Paro Festival Tour

Enroute to Thimphu, you’ll witness awe-inspiring vistas of the Himalayan Mountains, featuring the revered Jumolhari and Jichu Drake peaks, weather permitting. Upon arrival, our representative will extend a warm welcome, facilitating your transfer to the hotel. The journey to Thimphu follows a serpentine route alongside the Paro and Thimphu rivers. En route, a visit to Simtokha Dzong, the kingdom’s oldest fortress, awaits. The afternoon offers an opportunity to explore the charming Thimphu town. As dusk falls, immerse yourself in the grandeur of Tashichodzong. Your night will be spent in Thimphu, surrounded by the allure of Bhutan’s cultural and natural wonders.

Following a delightful breakfast, your day in Thimphu unfolds with a visit to the King’s Memorial Chorten, a tribute to the third King of Bhutan (1952-1972). Explore the serene Changgangkha Monastery and ascend to the radio tower for panoramic views of Thimphu Valley and the imposing Thimphu Dzong. Discover Bhutan’s national animal at the Takin reserve, then proceed to the nunnery temple, the National Library boasting ancient manuscripts, and the School of Arts and Crafts, renowned as the painting school. After a leisurely lunch, your journey continues to the National Institute of Traditional Medicine, a traditional paper factory, the Folk Heritage Museum, and the Textile Museum. Your day concludes with a relaxing evening in Thimphu, surrounded by the cultural treasures of Bhutan.

In the morning, embark on a scenic 12-kilometer drive north of Thimphu to commence a 45-minute hike to Tango Monastery. This sacred Buddhist college is not only a place of spiritual significance but also the residence of Desi Tenzin Rabgye, a young reincarnation of the 16th-century monk who founded Tango. Subsequently, another 45-minute hike leads to Cheri Monastery, offering a serene continuation of your spiritual exploration.

Following a satisfying lunch, your journey takes you to Wangduephodrang. Traverse the Dochula Pass (10,230 ft), marked by a grand Bhutanese chorten and vibrant prayer flags. A pause on the pass allows for tea, accompanied by breathtaking views of the eastern Himalayan peaks if the weather permits. The road descends from the pass, weaving through enchanting pine and rhododendron forests, revealing some of Bhutan’s most picturesque countryside. Your day concludes with an overnight stay in Wangduephodrang, immersed in the tranquility of the Bhutanese landscape.

Following breakfast, embark on a picturesque journey to Bumthang via Trongsa. The route unfolds along a breathtaking winding road, traversing the 3,300-meter-high Pele La, where, during certain seasons, you might catch sight of majestic yaks. In Trongsa, explore the architectural marvel of Trongsa Dzong, a masterpiece of Bhutanese design, and witness Ta Dzong, the watchtower erected for the dzong’s defense.

In the afternoon, your scenic drive to Bumthang, the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, takes you through verdant valleys and hilly forests. Along the way, make a stop at a yethra (textile weaving) factory, where Bumthang’s unique patterns are meticulously crafted. Witness skilled weavers at their looms, adding to the cultural richness of your journey. Conclude your day with an overnight stay in Bumthang, surrounded by the serene landscapes and vibrant traditions of this religious hub.

Start your day with a visit to Jakar Dzong, the valley’s administrative hub, followed by Jambey Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest monasteries, and Kurjey Lhakhang, a revered sacred site. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic hike to Shukdrag Monastery, a tranquil meditation center nestled in the Thangbi valley. The one-hour hike leads you through picturesque landscapes to Shukdrag Gompa, built around a sacred cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated in the 8th century, adding a spiritual touch to your exploration.

As the day winds down, take a leisurely stroll through Bumthang town, immersing yourself in its unique charm. Your night in Bumthang promises tranquility and the lingering spirituality of this sacred valley.

Commence your day with a visit to the vibrant Bumthang market, immersing yourself in the local flavors and unique offerings. Following this enriching experience, your journey continues as you drive to Wangduephodrang.

Upon arrival, take a leisurely stroll through the town, exploring its charm and visiting local shops. The nearby villages are renowned for their exquisite slate and stone carvings, as well as skilled bamboo work. Delight in the craftsmanship and cultural richness of the region. Your night in Wangduephodrang promises a peaceful stay, surrounded by the warmth of Bhutanese hospitality.

Commence your day with a visit to the majestic Punakha Dzong, renowned for its architectural beauty and historical significance, as it was constructed by the first Shabdrung in 1637. Marvel at the intricate details and rich cultural heritage within its walls.

Next, explore the Khamsum Yulephelma Chorten in Punakha, a splendid example of Bhutanese craftsmanship. Following this, a stop at Metshina Village awaits, where you’ll embark on a 20-30 minute walk through picturesque rice fields to reach Chimi Lakhang, a unique fertility temple.

In the afternoon, embark on a scenic drive to Paro, where you’ll spend the night surrounded by the tranquility and beauty of this picturesque town. Your stay in Paro promises a continuation of Bhutan’s cultural and natural wonders.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural tapestry of Bhutan by attending the Paro festival, a mesmerizing spectacle performed by local people and monks. This festival serves as a vibrant recounting of Bhutan’s history and the revered teachings of Guru Rinpoche. Witnessing a tsechu, or festival, is not just a visual treat but an act of building positive karma in your life.

The entire community comes together for this auspicious event, and families don their finest attire, adding to the colorful ambiance of the festival grounds. The festivities unfold with traditional dances, masked performances, and religious rituals that capture the essence of Bhutanese spirituality.

The Paro festival extends until the afternoon, providing ample time for you to absorb the cultural richness and joyous celebrations. It’s an opportunity to connect with the local community, witness the living traditions of Bhutan, and create lasting memories of this unique cultural experience.

On your final full day of the Paro festival, embrace a truly enchanting experience by rising at 2:30 a.m. and making your way to Paro Dzong. Here, witness the awe-inspiring unfurling of the Thongdrol, a colossal thangka painting depicting Guru Rinpoche. The procession led by monks and lamas adds a spiritual and ceremonial touch to this early-morning spectacle, providing a unique and memorable start to your day.

Following the festival, take the opportunity to explore the historical and sacred sites in Paro. Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan, and explore the remnants of Drugyal Dzong, a fortress with a rich history.

As the day unfolds, meander through Paro town, discovering its charm and perhaps indulging in some local delights. The evening offers a relaxed exploration of the town, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere of this picturesque destination. Conclude your day with an overnight stay in Paro, surrounded by the cultural treasures and natural beauty of this Bhutanese town.

Embark on a captivating morning adventure after breakfast with a hike to the iconic Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery, the crown jewel of Bhutanese landmarks. Nestled on the edge of a precipitous cliff, approximately 900 meters above the Paro Valley, this monastery offers a breathtaking panorama. The hike to the viewpoint is a delightful half-day excursion, rewarding you with stunning views and a sense of accomplishment.

In the afternoon, delve into Bhutan’s rich history at the National Museum, housed in a former watchtower. Explore the exhibits that showcase the country’s cultural heritage and artistic treasures.

As the day transitions to evening, immerse yourself in Bhutanese hospitality with a visit to a traditional farmhouse. Witness aspects of Bhutanese daily life and, if desired, partake in a typical Bhutanese dinner, savoring the flavors of this unique cuisine. Conclude your day with an overnight stay in Paro, surrounded by the enchanting landscapes and cultural wonders of Bhutan.

As your Bhutanese journey comes to a close, bid farewell to the enchanting town of Paro. Whether you depart by air or land, take with you the memories of vibrant festivals, sacred monasteries, and the warm hospitality of this Himalayan kingdom. The cultural richness and natural beauty of Bhutan will linger in your heart, inviting you to return for more adventures in the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Safe travels and Tashi Delek – may your journey home be as memorable as your time in Bhutan.