PARO SPRING FESTIVAL -8 Days

Upon your arrival at Paro International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and escort you to your hotel in Thimphu, the vibrant capital city of Bhutan. Your journey begins with a picturesque drive along the winding road that follows the beautiful Paro River.

Embrace a day filled with wonder and spirituality! Our journey begins with a scenic hike to Taktsang Monastery, also known as the ‘Tiger’s Nest’. Nestled 3000 meters above sea level on a dramatic cliffside, this iconic monastery offers breathtaking views and a profound sense of serenity.
Afterwards, return to the hotel to freshen up. As the day unfolds, immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere of the Paro Festival, where age-old traditions come alive through dance, music, and religious rituals. It’s an experience that promises to captivate your senses and enrich your soul.
Later, we’ll visit Kyichu Lhakhang, a sacred sanctuary dating back to the 7th century. Located near the Paro Airport, this temple exudes ancient charm and spiritual significance, making it a must-visit on your Bhutanese journey.

Wake up early morning to view the unfurling of the throngdrel (3-6 am), if it is to occur this year—it cannot be guaranteed. A thongdrel is a giant thangkha. Most dzongs have one of their own which they exhibit only once a year or once in three years. We cannot know in advance if it will be shown this year. Viewing it is supposed to help accumulate great merit as well as liberate the viewer from the world of samsara (reincarnation or rebirth in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism and other related religions). The thongdrel is unfurled before dawn and at the first rays of sunshine it is packed away. Afterwards, there are some dances and prayers.
After breakfast, we embark on a scenic drive to Thimphu, the vibrant capital city of Bhutan. Along the way, we pause to explore Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress in Bhutan, steeped in myth and history.
Upon arrival in Thimphu, settle into your accommodation before delving into the city’s cultural treasures. Begin at the School of Traditional Arts and Crafts, where centuries-old techniques come to life through skilled artisans. Witness firsthand the intricate craftsmanship that defines Bhutanese culture.
Next, visit the National Institute of Traditional Medicine, a pioneering institution bridging ancient healing practices with modern medicine since 1988. Gain insights into Bhutan’s holistic approach to healthcare and the preservation of traditional remedies.
Cap off the day with a visit to the Memorial Chorten, also known as the Thimphu Chorten, is a large Tibetan-style Buddhist Monastery with golden spires and bells.

Today, immerse yourself in Thimphu’s cultural delights:
Start at the Motithang Takin Preserve Center, where Bhutan’s national animal, the takin, roams freely in a serene natural setting.
Then, ascend to Kuensel Phodrang (Buddha Point) to witness the impressive 167-foot-tall sitting Buddha statue, offering panoramic views of Thimphu Valley.
Explore the National Library of Bhutan, a traditional Dzong-like structure housing ancient manuscripts and texts.
Visit the Folk Heritage Museum to glimpse rural Bhutanese life through artifacts and exhibits in a historic 19th-century building.
End the day at Tashichho Dzong, the seat of Bhutan’s civil government, and admire its architectural grandeur.
Note: Tashichho Dzong is open during weekdays after office hours (5pm onwards) and from 9am to 5pm on weekends.

Embark on a scenic drive from Thimphu to Punakha, a journey filled with natural beauty and cultural wonders.
En route, pause at Dochula Pass, where a 360-degree panorama of the Himalayan Mountain range awaits, offering breathtaking views on clear days.
Continue to Chimi Lhakhang, a charming monastery perched on a hillock adorned with prayer flags. Built in 1499, it is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kinley, renowned as the ‘Divine Madman’.
Next, explore Punakha Dzong, an architectural marvel and the second largest dzong in Bhutan. Known as the ‘palace of great happiness’, this historic fortress-monastery is nestled at the confluence of two rivers, creating a serene backdrop.
Afterwards, transfer to your hotel in Punakha, where you can unwind and reflect on the day’s enriching experiences.

Begin your day with an early breakfast before embarking on a scenic journey to Gangtey, a serene destination nestled at 3000 meters above sea level.
En route, visit Wangdue Dzong, a majestic fortress overlooking the convergence of Punatsangchu and Dangchu rivers. Explore the cultural richness of Wangdue Phodrang town and its surrounding villages.
Arrive in Gangtey and immerse yourself in the tranquility of Phobjikha Valley, also known as Gangteng Valley. This expansive U-shaped glacial valley is renowned for its natural beauty and is home to Gangteng Monastery. Discover the valley’s significance as the winter habitat of the endangered, black-necked cranes, migrating here annually from Tibet.
After exploring Gangtey’s natural and cultural wonders, return to Punakha.

After breakfast, embark on a picturesque drive back to Paro, a journey offering scenic views and cultural discoveries.
Upon arrival, visit the National Museum of Bhutan, housed in a unique circular building known as Ta-dzong. Originally an ancient watchtower above Paro Dzong, it now showcases Bhutanese art, artifacts, and cultural heritage.
Continue to Paro Dzong, also called Ringpung Dzong, meaning ‘Fortress on a heap of jewels’. This architectural masterpiece exemplifies Bhutanese craftsmanship and overlooks the Paro Valley, embodying the country’s rich history and tradition.
Enjoy the evening at leisure to explore Paro town, stroll through its quaint streets, or simply relax and soak in the serene ambiance.

Today, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey, taking with you unforgettable memories of Bhutan’s rich culture and stunning landscapes.