Domkhar Tshechu Festival

Flying into Bhutan offers unparalleled views of the majestic Himalayan ranges, featuring iconic peaks such as Mt. Everest (8,848m/29,028ft), Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m/28,169ft), and Mt. Gangkar Puensum (7,564m/24,836ft). On arrival we meet you at Paro International Airport after clearing your immigration and customs formalities. We'll then commence our journey to Thimphu, Bhutan's capital (54-km) and taking approximately an hour, where you'll be transferred to your hotel for check-in. En route, we'll stop at the historically significant 13th century Tachog Lhakhang, a revered temple built by Saint Dupthop Thangtong Gyalpo, known for his expertise in building iron bridges. Continuing our journey, we traverse through Chhuzom (24-km), a vital crossroads linking Thimphu (30-km) northeast, Haa (82-km) southwest, and Phuentsholing (141-km) south. Upon reaching Thimphu, a city of around 138,736 residents, you’ll be enchanted by its rustic valley backdrop, adorned with traditional Bhutanese architecture and stunning natural vistas. Experience the unique traffic control system, where police direct traffic using hand signals instead of lights. We’ll visit Kuenselphodrang, home to the 169-foot Buddha Dordenma statue, one of the largest in the world, erected in 2006 and overlooking Thimphu’s southern entrance. Our next stop is the Motithang Takin Reserve, which houses Bhutan’s national animal, the takin. Following this, we’ll explore the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, established in 1971 to teach Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts, and then the National Memorial Chorten (stupa), built in 1974 in honour of the Third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuk (1928–1972). This stupa, with its golden spires and bells, is a prominent site for daily worship in the city. The evening is free for relaxation or exploring the sights of the capital. Enjoy a delightful evening with the Bhutan Green Travel, featuring a warm welcome drink and a delicious dinner to kickstart your journey in style. Overnight in Thimphu.

Leaving the hustle and bustle of Thimphu city behind, we set out on a scenic hike to Cheri Monastery (2,850m) through forests of blue pine, oak, and rhododendron. This historic monastery, located about 14-km (a 35-minute drive) north of Thimphu Valley, is home to many sacred relics and serves as a meditation center. Built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the founder of Bhutan, in 1620, it is the site where Bhutan’s first monastic body was established. The hike begins by crossing a cantilever bridge adorned with prayer flags, set to the backdrop of the rushing Thimphuchhu River, followed by an hour-long uphill trek along a steep trail. Visiting Cheri Monastery is a spiritually enriching experience. Inside, you may choose to pray and roll the ceremonial dice to seek insights into your future, a local tradition. Along the way, you may spot deer and jaru (mountain goats) near the monastery. Enjoy a riverside picnic lunch before we drive back to Thimphu for a visit to the Centenary Farmers Market, a bustling marketplace where Bhutanese farmers sell local produce, arts, and crafts. In the evening, we’ll visit Tashichhodzong, initially constructed in 1216 and rebuilt in 1641 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. This iconic fortress now houses several government ministries, the office and throne room of His Majesty the King, and the Central Monk Body. Overnight stay in Thimphu.

After breakfast, we'll embark on a scenic journey to Punakha, Bhutan's former winter capital until 1955. Nestled in western Bhutan, Punakha enjoys a temperate climate, bordered by Gasa to the north, Thimphu to the west, and Wangdue Phodrang to the east and south. Our first stop will be at the Druk Wangyal Chortens before crossing the Dochula Pass (3,050m). If weather permits, this spot provides awe-inspiring panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, including Bhutan’s highest, Mount Gangkar Puensum, towering at 7,564 meters. Continuing our picturesque journey for 52 km, we'll traverse the captivating landscapes of Punakha and Wangdue Phodrang Valley. Along the way, visit the Royal Botanical Park in Lampelri, about 35-km from the capital city of Thimphu. Of the 46 rhododendron species recorded in the country, 29 are found in the park. The park is a great learning destination for the students, researchers, and nature lovers. Upon reaching Punakha (1,350m), we'll explore Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple situated on a circular hillock near Sopsokha village. Built in 1499 by Saint Drukpa Kunley, known as the Divine Madman, this sacred site is believed to bless childless couples from across Bhutan and occasionally overseas, granting them children. Overnight stay in Punakha.

Today, we’ll enjoy a scenic drive to the picturesque villages of Talo and Nobgang (1,300m–1,500m), located above Punakha Valley. A motorable road of approximately 20-km leads up to these villages. Talo is known for its beautiful women and is considered one of the cleanest villages in Punakha, surrounded by dense conifer forests. The Royal Queen Mothers of Bhutan, who are four sisters, come from this region. Afterwards, you may choose to hike a short section of the Trans Bhutan Trail starting from Sew Drangsa. This path follows a farm road with views of scattered village houses in Genchena. In recent years, this route has been occasionally used by the central monastic body to travel to their winter residence in Punakha and back to Thimphu in the summer. At Sew Drangsa, you’ll reach a clearing adorned with prayer flags, where monks traditionally stop for lunch during their journey, as you will today. From here, the trail descends towards Punakha Dzong (fortress), offering breathtaking views of the Punakha Valley along the way. After the hike, your driver will take you to your hotel for check-in. Overnight stay in Punakha.

After an early breakfast, continue to the Bumthang Valley in central Bhutan, home to some of the oldest temples and monasteries in the country. Along the way, we pass by Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, overlooking the convergence of the Dangchhu and Punatsangchhu Rivers. Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal (founder of Bhutan) constructed the dzong in 1638, resembling that of a sleeping elephant. Although damaged by fire in 2012, reconstruction to its former splendour was completed in November 2022. Our journey takes us first to Trongsa about 4-5 hours via the scenic Pelela Pass (3,390m) and Nobding, a small town en route. Enjoy varied landscapes, from majestic mountains to lush greenery. Traveling along Bhutan's East–West highway, you may encounter grazing yaks, adding to the picturesque scenery. On the way take a stroll along the Chendebji Chorten below the road. A nice stop to stretch your legs and walk around the stupa! This 18th century monument resembles the Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu, Nepal with eyes painted at the four cardinal points. A highlight awaits at the Thumangdra viewpoint, offering a perfect vantage to capture breathtaking photos showcasing the scenic beauty of the landscapes and the grandeur of the dzong. Continue your journey to Bumthang (68-km) about 2.5 hours via Yotongla Pass (3,425m). You have an option to explore the Yathra Weaving Centre in Chumig village en route, where the Bumthap women weave yak and sheep wools into the beautifully patterned fabric called “Yathra” including woollen mattresses (Drumzeedhen). Overnight stay in Bumthang.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant Domkhar Tshechu celebration at the Domkhar village temple nestled in the picturesque Chumey valley of Bumthang. Enjoy colourful masked dances and performances by the locals, especially the Peling chams (dances) by Terton Pema Lingpa. This festival also honours the death anniversary of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel (Founder of Bhutan) and concludes with the unveiling of a blessed Thongdroel representing the future Buddha Maitreya (Jampa) on the final day. Explore the spiritual heartland of Bumthang, Bhutan, home to ancient temples and monasteries. Return to Jakar Valley to visit Jambay Lhakhang, (Temple of Maitreya), which is said to be one of the 108 temples built by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo on a single day in the 7th century, making it rich in history and mythology. This temple was constructed to subdue the evil spirits of a demoness that obstructed the spread of Buddhism. Next, we will traverse a farm trail for 15 to 20 minutes to reach the Kurjey Lhakhang complex, which houses three temples enclosed by walls adorned with 108 chortens. Guru Rinpoche meditated profoundly here in the 8th century, taming the local demon, Phola Shelging Karpo, and aiding the ailing King of Bumthang, Sindhu Raja. Enjoy a serene evening wandering the charming streets of this small town. Overnight stay in Bumthang.

After breakfast, our return journey takes us to Phobjikha Valley via Trongsa, enjoying a scenic drive lasting approximately 5-6 hours. Trongsa holds a profound legacy, as every Bhutanese monarch traditionally assumes the role of Trongsa Penlop before ascending the throne. Trongsa Dzong built in 1648, is the largest fortress in Bhutan, commanding a view over the Mangdichhu River gorge. Its majestic architecture, characterized by a distinctive yellow roof, is a testament to Bhutan's rich cultural heritage. Additionally, the Tower of Trongsa (known as Ta Dzong) stands tall as an ancient watchtower, offering captivating views of Trongsa town and its surroundings. Arrive in Phobjikha, take the opportunity to visit Gangtey Gonpa, a picturesque 17th century monastery perched on a hillock, offering breathtaking views of the valley. The monastery is the only Nyingmapa School of Buddhism taught here in western Bhutan. Phobjikha Valley is a haven for nature enthusiasts and is renowned as the winter habitat for rare, Black-Necked Cranes, migrating from the Tibetan plateau from late October to mid-March. Later in the day, you can explore the beautiful valley surrounded by pine forests, meet the locals, and visit the Black-necked Crane Information Centre to learn about the migrating birds. Overnight stay in Phobjikha.

Opt for a Village Homestay for a unique experience in a vibrant, traditionally built Bhutanese farmhouse. These 2-storey homes are adorned with colourful decor and equipped with decent amenities such as toilets, showers, and hot stone baths. Service providers are trained in basic housekeeping and hygiene for tourists. Enjoy the immersive experience of living in a village house, where the housemother personally serves food and drinks, creating a familial atmosphere. Interact with locals and engage in daily village activities.

This morning, we return to Paro, pausing en route at Dochula Pass (3,050m) and soak up the panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, including Bhutan’s highest mountain (Mt. Gangkar Puensum at 7,564m). Continue to Paro, home to the famous Taktshang Monastery (also known as Tiger’s Nest), National Museum, Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. Later, we explore the Ta Dzong (ancient watch tower), located about 6-km from Paro town, which now houses the National Museum of Bhutan. Walk down to the Paro Dzong (also known as Rinpung Dzong), which is located across the Pachhu River and about 2-km from Paro International Airport. The dzong was built in 1644 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal (founder of Bhutan) to safeguard Paro Valley against Tibetan invasions. Time permitting, you can explore Kaja Throm, featuring stalls with fresh seasonal produce, incense sticks, and more. Additionally, De-Suups-run food stalls offer dishes prepared by individuals trained in culinary arts through the De-Suung Skilling Programme. Overnight stay in Paro.

Bhutan’s famous Paro Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) is an unforgettable sight. No visit to Bhutan would be complete without a trip to Paro Taktshang (3,120m. Today is a real highlight as you take a short hike to the Taktshang Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliffside 900m above the Paro Valley floor. The 4-km hike commences at the mountain's base from the road point in Ramthangkha, approximately 12-km from Paro town. Enjoy a leisurely walk lasting around 4-5 hours for the round-trip hike, leaving an additional hour to explore the monastery at a relaxed and comfortable pace. Halfway along the trail, a quaint teahouse presents a perfect vantage point to admire the monastery's splendour. For more relaxed ascent, gentle horse or pony rides are allowed up to the viewpoint. The latter part of the afternoon is free for leisure. Consider indulging in a hot stone bath at a farmhouse for a relaxing experience. Spend the night in Paro.

Your tour ends this morning after breakfast. We transfer you to Paro International Airport for your onward journey. Our guide and driver from Bhutan Green Travel will see you off. Tashi Delek (Goodbye and Good Luck)!