Thimphu Drupchen 28th Sept.2025

Arrive Paro. After immigration formalities, you will be received by our representative who will be your tour guide throughout your tour and drive you to Paro town and after lunch, 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 Rinpung 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.In the evening drive to Thimphu which will take you through Chunzom (confluence of Pachu- the river flowing through Paro valley & Wangchu –the river flowing through Thimphu valley). Dinner and overnight at hotel.

After Breakfast visit Bhutan Postal Museum, the museum tells the story of Bhutan’s progress and development through the evolution of communications and postal system in the country. Visit National Textile Museum which is a good place to see the art of traditional weaving being kept alive and preserved through exhibition and has a good collection of old textiles which are rich in colors and designs. You will also see people weaving with intricate designs and visit National Institute of Traditional Medicine (outside only), where medicinal herbs are compounded and dispensed, and traditional medical practitioners trained. Later visit The School of Traditional Painting of Arts and Crafts where students undertake a six-year course on the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. Later visit to Folk Heritage Museum or Simply Bhutan– A living museum of rural life which provides visitors and tourists with fascinating insights into the Bhutanese material culture and way of life.
Dinner & overnight at a hotel in Thimphu.

After breakfast you will go to witness Thimphu Dromchoe (Festival) which will be held at the Courtyard of Tashichhoedzong. The sacred dances would be performed which are dedicated to the chief protective deity of Bhutan, Palden Lhamo. Legend has it, that the deity Pelden Lhamo appeared before Kuenga Gyeltshen (chief abbot of Bhutan) and performed the dances while he was in meditation. Based on these dances, Kuenga Gyaltshen initiated the Dromchoe. These religious dances are interspersed with folk songs and clowning. The festival is a magnificent cacophony of sound and colour and a photographer’s delight.

You also visit the interior of Tashichhoe Dzong, a fortress of the glorious religion. It was built in 1641 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel and was reconstructed into present structure by the late King, His majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in the year 1962-1969. It houses the secretariat building, the throne room and the office of the king, and the central monk body. After the festival you will visit Takin Preserve, which houses the national animal "the Takin" that is only found in Bhutan followed by a visit largest Bhudha statue overlooking thimphu valley and memorial chorten. In the evening visit Changyul Park and explore Thimphu city on your own. Dinner and overnight at a hotel.

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.Dinner and over night in the hotel.

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.

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.

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!