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Bhutan Sacred Heritage – Paro Festival and Cultural Exploration

Tour information

Tour overview and details

Tour duration

10 Days

Tour overview

People from across Bhutan gather for Paro festival in their finest traditional attire to witness this grand event and to receive blessings during the five-day event. Various mask dances and folk dances are performed by both monks and laypeople from the community, showcasing Bhutan's rich cultural heritage.

The main highlight of the Tsechu is the unfurling of the giant Guru Thongdrel on the 5th day. This Thongdrel, a masterpiece of silk embroidery depicting Guru Rinpoche’s eight manifestations and two consorts, is revered for its spiritual significance, as it is believed to grant liberation by merely seeing it. People from other districts travel to Paro specifically to witness and receive blessings from the Thongdrel.

The Thongdrel is brought from the Dzong to the Tsechu grounds at Deyangkha in a religious ceremonial procession and is unfurled at 3 a.m., covering an entire three-story building. After the rituals and blessings are completed, the Thongdrel is carefully furled and taken back to the Dzong before sunrise, marking the end of this sacred ceremony.

Places covered

  • Lorem
  • Ipsum
  • Lorem
  • Ipsum

Agenda

Tour itinerary

During your flight to Paro, you will have the opportunity to marvel at some of the world's highest peaks, including Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Jomolhari, Jichu Drakey, and Tserim Gang. Upon arrival in Paro, you will be greeted by our representative, who will accompany you throughout your stay in Bhutan.

After some refreshments, your visit will begin with the National Museum. This museum features beautiful displays that showcase the rich cultural and natural history of Bhutan, offering an excellent introduction to the country and its unique heritage.

Next, we will visit the Paro Rimpong Dzong. These structures, known as dzongs, are among the most distinct and important buildings in Bhutan, serving as the offices for district administration and residences for monks.

After exploring the dzong, we will hike down to the wooden bridge and enjoy some free time in the town. Overnight at the hotel 

Altitude: 2300m

Start your day early to witness the sacred unfurling of the giant Thongdrel (a grand embroidered tapestry) of Guru Rinpoche, a deeply revered event that takes place in the grounds of Deyangkha. This significant moment is followed by an elaborate ceremony led by the monks, drawing thousands of locals from across Bhutan who gather to receive blessings from the Thongdrel.

The day continues with a series of traditional mask dances (Cham) performed by both monks and laypeople from nearby villages. These dances, rich in symbolism and meaning, are an essential part of Bhutanese spiritual culture. The final day of the festival is considered the most auspicious and important, and you’ll have the opportunity to mingle with locals from all walks of life. It’s the perfect moment to capture photos of this vibrant cultural experience and engage with Bhutanese people in their traditional attire.

As the festival winds down in the evening, you’ll begin your drive back to Thimphu, with a scenic stop at the Tachogang Temple, where you can pause and reflect on the day’s spiritual and cultural richness. Overnight hotel 

Altitude: 2300m, Drive: 1h20, Distance: 50km

After breakfast, visit the statue of Buddha Dordenma, which overlooks the Thimphu Valley. Then, stop at the Memorial Chorten, built in memory of the 3rd King, followed by a visit to the Painting School, where students learn 13 different arts and crafts unique to Bhutan. You can also visit Changlimithang Ground to witness an archery match, the national sport of Bhutan.

In the afternoon, drive to Sangaygang and enjoy a short, one-hour hike to Wangditse Temple. This beautiful hike offers stunning views of the Thimphu Valley. You can also stop at the zoo to see the Takin, the national animal of Bhutan. Later in the evening, visit Tashichho Dzong, the summer residence of the central monastic body. Conclude your day with a stroll around the craft market to explore some local products. Overnight at the hotel 

Altitude: 2300m, Drive: 40min, Distance: 30km

As you head towards Punakha, you can make several stops along the way to enjoy the beautiful landscape and forest. One of these stops will be at Dochula Pass, which is adorned with 108 stupas. On clear days, you'll be treated to stunning views of the Himalayas.

From the pass, you'll descend into the fertile valley of Punakha. Upon arrival in Punakha, visit the Punakha Dzong, beautifully situated between two rivers, the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu. After exploring the Dzong, take a walk to Changyul and cross Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge.

Next, you'll head further north and walk through rice fields to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Temple, which dominates the Punakha Valley. Afterward, drive back towards Lobesa and take a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang Temple. Built in the 15th century, this temple is known as the Fertility Temple, where couples who are unable to conceive come to seek blessings for a child.

Return to your hotel for an overnight stay. Overnight hotel 

Altitude: 1200m, Drive: 2hrs, Distance: 70km

After breakfast, drive towards Wangdue Phodrang and visit Wangdue Dzong, originally built in 1638, which was tragically burned down in 2012 and reconstructed in 2022. After exploring the Dzong, continue your journey towards Phobjikha, with a stop at Nobding Village.

As you approach Pelela Pass (3,420 meters), you will catch your first glimpse of the Black Mountain ranges, historically used as the border between eastern and western Bhutan. Just before reaching the pass, take a right turn towards the valley known for its rare and famous Black-Necked Cranes.

Your first stop will be the village of Gangtey (3,000 meters), followed by a visit to Gangtey Gompa. The villagers are said to be descendants of around 50 gomchens, or lay monks, who settled there long ago. Afterward, hike through the glacial valley of Phobjikha (2,900 meters), one of the most beautiful valleys in Bhutan and the winter nesting ground for the rare Black-Necked Cranes.Overnight at the hotel 

Altitude: 2900m, Drive: 2hrs, Distance: 80km

As you continue your journey, you will stop at Pelela Pass, located at 3,420 meters. From there, you’ll descend towards Langthel Village, where the inhabitants raise sheep and yaks. Along the road, you’ll catch a glimpse of Rukubji Village, nestled amidst fields of potatoes, barley, and mustard, depending on the season.

The next village you’ll pass through is Chendebji, known for its large white stupa, modeled after Swayambhunath in Nepal and built in the 19th century.

As you approach Trongsa, you’ll be treated to a magnificent view of Trongsa Dzong, which overlooks the Mangde Chhu in the deep valley below. Upon arrival in Trongsa, visit the 17th-century Trongsa Dzong, the most strategically located fortress in Bhutan. The first two kings of Bhutan used to reside here during the winter months.

You’ll also visit Ta Dzong, a former watchtower converted into a museum in 2008. The museum houses about 244 artifacts used over the years by the Wangchuck dynasty. 

After visiting Trongsa, you will head towards Jakar, crossing over Yotongla Pass at 3,420 meters and passing through the Chumey Valley. In Chumey Village, you can stop to observe the local women weaving Yaktra, a traditional fabric made from wool and yak hair. Overnight hotel 

Altitude: 2500m, Drive: 4hrs, Distance: 140km

On your way to Tang, visit the famous Burning Lake, where the saint Terton Pema Lingpa discovered religious treasures. Continue towards Tang, stopping to visit Tang Rimochen Temple, named for the "Tiger’s Stripe" pattern that the large rock behind the temple resembles.

From there, stop at Metsi Zampa and take a 45-minute hike to Ugyenchholing, the former home of the most powerful governor of Trongsa in the 19th century. Today, it houses a family museum with an extensive collection of household items used during the governor's time.

Drive back to Jakar and visit Jakar Dzong, built in the 17th century. This fortress has a rich history, having defended against numerous enemies both foreign and domestic. The name "Jakar" means "white bird," originating from a local legend. Today, the Dzong houses the district headquarters and about 60 monks from Bumthang.

You will also visit Jambay Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to the future Buddha, built in the 7th century, making it one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. Next, visit Kurjey Lhakhang, where "Kurjey" means "Body Imprint." It is said that Guru Rinpoche came here to cure the local king of a serious illness, leaving his body imprint on a rock.

You can also visit the 15th-century Tamshing Monastery followed by a visit Kharchung Monastery towards evening to witness the evening ceremony and observe the monk’s practicing metaphysics. Overnight at the hotel.

Altitude: 2500m, Drive: 3hrs, Distance: 90km

After breakfast, take a short 30-minute flight to Paro. Upon arrival, you will drive towards Chele La Pass, which sits at an altitude of 3,899 meters. On the way, stop at Dzongrakha village, which offers breathtaking views of the rice fields of Bondey. From there, continue your journey to Kila Gompa, where you can spend some time interacting with the resident nuns and learning about their way of life.

You have the option to either hike or drive from Kila Gompa towards Chele La Pass. On a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Jomolhari mountains. If you're up for more adventure, you can hike further up the ridge for even more spectacular views of the surrounding valleys.

In the evening, return to Paro and take a leisurely stroll around Paro town, soaking in the local atmosphere and exploring its charming streets. Overnight hotel 

Altitude: 2300m, Drive: 2hrs, Distance: 90km

Trekking to the revered Taktsang Monastery is a must-do activity for all visitors to Bhutan. This ancient monastery, founded by Guru Rinpoche, clings dramatically to a cliffside, offering breathtaking views of the Paro Valley. The ascent takes about four hours and passes through a stunning landscape of waterfalls, meditation caves, prayer wheels, and colorful flags—perfect for photography.

After exploring the temple complex, enjoy lunch at a teahouse while taking in the magnificent scenery. The hike back down to the valley takes around 45 minutes, providing further opportunities to appreciate the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Later in the day, visit a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse and experience a hot stone bath, a unique and traditional way of relaxing in Bhutan. Locals believe that the hot stone bath has therapeutic benefits and can cure various ailments. You can also taste the local alcohol, "Ara," during a typical Bhutanese dinner. Overnight at the hotel 

Altitude: 315m, Drive: 20min, Distance: 7km

Transfer to airport for departure

Included

  • Hotels in 3*
  • Meals (BLD)
  • Bhutan visa
  • Government tax
  • English Speaking guide
  • Sightseeing
  • Transportation
  • Flight (Jakar – Paro)

Not included

  • Airfare
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips

Enquire this tour

$2500

/ person

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Information

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