Overview
- Journey style
- Festival Tours
- Route
- Gangtey · Paro · Punakha · Thimphu · Wangdue Phodrang
- Flexibility
- Private and fully customisable
The Punakha Tshechu is one of the most popular festivals in the country which takes place back-to-back with Punakha Drupchen. The Unfurling of the Zhabdrung’s Thongdrel on the last day is the main attraction of the festival. It is believed that the mere sight of Thongdrel liberates the mind and body. The tour covers the valleys of Thimphu, Paro, Punakha & Gangtey, whereby you will be soaking yourself in the view of the majestic landscape.
During the trip, two festivals happen one after another making your stay more exciting than other festivals. The trip highlights on:
- Local sightseeing
- exploring the Punakha festival
- Learning the significance of the Bhutanese customs
- Hike to the Tiger’s Nest
Price includes
- A minimum of 3-star accommodation (4 & 5 stars can be upgraded at an additional fee)
- All meals / Tea & snacks
- All internal transport (excluding Domestic flights)
- Sightseeing with entrance fees
- An experienced English speaking tour leader
- Bottled water in the vehicle
- Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), government fees & visa fee
Price excludes
- Flights
- Travel & Health Insurance
- Additional personal expenses such as souvenirs, meals, snacks, alcohol, laundry, tips, and gratuities for the tour leader and staff.
The Sustainable Development Fee, visa and permits are all included — see how the Bhutan visa & permits process works.
Day by day
Itinerary
Day 01 Arrive Paro – Thimphu sightseeing
Driving Duration: 1.5hrs/ 65km
Elevation: 2350m / 7710ft
Upon Landing at Paro's International Airport, drive on to Thimphu for sightseeing
Attractions:
- Picturesque Paro Valley
- National Memorial chorten
- Tashichho Dzong
Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu
Day 02 Thimphu Sightseeing
Elevation: 2200m/7218ft
A day excursion in Thimphu Valley
Attractions:
- Buddha Point (Siddhartha Gautama in seated position)
– The 13 traditional arts and crafts (Zorig Chusum)
– Zilukha Nunnery
– Centenary Farmers’ Market
– Takin Preservation Center
Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu
Day 03 Thimphu to Punakha- Local sightseeing
Driving Duration: 2hrs/76km
Elevation: 1310m / 4300ft
Punakha sightseeing
Attractions:
- Do Chula Pass
- Chimmi Lhakhang
- Punakha Suspension bridge
- Punakha Dzong
Overnight in Punakha
Day 04 Punakha Festival
Elevation: 1310m / 4300ft
A day excursion at the annual Punakha Festival
Attractions:
- Explore the significance of Punakha Festival
- Traditional Bhutanese attire (Gho & Kira)
- Colorful displays Thanka and Thongdrel (silk appliqué)
- Vibrant mask dances and folksongs
Overnight at the hotel in Punakha
Day 05 Punakha -Phobjikha or Gangtey
Driving Duration: 2.5hrs/ 79km
Elevation: 2900m / 9510ft
Drive on to Phobjikha Valley
Attractions:
- Gangtey Nature Trail
- Gangtey Monastery
- Black Necked Crane Information Center
- Visiting the pristine villages and Farm houses
- Participating in Archery game (National Game)
Overnight at the lodge in Phobjikha
Day 06 Phobjikha – Paro sightseeing
Driving Duration: 4.5hrs/ 172 km
Elevation: 2250m / 7382ft
Breakfast at the lodge in Phobjikha, drive on to Paro
Attractions:
– Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong)
– Ta Dzong (National Museum)
– Explore Paro town
Overnight at the hotel in Paro
Day 07 Paro – Hike to the Tiger’s Nest.
Duration: 5-6hrs/11km
Elevation: 3000m/ 9842km
A day hike to Paro Taktsang
Attractions:
- Tiger's Nest Monastery
- A perfect spot for photography
- Kyichu Temple
Overnight at the hotel in Paro
Day 08 Paro – Departure.
After breakfast at the hotel, you will be escorted to the airport for departure. Leave Bhutan behind but take with you the great experiences as you board your departing flight.
Like the look of this itinerary? Every departure is customisable.
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In pictures
