The Punakha Festival Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to experience Bhutan’s deep-rooted cultural heritage and vibrant living traditions. Centered around the renowned Punakha Tshechu, held within the majestic Punakha Dzong, this journey immerses you in sacred masked dances, traditional music, and centuries-old rituals. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Punakha Valley, the festival provides a captivating window into Bhutan’s spiritual and cultural essence.
Day 1: Arrival in Paro and Transfer to Thimphu
Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide and driver. From Paro, enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Once settled, visit the National Memorial Chorten—built in honor of the Third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck—followed by the impressive Buddha Dordenma statue, which offers sweeping views of the valley. In the evening, take a relaxed stroll through Thimphu’s lively markets and craft stalls. Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing
Begin the day at Tashichho Dzong, the administrative and monastic center of Bhutan. Continue to the National Library, home to an important collection of Buddhist texts. In the afternoon, explore the Folk Heritage Museum for insights into traditional Bhutanese life and visit the Takin Preserve to see Bhutan’s unique national animal. Spend the evening enjoying the local ambiance of Thimphu city. Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha
After breakfast, drive to Punakha, crossing the scenic Dochula Pass with its panoramic Himalayan views and the iconic 108 chortens. On arrival, explore the magnificent Punakha Dzong, beautifully situated at the meeting of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Later, walk across the nearby suspension bridge—one of the longest in the country. Overnight in Punakha.
Day 4: Punakha Tshechu Festival
Spend the day immersed in the vibrant Punakha Tshechu, held within the historic Punakha Dzong. Enjoy colorful masked dances, traditional music, and sacred rituals performed by monks and lay dancers. This festival offers a rare and intimate glimpse into Bhutan’s spiritual and cultural traditions. Overnight in Punakha.
Day 5: Punakha Sightseeing
Begin with a gentle walk to Chimi Lhakhang, the revered Temple of Fertility, passing through charming paddy fields and rural villages. In the afternoon, hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, an intricately designed stupa offering stunning views of the Punakha Valley. Enjoy a relaxed evening at your hotel or explore more of the area at your leisure. Overnight in Punakha.
Day 6: Punakha to Paro
Return to Paro after breakfast, a drive of about four hours. Upon arrival, visit Rinpung Dzong, a striking fortress monastery overlooking the valley, followed by the National Museum housed in the historic Ta Dzong watchtower. Spend the evening exploring Paro town’s charming shops and cafés. Overnight in Paro.
Day 7: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Today’s highlight is the hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery—Tiger’s Nest—dramatically perched on a cliffside. The 4–5 hour round-trip walk offers magnificent scenery and a profound spiritual atmosphere. After the descent, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples. Spend your final evening reflecting on your journey. Overnight in Paro.
Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, your guide will transfer you to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. Thank You.