Gomphukora Tshechu Festival

Upon arrival, your Bhutanese guide and our Indian ground operator (local representative) will meet you at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, India, after you have cleared immigration and customs formalities. We will then embark on a 100-kilometer (approximately 3-hour) drive to the India–Bhutan border town of Samdrup Jongkhar (250m), passing through the famous Assam tea gardens and crossing the mighty Brahmaputra River. Samdrup Jongkhar serves as the entry and exit point for tourists travelling overland into eastern Bhutan. Located in the southeastern region of the country, it shares its border with the Indian state of Assam and is the largest urban center in eastern Bhutan. The rest of the day will be at your leisure, allowing you some time to explore this bustling business hub of the eastern region. 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 stay in Samdrup Jongkhar.

This morning, we start the day early for approximately 7-hour drive to Trashigang (1,500m), the largest district in Bhutan. The journey offers scenic views, and you might spot langur monkeys, kingfishers, eagles, and other birds along the roadside. Our first stop is Dewathang (18-km), just beyond the Pinchina checkpoint. Dewathang is historically significant as the site where the father of Bhutan’s First King led Bhutanese troops in their final battle against the British in 1884. In the past, many British Political Officers stationed in Sikkim used the route from Samdrup Jongkhar to enter Bhutan. Next, we pass by the Regional Mithun (Bos frontalis) Breeding Farm in Orong, considered the best breed of cattle in Bhutan. Continuing the journey, we reach Narphung (41-km), a popular stopover where shops sell a variety of local produce, including fresh vegetables, fruits, cereals, dairy products, and bamboo crafts. After passing through Melong Bra, where the highway cuts through sheer cliffs, we stop for lunch in Wamrong (29-km). Located midway between Samdrup Jongkhar and Trashigang, it’s a convenient rest point. From there, we proceed to Khaling (27-km) via the Kharungla Pass (2,350m). We visit the National Handloom Development Centre en route, a place where young women from remote rural areas once received weaving training under the support of the National Women’s Association of Bhutan. Along the way, you can catch a glimpse of Muenselling Institute, Bhutan’s only school for the visually impaired, founded in 1973, nestled below the road in Khaling. Our journey continues past Sherubtse College in Kanglung (28-km), Bhutan’s first university, founded in 1978. Upon reaching Trashigang town, you may encounter the semi-nomadic people from Merak and Sakteng, who often come here for shopping trips. If you're feeling energetic, embark on the 1.36-km hike from Trashigang town to Druk Doethjung Resort. This scenic trail winds through serene landscapes, views of the Drangmechhu River, and quaint villages, making it an ideal route for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Overnight stay in Trashigang.

The festival venue, Gomphu Kora Lhakhang, nestled amidst picturesque paddy fields at an elevation of 820 meters, holds profound spiritual significance in eastern Bhutan. This revered temple is located just a scenic 22-kilometer drive, approximately an hour's journey, from Trashigang town to the north of Chazam Bridge on the way to Trashiyangtse district. Gomphu Kora is a sacred site where Guru Rinpoche meditated to subdue a demon, and it serves as the venue for the annual Gomphu Kora Tshechu, celebrated on the 10th day of the second month of the Bhutanese lunar calendar. The name "Gomphu Kora" combines "Gomphu," meaning "Meditation Cave," and "Kora," meaning "Circumambulation." This renowned festival attracts diverse crowds from across eastern Bhutan and beyond, including the Dakpa tribe from How, Loomla, Dongmareng, and Khobleyteng in Tawang, located in the neighboring Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh. Traditionally, Gomphu Kora was not just a spiritual occasion but also a vibrant social event, often leading to romantic connections and even marriages. A highlight of the festival was the nighttime circumambulation of the chortens (stupas), accompanied by romantic melodies with lyrics such as “Go around Gomphu Kora today, for tomorrow may be too late.” Young men and women exchanged playful banter in the cover of darkness, and some unions were sealed as men whisked away their chosen companions amid the festivities. Torchlights illuminated tents as attendees sought companionship, creating unforgettable encounters. However, such courtship traditions have become increasingly rare in modern times. By 10 pm, the once-lively ambiance begins to fade, and the presence of law enforcement deters such spontaneous connections. Despite this shift, the three-day Gomphu Kora Tshechu remains a vibrant celebration, attracting crowds with stalls offering various goods and delicious food. The festival culminates on the final day with the unveiling of the Guru Tshengye Thongdrel and other sacred relics, providing a profound spiritual experience for attendees. Overnight stay in Trashigang.

Morning highlights include the Trashigang Dzong, built in 1659 by Trongsa Penlop Chhogyal Minjur Tempa. The fortress is located on a steep hill overlooking the Dangmechhu (Gamri) River and has served as the political stronghold of eastern Bhutan for over 300 years. We then drive to Trashiyangtse (1,750m), a diverse district that was separated from Trashigang in 1992. Two roads diverge from Chazam (10-km downhill); take the right turn for Trashiyangtse. We then explore the Gomkora Lhakhang (temple), located 22-km from Trashigang town. This sacred site in eastern Bhutan is where Guru Rinpoche meditated on a rock adjoining the temple to subdue a demon. Afterward, we drive for about 2 hours (30-km) to Trashiyangtse via Duksum town, with a stop to visit the old Trashiyangtse Dzong, which was rebuilt in the 15th century by Terton Pema Lingpa and now houses the monastic body. Next, we visit the College of Zorig Chusum, established in 1997, where students learn the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. Our final stop is at the dazzling white Chorten Kora, a stupa modelled after the famous Boudhanath Stupa in Nepal, located on the Kholongchhu riverbank. Built over 12 years around 1740, this stupa is believed to contain the remains of an 8-year-old dakini girl, who, according to local legend, was buried alive of her own free will as an offering from the Dakpa tribe of Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh in India. In the evening, enjoy some leisure time exploring the small town of Trashiyangtse. Overnight stay in Trashiyangtse.

Today, you will set off on a journey to the serene village of Bartsham, situated 24 km away, with the trip taking around 1.5 hours.. Geographically, Bartsham shares its boundaries with Ramjar, Jamkhar, Yalang, and Bidung villages. Visit the Chador Lhakhang Monastery, also known as Gonpa Ringbu, dating back to the 12th century. Perched atop a ridge, it offers commanding views of the surrounding villages and mountains in north Trashigang. The main relic here is the statue of Chana Dorji, affectionately called Memmay Chador, serving as the protecting deity of the locality. This monastery holds deep reverence among the Bartsham community and devotees across Bhutan. Continuing your journey, you'll drive 10-km through the Bidung villages, heading east of Bartsham. The scenic drive extends a further 13-km to Rangjung, a quaint commercial hub. Here, you will visit the Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery, located on a small hillock overlooking the town and its surroundings. Keep an eye out for nomadic people from Merak and Sakteng, who often frequent the lower valleys for trade and shopping. Pause for an authentic Bhutanese lunch at a local farmhouse, where you can experience the region's unique culinary traditions. If time permits, explore the picturesque countryside of the Radhi villages, renowned as the "Rice Bowl of the East" and admired for their expertise in weaving raw silk textiles and traditional dyeing. In the evening, return to Trashigang (16-km) for an overnight stay.

After a hearty breakfast, our journey covers 91-km and takes about 3 to 4 hours as we head towards Mongar, situated at an elevation of 1,600m. Departing from Chazam (10-km) downhill, the road splits—take the left turn that leads us to Mongar. Along the way, we’ll pause at various spots to enjoy the scenery, interact with local people, visit villages, and capture moments for photography. As part of this immersive experience, we’ll take an 18-km detour to visit the 16th century Drametse Lhakhang, which sits majestically atop a steep ridge. This temple is the birthplace of the famous and sacred Drametse Nga Chham (the Mask Dance of the Drums), an integral part of many festivals. The dance was inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2005. From Sherichhu, we travel 35-km along the East–West Highway, passing through the famous Yadi bends—an exhilarating stretch with 17-km of winding hairpin turns leading to the small town of Yadi. Then, it’s a 22-km drive to the lofty Korila Pass (2,289m), followed by another 17-km to reach Mongar town. Time permitting, visit Mongar Dzong, built in 1930, though it lacks the strategic positioning typical of many other dzongs in Bhutan. Mongar town is small and retains a traditional charm, with its shops painted and decorated in local styles, and rows of large eucalyptus trees lining the main streets. Overnight stay in Mongar.

We set out on a scenic drive to Lhuentse (1,400m), the ancestral home of our Kings. We stop at the Gangola junction (12-km), where local farmers sell a variety of goods such as cornflakes, fruits, peanuts, and vegetables. The journey continues through the picturesque town of Autsho (920m), located by the Kurichhu River, before passing through the traditional houses and paddy fields of Tangmachhu (63 km). Our sightseeing includes the 154-foot tall Guru Padma Sambhava statue (Guru Nangsa Zelnen), built between 2008 and 2015, which sits atop a hill in Takila. We then proceed to Khoma village (about 11-km), famous for its intricate Kishuthara fabrics, highly revered and even ordered by the Royal Family for special occasions. Returning to Lhuentse town, we explore the historic Lhuentse Dzong, perched atop a hill overlooking the Kurichhu River. Built in 1654 by Chogyal Minjur Tempa, the dzong houses many sacred artefacts placed by the 4th Desi Tenzin Rabgay. In the evening, we return to Autsho (40-km), where the serene riverside and peaceful rural atmosphere provide a perfect setting for an overnight stay.

Today is a long but rewarding journey to Bumthang (2,650m). We traverse the East–West Highway, a route adorned with rushing rivers, cascading waterfalls, towering cliffs, and snow-capped peaks, offering breathtaking scenic vistas. We cross the Kurichhu River, where a hydro power plant (60 MW) generates sufficient energy for the eight eastern districts. The Yongkola area, rich in sub-tropical rainforest, is a hotspot for birding, especially after passing Lingmithang (17-km). Keep an eye out for rare avian birds such as the Satyr Tragopan, Ward’s Trogon, and Rufous-necked Hornbill. You’ll witness a striking transition in scenery from Yonkola to Bumthang—a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and wildlife observers. We stop at Namling, one of Bhutan’s premier birding destinations, where avid birdwatchers often spend days. Lunch will be at a local restaurant in Sengor (3,500m), located about 41-km from Yongkola and known for the Himalayan Monal, a special mountain bird. The journey continues to Bumthang via the Thrumshingla Pass (3,880m), the highest point of our journey, surrounded by dense hemlock and rhododendron forests, just 20-km from Sengor. From there, we head to Ura (3,100m), a picturesque village about 49 km from Bumthang town. To expedite our arrival, we take the new Nangar–Ura bypass (32 km), bypassing the traditional route. Ura is a quaint and beautiful village, home to Bhutan’s largest clustered settlement. Overnight stay in Bumthang.

We will explore the pristine Bumthang Valley, also known as Jakar, revered as the religious heartland of Bhutan and home to some of the country’s oldest temples and monasteries. After breakfast, drive to Kenchosum Lhakhang, a historic 8th century temple. This sacred site is famed for its ancient relic— a broken bronze bell said to have been gifted by a mermaid. According to legend, the bell's sound could once be heard as far as Lhasa in Tibet when rung. The temple suffered extensive damage due to a butter-lamp fire in 2010 but was beautifully reconstructed, brightly painted, and re-consecrated in 2014. Inside, it houses three statues of Due-Sum-Sangay (the Buddhas of the Past, Present, and Future) and other revered relics. Next, visit Tamshing Lhakhang, a center for Nyingma Buddhist teachings founded in 1501 by Terton Pema Lingpa. From here, take a short walk and cross the bridge over the Chamkharchhu River to reach the Kurjey Lhakhang complex. This sacred site comprises three temples encircled by walls adorned with 108 chortens. Kurjey Lhakhang is where Guru Rinpoche meditated in the 8th century, subdued the local demon Phola Shelging Karpo, and healed the ailing King Sindhu Raja of Bumthang. Your next sightseeing is Jambay Lhakhang (Temple of Maitreya), believed to be one of 108 temples built in a single day by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century. This temple is steeped in history and mythology, having been constructed to suppress the evil spirits of a demoness hindering the spread of Buddhism. Today, enjoy an authentic traditional Bhutanese meal at Sherab Dema Farmhouse, where you can try your hand at archery or relax in a soothing traditional hot stone bath. Overnight stay in Bumthang.

After breakfast, our journey leads us to Trongsa (2,200m), passing through the enchanting Yotongla Pass at 3,425m. Along this picturesque route, we stop at the charming Chumig village, home to the Yathra Weaving Centre, where skilled Bumthap women weave a tapestry of yak and sheep wool, creating the exquisite "Yathra" fabric, including woolen mattresses (Drumzeedhen). Historically, Trongsa is one of the most significant districts in Bhutan. It once served as the headquarters for the central and eastern regions and was the seat of the Trongsa Penlop (Governor). Every Bhutanese monarch first assumes the role of Trongsa Penlop before ascending the throne, adding a profound legacy to this region. Next, we explore the massive and majestic Trongsa Dzong, a striking architectural masterpiece with a distinctive yellow roof. Built in 1648, it is the largest fortress in Bhutan, overlooking the gorge of the Mangdichhu River. You will also have time to visit the Tower of Trongsa (Ta Dzong), an ancient watchtower that rises five storeys above Trongsa town. Erected in 1652, its four observation points represent the Tiger, Lion, Garuda, and Dragon. Today, this tower houses the history of the Wangchuck dynasty (the kings of Bhutan). The evening is at leisure to relax or explore the idyllic town of Trongsa and its surroundings. Overnight stay in Trongsa.

Departing from Trongsa this morning, we head to Punakha via Pelela Pass (3,390m) and the small town of Nobding. From the Thumangdra viewpoint, opposite the Trongsa Dzong, you can capture beautiful photos of the landscapes and the dzong. Along the way, take a stroll at the Chendebji Chorten, located just below the road. It's a great spot to stretch your legs and walk around the stupa. This 18th century monument resembles the Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu (Nepal), with eyes painted on the four cardinal points. Traveling along Bhutan's East–West highway, you may encounter grazing yaks, adding to the picturesque scenery. Our journey continues past the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, which overlooks the convergence of the Dangchhu and Punatsangchhu Rivers. Built in 1638 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the dzong resembles a sleeping elephant. It was gutted by fire in 2012, but reconstruction to restore it to its former glory was completed in November 2022. Punakha (1,350m), once the winter capital of Bhutan until 1955, is situated in western Bhutan and enjoys a warm, temperate climate. It is bordered by Gasa to the north, Thimphu to the west, and Wangdue Phodrang to the east and south, and is also a popular tourist destination. Upon arriving in Punakha, we visit the fertility temple of Chimi Lhakhang en route, located on a round hillock near the village of Sopsokha. Built in 1499 by Saint Drukpa Kunley (the Divine Madman), the temple is about 10 km from Punakha Dzong and requires a 20-minute walk through agricultural fields. According to legend, childless couples who visit this mysterious temple are blessed with a child, and people come from across Bhutan and even overseas to receive this blessing. Overnight stay in Punakha.

Morning highlights include the Punakha Dzong, strategically located at the confluence of the Phochhu (male) and Mochhu (female) Rivers. Built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the founder of Bhutan, the dzong is the second oldest and second largest in the country. In spring, jacaranda trees beautifully adorn the dzong with their purple blooms. We then travel 71-km (about 3 hours) to Thimphu (2,300m), the capital of Bhutan. En route, we stop at Dochula Pass (3,050m), where the picturesque Druk Wangyal Chortens (108 stupas) stand. Take in the panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, including Bhutan’s highest mountain, Mt. Gangkar Puensum (7,564m). There are also 11 man-made “Igloos” or caves, each with a different painting of gods and goddesses. People seeking inner peace from modern-day stress often come to Dochula Pass for meditation, as Buddhists view meditation as a path toward enlightenment and nirvana. Continuing to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, home to approximately 138,736 inhabitants, you'll notice that it’s not a concrete jungle like other cities around the world. Thimphu is set in a lovely rural valley surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, with buildings constructed in the traditional Bhutanese style. Experience the unique traffic control system, where police direct traffic using hand signals instead of lights. Upon arrival in Thimphu, we visit the Centenary Farmers Market, a bustling hub for local produce, arts, and crafts. Use your free time to relax or explore the streets of Thimphu city. Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Today we explore the best attractions of Thimphu city (2,300m), home to approximately 138,736 inhabitants. Thimphu is a small city but has many attractive places. Morning begins with a visit to the National Memorial Chorten (stupa), built in 1974 in honour of the Third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk (1928-1972). This stupa is a prominent monument for Bhutanese daily worship in the city with its golden spires and bells. Another must-see place to tick off your list is Kuenselphodrang, home to the 169-foot Buddha Dordenma statue, the largest of its kind, which was erected in 2006. Our next stop is at the Motithang Takin Reserve, home to Bhutan's national animal, followed by the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, established in 1971 where students are taught the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. Proceed to the nearby National Library of Bhutan, established in 1967, located in the cultural center of Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Here, you'll find the world's largest book, Bhutan: A Visual Odyssey Across the Last Himalayan Kingdom. It weighs over 60 kg, stands 1.52 meters high, and spans 2.13 meters wide. Its pages are turned once a month. We then continue to the Bhutan Postal Museum, a must-visit for philatelists and those looking to purchase postcards and stamps. If time permits, visit the 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. The evening is free for relaxation or exploring the sights of the capital. Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Depart for Paro (54 km, approximately 1 hour) early in the morning after breakfast. 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)!