10 Day Prakhar Tsechu
Day 1: Arrival in Paro
Upon your arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by your tour guide who will take you on a sightseeing tour of Paro. Visit Paro Rinpung Dzong, a fortress-monastery built in the 17th century, and the National Museum of Bhutan, which showcases Bhutanese art, culture, and history. In the afternoon, drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. On the way, you will stop at Tachog Lhakhang, a temple built in the 15th century, and the famous Iron Bridge. Overnight Thimphu.
Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing
After breakfast, visit the Buddha Dordenma, a 169-feet tall statue of Buddha, and the Takin Preserve, where you can see Bhutan’s national animal, the takin. In the afternoon,visit the School of Traditional Arts, where students learn Bhutanese painting, woodcarving, and other traditional craft and Tashichho Dzong in the evening,a fortress-monastery that is the seat of Bhutan’s government and also houses the king’s throne room.
Day 3: Thimphu – Punakha
After breakfast, drive to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan. En-route, you will stop at Dochula Pass (3,100 meters) to enjoy the panoramic view of the Himalayas. In Punakha, you will visit Punakha Dzong, the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan, and Chhimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility). Overnight stay in Punakha.
Day 4: Punakha – Bumthang
After breakfast, you will drive to Bumthang, one of the most beautiful valleys in Bhutan. En-route, you will stop at Trongsa Dzong and Ta Dzong. Overnight stay in Bumthang.
Day 5: Bumthang sightseeing
After breakfast, explore Bumthang. Vsit the Jakar Dzong, a fortress-monastery that dates back to the 17th century, and the Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. Next, visit the Tamshing Lhakhang, a temple founded in the 16th century by Pema Lingpa, a famous Bhutanese saint. Overnight in Bumthang.
Day 6: Prakhar Tsechu, Bumthang – Festival Day
Attend Prakhar Tsechu in the morning after breakfast, which is celebrated in the village of Prakhar in Bumthang. The festival is held annually in honor of Guru Rinpoche, who is believed to have visited the village during his journey to Bhutan. The festival features traditional mask dances, or Cham, performed by monks and laypeople, as well as other cultural performances. It is a unique opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions of Bhutan and to witness a celebration that is deeply rooted in the history and beliefs of the Bhutanese people.
Day 7: Bumthang – Gangtey
After breakfast,drive to Gangtey, a beautiful valley known for its natural beauty and wildlife. You will visit Gangtey Monastery and the Black-Necked Crane Information Centre. Overnight stay in Gangtey.
Day 8: Gangtey – Paro
After breakfast, drive back to Paro. Along the way, you will stop at the Wangduephodrang Dzong and Paro Handicraft shops. Overnight stay in Paro.
Day 9: Hike to Tiger’s Nest
After breakfast hike up to the monastery, which is perched on a cliff at an altitude of 3,120 meters, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the valley below. The hike is moderately difficult, but the views and the experience are well worth the effort.After the hike, farewell dinner at Bhutanese farmhouse with traditional hot stone bath, which is a popular way to unwind after a long day of hiking.
Day 10: Departure
After breakfast, you will be driven to the Paro International Airport for your departure flight