The exotic, arcane, and other-worldly aspects of Bhutanese culture are beautifully showcased in its religious festivals, with one of the largest and most colourful being the "tsechu". Our "Bhutan Festival Tour" is a 7-day cultural tour that allows you to experience at least one Tshechu festival in the beautiful Himalayan kingdom.
In 2024, mark your calendars for three days of enchanting Thimphu Tshechu Festival from September 21 to 25. Get ready to witness a visual and auditory feast set against the vibrant backdrop of the urban capital city of Thimphu. The streets of Thimphu will transform into a canvas of vibrant colors and intricate patterns. The monks and locals will dress in their finest traditional attire. At Tashichho Dzong, masked performers (Cham dances) will enact religious stories and myths. In addition, this Thimphu Tshechu Festival tour also covers highlights of Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha, which are Bhutan's most historic towns and districts. Explore the rich history of Paro, home to many of Bhutan's oldest temples and monasteries, including the iconic Tiger's Nest and Kyichu Lhakhang. Journey to the capital Thimphu, a unique blend of the modern and traditional, offering a glimpse into Bhutan's evolving culture. Witness the Buddha Dordenma Statue, Bhutan Post Office, School for Arts and Crafts, and Folk Heritage Museum, etc. Finally, explore Punakha, the ancient capital known for its beautiful Punakha dzong and the serene beauty of its valley.
As these festival periods are extremely popular, flights and hotels tend to get booked out quickly. So it is advisable to plan and book early to secure your spot.
Paro (3 Days)
Paro Dzong, Bhutan National Museum, Tiger's Nest Monastery, Drukgyel Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang
Thimphu (2 Days)
Thimphu Tshechu Festival, Tashichho Dzong, Buddha Dordenma Statue, National Memorial Chorten, Simply Bhutan Museum, Bhutan Post Office, School for Arts and Crafts, Local Market, Archery Ground, Takin Preserve
Punakha (2 Days )
Chimi Lhakhang, Punakha Dzong, Punakha Suspension Bridge, Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten Hike, Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery
Kuzuzangpo la! Welcome to Bhutan, the Last Shangri La in Pristine Himalayan Kingdom. Take a deep breath and enjoy the refreshing breeze in the happy country where 71% of the land is covered with forests. Your guide and driver in Paro will greet you at Paro International Airport, Bhutan's only international airport.
Then, we will head to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, which is approximately 50km away and takes about 1.5 hours to reach. Unlike many capital cities dominated by skyscrapers and heavy traffic, Thimphu doesn't have traffic lights or a railway system. Surrounded by rolling mountains, Thimphu is known for its picturesque scenery, Bhutanese dzong, Buddhist monuments, and traditional arts and crafts. Thimphu is committed to preserving its cultural heritage and natural environment while slowly embracing modernity. You may have the chance to attend the colorful annual Thimphu Tshechu Festival if you visit Thimphu in September. The Thimphu Tshechu is held for 3 days beginning on the 10th day of the 8th Bhutanese lunar month, typically in September or October. In 2024, Thimphu Tshechu is held during Sep. 13-15 at the Thimphu Dzong.
Note: The coverage of attractions on the first day depends on your flight arrival time. If you don't have time to visit the sites below, we might adjust the itinerary to the next day.
On the way to Thimphu, you will not miss a stop at the Paro Airport Birds Eye View Point which is a great spot to enjoy a panorama view of Paro Airport, Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong), National Museum (Ta Dzong), Paro Chu River, and the stunning Paro Valley itself. Don't forget to ask your guide for more fascinating information about this remarkable airport.
You will visit the iconic landmark of Thimphu city - Buddha Dordenma Statue (Buddha Point) first. It is the largest sitting Shakyamuni statue in the world that completed in 2015. The statue embodies an ancient prophecy of radiating happiness and peace throughout the world. In addition to admiring its impressive height of 51.5 meters, constructed of bronze and gilded in gold, you will also be able to see 125,000 smaller Buddha statues placed within it. Moreover, from this vantage point, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Thimphu Valley.
The National Memorial Chorten is the most visited landmark in Thimphu. Constructed in 1974 in memory of the Third King, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk (known as the Father of Modern Bhutan), by his mother, it reflects the late king's vision of promoting world peace and prosperity. The Chorten follows a Tibetan-style architecture and is adorned with remarkable paintings and intricate sculptures. You can observe the traditional stupa design, featuring a pyramidal pillar topped with a crescent moon and sun.
For dinner, you can enjoy a dinner with a Bhutan Culture Dance Show (optional). Afterward, you can check in at your cozy hotel in Thimphu, where you can rest and adjust to any time difference.
Arrival Ideas:
Bhutan is situated between Tibet in China to the north and India to the south. To reach Bhutan, you can either travel by air to Paro International Airport, the country's only international airport, or by land through the entry points of Phuentsholing or Gelephu from India. Bhutan's national carrier Druk Air, Bhutan Airlines, and other international airlines, operate regular flights to Paro from major cities like Delhi (India), Kolkata (India),Bagdogra (India), Gaya (India), Guwahati (India), Dhaka (Bangladesh), Bangkok (Thailand), Kathmandu (Nepal), and Changi (Singapore). There will be some charter flights to Paro from Hong Kong (China) and Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), on a seasonal basis. Around 30,000 people arrive at Paro Airport every year.
Kind Reminds:
1.You can contact us to book your flight to Paro and land directly in Bhutan.
2. Visitors of all nationalities, except those from India (require a permit), require an E-visa (40USD/pax) before entering Bhutan. All nationalities are welcome to visit Bhutan, and there are no specific restrictions on granting visas to enter the country.
3. Visitors from India are able to apply for a permit but are required to hold an Indian passport or an Indian voter ID card.
4. Visitors from Bangladesh and the Maldives also require a visa, which can be applied for and approved in advance of travel or upon arrival in Bhutan.
Get ready for an exhilarating morning as you set off to attend the Thimphu Tshechu Festival at the majestic Tashichho Dzong. Our guide will advise you on the festival schedule, appropriate attire, and any local customs or traditions to be mindful of.
Tashichho Dzong (Thimphu Dzong), which has served as the seat of the government since 1952. This magnificent fortress-like structure is located on the western bank of the Wang Chu River. It seamlessly integrates with the entire valley and stands as the ultimate center of power in Bhutan. It houses the offices of the current reigning monarch, the Fifth King (Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck), as well as the ministries of internal affairs and finance. Additionally, it serves as the residence of the spiritual leader of Bhutan, the Je Khenpo, and hosts the central religious institutions of the country. During the summer season, the Je Khenpo resides in the Thimphu Dzong, while in the winter season, they relocate to Punakha Dzong. Walking around the Dzong, you will discover that it is an impressively large structure surrounded by well-kept lawns and beautiful gardens. Tashichho Dzong has two main entrances. One entrance leads to the administrative section in the south, while the other, situated in the north, grants access to the monastic quarter where the Thimphu Tshechu Festival and masked dances are performed.
The Thimphu Tshechu Festival is one of the most significant events in Bhutanese culture. The festival celebrates the deeds of Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, who is revered for introducing Buddhism to Bhutan. The Bhutanese believed that attending the festival brings blessings and helps in washing away sins. The festival is also a is a grand social even drawing people far and wide from the surrounding districts. You'll see people dressed in their finest Ghos and Kiras (traditional Bhutanese attire), adorned with beautiful jewelry, joining in the festivities. The highlight of the festival is the colorful mask dances (Cham dances) and religious performances performed by monks and laymen. Adorned in vibrant costumes and intricate masks, the dancers whirl and leap, embodying deities, demons, and historical figures. Their synchronized movements and the kaleidoscope of colors ignite the festival grounds with a mesmerizing energy.The festival is not just a chance to gain profound insights into the spiritual and artistic heritage of Bhutan, but also an opportunity to engage with locals and witness firsthand the deep-rooted traditions that shape the Bhutanese way of life.
After attending the festival, you can try Bhutanese cuisine and shop for local handicrafts. Stalls and small shops set up just outside the festival grounds. If you're visiting during the weekend, don't miss the opportunity to explore Thimphu Weekend Market, also known as the Centenary Farmers Market, which is the largest and most vibrant market in the country. As you stroll through the market, you'll be immersed in a vibrant atmosphere filled with colors, sounds, and smells. You can explore the sections overflowing with fresh fruits and vegetables, or be captivated by the aromatic spices and herbs. Don't forget to sample some of the local cheese or the assortment of dried meats, which are staples in the Bhutanese diet. In addition to food, you can also browse through the areas dedicated to traditional Bhutanese textiles and handicrafts, where you can find unique souvenirs. If you're lucky, you may even witness an exciting game of archery at the Changlingmithang Archery Ground. (Optional Activity: Try Bhutan's national game - Archery, which is the favorite pastime for Bhutanese people.)
If you have an interest in Bhutan's national animal, you also can visit Motithang Takin Preserve. There, you can observe the unique creature that is said to have been created by the legendary Drukpa Kunley (Divine Madman). According to legend, Drukpa Kunley fashioned the takin with the head of a goat and the body of a cow.
Overnight in Thimphu and get ready for your next day's trip.
This morning, you can pay a visit to the Bhutan Post Office Headquarters (General Post Office) first for fully functional stamp printed with a self-portrait. This post office is known for housing the world's largest photo book and an intriguing collection of Bhutanese stamps. It is the only place where you can obtain personalized stamps featuring your own face. (Open hours for the post office: Weekdays: 9AM - 5PM; Saturdays: 9 AM - 1 PM; Closed on Sundays).
Then, you can visit School for Arts and Crafts, also known as the Thimphu National Institute for Zorig Chusum, and delight in the abundance of Bhutan's traditional arts and skills. This institution showcases the mastery of the country's 13 arts and crafts, offering a captivating experience of Bhutan's rich artistic heritage. Students here undergo rigorous training for 4-6 years, mastering the techniques and artistic nuances of their chosen craft. The 13 art forms are Traditional Painting, Sculpturing, Wood Carving, Calligraphy, Papermaking, Bronze Casting, Embroidery, Weaving, Carpentry, Masonry, Bamboo and cane weaving, Gold/Silver Smithy, and Black smithy.
Afterward, you can further explore the Simply Bhutan Museum. This interactive museum offers a glimpse into traditional Bhutanese life. You can touch and take pictures while witnessing the culture of Bhutan through household tools and other items of Bhutanese origin. Just follow the museum docent, who dresses up in traditional clothes, to try local rice wine, observe the traditional way of building houses out of rammed earth, sip local milk tea while enjoying Bhutanese songs and folk dances, and try archery, which is Bhutan's national sport. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to meet Pema Tshering, a talented craftsman. Despite being born with cerebral palsy and congenital deformities in his spinal column, he skillfully carves wood using his feet. The museum also features souvenir stalls and a restaurant that serves Bhutanese set meals.
After lunch, you will travel from Thimphu to Punakha via Dochula Pass (74km, about2.5 hours). This trip is more than just a drive; it is a voyage through changing altitudes and diverse landscapes, offering a visual spectacle. Starting from the higher altitude and cooler climate of Thimphu (2,300m), the drive takes you along the national highway, ascending through the majestic Dochula Pass (3,120m). Upon crossing the pass, you'll descend into the warm and verdant Punakha Valley (1,330m).
En route, you will stop at Dochula Pass (Dochu La Pass), renowned as one of the most beautiful mountain passes in Bhutan. If weather permits, you will be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of the Himalayas, including Bhutan’s highest mountain peak, Mt. Gangkar Puensum (7,570m). You will have the delightful option to savor the view while enjoying a cup of coffee in the picturesque cafeteria. At the Dochu La Pass summit, you will encounter the 108 memorial chortens (Buddhist shrines) and clusters of prayer flags fluttering in the wind, creating an ambiance of tranquility and spirituality. These chortens (stupas), known as Druk Wangyal Khang Zhang Chortens, were constructed as a memorial to honor the Bhutanese soldiers who lost their lives in the battle against Assamese insurgents from India, and also as an offering for global peace.
Then, your journey continues towards Punakha. Along the way, you will take a hike to Chimi Lhakhang (Chime Lhakhang), which is highly recommended as a culture shock tour. As you stroll through rice paddies and a charming settlement adorned with painted houses and numerous craft shops, you will eventually reach Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple). Constructed by the cousin of Drukpa Kunley, the temple was built to commemorate the victory of Drukpa Kunley (Mad Saint & Divine Madman) over the demon of Dochu La using his "magic thunderbolt of wisdom "(phallus). That is why you can see the symbol of the phallus scattered throughout. Lama Drukpa Kunley was adored by the local people due to his unconventional teaching methods of Buddhism, which involved singing, humor, and an exaggerated manner often intertwined with sexual overtones. Chime Lhakhang is renowned as a sanctuary of fertility, and many childless women sought blessings from the lamas at the monastery. It is believed that these couples often find success in conceiving soon after their visit. If you are lucky, you may encounter the monks there blessing pilgrims or women who wish to conceive by tapping their heads with a 25cm wooden phallus. In Bhutan, it is common for local people to utilize the phallus symbol to ward off the evil eye and deter malicious gossip.
Overnight in Punakha and get ready for your next day's trip.
Punakha lies in a warm, fertile, and stunningly beautiful valley at the confluence of the Mo Chhu (Mother River) and Pho Chhu Rivers (Father River). Commanding the river junction is the gorgeous Punakha Dzong, perhaps Bhutan’s most impressive building. Today, you will first visit Punakha Dzong, which is arguably the most beautiful dzong in the country, especially in spring when the lilac-colored jacaranda trees bring a lush sensuality to the dzong’s characteristically towering whitewashed walls. Occasionally, you'll spot monks draped in red robes passing by, occasionally echoing rhythmic sounds of their chanting and prayer.
Punakha Dzong, the second oldest and second largest Dzong in Bhutan serving administrative and monastic functions holds a legendary tale. It is said that Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) prophesied the arrival of a person named Namgyal built a Dzong on a hill resembling an elephant. In 1637, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, the unifier of Bhutan, received a divine vision guiding him to construct a Dzong at this site. The Dzong was played as the administrative center and the seat of the Bhutanese officials till the capital city was moved from Punakha to Thimphu in 1955. All of Bhutan’s kings have been crowned here and In 2011, the Dzong bore witness to the royal wedding ceremony of His Majesty Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, the 5th King of Bhutan, as he married Queen Jetsun Pema. Now, the Dzong serves as the winter residence for Je Khenpo (head abbot of Bhutan), as well as about 1,000 monks.
After crossing the Bazam Bridge, you can walk inside the Punakha Dzong and take your time to admire this stunning example of Bhutanese Dzong architecture which was built of stone, pounded mud, and a considerable amount of timber (without nails, written plans, or designs). There is a six-story central tower called utse standing in the yard of the Punakha Dzong. As the highest architecture within the Dzong, utse houses the most sacred temples and shrines and contains important religious artifacts, thangkas, statues, and texts. This Dzong has three docheys (courtyards) instead of the usual two. The first (northern) courtyard is for administrative functions and houses a huge white Victory Chorten and Bodhi tree. The second courtyard houses the monastic quarters and is separated from the first by the utse. In this courtyard, there are two halls; one of Ugyen Wangchuck (the King of Bhutan) and another hall where the King was decorated in 1905 with the Order of the Knight Commander of the Indian Empire by John Claude White. In the third (southernmost) courtyard is the temple where the remains of the Pema Lingpa (a treasure revealer, Five Terton Kings) and Shabdrung (founder of Tshechu Festival and Bhutan National Dress) are preserved. At the south end, there is the kunrey, or "hundred-pillar" assembly hall with exceptional murals that depict the life of Buddha. If you visit during the Punakha Tshechu Festival, you can enjoy the mesmerizing masked dances and witness the exhibition of a large thangka depicting the Zhabdrung (Shabdrung, the father of Bhutan) once a year. You can have fun with locals who flood here dressed in Bhutan’s national attire, with men wearing Gho and women wearing Kira. Optional activity: You have options to go rafting in the Po Chu and Mo Chu rivers, offering unique views of the Dzong not possible from land.
After exploring the Punakha Dzong, your journey continues with an opportunity to cross one of Bhutan’s longest pedestrian suspension bridges over the Po Chhu River. By walking across this 160-meter suspension bridge, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the lush Punakha Valley and the glacier-fed Po Chhu River below. Upon crossing the bridge, you will walk alongside terraced rice paddies and up a trail to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, perched on a beautiful ridge above the Punakha valley. It should take an hour or less to reach the chorten.You may see farmers working the fields by hand or with the assistance of an ox and plow.
The Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten (Stupa) was built in 1990 by the Queen Mother, Ashi Tsering Yangdon Wangchuck, who is the mother of the 5th King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. The purpose of its construction was to ward off evil forces and bring peace to Bhutan and the world. Unlike typical stupas, the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten is dedicated to the protective deities in Bhutanese culture. Each floor of the chorten pays tribute to different protective deities. This chorten exemplifies a harmonious blend of Bhutanese art, architecture, and traditions. It took Bhutanese carpenters, painters, and sculptors 9 years to complete this distinctive Bhutan-style pagoda. Inside Khamsum Yulley, you can admire the sculptures, and as you continue climbing the steep stairs, you will reach the top level. From there, you can venture onto the roof of Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten and enjoy expansive views of the Punakha. The landscape undergoes a dramatic transformation with the changing seasons, with lush green rice paddies in the summer transforming into captivating golden fields in the autumn.
Then, pay a visit to Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery. Situated on the summit of a 1,550-meter hilltop, the nunnery offers a breathtaking view of the Punakha valley and Wangduephodrang valley. Surrounded by lush green pine forests, this nunnery complex provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the monastic way of life and participate in spiritual retreats. Initially established as a Buddhist college for nuns, the nunnery currently houses around 120 nuns. The complex also includes a meditation center dedicated to the nuns. In addition to religious education, the center focuses on teaching practical skills such as tailoring, embroidery, sculpting, and Buddhist Thangka painting. You will have the chance to closely observe and learn about the spiritual lives practiced by the nuns. Within the complex, there is a temple that showcases a magnificent 14-feet bronze statue of Avalokiteshvara, also known as Chenrezig, featuring 1,000 hands and 1,000 eyes. The statue, claimed to be the largest in the country, was meticulously handcrafted by local Bhutanese artisans. Alongside this remarkable statue, the temple also houses other significant statues, including Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche), Buddha, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the 21 Taras, and the Buddha of longevity.
Overnight in Punakha and get ready for your next day's trip.
Today, you will depart Punakha and head back to Paro (110km, about 3.5h) via Dochula Pass again and overnight in Paro after visiting Paro Dzong, Bhutan National Museum.
En route, you will make a brief stop at Dochula Pass (3,120m), renowned as one of the most beautiful mountain passes in Bhutan. If weather permits, you will be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of the Himalayas, including Bhutan’s highest mountain peak, Mt. Gangkar Puensum (7,570m). At the Dochu La Pass summit, you will encounter the 108 memorial chortens (Buddhist shrines), known as Druk Wangyal Khang Zhang Chortens, were constructed as a memorial to honor the Bhutanese soldiers who lost their lives in the battle against Assamese insurgents from India, and also as an offering for global peace.
After reaching Paro, you can pay a visit to Paro Dzong and Bhutan National Museum. Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong) is a magnificent fortress that stands tall and proud, serving as a beacon of history and culture in Bhutan. Rinpung Dzong was constructed in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal (1594-1651), a pivotal figure in Bhutanese history who is revered as the founder of the modern Bhutanese state and a national hero. His enduring legacy continues to shape the country's identity and cultural landscape. Located near the pristine Paro Chu River, Paro Dzong can be accessed via a traditional wooden cantilever bridge, providing you with breathtaking panoramic views of the enchanting Paro Valley.
If you hike a little further, you will reach the Bhutan National Museum (Ta Dzong), which holds the distinction of being Bhutan's tallest building. Originally constructed in 1649 as a watchtower overlooking the Paro Dzong, it was later transformed into the National Museum of Bhutan in 1968. At the museum, you can immerse yourself in a rich collection of ancient artifacts such as pottery, armor, thangkas, masks, stamps, photographs, statues, costumes, relics, stone axes, and religious paintings.
And stay overnight in Paroand get ready for your next day's trip.
This morning, you will enjoy the exciting hiking tour to Tiger's Nest, the landmark of Bhutan and the most famous holy monastery in the country. It is about a 12km drive (over 0.5 hours) from Paro City to the start point of the Tiger's Nest hike route.
Usually, it may take about 2.5 hours to reach Tiger's Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang) on foot. The entire Tiger's Nest Hike takes around 5 to 6 hours, with about 4.8 km of uphill trekking and about 4.8 km of downhill walking. You have the option to rent a horse at the designated place if you prefer. Riding a horse (self-payment required) takes about 1.5 hours to reach the halfway point on the mountainside. From there, you need to say goodbye to your horse and hike for another 1.5 hours to reach the Tiger's Nest Monastery. At the halfway point, there is a Taktsang Cafeteria where you can have a buffet lunch and enjoy coffee and tea. What is more, it is the first viewpoint where you can look up Tiger's Nest Monastery, the incredible religious site of Buddhists. As the viewing position ascends, the outline of Tiger's Nest Monastery becomes increasingly clear. On the journey ahead, you can enjoy the hike in Bhutan’s forest and will see more and more prayer flags and prayer wheels, left behind by the Bhutanese people who come here to worship. You will also have a panoramic view of the beautiful Paro Valley below. If you visit in April, you will have the opportunity to see the high-altitude rhododendrons blooming, creating a stunning display of red clouds amidst the mountains.
Then, you will stand right opposite the Taktsang Goemba (Tiger's Nest Monastery) and admire Bhutan's most iconic cultural landmark, which is renowned as one of the world's top ten super monasteries. The Tiger's Nest (3,120m) is situated on the side of a cliff at a height of 900m above the Paro Valley (2,270m). According to legend, the Indian sage Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rimpoche, the founder of the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism and the builder of the first monastery in Tibet - Samye Monastery) arrived at the location of Tiger's Nest Monastery in the 8th century. It is said that he rode a tigress and subdued demons before spending 3 months meditating in the mountain caves here. This eventually led to the formation of the present-day Tiger's Nest Monastery. Throughout history, this place has been considered a sacred site by Buddhist luminaries. However, it wasn't until 1692 that the current structure of Tiger's Nest Monastery took shape. In 1998, a devastating fire caused significant damage, but it was reconstructed in 2005, closely resembling the original architectural design. If you are interested you can hike into the monastery to explore more (no photo inside). Today, Tiger's Nest Monastery, one of the most visited tourist attractions in Bhutan, is revered as the holiest pilgrimage site for Bhutanese people to visit at least once in a lifetime.
After completing the Tiger's Nest hike, you will proceed to Drukgyal Dzong, where you will have the opportunity to catch a glimpse of Mount Jomolhari (7,570m). Known as the "Mountain Goddess" and the tallest mountain in Bhutan, Mt Jomolhari is considered a sacred abode for deities and spirits, earning the title of "Sacred Mountain". Know as the Fortress of the Victorious Drukpa, Drukgyal Dzong was believed to have been built in 1646 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal who is the unifier and founder of the Bhutanese nation-state. The building was used as an administrative center until 1951 when a fire caused by a butter lamp destroyed it. In April 2016, to celebrate the birth of the Dragon Prince, Gyalsey His Royal Highness Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, as well as to commemorate the arrival of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel to Bhutan in 1616 AD and the birth year of Guru Rinpoche, then Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay announced that the dzong will be restored and reinstated to its former glory upon the command of His Majesty King Jigme Khesar.
Then, it is time to visit Kyichu Lhakhang, also known as the Temple of the Thousand-armed and Thousand-eyed Avalokiteshvara. It is one of the 108 Buddhist temples built by King Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century (around 659 AD), and it is believed to have been constructed to subdue the left leg of the Tibetan witch. Kyichu Lhakhang is also one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist temples in Bhutan and serves as a venue for important celebrations of the Bhutanese royal family. In the main hall of Kyichu Lhakhang, you can see the revered statue of an eight-year-old Shakyamuni Buddha, believed to have been created during the same period as the Jowo statue in the Jokhang Temple in Lhasa, Tibet. It is considered a national treasure of the Kingdom of Bhutan. Apart from housing many precious historical artifacts and Buddhist scriptures, the temple also enshrines the relic stupa of Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche (1910-1991), a renowned master of the Nyingma tradition. Additionally, there is a piece of iron chain forged by Tangtong Gyalpo, who was the former head of the four major Tibetan Buddhist schools and is known as the Iron Bridge Living Buddha and the father of Tibetan opera.
If time permits and you are interested, you can also visit a local farmhouse, which provides a fascinating glimpse into the lifestyle of a farmer. Finally, head back to Paro for an overnight stay.
Optional Bhutan Paro Experiences:
1. Bhutan Traditional Hot Stone Bath (1 hour).
2. Lighting butter lamps for blessings at Kyichu Lhakhang (108 lamps).
Kind Reminds: 1. The best time to visit Tiger's Nest is from March to May and from October to December. After noon, the monastery will be hidden in the shadow of the cliffs, so it's recommended to depart early if you want to capture good photos.
2. Tiger's Nest offers horse riding services to go uphill, but the horse ride is only available up to a designated point. From there, you still need to hike to reach the monastery. When descending, you must walk the entire way as horse riding services are not provided.
3. Mobile phones and backpacks are not allowed inside Tiger's Nest Monastery. Personal belongings can be stored at the entrance. If you wish to light butter lamps, make sure to have some cash ready before storing your belongings.
4. Along the way, you may encounter stray dogs. Please be mindful, give them space, and avoid disturbing them.
Happiness is a place, wish you had gotten your happiness philosophy from the beautiful Himalayan country with us. It is time to end your 7-day Thimphu Tshechu Festival Tou. Your guide will escort you to Paro International Airport for your flight to your next destination.
Extension Ideas:
1.If you prefer to travel longer in Bhutan, you can extend your trip to other highlighted parts of Bhutan, such as Gangtey, Haa, and Bumthang.
2.If you plan to continue exploring neighboring countries in Southeast Asia, the Himalaya countries, or Asia, such as Thailand, Nepal, India, or China, don't hesitate to let us know. We can customize your itinerary and assist with travel arrangements.
Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) for your Bhutan tour, we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to Asia. Safe journey!
What’s Included:
What’s Excluded:
A Bhutan Group Tour typically involves traveling with a group of 1 to 12 travelers. During the tour, you will follow a set schedule and participate in activities as planned by us. The hotel arrangements for Group Tours in Bhutan are based on a 3-star level, making them more budget-friendly compared to private tours. We offer 9 group tours ranging from 4 to 11 days in duration.
On the other hand, a Bhutan Private Tour is designed to cater to your specific preferences and requirements. With a Private Tour, you have greater control over the itinerary, allowing you to customize it according to your interests and preferred pace. Additionally, you can choose the hotel condition, whether it be luxury or budget, based on your preferences. We offer Bhutan private tours with different themes, and you can choose from tours lasting 3 to 11 days.
The ideal seasons for traveling in Bhutan are from March to November, when the weather is most suitable for visitors. During the off-peak season, which lasts from December to February, it is winter in Bhutan. Daytime temperatures hover around 15 degrees Celsius, and at night, they drop below freezing. From June to September, it is the summer and rainy season, with daytime temperatures around 23 degrees Celsius and nighttime temperatures around 15 degrees Celsius.
On the other hand, the peak travel periods are from March to May and from September to November.
Bhutanese cuisine prominently features chili as its main ingredient, with most dishes incorporating cheese, potatoes, and chili. Vegetables primarily consist of legumes and tubers. If you have any dietary restrictions or special meal requirements, please inform us during the tour registration process so that we can make appropriate meal arrangements.
In the Paro region of Bhutan, staple foods include rice, buckwheat, corn, and red rice. Chili and dairy products are commonly used as accompaniments. One of the most famous traditional dishes is Ema Datshi, which consists of chili with cheese. While beef, lamb, and pork are popular meats, it's important to note that Bhutan follows Buddhist principles of non-violence and does not slaughter animals within the country. Most of the meat available in the market is imported from neighboring India and primarily caters to tourists. Beverage options include black tea, butter tea, rice wine, and beer.
In Paro, Thimphu, Punakha and other destinations in Bhutan, there are several well-positioned 4-star hotels that offer convenient access to popular attractions and ensure a comfortable stay.
1. Upgrading Hotel Accommodation: If you desire a higher standard of accommodation, our travel experts can provide you with alternative pricing options for hotel upgrades. Whether you prefer a more luxurious experience or have specific preferences, the experts will assist you in making the best choice to suit your needs.
2. Check-In and Check-Out Times: Check-in time for the hotels is generally after 14:00 (2:00 PM), allowing you to settle in and freshen up before starting your Bhutanese adventure. On the day of departure, please check out before 12:00 noon to ensure a smooth transition and allow time for the hotel staff to prepare for incoming guests.
Dorian
Destination(s): Tibet
Date of Experience: May 25, 2024
Tour Customized by: JoJo
You May be Interested in This Tour: Customized Tour
Cheryl Call
Malaysia
Date of Experience: May 26, 2024
Tour Customized by: Tony
You May be Interested in This Tour: Customized Tour
Crystal D
Japan
Date of Experience: May 15, 2024
Tour Customized by: Kayla
You May be Interested in This Tour: Customized Tour
Price: Request
(Based on a private tour for two people. Price varies depending on program, travel date, number of people.)
Free Enquiry! You don’t need to pay for the reservation.