Punakha Tshechu Festival (9th - 11th March 2025)

Upon arrival at Paro airport (2235m), you'll be warmly greeted by a representative from Himalayan Dream Team. From there, you'll drive to Thimphu (1hour), the capital city of Bhutan. En route, visit the Tamchog Lhakhang, a 15th-century temple built by the renowned iron bridge builder Thang Tong Gyalpo. This temple is uniquely accessible via one of the few remaining iron chain bridges.

In the afternoon, delve into Bhutanese culture with a visit to the Postal Museum, where you can print your photos on official Bhutanese stamps. Explore the vibrant Craft Bazaar to discover local handicrafts. End your day with a visit to the Tashichho Dzong, the royal secretariat and the king's office, renowned for hosting one of Thimphu's most spectacular festivals in autumn. Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese dinner and settle in for the night at your hotel.

Begin your morning with a visit to the National Memorial Chorten, built in honor of the late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Marvel at the world's tallest Buddha statue at Buddha Dordenma, standing 51.5 meters tall. Explore the Changangkha Lhakhang, the oldest temple in Thimphu valley, and visit the Takin Preserve Center to see Bhutan's national animal.

For a panoramic view of Thimphu, head to the BBS Tower viewpoint. Visit the Dupthop Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's few surviving nunneries. Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese lunch at Simply Bhutan Museum, where you can also witness folk dances, try archery, and visit the Folk Heritage Museum. Conclude the day by watching an archery match at Changlimithang Stadium. 

Drive to the beautiful Gangtey Valley in the morning. En route, stop at Dochu La Pass, adorned with 108 stupas and famous for the annual Druk Wangyel Festival held in December. Continue to Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, built in 1638 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, and enjoy lunch along the way.

In Gangtey, visit the renowned Gangtey Monastery, founded in 1613 by Tenzin Legpai. Then, explore the Crane Information Center and the picturesque Phobjikha Valley, known for its population of rare Black-Necked Cranes. 

After breakfast, drive to Punakha Valley. On the way, visit Chimi Lhakhang, the Temple of Fertility, built in 1499 to honor Lama Drukpa Kuenley, known as the "Divine Madman."

In the afternoon, witness the vibrant Punakha Tshechu Festival 2025 at Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. In the evening, take a leisurely walk across the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan, spanning 160 meters across the Pho Chu River.

Spend your morning immersed in the colorful festivities of the Punakha Tshechu at Punakha Dzong. This celebration is a profound display of Bhutanese culture and spirituality, featuring masked dances and religious rituals.

Later in the afternoon, enjoy a scenic hike to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chöling Monastery, offering stunning views of the valley below

Continue to revel in the Punakha Tshechu festivities throughout the morning. The dances and ceremonies are rich in symbolism and provide deep insights into Bhutanese spiritual beliefs.

In the afternoon, drive to the quaint village of Talo and visit its serene monastery. Talo is known for its beautiful traditional architecture and peaceful ambiance.

After breakfast, drive back to Thimphu. Upon arrival, take a hike to the Cheri Monastery, a place of meditation and retreat, providing a peaceful escape and panoramic views.

Spend your afternoon exploring Thimphu at your leisure, strolling through the town, shopping for souvenirs, and capturing photographs of the bustling local life.

Drive to Paro in the morning and take a hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang). This sacred site, perched on a cliffside, offers breathtaking views and a profound spiritual experience.

In the afternoon, visit Drugyel Dzong, built in 1647 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and currently under restoration after a fire. Also explore Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest temples, built in 659 A.D. by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. Enjoy an evening at leisure in Paro town before dinner

Begin your day with a visit to Paro Rinpung Dzong, constructed in 1644 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, and now the site of the annual Paro Festival. Explore the Ta Dzong, an ancient watchtower built in 1649, now housing the National Museum of Bhutan.

In the afternoon, take an excursion to Chele La Pass (3988 m), offering spectacular views of the Himalayan ranges bordering Tibet, including Mt. Jomolhari. On your way back, visit the Kila Gompa Nunnery, Bhutan's oldest nunnery founded in the 9th century. Return to Paro for dinner and an overnight stay.

On your final day, a representative from Himalayan Dream Team will ensure your smooth transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and rich cultural insights gained during your journey through Bhutan. Safe travels