Overview
Celebrate Bhutan’s most iconic festival—the Thimphu Tshechu—on this 7-day cultural immersion across Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Wangdue, and Khotokha. Witness sacred mask dances performed in ancient fortresses, explore spiritual landmarks nestled in the Himalayas, and experience Bhutanese culture at its most vibrant.
Trip Highlights
- Thimphu Tshechu Festival: Attend Bhutan’s most spectacular public festival with sacred mask dances and spiritual blessings.
- Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang): Hike to Bhutan’s legendary cliffside sanctuary.
- Punakha Dzong: Marvel at Bhutan’s architectural masterpiece between two rivers.
- Kichu Lhakhang & Drukgyal Dzong: Visit Paro’s sacred and historic landmarks.
- 108 Chortens of Dochula Pass: Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan range.
- Khotokha Valley: Discover this lesser-known, serene valley steeped in legends and spiritual sites.
Itinerary
Arrive at Paro International Airport, where our team will receive you with a warm welcome. If arriving from Delhi or Kathmandu, enjoy stunning aerial views of Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Bhutan’s own Jomolhari and Jichu Drake peaks.
After lunch, begin your journey at Ta Dzong, Bhutan’s National Museum housed in a former watchtower. En route, stop at Dungtse Lhakhang, a rare stupa-shaped temple built in the 15th century. Then explore Rinpung Dzong, an imposing fortress that serves both religious and administrative functions. Cross the Nyame Zampa, a traditional cantilevered wooden bridge, and stroll through Paro town before settling in for the evening.
Overnight in Paro.
This morning, hike up to the legendary Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched dramatically on a cliff 3,000 feet above the Paro Valley. The sacred site marks where Guru Padmasambhava meditated in the 8th century after flying here on the back of a tigress. Enjoy a picnic lunch at the viewpoint cafeteria.
On your return, visit Drukgyal Dzong, now restored after decades in ruins, and stop at Kichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, built in 659 AD.
Later, drive to Thimphu (approx. 2 hours), passing the confluence at Chuzom and the charming Tachogang Lhakhang on the way.
Overnight in Thimphu.
After an early breakfast, head to Tashichho Dzong, the seat of Bhutan’s government and the monastic body, to witness the Thimphu Tshechu Festival. This sacred annual celebration features masked dances (cham), spiritual rituals, and colorful pageantry, believed to purify the soul and bring blessings for the year ahead.
In the afternoon, visit Sangaygang Viewpoint for a panoramic view of Thimphu Valley and stop by the mini zoo, home to the national animal, the takin. Stroll through the town’s lively evening market.
Overnight in Thimphu.
Depart for Punakha via the scenic Dochula Pass (3,050 m). Stop to admire the 108 chortens and views of the eastern Himalayas. Continue to Punakha Dzong, an elegant fortress built in 1637 at the confluence of the Phochu and Mochu rivers. It remains the winter residence of the monastic body and is revered for its historic and architectural significance.
After lunch, hike through rice fields to the beautiful Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, built to ward off negative forces and promote world peace.
Overnight in Punakha.
After breakfast, drive to the peaceful Khotokha Valley, tucked away near Chuzomsa. Visit Drajanchu Monastery and several smaller sacred lhakhangs, many linked to the legacies of Guru Rinpoche and the “Divine Madman” Drukpa Kunley. A natural drupchu (holy spring) is said to possess healing powers.
Enjoy a picnic lunch amid the tranquil landscape, then continue to Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, a fortress dramatically situated above two rivers. After the visit, return to Thimphu for the evening.
Overnight in Thimphu.
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Thimphu. Visit the weekend market (if your visit includes Friday–Sunday) and explore local boutiques for textiles and handmade crafts.
After lunch, drive to Paro and enjoy free time in town for shopping or visiting local village homes.
Overnight at Paro
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward journey, carrying with you the blessings of the Tshechu and unforgettable memories of Bhutan.
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- Accommodation at 3-star hotels/resorts (upgrade options available for an additional fee)
- Licensed English-speaking tour guide (limited other language guides available upon request for an additional fee)
- Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Entry fees to museums, monasteries, and cultural sites
- All government taxes and service charges
- Driver and road transport for the entire tour
- Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) – USD $100 per person per night (valid until December 2027)
- Bhutan visa fee (USD $40 per person)
Cost Excludes
- Flight fares
- Travel insurance (must be arranged by the traveler)
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal expenses (e.g., shopping, souvenirs)
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Optional activities or excursions not mentioned in the itinerary
- Single room supplement charges (if applicable)
- Cost for any services or activities not mentioned in the "Cost Includes"
FAQs
All our tour packages include accommodation, meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), a licensed English-speaking guide, transport within Bhutan, entry fees to museums and monasteries, and all government taxes and service charges. For some packages, additional activities or upgrades may be available at extra costs.
Our packages do not include visa fees, international flights, travel insurance, alcohol, personal expenses, and any activities or services not mentioned in the itinerary.
Visa applications for Bhutan are processed through licensed tour operators. Once you book your tour, we will assist you with the visa application process. The visa will be granted once your payment is processed.
Yes, you can upgrade your accommodation for an additional fee. We offer a range of accommodations, including 3-star hotels and resorts. Please contact us for more details on accommodation upgrades.
We offer customizable options for most of our tours. If you have specific requests or would like to tailor your itinerary, please contact us, and we will work with you to create a personalized experience.
he hikes included in our tours, such as the hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, are moderate in difficulty. They require a reasonable level of fitness, but our guides are experienced and can pace the hike to suit the group’s comfort level. If you have concerns, please consult with us before booking.
Travel insurance is not mandatory for our tours; however, we strongly recommend that all guests arrange their own comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. Please note that we do not provide travel insurance services.
We arrange flights to and from Paro International Airport. For flights beyond Paro, either before or after your tour, guests are responsible for making their own arrangements.
There are no age restrictions for our tours; however, at least one adult must be part of the group. While we welcome travelers of all ages, certain activities may have updated guidelines or recommendations. We advise checking with us regarding specific activities to ensure suitability for all participants.
Yes, visiting Bhutan during its vibrant festivals is highly recommended. You can explore our festival packages on our website or contact us directly for more information on festival dates and arrangements.
While Bhutan is gradually expanding its acceptance of credit and debit cards, cash is still recommended for smaller establishments and rural areas where card payments may not be feasible. Having some local currency (Ngultrum) on hand will ensure convenience for such transactions.
Bhutan has strict regulations regarding tobacco use and sales. The Tobacco Control Act of Bhutan 2010 prohibits the cultivation, manufacture, sale, and distribution of tobacco products within the country. However, individuals are allowed to import tobacco products for personal consumption, subject to payment of taxes and duties. It’s important to declare any tobacco products upon arrival and retain proof of payment for applicable taxes and duties. Smoking is prohibited in public places, including commercial centers, recreational areas, institutions, public transportation, and other designated non-smoking areas. Designated smoking areas are available in certain establishments. Please note that expenses related to tobacco consumption are not covered under our tour packages.
Meals will be traditional Bhutanese dishes, as well as international cuisine. If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, please inform us in advance so we can accommodate your needs.
Travel times vary depending on the destinations. On average, it can take between 3 to 6 hours by car for intercity transfers. Our tours are designed to ensure comfort during travel, with breaks along the way for scenic stops and refreshments.
Payments for tours are typically made through wire transfers. Once you book your tour, we will send you the payment details. Bookings are confirmed once the payment is received.
Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and accommodations, though it may be limited or slower in more remote areas. We recommend preparing for limited connectivity in certain regions.
We recommend comfortable clothing for sightseeing and hiking, sturdy shoes for walks, a hat and sunscreen for sun protection, and light layers for varying temperatures. A camera to capture the stunning landscapes is also a must!
Cancellations must be made in writing via email. Refunds will be processed based on the following schedule:
- 30 days or more before arrival: No charges.
- 21-29 days before arrival: 10% of the total tariff.
- 16-20 days before arrival: 15% of the total tariff.
- 15 days or less before arrival: No refund.
- After arrival in Bhutan: 100% of the total tariff.
No refunds will be provided for no-shows or unused services.
Yes, rescheduling is possible based on availability. Requests must be made at least 30 days before arrival to avoid cancellation fees. Additional charges may apply.
To cancel, please email us at info@phuentshok.com with your booking details. Cancellations are processed based on the date we receive your written request.
Eligible refunds are processed within 7-14 business days after confirmation. Refunds will be issued via the same method used for payment. It can take up to 30 days before you can see the amount in your bank account.
