Druk Wangyal Festival
This festival is relatively new and was started in 2011 in commemoration of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo and the Armed Forces’ victory over Indian insurgent forces residing in southern Bhutan in 2003. The Tsechu takes place every December 13th at the Druk Wangyal Lhakhang Festival Ground located at Dochula Pass around 22km from the capital city Thimphu.
The Druk Wangyal Tshechu is a unique festival in that it is performed by the Royal Bhutan Army rather than monks or lay people. It is a tribute to the wise leadership of His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Fourth King of Bhutan. It also celebrates the continuous efforts of the Royal Bhutan Army in protecting the sovereignty and the stability of the country.
Day 1
Arrival Paro – Thimphu
Upon arrival at the Paro International Airport, you will be received by our Guide and Driver who will drive you to Thimphu. You will enjoy the drive from Paro-Thimphu through the valley and beautiful landscapes. Visit National Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordhenma and Tashichhodzong before you finally retire for the night.
Day 2
Thimphu Sightseeing
Visit Changangkha Lhakhang, Takin Zoo, National Library, National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Folk Heritage Museum and Royal Textile Academy.
Day 3
Thimphu – Punakha (Dochula Festival)
Morning attend Mask dance festival at Dochula pass. Later on drive towards Punakha and visit Chimi Lhakhang before reaching Punakha. If time permits visit Punakha Dzong and the longest suspension bridge of 230 meters.
Day 4
Punakha – Paro
Morning hike to Khamsum Yuelling temple and then drive towards Paro. En-route Semtokha Dzong. Later on visit Drukgyal Dzong (currently under reconstruction) and Kyichu Lhakhang.
Day 5
Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Morning hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Later part of afternoon visit Rinpung Dzong and Ta Dzong.
Day 6
Excursion to Haa Valley.
Depart for Haa, the westernmost valley in Bhutan. This is a beautiful drive (3.5 h) that is relatively free of traffic. The road takes us back to Chuzom (river confluence) where we catch a glimpse of the three shrines in Nepali, Tibetan and Bhutanese style which were built to ward off evil spirits, and then traverses left past Dobje Dzong, an ancient prison which now houses a monastery. Picturesque and quaint villages dot the hillsides for the rest of our drive to Haa.
Day 7
Departure
After breakfast, depending on your flight timing our Guide and Driver will drive you to Paro Airport for your onward journey.
* Please note that this itinerary is flexible and can be adjusted to suit your convenience. Therefore, before booking the trip please contact us to discuss your programme.
- Double room on twin sharing basis in government approved 3 star hotels.
- Single room supplement is additional of USD 45 per night per room. All three meals (does not cover water and other beverages ordered in hotels/restaurants).
- Bottled mineral water for the entire trip (except water ordered in the hotels and restaurants).
- Afternoon tea and snacks.
- English speaking and knowledgeable guide.
- Comfortable SUV and an experienced driver.
- Institutional entrance fees.
- Visa fee and processing charges.
- Government taxes.
- All administrative cost.
- Full service & assistance before, during and after your Bhutan trip.
- Airfare.
- Travel Insurance.
- Tipping.
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