Thimphu Festival Tour
The Thimphu Festival Tour of Bhutan is celebrated in the fall. This time of the year has a clear blue sky with absolutely beautiful weather.
The Thimphu Festival Tour of Bhutan is one of the grandest of Bhutan’s festivals and attracts the largest audience. Featuring dances performed by trained monks and laymen in amazing masks and costumes, Tsechu (festivals) are one of the best ways to experience the ancient living culture of Bhutan.
A Tsechu is a Buddhist festival in honor of Guru Rimpoche, the saint who brought Buddhism to Bhutan. The Thimphu Tsechu was established by the 4th Temporal Ruler, Tenzing Rabgye (1638-1696) in 1670. This festival also provides a great opportunity to witness locals gathered in their finest Ghos and Kira’s to celebrate. This tour also visits sacred sites in Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha.
ITINERARY OVERVIEW OF Thimphu FESTIVAL TOUR
DAY 01: ARRIVE PARO – THIMPHU. DAY 02: ATTEND THIMPHU FESTIVAL. DAY 03: THIMPHU FESTIVAL TOUR. DAY 04: THIMPHU – PUNAKHA SIGHTSEEING. DAY 05: PUNAKHA – THIMPHU – PARO. DAY 06: PARO. DAY 07: DEPART PARO.
Detailed Itinerary for Thimphu Festival Tour.
DAY 01: ARRIVE PARO – THIMPHU.
The flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular mountain flights in the world, with a constantly changing panorama of some of the highest mountains on earth. Moreover, the Tour Bhutan team will receive you at the airport and, after the Visa formalities, you can begin your journey.
After lunch, you can enjoy afternoon sightseeing around Paro. Firstly, visit the Ta Dzong Museum, which houses many religious relics, works of art, and handicrafts. This visit offers a great orientation into Bhutan’s historical, cultural, and religious past. Next, proceed to the Rimpong Dzong, where you can witness the painting of the great saint Milarepa. The Bhutanese consider him the master of meditation and believe he attained enlightenment in a lifetime.
Finally, settle in for the night at your hotel in Thimphu, where you can relax and prepare for the next day’s adventures.
DAY 02: THIMPHU TOUR.
The Thimphu tour begins with a visit to Tashichho Dzong, where you can attend the Thimphu festival. Firstly, you will witness locals dressed in their finest clothes, having walked for miles to partake in the festivities. In this grand event, they gather to witness masked dances, offer prayers, and indulge in feasts. Although the festival holds a spiritual significance, the dances often resemble plays that depict stories of good prevailing over evil or portray significant historical events, particularly those related to the life of Bhutan’s patron saint, Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche. Additionally, the festival provides ample opportunities for socializing.
Tashichho Dzong, known as ‘the fortress of the glorious religion,’ was initially constructed in 1641 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. However, it was reconstructed in the 1960s, during the reign of Bhutan’s third king, following the traditional style, devoid of plans or nails. This magnificent structure houses various ministries, His Majesty’s secretariat, and the central monk body, contributing to the cultural and administrative significance of the site.
Conclude your eventful day by spending the night at your hotel in Thimphu, where you can unwind and prepare for the next day’s explorations.
DAY 03: Attend Thimphu Festival at Tashichhodzong.
Enjoy morning sightseeing, including a visit to the 12th-century Changangkha Temple. Visit the National Memorial Chorten depicting the Buddhist faith in the form of paintings and statues. This temple was first initiated by the Third King as a protection from the negative elements of modernization, and as a monument to world peace. The Royal Queen Mother completed it as a memorial stupa for the Third King who passed away in 1972.
In the afternoon return to Tashichho Dzong to further experience the colorful events of the Thimphu festival. Overnight at your hotel in Thimphu.
DAY 04: THIMPHU – PUNAKHA.
Drive over the Dochu-La pass (3,100 meters), which, on a clear day, offers an incredible view of Himalayan peaks. This scenic journey takes approximately three hours and descends into the balmy Punakha valley. As you traverse the countryside, you gain a glimpse into the everyday life of this remote Himalayan kingdom. Moreover, in the Dochu-La area, you will be surrounded by vast Rhododendron forests. It transform into majestic trees and bloom with vibrant colors in late April and early May, creating a spectacular display of springtime beauty.
Upon arrival, your first stop is Punakha Dzong, known as the “Palace of Great Happiness.” It serves as the winter headquarters for the Je Khenpo and hundreds of monks who migrate from Thimphu to this warmer location. The three-story main temple within Punakha Dzong is a breathtaking example of traditional design. It features four intricately embossed entrance pillars made from cypress and adorned with gold and silver. Notably, it was within these sacred walls that Bhutan’s first king was crowned in 1907.
Conclude your day’s adventures by retreating to your hotel in Punakha/Wangduephodrang, where you can relax and enjoy a peaceful overnight stay.
DAY 05: PUNAKHA – THIMPHU – PARO.
In the morning, embark on a scenic drive to Yabesa village, where you’ll be treated to a delightful hike amidst the captivating rice fields. As you make your way up, the trail leads you to the magnificent Khamsum Yueley Namgyal Chorten. This architectural gem was masterfully crafted by her majesty Queen Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuk and sits proudly atop a hill overlooking the river. Inside the Chorten, you’ll discover a remarkable collection of paintings that belong to the revered Nyingmapa Traditions.
If your visit to Thimphu coincides with the weekend, make sure to take a leisurely stroll through the bustling Thimphu Market. This vibrant hub showcases an array of Bhutanese culinary delights, including baskets overflowing with fiery chilies, delectable fresh cheese, and an assortment of vibrant greens. It’s a sensory experience that captures the essence of Bhutan’s food culture.
As the day draws to a close, you’ll return to Paro, where your hotel awaits. Enjoy a restful overnight stay, cherishing the memories of the day’s adventures.
DAY 06: PARO TIGER NEST HIKE
Prepare yourself for a truly remarkable experience as you venture forth to Taktsang Monastery. The temple is the testament to Bhutan’s rich spiritual heritage and natural grandeur.
In the afternoon drive to 17th Century Drukgyel Dzong, a historic monument built by the Zhabdrung to commemorate his victory against invading Tibetans in 1644. In fine weather, the towering peak of the sacred Mount Jomolhari (7314m) appears as a stunning backdrop. On the return drive to Paro, visit 7th Century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples constructed by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo.
Alternatively, you could spend day 6 on a day trip to the Haa Valley. The valley is one of the most picturesque districts in Bhutan. You can reach the Haa Valley via the beautiful Chelila Pass. It is characterized by its surrounding rugged and mountainous terrain. You will overnight at your hotel in Paro.
DAY 07: DEPART PARO.
Your Thimphu Festival Tour in Bhutan ends today. Our guide and driver will drop you at the airport and see you off. Tashi Delek! Best wishes!
Note: 2024 Thimphu Festival date falls from 24th to 26th September. If you plan to attend the festival pls drop us the mail.
Similar Tours
FAQs About Thimphu Festival Tour
The Thimphu Festival dates vary each year based on the Bhutanese lunar calendar. It usually occurs in the autumn months (September or October) and lasts for several days.
Yes, tourists are welcome to attend the Thimphu Festival. It’s a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture and witness traditional dances and rituals.
Most travelers enter Bhutan via the Paro International Airport. From there, Thimphu can be reached by road, which takes around an hour’s drive.
The Thimphu Festival showcases elaborate masked dances performed by monks and laypeople. The festival also includes traditional music, cultural displays, and religious ceremonies.
Yes, the Thimphu Festival often includes the display of religious scrolls known as Thongdrols, which are unveiled to the public for blessings.
Dress modestly and respectfully. Men and women are advised to wear traditional Bhutanese clothing or attire that covers the shoulders and knees.
Photography is usually allowed, but always ask for permission before taking photos of individuals, monks, or sacred rituals. Some events might have specific photography restrictions.
Certainly! Thimphu has various cultural and historical sites, including the Tashichho Dzong and the National Memorial Chorten, which you can explore before or after the festival.
THIMPHU TSHECHU PROGRAM
- Day 1 Program
- Day 2 Program
- Day 3 Program
