Jambay Lhakhang Drup Festival (26th - 29th Oct 2026)
09 Nights / 10 Days
The Jambay Lhakhang Drup Festival is one of Bhutan’s most sacred and vibrant religious festivals, held annually at the historic Jambay Lhakhang in the picturesque valley of Bumthang Valley. This unique festival attracts both locals and international travelers seeking an authentic glimpse into Bhutanese spirituality, culture, and tradition.
Dating back to the 7th century, Jambay Lhakhang is believed to have been built by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo. The Drup (festival) is celebrated over several days, featuring sacred mask dances performed by monks and laymen. These dances, known as cham, are not only visually captivating but also hold deep spiritual significance, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and offering blessings to all who witness them.
One of the most iconic highlights of the festival is the Mewang (Fire Blessing Ceremony), where participants run beneath a flaming arch to cleanse sins and receive spiritual purification. Another extraordinary event is the Tercham (Naked Dance), performed at midnight by masked dancers. This rare and symbolic ritual is believed to ward off evil spirits and ensure prosperity and fertility for the community.
Set against the serene backdrop of Bumthang’s valleys, the Jambay Lhakhang Drup offers visitors an immersive cultural experience. Travelers can witness traditional Bhutanese attire, interact with friendly locals, and explore nearby sacred sites, making it a must-visit event for those interested in Bhutan’s living heritage.
EXCELLENT Based on 147 reviews Posted on Tripadvisor Wander340623001438 June 2026Verified Amazing Bhutan We traveled to Bhutan in June 2026, and Omsha Travels made our holiday a truly wonderful experience. From the very beginning, the booking process was seamless and professional. The entire trip was planned to perfection, allowing us to relax and fully enjoy the beauty, culture, and unique environment of Bhutan. A special thanks to the owner for the warm hospitality and excellent arrangements. We are also grateful to our tour guide, Lhazin Dorji, whose knowledge and enthusiasm helped us gain a deeper understanding of Bhutan’s rich culture and way of life. He was really accommodating and helped fulfill our every wish. Our driver was equally wonderful, ensuring a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable journey. This holiday gave us unforgettable memories and a genuine glimpse into the amazing lifestyle and traditions of Bhutan. We are very happy clients and would highly recommend Omsha Travels to anyone planning a visit. We look forward to returning again in the future!Posted on Tripadvisor Anna B7 June 2026Verified Unforgettable trip to Bhutan! A wonderful experience from start to finish! One of the most memorable trips we have taken. Sonam was knowledgeable, attentive & passionate about sharing Bhutan. We appreciated the warmth and kindness shown throughout the journey. We leave Bhutan with wonderful memories and a much greater appreciation for this remarkable country.Posted on Tripadvisor Regina Y5 June 2026Verified Magical trip We had magical time in Bhutan. Visiting Gasa and Tigress Nest were the highlights of our trip. We loved Hot stone bath in Thimphu and warm natural springs near Gasa. Our guide Sonam and our driver Ganesh took really good care of us. Sonam took care of all our requests, was very personable and attentive, made sure that we got the maximum information of all the sights that we have visited. Ganesh took us safely to Gasa, best driver. Overall it was the greatly organized trip, we will miss Bhutan.Posted on Tripadvisor Culture045849125233 June 2026Verified Neha khot ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Exceptional Planning & Unforgettable Bhutan Trip!OMSHA Travel made our Bhutan journey absolutely flawless and unforgettable. From seamless visa and permit handling to incredible hotels, Nawang's planning was perfect. Our guide, Tashi Tobgay, was incredibly knowledgeable, and our driver, Kung Zong, was exceptionally safe on the mountain roads. The flexible itinerary let us experience Bhutan at our own pace and created lifelong memories—highly recommended!Posted on Tripadvisor Sharad K3 June 2026Verified Mesmerizing Bhutan Omsha travels made our holiday a wonderful experience to relax and explore the unique culture and environment of Bhutan. The booking experience was fabulous it was a last minute booking but they planned it to perfection. Grateful to the owner for the hospitality and also the tour guide tashi and the car driver who took us on a wonderful tour to take a glimpse of the amazing culture and lifestyle of Bhutan. Happy clients that we are . Looking forward to visit again.Posted on Tripadvisor Tse A30 May 2026Verified Pleasant Journey I’m glad Omsha Travel arranged a female guide, Sonam, for my 6N7D solo trip. She was flexible and adjusted our itinerary to avoid crowds, which made the experience more enjoyable. Sonam knows the sites well and shared many interesting stories. It was great to learn about Bhutanese culture both visually and through conversation. The driver was also a very friendly and cheerful person, which added to the pleasant journey 😊.Posted on Tripadvisor Priyank A28 May 2026Verified Incredible 7 days in Bhutan We did a 7 day/6 night special interest trekking trip of Bhutan and OMSHA was an exceptional experience. Even before we arrived, the agency made us feel confident that we were in good hands and did not need to worry about a thing. They communicated proactively to file the travel permit on our behalf, ask about our travel preferences and showed a ton of flexibility on the itinerary. Once we got there, our guide Lhazin Dorji and our driver Tashi Jamtsho picked us up without issue despite the flight being delayed, and the next week was an amazing adventure. Our guide, Lhazin Dorji, was extremely knowledgable about the history and religion of Bhutan and took the time to explain not just all the sites but any time we had any questions. He was also very kind and courteous, always making sure everything was sorted out, from hotel room check-ins to serving us meals and even carrying our water up the mountain for the Bumdra trek (to 4000m). He was very easy to talk to and taught us a lot about the spirit of Bhutan. He made sure we never felt rushed even though we saw a lot of fortresses, temples, cultural sites (where we did archery and saw a traditional dance), enjoyed local food, and visited places in and around Paro, Thimphu and Punakha. I'm grateful we had a such a knowledgable and passionate guide for our trip. Our driver Tashi was very capable and made sure we always felt safe even through winding mountain roads. He is a very smooth driver and also went above and beyond telling us about his experiences. He was also extremely kind and was a big part in making sure our trip was amazing. The day long hikes up to the Bumdrak campsite at 4000m and down to Tiger's nest monastery, as well as the Punakha Dzong fortress were the biggest highlights but the rest of the days were also filled with wonder: from seeing the national animal of Bhutan (Takin preserve), the massive Buddha Dordenma statue, the many stupas and temples we had to pleasure of visiting, and learning about the history and life in Bhutan from our guide was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The hotels were really good as well, with great views, and the hospitality shown by our driver and guide were truly outstanding. A stress-free and extremely well executed trip. When I come back to Bhutan, I'll be going with OMSHA Travel again.Posted on Tripadvisor Dhruvi S22 May 2026Verified Mesmerizing and Happiness Thank you OMSHA travels for this memorable tour. Thanks Sonam (tour guide) and Nvang (driver) for planning the best itenary for our special occasion. Their arrangements of stay, food, places were excellent. The management was perfect with no single minute to be wasted. Hoping to experience the unexplored part of Bhutan with them again.Posted on Tripadvisor Rajesh S22 May 2026Verified Silver jubilee with Team Omsha We "two" celebrated our Silver Jubilee with Team Omsha (#Sonam, #Nawang). They made our "7days & 6 nights" the most memorable experience. The offerings are very competitive, the value they create is priceless. The ambience they created was "personal".Posted on Tripadvisor useetheworld20 May 2026Verified OMSHA is Five Stars We just completed a two week tour with Omsha Travel and couldn’t be happier that this is the agency that we chose. From the very beginning stages of planning this trip with Nawang, to the last day, our trip was excellent. Our driver, Tashi, and guide, Sonom, were the absolute best. They were punctual, thorough in explaining the places we visited and the history of Bhutan plus tons of fun. After two weeks we felt like we were leaving family. I highly recommend Omsha. You won’t be disappointed.
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Tour Highlights
- Attending the Jambay Lhakhang Drub Tour is one of Bhutan’s most vibrant and spiritual celebrations. The most notable dances include the Tercham (Naked Dance) and the Mewang (Fire Offering Ritual).
- Hike to the Taktsang ‘Tiger’s Nest’ monastery, one of Bhutan’s architectural highlights
- Walk across Farm Houses to reach Chimi Lhakhang, a 15th century fertility Temple
- Enjoy spectacular views of the Himalaya from the Dochula Mountain pass
- Visit the 300 year old Punakha Dzong which is located between Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River)
- Hike up through the scenic mountains and alpine woods to 15th Century Kuenzangdra Monastery with spectacular view
- Explore the quite places of Central Bhutan, including sights like the Kurjey Lhakhang, Tamzhing and more
- Hike through glacial valley known for its stunning natural beauty immerse yourselves in the pristine environment of the Phobjikha valley
Itinerary
The early morning flight to Paro reveals scenic and breathtaking views of Himalayan Mountains of the world. If weather permits you will be able to see Mt. Everest (8848 m, 29,198ft) and other Himalayan Mountain Ranges. Once you arrive at the Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative (Guide) and then drive to Thimphu (50km) which takes approximately an hour. On the way visit;
Tachogang Iron Chain Bridge, located along Paro-Thimphu highway, before Chhuzom. It is just a 10 minutes walk from the highway. It is a great spot for photography with a stunning view and peaceful ambience.
After arriving in Thimphu,visit; National Memorial Chorten: Probably one of the most popular Thimphu points of interest. visit Buddha Dordenma Statue, also known as the “Buddha Point,” a massive statue of Buddha Shakyamuni in the Kingdom of Bhutan.
Lunch at Zombala 2 Restaurant, a popular eatery for both locals and tourists seeking authentic flavors. Try Momos (dumplings), Thukpa: A comforting noodle soup and Ema Datshi: Bhutan’s national dish made with chilies and cheese.
The Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory is reputedly the best place that manufactures traditional paper. You can buy this unique paper here which will make for interesting souvenir gifts.
Changlimithang Archery Ground to see local folks playing their tradition game archery.
The Centenary Farmers Market (Now Kaja Throm) is a vibrant and dynamic space, offering a diverse range of products and experiences. Walk through Bhutan’s capital city exploring Clock Tower Square, a prominent landmark adorned with intricate Bhutanese motifs and stroll towards Thimphu’s iconic traffic junction, famously known as the main traffic circle as it has no traffic lights. Instead, you’ll witness a white-gloved traffic officer gracefully directing vehicles in a choreographed style that has become a tourist attraction in its own right.
Lastly Tashichhodzong visit. This magnificent structure stands proudly on the banks of the Wang Chhu River and serves as both a religious and administrative hub of Bhutan. Now it houses the secretariat building, the throne room and the office of the King and central monk body.
Overnight in Thimphu
After breakfast, Tango Buddhist Institute: Set around 14 kilometers away from the city center, the Tango Buddhist Institute is a place of serenity set in the picturesque valley of Thimphu. The temple can be reached through a hike (1 hour approximately) through the scenic mountains and alpine woods, which is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Thimphu. On the way visit The Choki Traditional Art School in Thimphu, Bhutan, is a remarkable institution dedicated to preserving Bhutan’s traditional arts and crafts and Pangri Zampa – Astrology College and seek and find out your astrology birth chart.
Royal Takin Preserve also known as the Mini Zoo by many is a small natural preserve for the Takin – Bhutan’s national animal.
Lunch at the Folk Heritage Restaurant in Thimphu offers a delightful opportunity to savor authentic Bhutanese cuisine in a traditional setting. Located next to the Folk Heritage Museum, the restaurant complements the cultural experience with its unique ambiance and carefully curated menu.
The Folk Heritage Museum is a restored 19th-century traditional Bhutanese farmhouse, providing visitors with an authentic glimpse into the rural lifestyle of Bhutan.
Optional – Night Tour: Sangaygang BBS Tower Viewpoint, offering breathtaking nighttime views of Thimphu. The city lights twinkle like stars, creating a mesmerizing contrast against the dark mountainous backdrop. The Tashichho Dzong Viewpoint offers a spectacular night view of this iconic fortress, making it a must-visit spot for those who want to experience the beauty of Thimphu.
After breakfast, drive to Bumthang which is (6 hours approx). The drive is scenic with beautiful landscapes and villages along the way. On the way, stop over the Dochu-La pass (3,100 meters), which on a clear day offers an incredible view of Himalayan peaks snowclad mountains from the pass. The beauty of this place is further enhanced by the Druk Wangyel Chorten – 108 stupas.
Stop at Pelela Pass and look around the roadside strolls where locals sell handwoven textiles.
And visit Chendebji Chorten. Lunch at Trongsa and visit Trongsa Dzong, the largest dzong situated on a spur, a wild rocky area, with the scenic backdrop of the Mountains provides a strategic location to control Bhutan for centuries and it was the seat of the Wangchuck dynasty who effectively ruled over much of eastern and central Bhutan. On the way Bumthang visit Yathra Weaving Center in Chumey valley.
After breakfast, you will drive to Jambay Lhakhang, the venue for the festival, where you’ll experience the second day of the Jambay Lhakhang Drub. On the first day, the program aims to: 1. Impart moral teachings, 2. Ward off evil spirits, and 3. Celebrate Buddhist faith. The festival also offers a marketplace for local artisans and businesses, featuring stalls selling crafts, jewelry, religious artifacts, and thangkas.The second day showcases a series of captivating dances, including the Dance of the Black Hat, Dance of the Four Ging, Dance of Offerings, Fire Dance, and Dance of the Lord of the Cremation Ground. The highlight of the festival is the midnight Ter Cham or Sacred Naked Dance.
After lunch continue to attend Festival or visit Burning Lake Mebar Tsho, commonly known as the Burning Lake, is a sacred and mystical site located in the Tang Valley of Bumthang district in central Bhutan. Visit to Kurjey Lhakhang and Tamshing Monastery.
Later stroll around the local market and stroll setup especially for the festival.
Optional: Naked Mask Dance. At exactly midnight, a group of men emerges, twirling and leaping to the rhythmic beats of traditional mask dance drums and cymbals, performing this unique and sacred ritual.
Hike up through the scenic mountains and alpine woods to 15th Century Kuenzangdra Monastery with a spectacular view of the valley.
After breakfast, excursion to Tang Valley, nestled in Bhutan’s Bumthang district, is a hidden gem known for its serene landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Ogyen Choling Palace Museum: A historical mansion turned museum, showcasing Bhutanese heritage.
Tang Rimochen Lhakhang: A revered temple with unique rock formations and spiritual significance.
When coming back visit the Pema Choling Nunnery. Have Picnic lunch and head back to Bumthang.
Overnight in Bumthang.
Drive back to Gangtey 5 hours approx. Phobjikha valley is also the winter home of Black Necked Cranes that migrate from the arid plains in the north (Tibetan plateau) to pass their winter in the milder and lower climate. Phobjikha is one of Bhutan’s few glacial valleys and offers incredible scenery. In Gangtey visit Gangtey Monastery also known as Gangteng Monastery or Gangtey Gonpa, is a prominent Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in the Wangdue Phodrang District of Bhutan. Upon reaching Gangtey, explore the valley by cycling through the villages and soaking in the stunning views of Phobjikha Valley.
And visit Ta Dzong, located in Trongsa, Bhutan, is a historical watchtower that has been converted into a museum. It stands as an important landmark in Bhutanese history and offers a unique perspective on the country’s cultural heritage.
After breakfast, hike Gangtey Nature Trail, which is one and a half hours and visit Gangtey Monastery dating back to the 17th century. This monastery, perched on a hilltop, offers breathtaking views of the Phobjikha Valley.
And drive back to Punakha, do river rafting (extra cost), visit Chimi Lhakhang, temple of Fertility blessed by Lam Drukpa Kuenley, who is known as the Divine Madman for his eccentric behaviors. He is also considered a symbol of fertility and many childless couples go to his temple for blessing.
After breakfast 45 minutes hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel chorten with the picturesque view of the rice terraces along the river. Khasum Yulley Namgyal is a beautiful chorten located on a ridge at Kabesa Gewog in Punakha overlooking several villages. It is a 30-minute drive from the Khuruthang Town and a 45-minute uphill hike from the base of the hill through suspension bridge and rice fields.
Then visit Punakha Dzong, one of the majestic fortresses which is located between Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River). Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan. Then visit the longest suspension bridge across the dzong.
After lunch, drive to Paro (3 and half hrs).
In Paro, visit Chencho Weaving Center in Paro Town, a locally-run weaving center showcases the intricate art of traditional Bhutanese weaving, offering visitors a chance to witness skilled artisans at work and stroll around Paro downtown for shopping or a cup of coffee.
Namgay Artisanal Brewery: Did you know Bhutan has some of the most reputed and highly enjoyed brews? Well, if you are a beer lover and want to taste some of the finest brews, you must visit the Namgay Artisanal Brewery in Paro Valley.
Overnight in Paro
Taktsang Monastery: The wooden structure built amazingly, stands bravely on a cliff. It is said that the great Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tigress and set up this monastery when he brought the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan in the 8th Century. From the road, the hike toward Taktsang follows an uphill route and returning back takes approximately 5-6 hours at an average walking pace on a clear, sunny day.
Later we welcome you to visit Bhutanese homes for dinner with them and experience their hospitality. A visit gives you an interesting glimpse into the lifestyle of Bhutan. And try the Hot Stone Bath. A Bhutanese hot stone bath is the perfect way to relax and wind down after a long day of sightseeing and is also believed to have numerous health benefits.
In the morning drive to Paro airport for departure to your onward destination.
What's Included & Excluded
Inclusions:
- A minimum of 3-star accommodation
- Full Board (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
- Bottle of water in the car.
- A licensed Bhutanese tour guide.
- Private transport (transfer & sightseeing)
- Monument (Dzongs & Temples) and Museum Fees
- Sustainable Development Fee & Visa Fee
Exclusions:
- Air Transport/Flight
- Personal Expenses such as Laundry, Tips, etc
- Drinks & beverages.
- Travel Insurance
- Bank Charges