Prized by the Government of Japan, this fungi is native to the forest of Ura valley in Bumthang. Visitors learn to identify and harvest the wild matsutake mushroom of Bhutan during the festival. They can hike the valley’s fragrant trails and give in to the thrill of discovering their own private patch of this most coveted mushroom.

Overview

Itinerary

Inclusion / Exclusion

FAQs

Overview

Mushroom Festival Tour in Bhutan. Masutake Mushroom Festival takes place in Genekha and in Bumthang. The display of varieties of mushrooms in the festival is one of the best in Bhutan. There is display of varieties of Masutake mushrooms. The festival also comes with dance and local programs performed by laymen and women of the community. An annual mushroom festival takes place in Ganekha. Locally known as sangay shamu, Genekha is famous for producing matsutake and chanterelle mushrooms. It is during this festival when the native mushroom and other local product, cultural programs by the school and local community is showcased.

Mushroom Festival Tour in Bhutan Facts

Trip Duration: 5 Nights and 6 Days.
Trip Start and End: Paro to Paro
Trip Type: Mushroom Festival and Cultural Tour
Trip Guide: Licensed Tour Guide
Maximum Altitude: 3200m at Dochula Pass.
Groups: 2 to 16 People
Transport: Private Car
Tour Date : 15th and 16th August 2024

Mushroom Festival Trip Outline

Day 01: Arrival at Paro and drive to Thimphu.
Day 02: Attend Mushroom Festival in Genekha Thimphu.
Day 03: Thimphu to Punakha Tour.
Day 04: Punakha to Paro
Day 05: Paro Tiger Nest Hike.
Day 06: Paro to Airport and see off.

Highlights

Explore the deep valley in Central Bhutan.
Breath the fresh air and enjoy the natural wonder of Bhutan.
Visit the Farm House

Day 1 :

Arrival at Paro Airport

Upon arrival our team from Tour Bhutan will receive you at the airport. Its a customary for Bhutanese to receive any guest with white scarf. The scarf is sign for respect and used for promotion, welcoming guest and ceremonies like Birthday Party, Wedding and baby shower etc. Upon receiving you you will be briefed about the tour program by the guide who will accompany you. The drive takes about 1 hour from Paro to capital city. On the way Guide will take you to see Tamchog monastery. The monastery is 30 minutes drive from Airport and located on a small hilltop across Paro river. Read More about Paro Tour Guide

Day 2 :

Attend Mushroom Festival in Genekha Thimphu

Today we drive to Genekha. Genekha is 1-hour drive from Thimphu. Genekha is also a popular starting point of Dagala Trek. You will spend the whole day at Genekha and enjoy the varieties of Mushrooms displayed. Huge matsutake is exported to Japan from Bhutan.

Day 3 :

Thimphu to Punakha

Today we start early. On the way we visit Trongsa Dzong one of the largest Dzong in the country and museam just above the Trongsa Dzong. The museam has the script written in gold and if you are lucky we will get the opportunity to see the holybook.

Day 4 :

Punakha to Paro

Punakha to Paro is 3 hours journey in a car. On the way towards Paro, we will stop at Thimphu. Visit the largest Budha Statue overlooking Thimphu valley. After lunch drive to Paro and visit Paro Rinpong Dzong, Taa Dzong and evening at Hotel.

Day 5 :

Paro Tiger Nest Temple Trek

Bhutan tour is not complete unless we take you to Tiger nest temple. Every Country have popular must see places and for Bhutan Tiger Nest temple is must visit place in Paro. It isnot easy to visit the temple. You must be fit and energetic because it is 3 hours strenous hike to the temple. The temple lies at rocky cliff 900m above Paro valley. We start early today and trek the 3 hours route. In the afternoon visit Paro city followed by farm House and Hotstone bath. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 6 :

Paro to Airport and see off

Your Mushroom festival tour of Bhutan ends here. Our team will see you off to the airport.

FAQs

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What is the Mushroom Festival in Bhutan?

The Mushroom Festival in Bhutan is an annual celebration that highlights the country’s diverse mushroom species, their culinary uses, and their significance in local culture. It offers a platform to showcase the ecological importance of mushrooms and promotes sustainable harvesting.

When and where does the Mushroom Festival take place?

The Mushroom Festival is typically held in the summer months, often in August. It’s hosted in various locations across Bhutan, with venues chosen to accommodate local communities and visitors.

What can I expect at the Mushroom Festival?

The festival features exhibitions, workshops, cooking demonstrations, and informative sessions on Bhutanese mushrooms. You’ll have the chance to taste a variety of mushroom dishes and learn about their health benefits and traditional uses.

Is the festival family-friendly?

Absolutely, the Mushroom Festival is a family-friendly event. It offers educational activities and a festive atmosphere suitable for all ages.

What activities are there for visitors?

Visitors can enjoy guided mushroom foraging, workshops on identifying edible mushrooms, cooking classes, and tasting sessions. Additionally, cultural performances and interactions with local communities are often part of the festival program.

Can I buy mushrooms at the festival?

Yes, fresh and dried mushrooms are usually available for purchase at the festival. It’s a great opportunity to take home a taste of Bhutan’s unique mushroom offerings.

What is the tour cancellation policy?

90% refund for the tour cancelled 45 days prior to arrival date, payment transfer charges will be charged 75% refund for the tour cancelled between 30 to 45 days prior to arrival date No refund for the tour cancelled less than 30 days of arrival date and for the change of itinerary Booking made for 4 star and 5 star hotels have to follow individual hotel’s cancellation policies.

What is the flight cancellation policy?

70% refund for cancellation made before 30 days prior to arrival date (Documentation charge USD 25 applicable) 30% refund for cancellation made between 15 to 30 days of travel date NO refund for cancellation made less than 15 days of travel date Documentation charge applicable for the change of dates, sectors etc (issued tickets only, USD30/ticket)