Festival scheduled: 13th December
The Dochula Druk Wangyel Festival was established in 2011 in commemoration of His Majesty he Fourth King and the Armed Forces’ victory over Indian insurgent forces residing in southern Bhutan in 2003. Druk Wangyel Festival is an annual festival held on December 13th at the Druk Wangyel Lhakhang Festival Ground located at Dochula Pass around 22 km from the capital city Thimphu. Dochula Pass is one of the most scenic locations in the entire kingdom, offering a stunning panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range. Set amidst this breathtaking backdrop, the Dochula Druk Wangyel Tshechu is an experience unlike any other and truly exemplifies Bhutanese cultural traditions. The Lhakhang honors the courageous service of the Fourth King, who personally led the troops against the insurgents, as well as the regular Armed Forces of the country.
DAY 01: Arrive Paro & Paro – Thimphu (54 km, 1 hour)
Your exciting vacation in this land of happiness begins. After completing your immigration formalities, you will be received by our representative who will be your tour guide throughout your tour. Then drive to Thimphu and check into hotel.
You will visit Kuensel Phodrang (tallest Buddha statue) and enjoy the full view of Thimphu valley below. Thereafter, visit National Memorial Chorten (stupa), Takin Preserve (national animal), Tashichhoe Dzong (fortress) and Craft Bazaar where you can buy art and craft product. Night halt in Thimphu.
DAY 02: Thimphu sightseeing
A yet another day in Thimphu is earmarked for visit to Institute for Zorig Chusum (Arts & Crafts School or Painting School), Coronation Park, the Folk Heritage Museum, Changangkha Lhakhang (fortress like temple) and the Weekend Market. Overnight in Thimphu
DAY 03: Thimphu – Druk Wangyel festival tours
You will be driven to Dochula pass to enjoy the grand Druk Wangyel festival. Background on the festival is detailed in the introduction. Return back and settle at your hotel in Thimphu.
DAY 04: Thimphu – Punakha (71 KM, 2 ½ hours)
Travel to Punakha via Dochula Pass (3140 m). Punakha had served as the capital of Bhutan from 1637 till 1907. The dzong is historically important and stands as the symbol for a unified Bhutan.
On the way, stop for lunch at Metsina village and then visit the Devine Madman’s Monastery-Chhimi Lhakhang, famously known for its fertility blessing. Then visit the Punakha Dzong (fortress). In the evening visit Rinchengang & Lobesa villages where you will take a short walk through the village and have free interaction with the villagers. Halt in Punakha.
DAY 05: Punakha – Paro (135 km, 4 hr)
You will return to Paro and visit the National Museum– housed in the Ta Dzong (watchtower). Thereafter, visit Paro Dzong (fortress that sits on a heap of jewels). In the evening explore Paro town and visit local handicraft stores. Halt in Paro.
DAY 06: Hike to Taktsang Ghoempa (Tiger’s Nest monastery)
Today is another hallmark of the tour. You will drive to base of Takshang Monastry which takes about 1 hr and then hike up to Taktsang Monastery, also known as ‘Tiger’s Nest’. The round trip will take about 5 hours hike with rest and lunch. You will enjoy a spectacular view of the monastery clinging to the side of the cliff. On the way back, you will visit Kyichu temple built in the 7th century. We call the day off after the visit.
DAY 07: Depart Paro
Drive to the airport for flight to your onward destination. We hope to serve you again with our other exciting tour packages in the future.
