A chance to experience the grand Thimphu Tshechu, Bhutan’s largest religious festival. This tour combines cultural sightseeing with festival excitement, making it ideal for those interested in Bhutanese culture and traditions.
Paro International Airport (Google Map)
◦ Witness the Thimphu Tshechu festival’s sacred mask dances
◦ Visit Bhutan’s iconic landmarks such as Buddha Dordenma and Dochula Pass
◦ Explore Thimphu’s handicraft market and National Folk Heritage Museum
◦ Enjoy Bhutanese traditional meals with a local family
◦ Discover the ancient ruins of Drukgyel Dzong in Paro
Activities:
▪ Arrive at Paro International Airport and receive a warm Bhutanese welcome.
▪ Scenic drive to Thimphu (1.5-hour drive), passing traditional houses and villages.
▪ Visit Tashichho Dzong, the seat of the government and monastic body in Bhutan.
▪ Evening stroll around Thimphu town to soak in the local culture.
◦ Overnight: Thimphu
Activities:
▪ Visit the National Memorial Chorten, a revered religious monument where locals offer prayers.
▪ Stop by the Buddha Dordenma, a massive Buddha statue offering panoramic views of Thimphu Valley.
▪ Explore the Folk Heritage Museum and Textile Museum, where you can learn about Bhutanese traditions and crafts.
▪ Visit the Institute of Zorig Chusum, where students train in Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts.
▪ Free evening to explore local markets and shops.
◦ Overnight: Thimphu
Activities:
▪ Attend the Thimphu Tshechu at Tashichho Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most famous and vibrant religious festivals.
▪ Experience the sacred masked dances (Cham), where monks and laypeople perform intricate and spiritually significant rituals.
▪ Witness traditional Bhutanese music, dance, and performances by locals dressed in their finest attire.
◦ Overnight: Thimphu
Activities:
▪ Continue attending the Thimphu Tshechu, soaking in the colorful celebrations and unique dance performances that depict tales of gods, demons, and protectors.
▪ Visit local food stalls and markets surrounding the festival grounds.
▪ Evening free to explore more of Thimphu on your own.
◦ Overnight: Thimphu
Activities:
▪ Drive to Punakha (3-hour drive) via the scenic Dochula Pass (3,100 meters), with a stop at the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens for breathtaking Himalayan views.
▪ Visit Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most majestic fortresses, located at the confluence of two rivers.
▪ Hike to Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley, also known as the “Divine Madman.”
◦ Overnight: Punakha
Activities:
▪ Visit the stunning Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a beautifully crafted stupa with views of the Punakha Valley.
▪ Take a leisurely walk through the paddy fields and visit a local farmhouse to experience Bhutanese rural life.
▪ Optional: River rafting on the Pho Chu or Mo Chu rivers (optional).
▪ Evening free to relax in the tranquil setting of Punakha.
◦ Overnight: Punakha
Activities:
▪ Drive back to Paro (4-hour drive), passing through scenic valleys and villages.
▪ Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, built in the 7th century.
▪ Explore Rinpung Dzong and Ta Dzong, which houses the National Museum.
▪ Free evening to explore the town or relax.
◦ Overnight: Paro
Activities:
▪ Early morning hike to the legendary Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched on a cliffside 900 meters above the Paro Valley.
▪ Enjoy the serene and spiritual atmosphere at one of Bhutan’s most iconic and revered sites.
▪ Descend to the valley and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
▪ Optional: Traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath in the evening (optional).
◦ Overnight: Paro
Activities:
▪ Transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure flight, concluding your journey through Bhutan’s culture and festivities.
