Dochula Tsechu Festival Tour (7 Days)
The Dochula Festival, celebrated at the stunning Dochula Pass, honours Bhutan’s rich culture, history, and traditions. This vibrant festival features mask dances, traditional music, and captivating performances, celebrating Bhutan’s spiritual heritage and commemorating its victories. The tour also includes visits to iconic landmarks in Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha, offering a deep dive into Bhutan’s cultural treasures and breathtaking landscapes.
Overview
- Day 1: Arrival in Paro, Bhutan
- Day 2: Tour of Thimphu
- Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha
- Day 4: Punakha to Paro (Dochula Festival)
- Day 5: Paro
- Day 6: Paro
- Day 7: Depart Paro
Day 1: Arrival in Paro, Bhutan
Welcome to Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, meet your guide and transfer to Thimphu. Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese meal and, if time permits, some light sightseeing in Thimphu.
Included Activities:
- Buddha Point: Visit the 169-foot-tall Buddha Dordenma statue, offering spectacular views of the Thimphu Valley.
- National Memorial Chorten: A stupa built in honour of the late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk.
- Thimphu Dzong: The largest Dzong in Bhutan, housing the office of the King and central monastic body.
Day 2: Tour of Thimphu
Dive into Bhutan’s cultural heritage with a tour of Thimphu. Explore museums, local crafts, and Bhutan’s national animal.
Included Activities:
- Heritage Museum: Discover Bhutan’s rural past through exhibits of traditional household artifacts.
- Textile Museum: Witness the intricate art of traditional Bhutanese weaving.
- Paper-Making Factory: Learn the ancient craft of paper-making from Daphne bark.
- Takin Enclosure: See Bhutan’s unique national animal, the takin.
- Centenary Farmers’ Market: Explore Thimphu’s weekend market and its vibrant local produce and handicrafts.
Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha
Embark on a scenic drive to Punakha, crossing the beautiful Dochula Pass. Discover iconic landmarks and enjoy the serene Punakha Valley.
Included Activities:
- Dochula Pass: Admire the 108 chortens built to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over Indian militants.
- Punakha Dzong: Explore the "Palace of Great Happiness," built at the confluence of the Mo Chu and Pho Chu rivers.
- Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten: Visit this hilltop stupa, a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture and art.
Day 4: Punakha to Paro (Dochula Festival)
Attend the vibrant Dochula Festival at Dochula Pass, celebrating Bhutan’s spiritual and cultural heritage. Later, drive to Paro and explore its picturesque valley.
Included Activities:
- Dochula Festival: Experience the cultural festivities at Dochula Pass.
- Paro Dzong: Visit the historic fortress monastery, an administrative and religious center.
- Drukgyal Dzong: Walk through the ruins of this iconic dzong commemorating Bhutan’s victories.
Day 5: Paro
Explore the historical and spiritual landmarks of Paro Valley, including ancient temples and museums.
Included Activities:
- Kyichu Lhakhang: Visit Bhutan’s oldest temple, built in the 7th century.
- Dumtse Lhakhang: Explore this 15th-century temple symbolising the Buddhist cosmology of hell, earth, and heaven.
Day 6: Paro
Hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest. Enjoy a teahouse stop en route, and in the afternoon, visit Kyichu Lhakhang to conclude your spiritual journey.
Included Activities:
- Taktsang Monastery: A sacred pilgrimage site perched on a sheer cliff face.
- Kyichu Lhakhang: Discover one of the oldest and most revered temples in Bhutan.
Day 7: Depart Paro
Enjoy breakfast before your transfer to the airport. Take home cherished memories of Bhutan. Tashi Delek!