Paro Festival Tour(21st to 25th March ’24)

9 Days

The Paro Festival, also known as the Paro Tsechu, is an annual religious festival held in Paro, Bhutan. Firstly, during the festival, locals dress up in their finest traditional attire and gather at the Paro Dzong, a stunning fortress-like monastery. Secondly, the festival commences with the unfurling of the thongdrel, a large religious scroll that is believed to bestow blessings on those who see it.

Overview

The Bhutan Paro Festival Tour, a vibrant and culturally rich celebration, unfolds annually in the town of Paro. This lively event typically features traditional masked dances, religious ceremonies, and colorful pageantry, providing a captivating glimpse into Bhutanese heritage and spirituality. Held against the backdrop of the stunning Paro Dzong, the festival draws locals and visitors alike to witness the unique blend of sacred rituals and festive joy. The Paro Festival is not only a showcase of Bhutan’s cultural wealth but also an opportunity for communal gathering and spiritual reflection, making it a truly immersive and unforgettable experience for attendees.

Outline Tour Program for Bhutan Paro Festival Tour 2024

  • Day 01 -Paro to Thimphu-60Km-2200m Altitude.
  • Day 02- Thimphu City tour-5 Hours Sightseeing- 2200m Altitude
  • Day 03– Thimphu to Punakha-79Km- 3 Hours drive and 1900m Altitude in Punakha.
  • Day 04 -Punakha River Rafting.
  • Day 05 Punakha to Gangtye 70Km-3 Hours Drive-3200m Altitude.
  • Day 06 Gangtey to Paro-201 Km and takes about 6 Hours. 
  • Day 07 Attend Paro Festival-2200m
  • Day 08 Hike the popular Taktsang Monastery.
  • Day 09 Paro to Airport and See OFF

Highlights

  • Witness the most Popular Spring festival of Bhutan
  • Meet the locals in their best attire.
  • Enjoy the varieties of program organised by Paro District.
  • Witness the unfurling of Thangkha.
  • Know the deep cultural heritage of Bhutan through this festival.

Itinerary

Your flights to Bhutan is one of the most wonderful and exciting flights in the Himalayas.

Upon arrival at Paro Airport, you will be greeted by the mesmerizing views of the surrounding mountains, providing a picturesque introduction to Bhutan. The airport, situated in a deep valley, is one of the country’s only international gateways. The terminal is relatively small, reflecting Bhutan’s commitment to maintaining a sustainable and eco-friendly environment.

After disembarking, you’ll proceed through the immigration and customs process. The airport staff is known for their warm hospitality, offering a friendly welcome to visitors. The baggage claim area is conveniently located, ensuring a smooth transition upon collecting your luggage.

Enjoy the most happening Thimphu City . Visit folk Heritage Museam, 13th arts and Craft School. The day begins with a visit to the National Memorial Chorten (1974) built in honour of our late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk and the Dupthop Lhakhang one of the few surviving nunneries in Bhutan. We then visit the National Library, stocked with ancient Buddhist manuscripts, and the Painting School where traditional art is still kept alive through instructions in the art of painting Thangkas (sacred Buddhist religious scrolls). Other highlights include a visit to the Tashichho Dzong, seat of the national government and the Central Monastic Body, including the summer residence of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot of Bhutan). We drive to Simtokha Dzong; the oldest Dzong of Bhutan built by Shabdrung in 1627 and finally visit the Handicrafts Emporium followed by shopping for souvenirs in the shops of Thimphu

Travel to Punakha through the Dochula Pass, taking a moment to appreciate the breathtaking views of the Higher Himalayas if the weather permits. Explore Chimi Lhakhang, commonly known as the Fertility Temple, on the way. This temple, constructed by Lama Drukpa Kuenley, is renowned for the legend of him subduing demons with his “Magical Thunderbolt.” Experience the unique charm of the Temple of Fertility during your visit. Over Night at Hotel.

Visit the most beautiful Punakha Dzong where the first King of Bhutan was crowned in 1907 in this Dzong. The dzong holds the most important relics of Bhutan.

Start the Journey from old capital of Bhutan. the drive takes you through amazing Wangdiphodrang Dzong towards Gangtye valley. The valley is one of the most fertile land for potato cultivation and breeding centre for Black Necked Crane.

The Gangtey Trail is a mesmerizing trek that winds through the stunning landscapes of Gangtey Valley in Bhutan. This scenic trail takes you through quaint villages, lush forests, and open meadows, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. One of the highlights of the trail is the Gangtey Monastery, a prominent religious site perched on a hilltop, providing a tranquil and spiritual atmosphere.

The journey from Gangtey to Paro is about 5 hours. Visit Pelela pass before we proceed our drive towards Paro. Embark on a captivating journey from Gangtey to Paro, immersing yourself in the scenic beauty and cultural richness of Bhutan. Witness the unique charm of Gangtey Valley with its picturesque landscapes and visit the iconic Gangtey Monastery. As you traverse towards Paro, explore the historical and spiritual significance of the region. In Paro, marvel at the majestic Paro Taktsang, also known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched on a cliffside. Delve into the vibrant local culture, visit traditional markets, and discover the architectural wonders that make Paro a captivating destination for sightseeing.

Paro Spring festival is one of the most popular festival in western Dzongkhag. The people from all walks of life gather here to witness the awaited spiritual dance performed by monks and laymen. All government office in Paro remains closed from 20th to 24th march 2024.

Embark on the renowned 3-hour Tiger’s Nest hike, beginning with a short drive to Satsam Chorten. From there, enjoy a 2-hour horse ride to the monastery’s viewpoint, traversing a scenic trail through pine forests adorned with Spanish moss and fluttering prayer flags. Pause at Taktsang Jakhang for rest and refreshments before the awe-inspiring sight of Taktsang Monastery, perched on a sheer rock cliff 900 meters above the valley. Built around Guru Rimpoche’s meditation cave in 1684, the monastery is steeped in legend, recounting the arrival of Guru Padmasambhava on the back of a flying tiger.

After a fulfilling lunch, explore Ta Dzong (built in 1656, renovated in 1968), now the National Museum housed in an ancient watchtower. Descend to Paro Rimpung Dzong (built in 1646), meaning “Heap of Jewels,” serving as the valley’s center for civil and religious authority. A brief walk brings you to the dzong’s base and a traditional cantilevered bridge. Conclude the day with a scenic drive to Thimphu in the evening.

Today your Paro festival tour ends here with our team bidding farewell from the airport.

Inclusion / Exclusion

Inclusion

  • All Meals [Breakfast /Lunch/Dinner]
  • Accommodation in 3 and 4 Star Hotel combined.
  • All transportation within the country including airport transfers.
  • Royalty & Govt. Taxes
  • Entrance fees for Museums and Monuments only
  • Visa Fee.
  • Airport tax
  • Proffessional English speaking Guide.
  • All Sightseeing in the country.
  • Hotstone bath and visit to farm house.
  • Complimentary Massage at 4 Star Hotel in Punakha at RKPO green Resort.

Exclusion

  • Druk Air fare OR DOMESTIC TICKETS
  • 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.

FAQs

What are the hotels included in the Tour?

  • Seven Suits
  • Zhingkham Resort
  • Phobjikha Resort
  • Metta Resort

 

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* and 5* 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)

What are the festival dates?

PARO FESTIVAL DATE FROM 20TH TO 24TH APRIL 2024

All of our trips are private, tailor-made tours for independent travel. We can customize your tours and trips according to your choice of date and time so that you can spend more time in the places doing the activities that you are interested in. This tour can be experienced all year around.

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Paro Festival Tour(21st to 25th March ’24)
From $2,990
/ Adult

Trip Info

  • Paro
  • Paro
  • 21st to 25th March 2024
  • Full-board
  • Licensed Tour Guide