09 Days
- 09 Days | 08 Nights
- Two or more
The Punakha Tshechu is one of Bhutan’s most captivating festivals, celebrated annually at the majestic Punakha Dzong. This colorful Buddhist festival follows the historic Punakha Drubchen and honours Guru Rinpoche, Bhutan’s patron saint. With vibrant masked dances, spiritual music, and elaborate costumes, the festival brings centuries-old traditions alive. A highlight of the celebration is the unfurling of the sacred Thongdrol (giant tapestry), believed to cleanse sins and grant blessings to all who witness it.
Alongside the festival, this 9-day journey takes you across the cultural heartlands of Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and Phobjikha Valley, offering a blend of spiritual, cultural, and natural experiences.
- Experience the grandeur of the Punakha Tshechu at the “Palace of Great Happiness.”
- Witness the dramatic unfurling of the sacred Thongdrol (giant tapestry).
- Enjoy panoramic Himalayan views from Dochula Pass (3,100m).
- Hike to the world-renowned Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro.
- Visit Gangtey Monastery and the Phobjikha Valley, winter home of black-necked cranes.
- Explore Bhutan’s vibrant towns—Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha—with their rich history and living culture.
- Immerse in Bhutanese daily life with visits to villages, local markets, and traditional sites
Itinerary
On a clear day, the flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular of all mountain flights. Upon arrival, you will be greeting you by our representative. In Paro, visit the 17th century Ta Dzong (watch tower). Next head to the Paro dzong (Rinpung Dzong) meaning “fortress of the heap of the Jewels”. Overnight in Paro.
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 and hotel. Overnight in Paro.
Drive across Dochula Pass, if weather permit you will enjoy panoramic himalayan mountain views. Continue to Punakha and visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhendup Nunnery. Overnight in Punakha.
Morning at Punakha Dzong to witness Punakha Tshechu (festival). The festival’s masked dances are performed by monks clad in colorful brocade attire and permeated by chants and reading of Buddhist scripts. After lunch takes a short walk to Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of the Drukpa Kuenley who is also known as the Divine Madman.
Drive to Phobjikha Valley (3 hrs) via the bustling market town of Wangdue Phodrang. Drive up a winding mountain road through oak and rhododendron forests, and over a high pass down into the picturesque Phobjikha Valley. Phobjikha is one of Bhutan’s few glacial valleys and chosen winter home of black-necked cranes (November – March) migrating from the Tibetan plateau. After lunch visit Gangtey Gompa (Monastery), Later enjoy a Gangtey nature trail hike to view the majestic black necked cranes (Nov-Mar only).
Before drive to Thimphu visit Crane Information Center to see two injured cranes (Karma and Pema). Evening, enjoy the leisure time 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 zoo to see the National animal (Takin). Overnight in Thimphu.
Hike to Tango Monastery before driving back to Paro. After Lunch visit nunnery temple. Explore the Paro town in evening. 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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