Punakha Drupchen & Festival Tour

Upon arrival at the airport in Bhutan, a knowledgeable tour guide and experienced driver will provide comfortable transportation to Thimphu, the capital city. The journey takes around an hour, offering scenic views and opportunities for sightseeing. The journey includes stops at various places of interest, allowing for memorable photographs. Thimphu, nestled in the Himalayas, offers a blend of traditional charm and modern developments. Visitors can explore the local craft bazaar, where artisans showcase exquisite handicrafts and Bhutanese artwork. After a relaxing stay at a comfortable hotel, guests can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Thimphu and immerse themselves in its unique blend of tradition and modernity.

Today your guide will take you through a variety of fascinating sites, ensuring a personalized and enriching experience. The itinerary includes visits to iconic landmarks like the Tashicho Dzong, the Traditional Art School, and the bustling markets, where you can experience the vibrant local culture and interact with local vendors. The Indigenous Hospital offers traditional Bhutanese medicine, while the Nunnery offers insight into the daily lives of Buddhist nuns. The Takin Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to observe Bhutan's national animal, the Takin, up close.
Your guide will be happy to customize the day's activities based on your preferences and interests, ensuring a truly personalized and enriching experience. After a fulfilling day of exploration, you'll return to your comfortable hotel in Thimphu, where you can unwind and reflect on the adventures.

We will drive from Thimphu to Gangtey, a scenic 5-hour drive through the DochuLa Pass. We will make stops at various sites to appreciate the natural beauty and capture the mesmerizing landscapes with our cameras. Upon arrival, we will visit the ancient Gangtey Gompa Monastery, a sacred site with intricate architecture and panoramic views. We will then walk through the enchanting Phobjikha Valley, home to rare black-necked cranes and a pristine valley. We will visit local homes and learn about their traditional lifestyles.
We will retire for the night in a comfortable hotel in Gangtey, where the accommodation options are designed to provide a peaceful and relaxing stay. This unforgettable journey will allow us to fully appreciate the tranquility of our surroundings and the cultural and natural treasures of Gangtey and the Phobjikha Valley.

The morning begins with a leisurely walk in the Phobjikha Valley, where you can appreciate its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Visit the Nature Information Center to learn about the endangered black-necked crane, which inhabits Phobjikha from late October to March. After lunch, we drive into the sub-tropical valley of Punakha, known for its stunning landscapes and historical significance. We'll explore Wangdue, a charming town with traditional architecture and a significant fortress. Later, we'll visit the Chimi Lhakhang temple, a revered temple associated with the legendary "Divine Madman," Drukpa Kunley.
The walk offers a chance to witness the local way of life and soak in the peaceful surroundings. As the day ends, we'll retreat to a comfortable hotel in Punakha, where you can unwind and rejuvenate after a day of exploration.

Today is devoted to immersing yourself in the bright and enthralling Punakha festival, one of Bhutan's most important festivities. The event is held at the beautiful Punakha Dzong, an architectural masterpiece that serves as the ideal setting for this big celebration.
You will be able to see monks perform a variety of masked dances if you visit the event. These dances are a captivating spectacle with elaborate choreography, bright costumes, and profound metaphorical meaning. Each dance conveys a narrative from Bhutanese mythology and history, providing an insight into the kingdom's rich cultural legacy.
While at the festival, visit the nearby market, where you may browse stalls loaded with local crafts, souvenirs, and traditional Bhutanese items. The market expands

Today's program is packed with adventure and natural beauty as we return to Paro. We will begin the day with a short and enjoyable trek to the Khamsum Yuelley Chorten, a beautiful temple set among the scenic scenery. The trip to the temple takes around 40 minutes each way, enabling you to soak in the tranquil surroundings and see the architectural splendor of the chorten.
Following that, we will continue our journey back to Paro, but not before stopping to view the botanical gardens located below the Dochula Pass. This tranquil oasis is home to a broad range of flora and animals, making it a great destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers. You will be able to admire the natural beauty and peacefulness.

One of the highlights of every vacation to Bhutan is a visit to Tiger's Nest Monastery, also known as Paro Taktsang. This unique and breathtaking monument is positioned perilously on the rocks overlooking the picturesque Paro valley. The monastery's name, Tiger's Nest, is derived from a tradition in which Guru Padmasambhava arrives at this sacred spot on the back of a Tibetan tigress.
There is a trekking track that takes around 2 to 2.5 hours (one way) to reach Tiger's Nest. As you rise to this spectacular monastery, you will be rewarded with breathtaking vistas and a sense of accomplishment. If you are unable to do the full hike, we may arrange for a horseback ride for you.

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to the airport for the flight to your onward destination.