Royal Highland Festival

Day 1: Arrival in Paro
After landing at Paro International Airport, you will be welcomed by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Once settled, begin exploring the Paro Valley with visits to Rinpung Dzong, an impressive fortress overlooking the river, and Ta Dzong, the former watchtower that now houses the National Museum. Spend the late afternoon wandering through Paro town. Overnight in Paro.

Day 2: Paro to Thimphu
This morning, make the short drive to Thimphu, the capital city. Your sightseeing begins with stops at Tashichho Dzong, the seat of the government and monastic body, the National Memorial Chorten, and the towering Buddha Dordenma statue. The rest of the evening is ideal for browsing Thimphu’s shops and handicraft markets. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha
The journey to Punakha takes you across the picturesque Dochula Pass, where 108 chortens and sweeping Himalayan vistas create a memorable scene. In Punakha, tour the magnificent Punakha Dzong, dramatically positioned at the meeting point of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, and visit the nearby suspension bridge before settling in for the night. Overnight in Punakha.

Day 4: Punakha to Laya
Travel north to Gasa, where your highland adventure begins. From here, start the trek toward Laya, passing through remote terrain and enjoying dramatic alpine landscapes. This day offers a true taste of Bhutan’s rugged wilderness. Overnight in a campsite or local homestay in Laya.

Day 5: Royal Highland Festival – Day 1
Join the opening celebrations of the Royal Highland Festival. The event brings together Laya’s highland communities for traditional music, dance, and cultural displays. Enjoy yak and horse competitions, sample local delicacies, and witness vibrant traditional attire worn for this special occasion. Overnight in Laya.

Day 6: Royal Highland Festival – Day 2
Spend another full day enjoying the festival as it continues with more performances, age-old rituals, and friendly competitions. The atmosphere offers rare insight into the lifestyle and traditions of Bhutan’s high-altitude communities. Overnight in Laya.

Day 7: Laya to Gasa
Retrace your route back to Gasa, descending through sweeping mountain scenery. In Gasa, reward yourself with a relaxing soak in the region’s natural hot springs, long cherished for their healing benefits. Overnight in Gasa.

Day 8: Gasa to Paro
Drive back to Paro, passing through changing landscapes as you leave the highlands behind. Spend the evening enjoying a quiet walk around Paro or shopping for souvenirs to commemorate your journey. Overnight in Paro.

Day 9: Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your flight onward. Depart Bhutan with lasting memories of its remote highland villages, vibrant festival traditions, and dramatic Himalayan beauty. Thank You.