Paro Valley 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. Arrive in Thimphu and tour the monumental Kuenselphodrang, home to the world's largest 169-foot Buddha Dordenma statue, erected in 2006 on a hill overlooking Thimphu's southern entrance. Our next stop, if time permits, is the Motithang Takin Reserve, home to Bhutan's national animal. Enjoy a delightful evening with the Bhutan Green Travel, featuring a warm welcome drink and a dinner to kickstart your journey in style. 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. Next, we'll visit the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, established in 1971 where students are taught the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. Don't miss the National Textile Museum, part of the Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan, dedicated to preserving and restoring Bhutanese textiles. We then continue to the Bhutan Postal Museum, a must-visit for philatelists and those looking to purchase postcards and stamps. Proceed to the nearby Centenary Farmers Market, a bustling marketplace where Bhutanese farmers sell local produce, arts, and crafts. Wrap the day with a visit to 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.

After breakfast, we travel to Punakha, once the winter capital of Bhutan until 1955. It is situated in western Bhutan with a warm and 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 7,564m. Continuing our picturesque journey for 52 km, we'll traverse the captivating landscapes of Punakha and Wangdue Phodrang Valley. 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. If time permits, sightseeing includes a visit to the Punakha Dzong, strategically located at the confluence of the Phochhu (male) and Mochhu (female) Rivers. This grand fortress is adorned with jacaranda trees, colouring the landscape with vibrant purple blooms in spring. 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. Along Bhutan's East–West highway, you might chance upon 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). Overnight stay in Bumthang.

and home to some of the oldest temples and monasteries in the country. Starting from your hotel, we will drive to 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 follow a farm trail for 15 to 20 minutes to reach the Kurjey Lhakhang complex, home to three temples enclosed by walls adorned with 108 chortens. This sacred site is where Guru Rinpoche meditated deeply in the 8th century, subduing the local demon, Phola Shelging Karpo, and aiding the ailing King of Bumthang, Sindhu Raja. From there, we will cross a bridge over the Chamkharchhu River to reach Tamshing Lhakhang, founded in 1501 by Terton Pema Lingpa as a center for Nyingma Buddhism teachings. After visiting Tamshing, we will proceed by vehicle to Lhodrak Kharchhu Monastery, established in 1982, which is dedicated to the study of dharma. Around 400 monks reside here, actively engaging in various practices such as reading, daily prayer recitations, meditation, chanting, dharma dances, drumming, and creating ceremonial mandalas. Enjoy a tranquil evening strolling the streets of a small Bumthang town. Overnight stay in Bumthang.

After breakfast, our return journey takes us to Phobjikha Valley via Trongsa, with a scenic drive (approximately 4-5 hours). Trongsa holds a profound legacy, as every Bhutanese monarch traditionally assumes the role of Trongsa Penlop before ascending the throne. The Trongsa Dzong, built in 1648, is the largest fortress in Bhutan and offers a commanding view of 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 as an ancient watchtower, offering captivating views of Trongsa town and the surrounding landscape. Upon arriving 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 in western Bhutan. Phobjikha Valley is a haven for nature enthusiasts and is renowned as the winter habitat for the rare, Black-Necked Cranes, which migrate 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.

This morning, we begin our return journey to Paro, with a pause en route at Dochula Pass (3,050m) to soak in the panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, including Bhutan’s highest mountain, Mt. Gangkar Puensum (7,564m). Continue to Paro, home to the famous Taktshang Monastery (also known as Tiger’s Nest), the National Museum, Drukair, and Bhutan Airlines. Later, we explore the Ta Dzong, an ancient watchtower located about 6-km from Paro town, which now houses the National Museum of Bhutan. From there, we walk down to the Paro Dzong (also known as Rinpung Dzong), located across the Pachhu River and about 20-km from Paro International Airport. The dzong was built in 1644 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the founder of Bhutan, to safeguard the Paro Valley against Tibetan invasions. Time permitting, you can explore Kaja Throm, which features stalls with fresh seasonal produce, incense sticks, and more. Additionally, food stalls run by De-Suups offer dishes prepared by individuals trained in culinary arts through the De-Suung Skilling Programme.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant Paro Tshechu today, a full-day celebration featuring sacred masked dances that portray demons, heroes, and animals, with performers wearing brightly coloured brocade outfits, accompanied by folk and traditional songs. A tshechu (festival) draws hundreds of Bhutanese, as well as tourists, and is one of the best ways to experience the rich cultural heritage of Bhutan. For the Bhutanese, the festivals hold religious significance and serve as a special occasion for locals to reunite with family and loved ones, dressed in their finest traditional clothes and jewellery. Don’t forget to pack your camera to capture the lively festivities! Most Tshechus date back to medieval times and literally translate to the tenth day of the Bhutanese lunar calendar, honoring Guru Rinpoche, who introduced tantric Buddhism in the 8th century. The evening is at leisure to relax and enjoy, with some time allowed to explore the small town of Paro and its festive surroundings.

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). It is stunning in its beauty and location. Today is a real highlight as you take a short hike to the Taktshang Monastery, clinging on a rock cliff at 900m above the Paro Valley floor. The monastery is one of the most revered pilgrimage places in Bhutan because Guru Rinpoche (one the founding fathers of Tibetan Buddhism) is believed to have flown to the site on the back of a flying tigress in the 8th century. An 11-km (round-trip) hike starts from the base of the mountain from the road point (Ramthangkha), which is 2-km drive from Paro town. Enjoy your rewarding hike about 4 hours (round-trip) with extra one hour to tour the monastery at a leisurely pace. There is a small teahouse halfway through from where a view of the spectacular monastery to enjoy! Gentle horse/pony rides are permitted till 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)!