Punakha Festival
Experience the spectacular Punakha Tshechu (Festival), held in the grounds of the magnificent Punakha Dzong, the finest of the Bhutan’s 17th century fortress. Tshechus or the festival of mask dances honors Guru Padmasambhava who introduced Buddhism in Bhutan.
Locals gather in a spirit of festivity, celebration and deep faith to witness unique masked dances and celebrations. The Tshechu is one of the best ways to experience the ancient living culture of Bhutan. Also visit sacred sites in Paro, Thimphu and Punakha.
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 (Festival)
Early morning drive towards Punakha to attend Mask dance Festival via Dochula Pass. Later part of afternoon visit the suspension bridge of 230 meters and the Khamsum Yuelling monastery.
Day 4
Punakha (Festival) – Paro
Morning witness mask dance festival and then drive towards Paro via Semtokha Dzong. Later on visit Drukgyal Dzong (under construction) 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 hours) 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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