Wangdue Tsechu

Day 1: Arrival in Paro

Arrive at Paro, the only international airport in Bhutan. Once you complete immigration and customs, you will be greeted by your guide and driver, and they will transfer you to your hotel. You can spend the rest of the day exploring Paro town, getting a feel for the local culture and architecture. In the afternoon, visit the National Museum of Bhutan, located in a former watchtower above the Paro Dzong. Then, explore the Paro Dzong, a fortress-monastery that serves as the administrative center of Paro district.

Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing

After breakfast, drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. You will visit the Buddha Dordenma, the largest statue of Buddha in the world. You will also visit the National Memorial Chorten, the National Library, the Traditional Art School, and the Folk Heritage Museum.

Day 3: Thimphu to Wangdue Festival ( Tsechu)

 After breakfast,drive to Wangdue Phodrang. . On the way, you will cross the Dochula Pass, which offers panoramic views of the Himalayan Mountains. Attend Wangdue Tsechu held in honor of Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava, the legendary saint who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan.

During the festival, the locals dress up in their finest traditional attire and gather at the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, a fortress that dates back to the 17th century. Monks perform mask dances, known as cham, which depict various Buddhist deities and legends, and are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring blessings to the community.

The festival also provides an opportunity for people to socialize, exchange gifts, and enjoy traditional Bhutanese food and drink. The Wangdue Tsechu is an important cultural event in Bhutan and attracts both domestic and international tourists.

Day 4: Punakha Sightseeing 

Visit the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a beautiful temple built by the Queen Mother of Bhutan.  Visit the Chimmi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to the Divine Madman, and learn about his life and teachings. Then, visit the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, a magnificent fortress. In the afternoon, visit the Rinchengang village to see how traditional Bhutanese houses are built using mud and stones.

Day 5:  Punakha to Gangtey Valley 

Drive to the beautiful Gangtey Valley, home to the black-necked cranes that migrate from Tibet in winter. Visit Gangtey Monastery, one of the largest and oldest Nyingma monasteries in Bhutan.

Day 6: Gangtey to Paro 

Drive back to Paro and visit the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan. Evening at your leisure.

Day 7: Tiger’s Nest Hike

Embark on a hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest monastery, one of the most famous landmarks in Bhutan. After the hike, return to Paro. Farewell dinner at the traditional Bhutanese farm house. 

Day 8: Departure

 Transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure flight.