Druk Wangyel Festival Tour - 7 Days | 6 Night
US$ 1600 / Per Person
Group Size: 2 & above
Highlights
- Attend unique festival, which is a tribute to the leadership of His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Fourth King of Bhutan.
- This festival is celebrated to appreciate and commend the efforts and hard work of The Bhutanese Royal Army, in protecting the country.
- Explore the key cultural sites of western Bhutan.
- Visit local farm house.
- Discover some of the most sacred monasteries, medieval fortresses and temples.
- Hike to Tiger’s Nest.
Druk Wangyel festival is a tribute to the wise leadership of His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuk, Fourth King of Bhutan. It also celebrates the continuous efforts of the Royal Bhutan Army in protecting the sovereignty and the stability of the country. This unique festival performed by the Royal Bhutan Army rather than monks or lay people.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 (11 December, Monday): Arrive Paro-Thimphu
During the journey, one will experience breath-taking view of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and other famous Himalayan peaks including the sacred Jumolhari and Mount Jichu Drake in Bhutan. On arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be received by your guide and take you to Thimphu which is 54 km from Paro Airport and about 45 minutes’ drive. Evening take an orientation walk in the town. Overnight hotel in Thimphu.
Day 2 (12 December, Tuesday): Thimphu
After breakfast, visit the King’s Memorial Chorten (built in memory of the third King of Bhutan); Changgangkha Monastery; visit the mini zoo where you will see national animal of Bhutan Takin, visit Buddha statue, School of Arts and Crafts (also known as the painting school); Traditional paper factory, visit Post office were you can personalize your stamp, visit weaving centre and the majestic Tashichhodzong. Overnight hotel in Thimphu.
Day 3 (13 December, Wednesday): Thimphu – Punakha (Druk Wangyel Festival)
Attend the full day festival and in the afternoon drive to Punakha.
Day 4 (14 December, Thursday): Punakha
After breakfast, visit Punakha Dzong, winter seat of the Je Khenpo and the Monk Body. Drive to Lobesa and hike another 20-minutes to Chime Lhakhang, temple of the “Divine Madman” popularly considered to be a temple of fertility. After lunch, you will cross the suspension bridge and then hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten through rice terraces, farms, and deep pine forest. The view from here is stunning. Walk down till road point where your car will be waiting.
Day 5 (15 Deccember, Friday): Punakha – Paro
Drive back to Paro via Dochula pass. Stop in Thimphu for lunch. Check into hotel on arrival at Paro. Afternoon sightseeing in Paro includes the Rimpung Dzong, dating back to the 17th century. From the Dzong, you can walk down to the road head crossing a traditional wooden bridge. From here, you will be taken to Kichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and the most sacred shrine in the country. In evening, enjoy a stroll in Paro town.
Day 6 (16 December, Saturday): Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
You will have fantastic conclusion to your stay in Bhutan by hiking to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) monastery, the most famous pilgrim site, which clings to the rock at 3180m. According to the legend, it is believed that Guru Rimpoche, the 8th century Spiritual Master, flew to this location on the back of a tigress to meditate. Lunch will be served at Cafeteria Restaurant halfway up on the mountain. Explore the monastery and hike back to Paro.
Day 7 (17 December, Sunday): Depart Paro
As per flight timing, you will drive to the airport for departure. Our representative will bid you farewell
At a Glance
Tour duration: 7 Days | 6 Nights
Tour type: Festival tour with Day hike
Festival date: 13 December 2023
Activity type: Cultural tour, Attend festival, Historical sites, Village tour, Religious sites and Day hike
Places covered: Thimphu, Punakha and Paro
Maximum elevation: 3150m
Inclusions
- Sustainable Development Fee(SDF)
- Accommodation
- All meals
- Transport
- Government certified Bhutanese Licensed tour Guide
- Bhutan Visa fee
- All internal taxes & charges
Exclusions
- Flight tickets
- Travel Insurance
- Tips
- Drinks and Beverages other than tea and coffee
- Sleeping bag on trek
- Internet bill and Phone bill
- Other bills of personal nature
Accommodation
- Accommodation in 3 star hotels (upgrade with supplement)
- Homestay accommodation certified by Tourism Council Bhutan
- Camping (optional)
Insurance
Package does not include insurance of any kinds, and that you are required to obtain separate coverage from your home country before your trip begins.
