Upon arrival in Paro, enjoy the stunning views of the Himalayas from your flight. Meet your Bhutan Travel Bureau representative at the airport. After lunch, visit the National Museum at Ta Dzong, where religious relics and handicrafts provide an introduction to Bhutanese history. Next, visit Rimpong Dzong, featuring the revered paintings of Milarepa, a master of meditation. Conclude with a walk across a traditional cantilever bridge. Overnight in Paro.
Punakha Festival
9 Days
Overview
Experience the vibrant Punakha Tsechu festival with Zen Eco Travel, held in the stunning grounds of Punakha Dzong, Bhutan’s ancient capital. This Buddhist festival, dedicated to Guru Rinpoche, who brought Buddhism to Bhutan, is a celebration of faith, culture, and tradition. Locals and visitors alike gather to witness mesmerizing masked dances and colorful ceremonies, with the festival culminating in the Serda, a grand procession re-enacting a 17th-century Tibetan war episode. This unique event, often held in February or March, offers a deep cultural experience, and includes visits to sacred sites in Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and the breathtaking Phobjikha Valley, home to the rare Black-Necked Cranes.
Summary
Duration :
9 Days
Min PAX:
2
Min Age :
18
Accommodation :
4 star hotel/lodge
Trek Starts From :
Paro
Trek Ends At :
Paro
Itinerary
Day 01
Arrive Paro
Max. Altitude :
2,280 m
Accommodation :
4 star hotel/lodge
Day 02
Paro
Max. Altitude :
3,120 m
Hike Duration :
1.5-2 hours
Accommodation :
4 star hotel/lodge
After breakfast, embark on a hike to Taktsang Monastery, dramatically perched 900 meters above the valley floor. Take in the spectacular views and learn about Guru Rimpoche, who, according to legend, flew to this site on the back of a tigress. Lunch is at a teahouse en route. In the afternoon, drive to Drukgyel Dzong, a reconstructed fortress originally built in 1644, with views of Mount Jomolhari. Overnight in Paro.
Day 03
Paro – Punakha
Max. Altitude :
3,100 m
Drive Duration :
4 hours
Accommodation :
4 star hotel/lodge
Depart Paro and drive over Dochu-La Pass, where clear days offer panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. Continue to Punakha, passing through vibrant rhododendron forests. Arrive at Punakha Dzong, where locals gather to celebrate the festival with masked dances and blessings. This historic dzong, built in 1637, was the site of Bhutan’s first royal coronation. Overnight in Punakha.
Day 04
Punakha (Festival Day)
Max. Altitude :
1,300 m
Accommodation :
4 star hotel/lodge
In the morning, attend the Punakha Tsechu at Punakha Dzong, where monks perform sacred dances in colorful costumes. After lunch, visit Chimi Lhakhang, a fertility temple dedicated to Drukpa Kuenley, the ‘Divine Madman,’ known for his unconventional teachings. Overnight in Punakha.
Day 05
Punakha – Phobjikha Valley
Max. Altitude :
3,000 m
Drive Duration :
3 hours
Accommodation :
4 star hotel/lodge
Depart Punakha for Phobjikha Valley, stopping at Wangduephodrang town. The scenic drive takes you through forests and across mountain passes. In Phobjikha, visit the Black Necked Crane Sanctuary and Gangtey Monastery. Overnight in Phobjikha.
Day 06
Phobjikha Valley – Thimphu
Max. Altitude :
2,334 m
Drive Duration :
5 hours
Accommodation :
4 star hotel/lodge
Enjoy a morning walk through Phobjikha Valley and visit Gangtey Monastery. After lunch, drive back to Thimphu, crossing the Dochu-La Pass once again. Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 07
Explore Thimphu
Max. Altitude :
2,334 m
Accommodation :
4 star hotel/lodge
Enjoy full-day sightseeing in Thimphu, starting with the National Memorial Chorten and the 12th-century Changangkha Temple. Visit the Takin Reserve and Tashichhodzong, a fortress-monastery housing government offices and Bhutan’s central monastic body. If visiting on the weekend, explore the Thimphu Market. Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 08
Thimphu – Paro
Max. Altitude :
2,280 m
Drive Duration :
1.5 hours
Accommodation :
4 star hotel/lodge
In the morning, tour the School for Arts and Crafts and the National Library. Other stops include the Traditional Paper Factory and the Folk Heritage Museum. Optional hikes to nearby monasteries like Tango and Cheri offer views of Thimphu Valley. Later, drive to Paro. Overnight in Paro.
Day 09
Depart Paro
Max. Altitude :
2,280 m (
After breakfast, transfer to Paro Airport for your departure. Tashi Delek!
Whats Included
- Bhutan Tourist Tariff Royalty & Visa Fees All necessary fees are taken care of, ensuring a hassle-free entry into Bhutan
- Private Excursions and Transfers Travel comfortably in a superior air-conditioned vehicle, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic landscapes.
- Local English-Speaking Guide/Tour Leader Our knowledgeable guides will enrich your experience with insights into Bhutanese culture, history, and traditions.
- Experienced Driver Safety and comfort are our priorities, and our skilled drivers navigate the mountainous roads with ease
Whats Excluded
- Medical/Travel Insurance We recommend obtaining your own travel insurance to cover any medical needs or unforeseen circumstances.
- Personal Expenses This includes costs for bars, beverages, laundry, telephone services, and gratuities.
How to Prepare?
- Bring Your Sunscreen, Sun Googles since Bhutan is usually sunny during tourist season.
- Bring your important medications with you.
- Bring your towels and toileteries if you plan to go trekking.
- A good pair of boots and socks.
- Rain jacket and power bank.
Visit Bhutan Packages
Discover our diverse tour packages showcasing Bhutan's beauty and culture.
Book Now
Important Links
What to do in Bhutan?
About Us
Contact Us
Thimpu Head Office
4th Floor Norling Cable Building Chorten Lam,
Thimphu, Bhutan
Thimphu, Bhutan
UK Office
Zen Eco travel, 3 Sherboune Close, Dartford, Kent,
UK DA15WQ
UK DA15WQ
+00975324116
Round the clock support
info@zenecotravels.com
For any questions
Highlights of Punakha Festival
Immerse Yourself in Bhutanese Tradition at the Punakha Tsechu : Experience the heart of Bhutanese culture and faith by witnessing the vibrant Punakha Tsechu festival. Held at the majestic Punakha Dzong, this celebration features sacred masked dances and rituals, offering a unique insight into Bhutan's spiritual traditions.
Explore Bhutan’s Western Valleys and Sacred Sites : Venture into Bhutan's western valleys, where you’ll discover some of the most revered Buddhist monasteries and temples in the Himalayas. From visiting ancient Dzongs to exploring serene monasteries, this journey provides a deep connection to Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage.
Encounter Wildlife in the Phobjikha Valley: Visit the picturesque Phobjikha Valley, the winter home of the rare Black-Necked Cranes. As you traverse lush landscapes and dense forests, you’ll be captivated by the valley’s natural beauty and the opportunity to witness these majestic birds in their natural habitat.
Hike to the Legendary Taktsang Monastery: Challenge yourself with a rewarding hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest. Perched on a cliff 900m above the valley floor, this sacred site offers breathtaking views and a profound sense of peace as you explore its intricate carvings and wall paintings.
Personalize Your Journey with Value-Added Experiences: Enhance your Bhutan adventure with unique experiences such as a traditional Bhutanese cooking lesson or a meditation session with a monk. These enriching activities provide an extra layer of cultural immersion, making your journey unforgettable.