town. Overnight in Paro.

Today you’ll join Bhutanese locals in Thimphu to celebrate the nation’s most important holiday – National Day. Held annually at Changlimithang Stadium, the celebrations include cultural performances, traditional music, dances, and speeches. It’s a wonderful chance to witness Bhutan’s unity and vibrant national spirit. In the evening, drive back to Paro for a farewell dinner with traditional performances. Overnight in Paro.

Drive back to Paro International Airport. Farewell and departure with unforgettable memories. Have a pleasant flight back home.

Tour Inclusive and Exclusives

Inclusive

  • Sustainable Development Fee & visa fee
  • Transport by private vehicle
  • Government approved 3-star hotels
  • English speaking guide
  • Bottled water in vehicle
  • Permits, entrance fees, & sightseeing
  • Sleeping tents, sleeping mats & pillows
  • Dinning tents, kitchen tent & toilet tent
  • Tables, chairs, utensils, hot water bags
  • Trekking chef & assistants
  • Horses to carry trek equipments
  • Food supplies

Exclusive

  • International airfare to/from Bhutan.
  • Travel insurance (mandatory)
  • Personal trekking gear (sleeping bags, trekking boots, down jackets, etc.).
  • Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, or personal snacks.
  • Tips for guides, cooks, and trekking staff (at your discretion).
  • Extra nights in hotels due to late arrival/early departure or unforeseen circumstances.
  • Any expenses arising from unexpected events such as flight delays, weather conditions, or medical emergencies.

Himalayan Trekking Adventures

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