6 Days Thimphu Tshechu Festival Experience in Bhutan

Experience the colorful Thimpu Tshechu Festival in early October and discover Bhutan's stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and rich spiritual traditions with your family.

Overview

Itinerary

1. Paro-Drive to Thimpu

   Arrive at Paro-Drive to Thimpu

2. Paro

   Land at Paro International Airport, one of the world's most scenic airports, surrounded by emerald valleys and towering peaks. Warm welcome by our Bhutanese Guide and transfer by private vehicle to Thimpu. Enjoy the 1.5 hours scenic drive to Thimpu.

3. Thimphu

   Check into your hotel in Thimpu and rest from your journey. In the evening you can take a gentle walk through Thimpu's main street experiencing handicraft shops, art galleries and farmer's market.

4. Accommodation

   Overnight in a beautiful 3 star Hotel in Thimpu

5. Thimpu Tshechu Festival & City Exploration.

   Thimpu Tshechu Festival & City Exploration.

6. Tashichho Dzong

   After breakfast, head to Tashichho Dzong Courtyard to witness the grandeur of the Thimpu Tshechu Festival, held annually since the 17th century by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal who is also known as founder of Bhutan. Experience masked dances performed by monks, telling Buddhist stories of compassion and enlightment, along with folk dances and beautifully dressed locals in their finest traditional attire.(kira for women,gho for men)

7. Buddha Dordenma

   Afternoon sightseeing will take you to Buddha Dordenma, one of the largest Buddha Statues in the world of about 169ft. Explore the golden meditation halls beneath the statue ,overlooking the valley.

8. Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten)

   Visit Memorial Chorten built in the honor of the Third King. Experience the slice of Bhutanese life where locals come daily for meditation and prayers.

9. National Folk Heritage Museum

   Folk Heritage Museum is a preserved 19th century farmhouse showcasing rural Bhutanese lifestyle.

10. National Textile Museum

    Explore Bhutan's intricate weaving tradition, considered one of the highest art forms.

11. Centenary Farmers Market

    Explore the vibrant market and see the local produce. You will get drawn to its lively atmosphere, observe local business interactions and experience Bhutanese culture first hand.

12. Accommodation

    Overnight in Thimpu in beautiful 3 star Hotel.

13. Festival Morning and Scenic Drive to Punakha

    Festival Morning and Scenic Drive to Punakha

14. Tashichho Dzong (Thimpu Dzong)

    Morning session at the Thimpu Tshechu Festival for additional mask dances unique to the day's schedule. Each day features different performances.

15. Dochula Pass

    Early afternoon depart for Punakha and via Dochula Pass which is at an elevation of 3100m.Visit its 108 stupas in a misty environment. Enjoy the breathtaking Himalayan Panoramas.

    Warm descent into subtropical Punakha Valley where rice terraces and river valleys replace mountain chills. Evening stroll through the Punakha town or along the riverside.

16. Accommodation

    Overnight in Punakha in a beautiful 3 star Hotel.

17. Punakha Valley Exploration

    Punakha Valley Exploration

18. Punakha Dzong

    Morning visit Punakha Dzong, also known as 'Palace of Great Happiness'. Bhutan's most stunning fortress, built in 1637 at the confluence of two rivers. Historical seat of Bhutan's Kings and still an active monastery.

19. Punakha Suspension Bridge

    One of the longest bridge in Bhutan, draped with colorful prayer flags and offering sweeping views of Pho Chu River.

20. Chimi Lhakhang Temple

    After finishing the Suspension bridge, get ready for a mini hike through terraced fields and villages to Chimi Lhakhang also popularly known as 'Fertility Temple'. The temple is linked to Lama Drukpa Kunley, Buthan's eccentric 'Divine Madman'.

    During the evening you can have riverside picnic, stroll through the town,or visit local craft making shops.

21. Accommodation

    Overnight in Punakha in a beautiful 3 star hotel.

22. Return to Paro

    Return to Paro

23. Kyichu Lhakhang

    Enjoy the scenic drive on your way back from Punakha to Paro which is of 125 kms and would take approx 4-5 hrs.You get the chance to visit Dochula Pass again on your way back.

    Once you reach Paro, head towards ,7th century, Kyichu Lhakhang temple, one amongst the oldest temple in Bhutan. Enjoy the quiet and serene environment. The ancient monastery is a fantastic place where you will find elderly pilgrims circumambulating around the temple as they spin the prayer wheels. Legend says it was built by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo to subdue the ogress lying across Himalayas.

24. Rinpung Dzong

    Rinpun Dzong stands as one of Bhutan's most iconic landmarks, blending centuries of history with breathtaking architecture.

    Evening is free to explore Paro town's vibrant shops, cafes and local markets.

26. Accommodation

    Overnight in a beautiful 3 star Hotel in Paro.

27. Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery(Taktsang)

    Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery(Taktsang)

28. Paro Taktsang

    Early morning start for the Tiger's Nest Hike which is 5-6 hours of round trip. Soak in the trail winds through the pine forests dotted with prayer flags, teahouses and dramatic view points.

    Taksang Monastery is at the elevation of 3120 m, clings miraculously to a cliffside. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tigress to subdue local demons, making it one of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Descend and enjoy the lunch in the valley.

    After relaxation, experience a traditional HOT STONE bath perfect for soothing and tired muscles.

29. Accommodation

    Overnight in a beautiful 3 star hotel in Paro.

Know before you go

• Public transportation is nearby
• Infants sit on laps

Pickup, meeting point & start times