This tour revolves around the famous Paro Tshechu festival, one of Bhutan’s most vibrant religious celebrations. Combined with visits to Bhutan’s major attractions, this journey allows you to witness the traditional masked dances and rituals up close.
Paro International Airport (Google Map)
◦ Attend Paro Tshechu festival and witness colorful mask dances
◦ Visit Paro Taktsang, Punakha Dzong, and Thimphu’s landmarks
◦ Scenic hike through beautiful Himalayan valleys
◦ Witness the unfurling of the giant Thangka (religious painting)
◦ Explore local markets and interact with artisans
Activities:
▪ Arrive at Paro International Airport and receive a warm welcome.
▪ Drive to Thimphu (1.5-hour drive), Bhutan’s capital.
▪ Visit the National Memorial Chorten, a prominent religious landmark.
▪ Explore the Craft Bazaar for authentic Bhutanese arts and crafts.
▪ Evening visit to Tashichho Dzong, the seat of the Bhutanese government and monastic body.
◦ Overnight: Thimphu
Activities:
▪ Visit the iconic Buddha Dordenma, a gigantic statue overlooking the Thimphu Valley.
▪ Explore the Folk Heritage Museum and Textile Museum to dive deeper into Bhutanese culture.
▪ Visit the Institute of Zorig Chusum to observe students practicing traditional Bhutanese arts.
▪ Option to visit the Motithang Takin Preserve, home to Bhutan’s national animal, the takin.
▪ Evening stroll around the town for a feel of local life.
◦ Overnight: Thimphu
Activities:
▪ Drive to Punakha (3-hour drive), crossing the picturesque Dochula Pass (3,100m).
▪ Visit Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and significant fortresses.
▪ Take a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Temple of Fertility.
◦ Overnight: Punakha
Activities:
▪ Return to Paro (4-hour drive), enjoying the scenic drive through mountain valleys.
▪ Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, built in the 7th century.
▪ Explore Paro Dzong and Ta Dzong, which houses the National Museum.
▪ Evening at leisure in Paro, with opportunities to explore local markets.
◦ Overnight: Paro
Activities:
▪ Immerse yourself in the vibrant Paro Tshechu Festival at Rinpung Dzong.
▪ Witness the unique and colorful masked dances (Cham), performed by monks and laymen to represent stories of deities, protectors, and spiritual legends.
▪ Explore the festival grounds, interact with locals dressed in their finest traditional attire, and enjoy Bhutanese music, food, and celebration.
◦ Overnight: Paro
Activities:
▪ Continue your experience at the Paro Tshechu Festival, witnessing more traditional dances and performances.
▪ Visit Drukgyel Dzong, a ruined fortress that once defended Bhutan against Tibetan invasions.
▪ Explore local villages and learn about traditional Bhutanese rural life.
▪ Free time to soak in the festive atmosphere in Paro.
◦ Overnight: Paro
Activities:
▪ Early morning hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched on a cliff 900 meters above the Paro Valley.
▪ Enjoy the serene and spiritual atmosphere at one of Bhutan’s most revered sites.
▪ Descend to the valley and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
▪ Afternoon free for shopping or a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath (optional).
◦ Overnight: Paro
Activities:
▪ Transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure flight, concluding your Paro Tshechu Festival Tour with fond memories of Bhutan’s vibrant culture and traditions.
