Paro Tsechu Festival tour: Bhutan

Fly to Paro, Bhutan with Druk Air, Bhutan's national airline. If you manage to grab a seat on the left side of the plane and the weather is clear, you might be treated to breathtaking vistas of the towering peaks of the eastern Himalayas.

Upon completing visa formalities at Paro airport, your guide will greet you and drive you to Thimphu. En route, visit Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress in Thimphu, constructed by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Legend has it that the dzong was built over the body of a demoness, now entombed beneath its foundations. Established in 1629 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, it's a significant historical site. Thimphu is a short 10-minute drive from here. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel.

Today, after breakfast at the hotel, you'll embark on a full-day guided tour of the capital city. The morning starts with a visit to the National Library, home to a vast collection of Buddhist texts, followed by the Institute for Zorig Chusum, also known as the Painting School, where artisans undergo a rigorous six-year training in Bhutan's traditional arts and crafts.

After returning to town for lunch at a restaurant approved by Bhutan Inbound, the afternoon brings more explorations. You'll visit Kuensel Phodrang, or Buddha Point, to see the world's tallest sitting Buddha Statue. Then, it's off to the National Memorial Chorten, where locals from all walks of life can be seen offering prayers or circling the sacred monument.

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we'll drive up to Dochula Pass, standing tall at 3,088 meters (10,130 feet). Here, we'll pause to soak in the breathtaking scenery adorned with chortens, a mani wall, and colorful prayer flags that flutter in the wind, marking this high point on the road. On clear days, the pass offers stunning views of majestic peaks such as Masagang, Tsendagang, Terigang, Jejegangphugang, Zongphugang, and Gangkar Puensum, Bhutan's highest peak at 7,497 meters.

Our journey continues with a visit to the renowned "Temple of Fertility," Chimi Lhankhang, reached via a pleasant hike through Sopsokha Valley, where terraced paddy fields paint the landscape in green hues. After lunch at a local cafeteria on our return journey, we'll spend an hour exploring Punakha, beginning with a visit to the historic Punakha Dzong, a fortress dating back to the 17th century that holds significant importance in Bhutan's history. We'll wrap up the day with a stroll through the local market before settling into our hotel in Punakha.

After our morning meal, we'll drive to Sangchen Dorji Lhendrup nunnery, home to about 150 nuns. The nunnery offers a breathtaking view of Punakha Valley. Next, we'll journey onward to Paro. Upon arrival, we'll enjoy lunch at a restaurant recommended by Bhutan Inbound.

Afterward, we can explore the area, possibly visiting Dumtse Lhakhang. This temple's unique architecture is said to have been designed on a hill resembling a frog, believed to ward off Sadag (earth spirits) and Lunyen (powerful naga spirits). In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through Paro town.

Today holds a special treat as you get to experience one of Bhutan's most anticipated festivals. You'll marvel at locals adorned in their traditional attire: men in vibrant "Gho" robes and women in elegant "Kira" dresses, each boasting intricate designs. The festival comes alive with colorful mask dancers and the soul-stirring melodies of traditional folk music. Throughout the day, mischievous clowns known as Atsara (masters of humor) will delight you, wielding playful props and adorned with phallus masks that add a whimsical touch to the festivities. The air is filled with diverse dances, from ceremonial rituals to lively folk performances.

Feel free to mingle with friendly locals, inevitably finding your camera capturing every enchanting moment. Later, we'll head to a local restaurant designated by Bhutan Inbound for lunch. Afterward, you can choose to return to the festival or explore other nearby attractions. Today promises not just a festival, but a vivid immersion into Bhutanese culture and joyous traditions.

After breakfast, we will embark on a hike to Tiger's Nest, also known as Paro Taktsang. This iconic monastery, perched on a cliffside 3,000 feet above the Paro Valley in Bhutan, is a sacred site and a marvel of architecture. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche, who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan, flew to this location on the back of a tigress. The hike offers stunning views and a glimpse into Bhutanese spirituality, making it a memorable part of the journey.

Start your day with an early breakfast at the hotel. Afterward, head to the airport for your flight to your next destination. Our representative will assist with exit procedures and wish you a fond farewell.