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Punakha Festival

bhutan
Not Rated
Duration

8 Days 7 Nights

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

___

The Punakha Festival Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to experience Bhutan’s deep-rooted cultural heritage and vibrant living traditions. Centered around the renowned Punakha Tshechu, held within the majestic Punakha Dzong, this journey immerses you in sacred masked dances, traditional music, and centuries-old rituals. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Punakha Valley, the festival provides a captivating window into Bhutan’s spiritual and cultural essence.

Day 1: Arrival in Paro and Transfer to Thimphu

Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide and driver. From Paro, enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Once settled, visit the National Memorial Chorten—built in honor of the Third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck—followed by the impressive Buddha Dordenma statue, which offers sweeping views of the valley. In the evening, take a relaxed stroll through Thimphu’s lively markets and craft stalls. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing

Begin the day at Tashichho Dzong, the administrative and monastic center of Bhutan. Continue to the National Library, home to an important collection of Buddhist texts. In the afternoon, explore the Folk Heritage Museum for insights into traditional Bhutanese life and visit the Takin Preserve to see Bhutan’s unique national animal. Spend the evening enjoying the local ambiance of Thimphu city. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha

After breakfast, drive to Punakha, crossing the scenic Dochula Pass with its panoramic Himalayan views and the iconic 108 chortens. On arrival, explore the magnificent Punakha Dzong, beautifully situated at the meeting of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Later, walk across the nearby suspension bridge—one of the longest in the country. Overnight in Punakha.

Day 4: Punakha Tshechu Festival

Spend the day immersed in the vibrant Punakha Tshechu, held within the historic Punakha Dzong. Enjoy colorful masked dances, traditional music, and sacred rituals performed by monks and lay dancers. This festival offers a rare and intimate glimpse into Bhutan’s spiritual and cultural traditions. Overnight in Punakha.

Day 5: Punakha Sightseeing

Begin with a gentle walk to Chimi Lhakhang, the revered Temple of Fertility, passing through charming paddy fields and rural villages. In the afternoon, hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, an intricately designed stupa offering stunning views of the Punakha Valley. Enjoy a relaxed evening at your hotel or explore more of the area at your leisure. Overnight in Punakha.

Day 6: Punakha to Paro

Return to Paro after breakfast, a drive of about four hours. Upon arrival, visit Rinpung Dzong, a striking fortress monastery overlooking the valley, followed by the National Museum housed in the historic Ta Dzong watchtower. Spend the evening exploring Paro town’s charming shops and cafés. Overnight in Paro.

Day 7: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Today’s highlight is the hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery—Tiger’s Nest—dramatically perched on a cliffside. The 4–5 hour round-trip walk offers magnificent scenery and a profound spiritual atmosphere. After the descent, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples. Spend your final evening reflecting on your journey. Overnight in Paro.

Day 8: Departure

After breakfast, your guide will transfer you to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. Thank You.

  • Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
  • Accommodation
  • All meals
  • Transport
  • All internal taxes & charges
  • Licensed Bhutanese Tour Guide
  • Equipment & haulage for trekking tours
  • Flight tickets
  • Insurance
  • Drinks and Beverages
  • Tips
  • Internet and Phone bills
  • Other bills of personal nature

Tour's Location

bhutan

How do I apply for a visa?

You can apply online for a visa here, or if you’re travelling with a tour operator, they may apply on your behalf. Read more about the visa here. Visitors from Bangladesh and the Maldives requiring a visa can apply either online before travelling or in person upon arrival in Bhutan.

How long does it take to issue my visa?

A correctly input visa application can take up to five days to process.

What is the SDF and how is it used?

The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is a daily levy paid by visitors to support Bhutan’s development. Since the kingdom first opened its doors in 1974, guests have played a critical role in our country’s growth. The SDF is collected by the national exchequer and funds are allocated to various projects that create long-term, sustainable opportunities for the Bhutanese people, through free healthcare, education and training, upskilling the tourism and hospitality industry, improved infrastructure, environmental preservation and conservation, cultural preservation programmes and initiatives that support local businesses and economies. The SDF is also a vital means of maintaining the exceptional forest cover and carbon-neutrality for which our small nation is world-renowned and globally critical. The SDF also helps us to ensure that we can continue to offer guests tranquillity and an intimate experience. A correctly input visa application can take up to five days to process.

How much is the SDF?

The SDF is USD 100 per night for adults from all countries except for India. Children aged between 6 years and who have not yet turned 12 are eligible to pay USD 50 per night. Children who have not yet turned 6 years old do not have to pay any SDF. The SDF for Indian nationals (showing a valid Indian passport or Voter ID card) is Nu. 1,200 (or the equivalent amount in Indian rupees) per person, per night. Children aged between 6 years and who have not yet turned 12 are eligible to pay Nu./INR 600 per night. Children who have not yet turned 6 years old do not have to pay any SDF.

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Information Contact

Email

happytrips.bhutan@gmail.com

Website

happytripsbhutan.com

Phone

+975 77884141

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