Trashigang Festival and Journey through Bhutan

The flight to Bhutan offers some of the most breathtaking mountain views, including the majestic peaks of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Jomolhari, Jichu Drakey, and Tserim Gang.

Upon arrival at the airport, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to Thimphu. On the way, there will be a stop at Tachhogang, where you can enjoy a short hike across the suspension bridge to the Tachhogang Temple perched on a hilltop. Once you arrive in Thimphu, check in at your hotel and take some time to explore the town. Overnight at the hotel 

Altitude: 2300m, Drive: 1h20, Distance: 60km

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: 30min, Distance: 20km

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. In the evening, take a stroll around Trongsa town before checking into your hotel.Overnight at the hotel 

Altitude: 1800m, Drive: 2hrs30min, Distance: 90km

After leaving 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.

Continue towards 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.

Before exploring the town in the evening, you can also visit the 15th-century Tamshing Monastery. Overnight at the hotel 

Altitude: 2500m, Drive: 2hrs, Distance: 80km

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.

In the evening, drive back to Jakar and visit Kharchung Monastery to witness the evening ceremony and observe the monk’s practicing metaphysics. Overnight at the hotel.

Altitude: 2500m, Drive: 2hrs, Distance: 80km

This journey is renowned as the most scenic drive in Bhutan, offering breathtaking views of the country’s diverse landscapes. Along the route, you will stop at the charming village of Ura, situated in a tranquil valley known for its unique community of lay monks and lay nuns, with a spiritual leader believed to be from a hereditary lineage. Take some time to stroll through the village and engage with the friendly locals before continuing your journey toward Thrimshingla Pass, which rises to 3,700 meters.

The road is an engineering marvel, carved from sheer cliffs, with guard rails ensuring safety from the steep drops into the deep valleys below. The drive from the pass to Singkhar village and onward to Yongkola is dramatic and awe-inspiring, revealing Bhutan’s rugged beauty. You will pass through dense forests, witness waterfalls cascading down mountainsides, and discover remote villages nestled in the valleys, all surrounded by pristine wilderness. This area is also a birdwatching hotspot, home to a variety of rare and endemic species. Finally, you will drive from Yongkola to Lingmithang and then to Mongar for the night.Overnight hotel 

Altitude: 1200m, Drive: 5hrs, Distance: 170km

In the morning, we will experience the vibrant Mongar Festival, one of Bhutan's most beautiful celebrations. This lively event features traditional mask dances performed by skilled artists, while locals dress in their finest attire, creating a colorful and festive atmosphere. The rhythmic music and energetic performances offer a captivating insight into Bhutanese culture and spirituality.

In the afternoon, we will drive to Trashigang across Korila Pass, which rises to 2,400 meters. We will make a brief stop to take in the breathtaking views of the majestic mountains and valleys, perfect for memorable photographs. As we descend, we will head towards the village of Yedi, taking the famous zigzag road known for its stunning vistas. Along the way, we will stop to observe the intriguing process of distilling lemongrass oil, showcasing the region's agricultural practices and traditional essential oil production methods.

Continuing our journey, we will pass through Chazam before arriving in Trashigang for the night. 

Overnight hotel 

Altitude: 1200m, Drive: 3hrs, Distance: 120km

In the morning, we will embark on a scenic drive to Rangjung, where we will visit the monastery that majestically overlooks the quaint village below. After our time in Rangjung, we will continue our journey to Radhi, a village renowned for its exquisite wild silk weavings. Here, you will have the opportunity to witness local artisans at work, showcasing their skills and the intricate beauty of their craft.

From Radhi, we will proceed to the remote village of Merak, driving through the lush rice fields and rolling hills. This secluded village rests at an altitude of approximately 3,000 meters in a mountainous area, making it a breathtaking destination. The local community is described as semi-nomadic, and their traditional way of life has remained largely unchanged for centuries, offering a unique insight into Bhutanese culture.

As we explore Merak, you will encounter charming houses scattered throughout the village and have the chance to interact with the welcoming villagers. They are known for their hospitality and will invite you to share a meal in one of their homes, allowing you to experience authentic local cuisine and traditions firsthand.

As evening approaches, we will begin our drive back to Trashigang, reflecting on the rich experiences and stunning landscapes we have encountered throughout the day.

Overnight hotel 

Altitude: 3000m, Drive: 4hrs, Distance: 120km

Today, we will immerse ourselves in the vibrant festivities of the Trashigang Festival, held in the picturesque courtyard of Trashigang Dzong. This festival is celebrated as one of the most beautiful and culturally rich events in Bhutan, attracting both locals and visitors alike.

Throughout the day, you will be treated to a captivating series of traditional mask dances performed by both monks and laypeople. Each dance tells a unique story, steeped in centuries of history and spirituality, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Bhutan. As you wander through the festival grounds, you will encounter the locals dressed in their finest attire, showcasing the traditional garments that are an integral part of their culture. This presents a wonderful opportunity to engage with them, share smiles, and take photographs, capturing the essence of this joyful celebration.

In the evening, as the festivities continue, you can stroll around the town, exploring the various stalls that line the streets. Overnight hotel 

Altitude: 1200m

After breakfast, you will take a short 30-minute flight to Paro. Upon arrival, your first stop will be the National Museum, housed in the Ta Dzong. Originally built in the 17th century as a watchtower to guard Paro Rinpung Dzong below, the Ta Dzong now displays a collection of rare stamps and other artifacts.

Next, visit Paro Rinpung Dzong, constructed in the 17th century by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. Today, it serves as the district headquarters, housing both the administrative offices and a monastic body of about 200 monks. After your visit, hike down to the bridge and drive into town for some leisure time to explore the area.

Overnight at the hotel 

Altitude: 2300m, Drive: 20min, Distance: 15km

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: 2300m, Drive: 20min, Distance: 7km

Transfer to airport for departure