Overview:
If you’re keen to explore Bhutan’s historical moments, attend the Wangdue Tshechu Festival, a three-day festival of masks and folk dances established by Bhutan’s fourth temporal ruler, Sri Tenzing Rabgye (1638-1696) to commemorate the birth of Guru Padmasambhava. It is a festival.
Tshechu is danced by monks and laymen, and on the last day, huge and colorful thangka is displayed, a painting with embroidery on silk, which is unfurled only once a year. The annual Wangduephodrang Tshechu was held at the Wangdue Dzong, which sadly burned down in June 2012, its original site.
That year it was transferred to Tencholling Military Training Centre. Fortunately, plans and massive support have already begun for the reconstruction of Wangdue Dzong, bringing the festival back to the Dzong, restored to its original location.
Tour Itinerary: (11th September – 13th September 2024)
Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Exploring Rinphung Dzong and Ta Dzong
– Upon arrival at Paro Airport, you’ll be greeted by our representative from Bhutan Everest Tours and Treks.
– Transfer to the hotel and if time permits, visit Rinphung Dzong and Ta Dzong (the National Museum).
– Enjoy dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Paro.
Day 2: Paro to Thimphu – Hiking to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest)
– After breakfast, embark on a hike to Taktsang, also known as the Tiger’s Nest, one of Bhutan’s most iconic sites.
– In the evening, drive to Thimphu.
– Dine and spend the night at the hotel in Thimphu.
Day 3: Thimphu Sightseeing – Exploring Cultural Landmarks
– Begin the day with a visit to Kuensel Phodrang to see the largest sitting Buddha statue overlooking Thimphu.
– Explore the Takin preservation center, Changangkha Lhakhang, Thimphu Memorial Chorten, and Centenary Park.
– Enjoy leisure time exploring Thimphu’s cafes and attending an evening show in the clock tower performed by local artists.
– Overnight stay at the hotel in Thimphu.
Day 4: Thimphu to Punakha – En route Dochula Pass and Royal Botanical Park
– After an early breakfast, drive to Punakha, stopping at Dochula Pass for photography.
– Visit the Royal Botanical Park in LamPelri and Chimi Lhakhang and Punakha Dzong upon arrival in Punakha.
– Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Punakha.
Day 5: Wangduephodrang (Festival Day 1) to Phobjikha Valley
– Attend the Wangdue Tshechu Festival at Wangduephodrang Dzong.
– After lunch, proceed to Phobjikha Valley.
– Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Phobjikha.
Day 6: Phobjikha Valley Exploration – Visit Gangtey Lhakhang
– Explore Gangtey Lhakhang and enjoy photography opportunities in the beautiful crane valley.
– Spend the day exploring the valley of cranes and creating memories.
– Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Phobjikha.
Day 7: Phobjikha to Thimphu – Visit BBs Tower and Craft Bazaar
– Depart Phobjikha after breakfast and head back to Thimphu.
– Explore BBs Tower, Craft Bazaar, and National Textile Museum in Thimphu.
– Dine and spend the night at the hotel in Thimphu.
Day 8: Departure – Transfer to Paro Airport
– A Following breakfast, proceed with a drive to Paro Airport for your onward flight.
Experience the magic of Bhutan’s festivals and landscapes on this unforgettable journey.