Punakha Tshechu Festival

Celebrate the vibrant culture and spirituality of Bhutan during the Punakha Tshechu Festival (16–18 February 2027). Held at the magnificent Punakha Dzong, this 7-day journey offers an immersive experience of sacred mask dances (Cham), the historic Drubchen ritual, and the living traditions of Bhutan. Explore the scenic Phobjikha Valley, iconic Bhutanese monasteries, and the legendary Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), while interacting with locals and experiencing authentic Bhutanese lifestyle and customs.

Highlights of the Journey
  • Attend Punakha Tshechu Festival with Cham mask dances
  • Witness the Drubchen historic re-enactment
  • Observe locals in traditional gho and kira attire
  • Explore scenic Phobjikha Valley, home of black-necked cranes
  • Hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery
  • Discover Bhutanese cultural landmarks and handicraft centers
  • Experience riverside lunches and panoramic Himalayan vistas
DAY 01 – Arrival in Paro & Transfer to Thimphu
  • Arrive at Paro International Airport with breathtaking Himalayan views.
  • Scenic drive to Thimphu with stops at Tamchhog Lhakhang and the historic Iron Chain Bridge.
  • Explore Memorial Chorten and stroll through Kaja Throm, experiencing local life and artisans.
  • Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu
  • Visit Buddha Dordenma, enjoying panoramic valley views.
  • Explore Simply Bhutan Museum and Takin Preserve.
  • Stop at the Painting School for traditional Bhutanese thangkas.
  • Drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass (3,100 m) with 108 chortens.
  • Overnight: Hotel in Punakha
  • Attend the Punakha Tshechu at Punakha Dzong, witnessing sacred Cham mask dances.
  • Experience the Drubchen, reenacting Bhutan’s historic victory against Tibetan invaders (1639).
  • Explore the Dzong’s intricate architecture and murals.
  • Walk across the Punakha Suspension Bridge and visit Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple.
  • Overnight: Hotel in Punakha
  • Drive to Phobjikha Valley, known for black-necked cranes and pristine landscapes.
  • Visit Gangtey Monastery and explore the Gangtey Nature Trail.
  • Enjoy tranquil valley walks, observing traditional farmhouses and alpine scenery.
  • Overnight: Hotel in Punakha
  • Scenic drive back to Paro, with optional revisit of Dochula Pass.
  • Visit Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, perched on a hill with panoramic views.
  • Explore Paro town and local handicraft markets.
  • Overnight: Hotel in Paro
  • Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched 900 m above the Paro Valley.
  • Trail passes pine forests, prayer wheels, and meditation caves.
  • Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples.
  • Overnight: Hotel in Paro
  • Breakfast at hotel
  • Transfer to Paro International Airport for onward flight
  • Depart Bhutan with unforgettable memories of festivals, spirituality, and Himalayan landscapes
punakha tshechu