Overview
This 7-day journey offers the perfect blend of Bhutan’s vibrant cultural heritage, ancient monasteries, Himalayan landscapes, and one of the country’s most celebrated festivals—Paro Tshechu. Scheduled from March 29 to April 1, the festival brings together monks and villagers dressed in their finest traditional attire to witness sacred Cham mask dances and receive blessings.
Your adventure begins with the cultural highlights of Thimphu, the modern capital of Bhutan, before traveling through the scenic Dochula Pass toward the fertile valley of Punakha, home to Bhutan’s most stunning dzong. Returning to Paro, you will immerse yourself in the energy of Paro Tshechu, followed by a rewarding hike to the iconic Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliffside overlooking the valley.
This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a rich cultural experience, spiritual immersion, and scenic Himalayan beauty—all in one unforgettable journey.
7-Day Bhutan Tour Itinerary (Paro Tshechu Special)
Day 1: Arrive in Paro ➝ Transfer to Thimphu
• Arrive at Paro International Airport
• Meet guide; drive 1 hr 15 min to Thimphu
• On the way:
• Stop at Tachog Lhakhang Bridge
• In Thimphu:
• Visit Buddha Dordenma (giant statue)
• Explore Tashichho Dzong exterior (if time allows)
• Overnight in Thimphu
⸻
Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing
• Memorial Chorten
• Folk Heritage Museum
• National Institute for Zorig Chusum (arts & crafts school)
• Changangkha Lhakhang
• Takin Reserve
• Evening walk in Thimphu city and handicraft market
• Overnight in Thimphu
⸻
Day 3: Thimphu ➝ Punakha
• Drive over Dochula Pass (3,100m)
• View of the Himalayas (weather permitting)
• Visit 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens
• Descend to Punakha Valley
• Visit Punakha Dzong (Bhutan’s most beautiful fortress)
• Walk across the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan
• Optional: Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple) easy village walk
• Overnight in Punakha
⸻
Day 4: Punakha ➝ Paro (Tshechu Day 1)
• Drive back to Paro (4 hrs)
• Check into hotel
• Afternoon visit to Paro Rinpung Dzong
• Attend Paro Tshechu (festival dances) – depending on schedule
• Explore Paro town
• Overnight in Paro
⸻
Day 5: Paro Tshechu – Full Festival Day
• Spend the day at Paro Dzong festival ground
• Mask dances
• Royal Bhutanese folk songs
• Traditional cham performances
• Locals wearing full festive attire
• Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples
• Overnight in Paro
⸻
Day 6: Hike to Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest)
• Early morning hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (5–6 hours round trip)
• Lunch at the midpoint cafeteria viewpoint
• Afternoon:
• Traditional hot stone bath (optional)
• Free time for local handicraft shopping
• Overnight in Paro
⸻
Day 7: Departure from Paro
• Drive to airport
• Farewell from your guide
• Fly out of Paro with festival memories
⸻
✔ Package Includes (typical inclusions)
• Bhutanese licensed guide
• Private transportation
• 3-star hotels (upgradeable)
• All meals (per Bhutan government policy)
• Entry fees & permits
• Sustainable Development Fee (if applicable depending on nationality)