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he Thimphu Festival Tour offers an enriching six-day, five-night experience that immerses you in Bhutan’s rich cultural and spiritual traditions. At the heart of this journey is the grand Thimphu Tshechu, one of Bhutan’s most celebrated festivals, where vibrant masked dances, soul-stirring traditional music, and sacred rituals bring the country’s spiritual heritage to life. As you explore the bustling capital during this festive period, you’ll witness a unique blend of devotion and celebration. Beyond the festival, the tour takes you to significant historical landmarks, monasteries, and breathtaking scenic spots in and around Thimphu, providing a deeper understanding of Bhutan’s timeless charm and serene landscapes.
Included/Excluded
- The Bhutan SDF
- All accommodations
- Meals and mineral water
- A licensed English-speaking guide
- A driver and vehicle
- Air fare
- A visa fee of US$40
- Alcohol
- Gifts/Souvenirs
- Travel insurance and personal bills
- Museums & Monument Fees
Tour Plan
Day 1: Arrival in Paro - Transfer to Thimphu
Upon arriving at Paro Airport and completing customs formalities, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to Thimphu. After lunch, proceed to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy an orientation walk around the town.
Day 2: Thimphu Festival
After breakfast, head to Tashichhodzong to experience the vibrant Thimphu Festival. As you arrive, you'll witness locals adorned in their finest traditional attire, many of whom have traveled great distances to partake in the celebrations.
Day 3: Thimphu Festival and Sightseeing
Spend the morning exploring some of Thimphu’s cultural landmarks, including the 12th-century Changangkha Temple, a revered site offering panoramic views of the valley, and the National Memorial Chorten, adorned with intricate paintings and statues that reflect Buddhist teachings. In the afternoon, return to Tashichhodzong to immerse yourself once again in the vibrant festivities of the Thimphu Festival, witnessing its colorful performances and sacred rituals.
DAY 4: Thimphu to Punakha
Drive through the scenic Dochu-La Pass, situated at 3,100 meters, where, on a clear day, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. As you descend into the warm and inviting Punakha Valley, enjoy a journey that takes approximately 3 hours. Upon arrival, visit the Punakha Dzong, the "Palace of Great Happiness," built in 1637 by the Shabdrung, the revered figure who unified Bhutan. After lunch, take a peaceful walk to Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of Drukpa Kuenley, also known as the Divine Madman, renowned for his unique teachings and eccentric approach to Buddhism.
Day 5: Punakha to Paro
Drive back to Paro via the Dochula Pass, making a stop in Thimphu for a leisurely lunch. Upon arrival in Paro, check into your hotel and relax. In the afternoon, explore the historic Rimpung Dzong, which dates back to the 17th century. From the Dzong, take a scenic walk down to the road, crossing a traditional wooden bridge. Continue your journey to Kichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most revered temples. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Paro town.
Day 6: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Your time in Bhutan will culminate with an unforgettable hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), one of the country’s most revered pilgrimage sites, perched dramatically on a cliff at 3,180 meters. According to legend, Guru Rimpoche, the 8th-century spiritual master, flew to this site on the back of a tigress to meditate. A delicious lunch will be served at the Cafeteria Restaurant, located halfway up the mountain. After exploring the monastery, enjoy a scenic hike back down to Paro, marking a memorable end to your Bhutanese adventure.
Day 7: Depart Paro
After a final breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a scenic drive to the airport, where you'll board your flight to your next destination, taking with you unforgettable memories of Bhutan's breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural experiences.
Tour Map
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Frequently asked question
Itinerary is always flexible if you are travelling in a smaller group. You have a choice of eating in a different restaurant, however, the menu depends on the chef and usually it is a set menu but not necessarily the same menu every day.
It is in the tourism industry but it is not compulsory. It actually depends on the service rendered to you.
Yes, things that are not included in the tariff are all beverages, telecommunications, tips, laundry, massage and souvenir shopping.
Bhutan is well connected and every town has IDD services. Internet cafes are available almost everywhere. Cell phones can also be used but you need to get Bhutan prepaid SIM Card and recharge it. Recharge vouchers are available at every second shop in town.
You can exchange money in the banks as well as in the hotels were you are staying. Rates will be better in the banks plus US$ is acceptable in almost all of the shops in town.
It cannot be safer anywhere else in the world.
Bhutan is all season tourist destination for cultural tours. However the month of February, March, April, and September, October, November are considered the best time due to pleasant weather conditions. December and January are winter months and June, July and August, the rainy season. It is important to note that the climatic conditions during the winter months are not extreme. The average temperature would range from 10-17 degree Celsius during day time.
The money you have transferred will be with held by the Tourism Council of Bhutan till the day you depart. Travel Agents can only withdraw the money after your departure upon submitting your tour invoice. Therefore, your money is safe.
It is government rule that total tour payment must be remitted without which the government will not issue the visa.
Decide the number of days you want to spend in Bhutan according to your interest and budget.
Decide the date and the port of entry (You can fly into Bhutan from one of these cities; Bangkok, Katmandu, New Delhi, Calcutta and Dacca) into Bhutan.
Fill up the visa application form (You can download the visa application form here).
Remit the total tour payment (You can download the money transfer details here). It is government rule that total tour payment must be remitted without which the government will not issue the visa.
Once we have confirmed dates, port of entry, dully filled visa application form, and money received, we will process your visa.
Except for travelers from India, Bangladesh and Maldives, all visitors to Bhutan are required to obtain visa approval prior to their arrival, which will be processed by us.
Tourism is not restricted but the minimum daily tariff is set by the government. It is also necessary that all tourists must come through a registered tour operator to plan your itinerary and process your visa. Tourist cannot come on their own unless they are invited guest.
Druk Air operates daily flight (once daily) from Bangkok (Thailand) and four flights a week from New Delhi, Kathmandu and Calcutta (India) and two flights a week from Dacca (Bangladesh). There are different flight schedules for the summer and the winter seasons. For Druk Air schedules click on Flights Details or you can also visit Druk Air web site at www.drukair.com.bt . You can also enter Bhutan via Bagdogra Airport, Siliguri (West Bengal) in India. It has regular flights from New Delhi (twice daily).
Bhutan is connected to the outside world through Druk Air (Royal Bhutan Airlines), the national carrier which is the only airline operating flights in and out of the kingdom.
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