Bhutan Explorer & Paro Tshechu Festival

Day 1: Arrival in Paro

Upon arrival at Paro Airport, you’ll be greeted by your World Expeditions leader and transferred to your hotel. A pre-trip briefing will be provided, and the remainder of the afternoon is yours to explore Paro and acclimatize to its elevation (2,280m).

Day 2: Paro Tshechu Festival

Today is dedicated to the vibrant Paro Tshechu Festival, a Buddhist religious celebration held around the Paro Rinpung Dzong. The festival showcases stunning masked dances performed by Buddhist monks, each telling stories of Bhutanese legends. You’ll also visit Ta-Dzong (the National Museum of Bhutan) and Rinpung Dzong, taking in Bhutan’s cultural history and scenic beauty.

Day 3: Tiger’s Nest Monastery

After breakfast, we hike to the famous Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery, perched high above the Paro Valley. The challenging hike offers stunning views and a chance to learn about the legend of Guru Rinpoche’s visit to this sacred site. In the evening, we visit the ancient Kyichu Temple, dating back to the 7th century.

Day 4: Paro to Punakha via Dochu La Pass

Today, we travel to Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, before crossing the 10,223-foot Dochu La Pass. Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks and visit Punakha Dzong, an impressive fortress between two rivers. The day ends in Punakha, where you can explore the ancient capital of Bhutan.

Day 5: Punakha to Trongsa

We continue our journey to Trongsa, home to Bhutan’s largest fortress, Trongsa Dzong. Once a powerhouse in ancient Bhutan, Trongsa Dzong played a pivotal role in the formation of the Bhutanese monarchy. A visit to the Ta Dzong Museum provides further insight into Bhutan’s royal history.

Day 6: Explore Bumthang

Drive to Bumthang, Bhutan’s spiritual heartland, renowned for its religious significance. You’ll visit ancient monasteries, including Jambay Lhakhang and Kurjey, which are central to Bhutan’s Buddhist history. Learn about the region’s connection to Guru Padmasambhava and enjoy the local handicrafts, including hand-woven woolen cloth.

Day 7: Tang Valley Exploration

A day trip to Tang Valley offers a glimpse of Bhutan’s remote and mystical landscapes. Visit the Ogyenchholing Museum and Pema Choling Nunnery, where Buddhist nuns live in seclusion. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn about Bhutanese legends at the Membartsho (Burning Lake).

Day 8: Gangtey Valley

Travel to the picturesque Gangtey Valley, a designated conservation area for the endangered Black-Necked Crane. Visit Gangtey Gompa, a large monastery overlooking the valley, and the Crane Information Centre, where you’ll learn about efforts to protect this rare species.

Day 9: Gangtey Nature Hike

Embark on a nature hike through the stunning landscapes of Gangtey, passing through forests, villages, and farmland. The hike ends with a scenic lunch at Khewang Lhakhang. Afterwards, visit a traditional Bhutanese village to interact with locals and learn about their agricultural lifestyle.

Day 10: Return to Thimphu

Drive back to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, stopping for photo opportunities along the way.

In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through Thimphu, visiting the Norzin Lam market for souvenirs, and conclude your day with a farewell dinner alongside your guide and driver.

Day 11: Departure

Your journey in Bhutan concludes with a transfer to Paro Airport for your departure.

This adventure offers an in-depth experience of Bhutan’s culture, nature, and history, with a perfect balance of festival celebrations, scenic hikes, and immersive cultural exploration.