Himalayan Trekking Adventures

13 Days

Home / Festivals In Bhutan / Gomkora Festival
Eastern Bhutan’s Spiritual Gathering

The Gomkora Festival is one of Eastern Bhutan’s most unique and spiritually charged gatherings, attracting not only Bhutanese pilgrims but also devotees from neighboring Arunachal Pradesh in India. This vibrant festival honors the great Buddhist saint Guru Rinpoche, who meditated here and subdued a demon, leaving his body imprint on a sacred rock. During the celebrations, locals dressed in their finest attire gather to witness masked dances, spiritual rituals, and circumambulations around the revered site.

This 13-day journey blends the festive atmosphere of Gomkora with exploration of Bhutan’s most iconic cultural landmarks and spiritual valleys. From the majestic Dochula Pass to the serene valleys of Bumthang and the remote east, this trip offers the perfect combination of festival immersion, cultural discovery, and natural beauty.

Tour Highlights
  • Celebrate the Gomkora Festival alongside pilgrims in Eastern Bhutan.
  • Witness vibrant masked dances and receive blessings at this sacred site.
  • Hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang) in Paro.
  • Visit historic fortresses including Punakha Dzong, Trongsa Dzong, and Trashigang Dzong.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas from Dochula Pass.
  • Explore authentic Bhutanese villages and interact with local communities.
  • Visit centuries-old monasteries including Kurjey Lhakhang, Jambay Lhakhang, and Tamshing Lhakhang.
  • Discover the spiritual and cultural richness of both Western and Eastern Bhutan.

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.

Drive over Dochula Pass (3,100m), where on clear days the Himalayan panorama is spectacular. Descend into the warm Punakha valley. Visit Punakha Dzong (Palace of Great Happiness), Suspension bridge and take a scenic walk to Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple dedicated to the Divine Madman. Overnight in Punakha.

Travel through forests and mountain passes to Gangtey. Visit the historic Gangtey Gompa, the only Nyingmapa monastery in western Bhutan. From here, enjoy panoramic views of Phobjikha Valley, a glacial valley and the winter home of the endangered black-necked cranes. Overnight in Gangtey.

After breakfast, head east to Trongsa, visiting Trongsa Dzong, the ancestral seat of Bhutan’s royal family. Continue via Yutong La Pass to Bumthang, the cultural heart of Bhutan. Along the way, stop at Chumey Valley to see traditional wool weaving. Overnight in Bumthang.

Begin your day exploring Bumthang, often referred to as the spiritual heartland of Bhutan. Visit Kurjey Lhakhang, where Guru Rinpoche meditated, leaving his body imprint on a rock. Continue to Jambay Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples built in the 7th century, linked to the Tibetan King Songtsen Gempo. Explore Jakar Dzong, known as the “Castle of the White Bird,” which dominates the Chamkhar Valley with stunning views. End the day at Tamshing Lhakhang, founded by the revered saint Pema Lingpa, home to rare religious paintings and ancient relics. In the evening, stroll through Jakar village, interact with locals, and experience the charm of rural Bhutan. Overnight in Bumthang.

After breakfast, begin your long but scenic drive eastward to Mongar. The journey takes you through high mountain passes, deep valleys, and traditional villages, offering plenty of opportunities to admire Bhutan’s diverse landscapes. Today we are crossing Thrumshingla Pass one of the highest motorable pass in central and eastern part of Bhutan. You may stop along the way for photos or short walks to stretch. Overnight in Mongar.

After breakfast, continue your journey eastward to Trashigang, often called the “Jewel of the East.” The drive passes through scenic landscapes, terraced fields, and traditional villages, showcasing eastern Bhutan’s rural charm. On arrival, visit Trashigang Dzong, strategically built on a cliff overlooking the Gamri River, serving both as an administrative and monastic center. Later, explore the local market where villagers from surrounding areas gather to trade their produce and handicrafts. The relaxed atmosphere offers a glimpse into authentic eastern Bhutanese life. Overnight in Trashigang.

Today is a highlight of your trip as you attend the Gomkora Festival, one of Eastern Bhutan’s most vibrant spiritual gatherings. Witness locals dressed in their finest attire, monks performing sacred masked dances, and unique rituals that commemorate Guru Rinpoche’s meditation at this holy site. Overnight in Trashigang.

After breakfast, begin the return journey westward to Bumthang. The long drive retraces mountain roads and scenic valleys, offering you another chance to enjoy the unspoiled natural beauty of Bhutan’s landscapes. En route, you may stop for rest, meals, and photos of rural life along the way. Arrive in Bumthang by evening. Overnight in Bumthang.

Depart early for a full day’s drive back to the capital, Thimphu. As you descend from the higher valleys, you’ll notice the changing climate and vegetation, from alpine forests to warmer river valleys. Arrive in Thimphu in the evening with some free time to explore the city’s handicraft shops, cafés, or simply relax at your hotel. Overnight in Thimphu.

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.

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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