Thimphu Tsechu Festival Tour (7 Days)
The Thimphu Festival (Tsechu) is one of Bhutan’s grandest cultural events, attracting audiences from all walks of life. This vibrant celebration features traditional mask dances, colourful costumes, and stories honouring Guru Rinpoche, who brought Buddhism to Bhutan. Witness locals in their finest traditional attire, celebrating their heritage with faith and joy. The tour also includes visits to sacred sites in Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha, with an optional excursion to the stunning Haa Valley.
Overview
- Day 1: Arrive Paro – Thimphu
- Day 2: Thimphu
- Day 3: Thimphu
- Day 4: Thimphu – Punakha
- Day 5: Punakha – Thimphu – Paro
- Day 6: Paro
- Day 7: Depart Paro
Day 1: Arrive Paro – Thimphu
Begin your journey with a spectacular flight into Paro, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. Upon arrival, visit the Ta Dzong Museum and Rinpung Dzong in Paro for an introduction to Bhutan’s history and culture. Later, drive along the Pachu River to Thimphu. Overnight in Thimphu.
Included Activities:
- Ta Dzong Museum: Displays Bhutanese art, relics, and religious artefacts.
- Rinpung Dzong: A historic fortress with intricate murals and religious significance.
Day 2: Thimphu
Attend the Thimphu Tsechu at Tashichhodzong. Immerse yourself in the festival’s spiritual energy, as monks and laymen perform sacred mask dances. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as locals gather in traditional attire to pray, feast, and celebrate. Overnight in Thimphu.
Included Activities:
- Tashichhodzong: A majestic fortress housing the central monastic body and administrative offices.
Day 3: Thimphu
Explore Thimphu’s cultural highlights, including the 12th-century Changangkha Temple and the National Memorial Chorten. Return to Tashichhodzong in the afternoon for more festival festivities. Overnight in Thimphu.
Included Activities:
- Changangkha Temple: A historic temple offering stunning views of Thimphu.
- National Memorial Chorten: A landmark stupa dedicated to peace and the Third Druk Gyalpo.
Day 4: Thimphu – Punakha
Drive over the Dochu-La Pass, with its stunning Himalayan views, to the Punakha Valley. Visit the Punakha Dzong, known for its exquisite architecture, and Chimi Lhakhang, a fertility temple dedicated to the Divine Madman. Overnight in Punakha.
Included Activities:
- Dochu-La Pass: Known for its panoramic views and 108 memorial chortens.
- Punakha Dzong: A magnificent fortress at the confluence of two rivers.
- Chimi Lhakhang: A fertility temple associated with the legendary Divine Madman.
Day 5: Punakha – Thimphu – Paro
Begin with a hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a stunning hilltop stupa. Return to Thimphu to visit the National Library and Folk Heritage Museum, showcasing Bhutan’s rich traditions. Later, drive to Paro for an overnight stay.
Included Activities:
- Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten: A beautiful stupa offering valley views.
- National Library: A repository of ancient Bhutanese texts and manuscripts.
- Folk Heritage Museum: Preserves Bhutan’s traditional rural lifestyle.
Day 6: Paro
Hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery, perched on a sheer cliffside. After lunch, visit the reconstructed Drukgyel Dzong, and enjoy the breathtaking views of Mount Jomolhari. Overnight in Paro.
Included Activities:
- Taktsang Monastery: A sacred pilgrimage site also known as the Tiger’s Nest.
- Drukgyel Dzong: A historic fortress commemorating Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invasions.
Day 7: Depart Paro
Enjoy breakfast before being escorted to the airport for your onward journey. Tashi Delek!