The three days annual Jakar tshechu festival 2025 in Bhutan will be held at the courtyard of Jakar dzong in Bumthang. It is one of the famous festivals in Bumthang and showcases several sacred mask dances with many different folk songs and dances that are performed by the local people. The people witness the festival dressed in their finest clothes and is one of the most popular festivals among tourists. It is held in the mid autumn.
Jakar Festival at Bumthang
Tour Outline
- Day 01: Arrival at Paro and Acclimatization. Altitude 2200M
- Day 02: Tiger Nest Hike .Distance 11.7KM | Walking time 6 Hours Roundtrip | Altitude 3120 M
- Day 03: Paro to Bumthang Via Flight. Distance 305.6 KM l Flight time 35 Minutes | Altitude 2800M
- Day 04: Witness Jakar Festival. Altitude 2587M
- Day 05: Bumthang to Gangtey via Trongsa. Distance 154.6KM | Driving Time 4 Hours 21 Minutes | Altitude 2900 60 3200M above sea level
- Day 6: Gangtey to Punakha Sightseeing. Distance 73.1KM | Driving Time 2 Hours 8Minutes | Altitude 1200M
- Day 7:Punakha to Thimphu. Distance 72.7KM | Driving Time 2Hours 8 Minutes | Altitude 2400M
- Day 8:Thimphu Sightseeing . Altitude 2400M
- Day 9:Thimphu to Paro Airport Drop. Distance 60KM | Driving Time 1 Hour | Altitude 2200M
Similar Post
Jakar Festival 2025
Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide and can spend the day exploring the serene Paro Valley, visiting landmarks such as Rinpung Dzong, a magnificent fortress-monastery showcasing intricate Bhutanese architecture, and the National Museum, housed in the historic Ta Dzong, where you can delve into the rich art and cultural heritage of Bhutan, before relaxing in the tranquil environment to acclimatize to the altitude and prepare for your onward journey.
Embark on a memorable hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), perched on a cliffside 900 meters above the Paro Valley, offering spectacular views and spiritual significance. After lunch, visit Drugyel Dzong, considered one of Bhutan's most beautiful and famous archaeological sites, and Kyichu Lhakhang, the oldest and one of the most beautiful temples in Bhutan. Dinner and overnight stay at Hotel.
After breakfast, head to Paro International Airport for your flight to Bumthang which took approximately 35 minutes to land at Bumthang. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas as you fly from Paro to Bumthang. Upon arrival at Bumthang,visit Jambay lhakhang built in 659 AD by the Tibetan King Srongtsen Gampo, Tamshing lhakhang which literally means “the temple of the good message”, established in 1501 by Pema Lingpa and visit Kurjey lhakhang built in the 8th century where the body print of the Guru Rinpoche can still be seen on the rock housed in this temple. In the evening, free to stroll in the town.Dinner and overnight in Hotel.
Start your day with a visit to the Jakar Festival, an annual cultural and religious celebration held at Jakar Dzong in Bumthang. The Jakar dzong which means “The castle of white Bird” was built in 1667 by the Tibetan Lama Nyagi Wangchuk. The festival features vibrant traditional Bhutanese dances, masked performances, and religious rituals that offer an incredible insight into the country’s spiritual and cultural heritage. Witness monks and locals performing sacred dances, including the famous Cham dances, which symbolize the triumph of good over evil. Later continue your sightseeing with a visit to Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake), a sacred site where Guru Rinpoche is said to have meditated. This picturesque location is surrounded by serene landscapes and offers a spiritual atmosphere and explore Kenchosum monastery built in the 6th century. Legend has it that the Lhakhang contained a large bell that when it was rung, the bell could be heard all the way in Lhasa, Tibet. It is now on display at the national museum in Paro.Dinner and overnight in Hotel.
After breakfast, begin your drives towards Gangtey Valley via Trongsa district, Enroute Visit Trongsa Dzong, a massive fortress that historically served as the seat of power for the kings of Bhutan. The dzong offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. Explore the complex, including the Ta Dzong, the old watchtower that now houses a museum showcasing the region's history. Continue your journey towards Gangtey winding through beautiful landscapes, dense forests, and picturesque valleys.Enjoy a peaceful evening in Gangtey, surrounded by the beauty of the valley.Overnight stay in Gangtey.
Begin your day with a visit to the Gangtey Monastery, one of the most important monasteries in Bhutan. It is known for its striking architecture and its role in the religious practices of the region. Take a scenic walk through Phobjikha Valley, which is famous for its rich wildlife, particularly during the winter when the black-necked cranes migrate here. Visit the Black-necked Crane Information Centre to learn more about these fascinating birds and the conservation efforts in the region. Later drive to Punakha valley with enroute a visit to Chimi Lhakhang also known as temple of fertility and visit suspension bridge one of the oldest and longest suspension bridge in Bhutan with fantastic views of the valley and mountains. Dinner and over night at hotel.
Begin your day with a visit to Punakha Dzong ( the place of great happiness or bliss), is the administrative centre of Punakha District in Punakha, Bhutan. After that start your drive towards Thimphu. Enroute stop at Dochula pass which offers a breathtaking blend of natural beauty. Upon arrival at Thimphu, visit National Memorial which is predominantly white with spires of gold, was erected in 1974 in honor of the father of modern Bhutan, the third king of the country and Buddha Dordenma Statue which offers stunning panoramic views and holds deep cultural and spiritual significance. In the evening, walk over to the Bhutanese Craft Bazaar, also known as the Handicrafts Market, near Norzin Lam, where rows of stalls showcase locally made items such as handwoven textiles like kiras and ghos, traditional Thangka paintings, wooden bowls and cups (dappa), bamboo products, and jewelry, offering a chance to shop for authentic Bhutanese souvenirs while interacting with local artisans. Over night stay at hotel.
Spend a day sightseeing in Thimphu, starting with a visit to the majestic Tashichho Dzong, a stunning fortress that serves as the seat of the King’s office and a monastic center, followed by an immersive experience at Simply Bhutan Museum, where you can explore Bhutanese culture, traditions, and crafts. Next, head to the National Library, home to ancient Buddhist manuscripts and a wealth of Bhutan’s literary heritage, and end your day with a tranquil stroll through Changyul Park, a serene green space perfect for relaxation amidst nature.
After breakfast, our team will escort you to Paro Airport and bid you farewell.
Inclusion/Exclusion
Cost Include for Jakar Festival
- *All Meals [Breakfast /Lunch/Dinner]
- *Accommodation in 3 Star
- *All transportation within the country including airport transfers.
- *Sustainable Development Fees of $100 per person per night
- *Entrance fees for Museums and Monuments only
- *Visa Fee of USD 40 Per Person
- *Airport tax
- *Professional English speaking Guide.
- *All Sightseeing in the country.
Cost Exclude for Jakar Festival
- *Flight Fare for both International and Domestic
- *Insurance Premiums
- *Payments for service provided on a personal basis
- *Cost for any services not mentioned in the "Cost Include head"
- *Cost incurred due to mishaps, strikes, political unrest etc.
- *Personal expense in items such as laundry, soft drinks, Camera Charges, Bottle water, incidentals, Portage, Bellboy charges tips or any other services
FAQ on Jakar Festival
Visitors can expect to witness colorful mask dances, traditional music performances, vibrant costumes, and religious ceremonies. The festival is a blend of spirituality and cultural heritage, offering a unique insight into Bhutanese customs.
Generally, the festival is open to the public, but it’s advised to check with local tour operators or the event organizers for details about ticketing and any possible restrictions.
Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and shoes, suitable for walking. Traditional Bhutanese attire (gho for men, kira for women) is often worn by locals, though tourists can attend in casual or respectful attire.
Yes, the festival features a range of cultural and religious events, including masked dances (Cham dances), traditional music performances, and other Bhutanese rituals to honor Guru Rinpoche.
Apart from the festival itself, visitors can explore the surrounding Bumthang region, which is known for its temples, monasteries, scenic landscapes, and hiking trails.
Hotel used for Jakar Festival
Hotel Used for Jakar Festival are as follows
Paro: Rema Resort /Similar
Bumthang: Swiss Guest House/ Similar
Gangtey: Hotel Phobjikha/Similar
Punakha: Hotel Vara /Similar
Thimphu: Hotel Phuntsho Pelri /Similar