3,988 m
65–70 km
2 Hrs.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Welcome to Bhutan! Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, meet your guide and driver and enjoy a scenic drive to Thimphu. Stop at Chuzom, where the Paro and Thimphu rivers meet, before continuing through the beautiful mountain landscape. After checking into your hotel, visit Buddha Dordenma and the National Memorial Chorten, depending on your arrival time. Spend the evening relaxing and enjoying your first taste of Bhutanese hospitality.
Overnight: Thimphu
After breakfast, drive from Thimphu to Punakha through scenic forests and mountain landscapes. Stop at Dochula Pass to see the 108 Druk Wangyel Chortens and enjoy Himalayan views before descending toward Lobesa. Take a short walk through rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, then continue to the magnificent Punakha Dzong, beautifully located between two rivers. Later, cross the Punakha Suspension Bridge and enjoy the peaceful valley before checking into your hotel and relaxing for the evening.
After breakfast, leave Punakha and begin the scenic drive back toward Paro, following winding mountain roads through changing landscapes. Climb toward Dochula Pass for a short break and enjoy the 108 Druk Wangyel Chortens and Himalayan views before descending to Thimphu. Continue through Simtokha and Chuzom toward Paro, following the Paro Chhu. Upon arrival, visit Rinpung Dzong and the National Museum before relaxing at your hotel.
After breakfast, drive from Paro to the beautiful Haa Valley, crossing the scenic Chele La Pass at approximately 3,988m, one of Bhutan’s highest motorable passes. Enjoy spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks and surrounding forests along the way. Continue downhill to Haa Valley, known for its peaceful villages, traditional Bhutanese homes, and pristine landscapes. Visit Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo before checking into your hotel and relaxing amid the tranquil valley surroundings.
After breakfast, drive from Paro to the Taktsang trailhead, about 12 km and 25 minutes away. Begin the uphill hike through pine and rhododendron forests toward the sacred Taktsang Monastery at 3,120m. The trek takes around 2–3 hours uphill, with several viewpoints for rest and photography. Explore the monastery and enjoy the Himalayan scenery before descending to the trailhead, taking another 2–3 hours. Return to Paro by vehicle and relax at your hotel.
After breakfast, enjoy your final moments in the peaceful Paro Valley. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time to explore Paro town or purchase traditional Bhutanese handicrafts and souvenirs. Your guide will then transfer you to Paro International Airport for your onward journey, marking the end of your memorable Druk Wangyel Festival tour.
The Haa Festival Tshechu is a colorful cultural celebration in Haa Valley featuring traditional dances, folk performances, local food, music, crafts, and Bhutanese traditions.
Haa Valley is situated at approximately 2,670 meters above sea level.
Comfortable, modest clothing is recommended. Since the festival involves Buddhist and cultural traditions, visitors should dress respectfully and carry warm clothing because mountain weather can change quickly.
The festival combines Bhutanese culture, traditional performances, local community life, and spectacular Himalayan scenery, making it a memorable addition to a western Bhutan itinerary.
| Festival Tour | Best Time | Location | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jumolhari Mountain Festival | August | Jumolhari Base Camp | Bhutan’s largest and most famous cultural festival |
| Thimphu Tshechu Tour | September – October | Thimphu | Vibrant mask dances in Bhutan’s capital city |
| Punakha Drubchen & Tshechu Tour | February – March | Punakha | Historic battle re-enactments and religious celebrations |
| Jambay Lhakhang Drup Tour | October – November | Bumthang | Sacred fire ceremony and unique ancient traditions |
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Days
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Days
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