Punakha Drubchen Festival Tour
5 Nights / 6 Days
Join the Punakha Drubchen Festival Tour and experience one of Bhutan’s most historic and vibrant festivals. Held at the magnificent Punakha Dzong, this annual celebration commemorates Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invasions with dramatic warrior reenactments, sacred masked dances, and colorful cultural performances.
Beyond the festival, this immersive journey takes you through breathtaking valleys, ancient monasteries, and traditional villages, offering a deep dive into Bhutanese heritage. From exploring the architectural marvel of Punakha Dzong to enjoying serene hikes and authentic Bhutanese cuisine, this tour promises an unforgettable experience in the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
Tour Highlights
- Witness colorful masked dances, folk songs, and traditional music performed by monks and
local dancers at Punakha Drubchen Tshechu. - Hike the Taktsang ‘tiger’s nest’ monastery, one of Bhutan’s architectural highlights
- Visit the 300-year old Punakha Dzong which is located between Pho chu (male river) and Mo
chu (female river). - Explore the bustling capital Thimphu, including sights like the Buddha Dordenma, the
National Memorial Chorten and more. - Enjoy spectacular views of the himalayas from the Dochu la mountain pass.
- Walk across Farm Houses to reach Chimi Lhakhang, a 15th-century fertility temple.
- Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten situated on a ridge above the Punakha valley,
offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and rice fields.
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.
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, visit Buddha Dordenma Statue, also known as the “Buddha Point,” a massive statue of Buddha Shakyamuni in the Kingdom of Bhutan. Royal Takin Preserve also known as the Mini Zoo by many is a small natural preserve for the Takin – Bhutan’s national animal.
Drive to Punakha (2 and half hrs). On the way, stop at Dochula Pass.
Dochula Pass is a mountain pass located in the Kingdom of Bhutan, a landlocked country in the Eastern Himalayas. It sits at an elevation of around 3,100 meters (10,200 feet) above sea level. The pass is renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges, including the majestic peaks of the snow-capped Himalayas. Once here, you will witness 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens.
Optional: Lungchutse Hike (2 hours): The trail to Lungchutse winds through pristine forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine trees, offering a tranquil and immersive experience in nature.
On rrival, walk across farmhouses to reach Chimi Lhakhang, A 15th-century fertility temple, 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.
Overnight in Punakha
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and traditions of Bhutan by attending the second day of the
Punakha Drubchen Festival. Witness dramatic reenactments of historical battles, colorful dances,
and other cultural performances unique to this celebration.
You can attend the festival for the whole day or just half a day, and after lunch, visit Talo Village, a
picturesque village located in the Punakha Valley, known for its stunning landscapes, peaceful
environment, and cultural significance. This tranquil destination offers visitors a unique glimpse into
traditional Bhutanese life.
After breakfast, 45 minutes hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel chorten with the picturesque view of the rice terraces along the river. It 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 drive to Paro (3 and half hrs). After lunch visit Paro Kyichu Lhakhang is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Bhutan, steeped in history and spiritual significance and 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.
Later, 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 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 and practice Archery is the national sport of Bhutan. With our archery lessons, your guide will set up the targets and teach you the rules, as well as how to correctly hold the bow.
Darts are another popular pastime in Bhutan, with a different scoring system to the western tradition, and a target low to the ground. Both sports are a fun way to spend an afternoon, enjoying some healthy competition. Later dinner with them and experience their hospitality. A visit gives you an interesting glimpse into the lifestyle of Bhutan.
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