Venue: Chorten Kora
Total Duration: 15 days
Other places: Western, Central and Eastern Bhutan.
Entry: Paro
Exit: Guwahati, Assam, India
A festival held in reverence to the ultimate sacrifice made by a princess during the construction of the chorten (stupa), this festival involves circumambulation.
The princess was a pious Dakini Princess of the Dakpa tribe from neighboring Arunachal Pradesh, a district in India, who offered to entomb herself alive, as the Yeshe Semba, to meditate on behalf of all beings. Of the two major circumambulation events, the first is the Dakpa Kora (circumambulation of the Chorten by the Dakpas, which is held on the 15th day of the first lunar month. This is followed by the Drukpa Kora (circumambulation of the Chorten by the Bhutanese).
For this package, you can either enter from Guwahati, Assam (India) and exit from Paro or enter from Paro and exit from Guwahati.
Itinerary
Day 01: Gawahati (India) –Samdrup Jongkhar: On arrival at Guwahati airport, you will be greeted by our company’s representative and drive to Samdrup Jongkhar, south-eastern part of Bhutan bordering the Indian states of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
Overnight in hotel.
Day 02: Samdrup Jongkhar-Trashigang
After breakfast drive to Tashigang, passing through several villages. En-route visit hand loom (weaving centre) in Khaling and the School for the disabled.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 03: Tashigang – Excursion to Phongmey/Radhi/Rangjung
Morning witnesses the festival and later drive to Phongmey Gewog and visit Phongmey monastery. On the way back, visit Radhi village, where you will have your lunch. After lunch drive to Rangjung and visit Rangung Woesel Chholing Monastery – this was founded by Garab Rinpochhe in 1990.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 04: Tashigang – Tashiyangtse – Tashigang: Early in the morning drive tot Gom Kora temple and witness the Tsechu.
Day 05: Trashigang – Mongar
After breakfast drive to Mongar. En route, stop to visit Drametse monastery founded by Ani Choten Zangmo, Pema Lingpa’s granddaughter, who fled from Bumthang to escape a proposal of marriage from the local king. She fled east and when she found a place ideally suited for meditation she named it ‘Drametse’ which literally means ‘the peak where there are no enemies’. Ani Choeten Zangmo’s kudung (remains) is preserved to this day in the monastery as the most important relic.
Continue driving to Monger. After lunch, visit Mongar dzong which is built in keeping with traditional by not using any drawings or nails and then visit Yaggang Lhakhang .
Overnight at hotel.
Day 06: Mongar – Lhuentshi-Mongar: After early breakfast drive to Lhuntse, one of the most rural and isolated districts in Bhutan. The landscape is spectacular with stark cliffs and gorges, beautiful conifer and pine forests, and remote villages. The Kurtoe region of Lhuntse is the ancestral home of Bhutan’s Royal family. And also consider being the best for Kishu Thara textiles. Visit Lhuntse Dzong and the weaving centres. Drive back to Monger.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 07. Mongar – Bumthang: After breakfast drive to Bumthang and you would notice a change in the weather condition as it becomes colder. We will stop at Sengor and few other places. Upon arrival at Bumthang, we can visit the town and meet the people.
Overnight in hotel
Day 08: Bumthang Halt
One of the most sacred regions in the Kingdom, Bumthang valley is a blend of the abstract and concrete with innumerable legends surrounding the area.
You will be visiting Kurje Lhakhang where the Great Indian Saint Guru Padsambhava subdued a local demon and left his body imprint on a rock. The other is Jamphel lhakhang, which was built in the 7th century by Songsten Goembo, the Tibetan Buddhist King. Jakar Dzong (the fortress of white bird) built in the 17th century by Tenzin Rabgay (the fourth Desi) is another famous landmark.
You will also be visiting, Tamshing lhakhang built in 1501 by Terton Pema Lingpa (the founder of religious treasures). Kunchosum lhakhang and Membertsho (the flaming lake) are other places. Legend has it that Pema Lingpa discovered several religious text from the lake.
Overnight at the hotel
Day 10. Bumthang – Punakha
After breakfast, we drive to Punakha. On the way we will visit Chhimi Lhakhang – which was founded in the 15th century by Lama Dukpa Kinley also known as the divine mad man. After lunch visit Punakha Dzong- built in 1637 by Zhabdrung. It is one of the most beautiful Dzongs in the country. Later walk around Punakha and Khuruthang town.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 11: Punakha -Thimphu: The three to four-hour drive traverses thorough a constantly changing kaleidoscope of vegetation, waterfalls, flowers, mountains and meadows. In about 45 minutes we will reach the famous Dochula pass (3,100m) where on a clear day we can see the entire eastern Himalayan range, teeming with 6,000m to 7,554m snow-capped mountains. The pass also known for its abundant species of extremely beautiful flowers has 108 Buddhist stupas exquisitely built around a mound, adding to the natural splendour of the place.
Overnight at Thimphu hotel.
Day 12: Thimphu – Sightseeing
There are great many places to see in Bhutan’s capital. In the morning we will drive to Buddha Point which provides a spectacular 360 degree close-quarter view of entire Thimphu and the adjoining areas. This is the site of the world’s tallest statue of Shakyamuni Buddha. Our next destination is the 12th century Changangkha Temple, Takin Zoo and the viewpoint at Sangaygang. On our way back, we stopover at a nunnery, the Folk Heritage Museum and the Textile Museum.
After lunch, we will proceed to Tashichho Dzong, a 17th century castle-fortress which today houses the offices of the King, Chief Abbot and government ministries. We will also take the opportunity to see the nearby parliament complex, the School of Arts and Crafts, vegetable market, and then spend the rest of the day watching an archery match and strolling around the town.
Overnight at Thimphu.
Day 13: Thimphu – Paro
After early breakfast, we drive to Paro and check in the hotel.
We will devote the day to sightseeing around the Paro valley famed for its natural beauty, historical monuments, agricultural farms and quintessentially Bhutanese village communities. Visit the National Museum, formerly a watch tower, and then the Castle on a Heap of Precious Jewels or Rinpung Dzong. Wind up the day with a stroll around Paro town. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 14: Paro – Excursion to Taktsang
After breakfast, drive for half an hour and start hiking up to the temple that is renowned in the Himalayan Buddhist world as one of the most popular sites of pilgrimage. The five-hour round trip follows an ancient but oft-trodden footpath flanked by water-driven prayer wheels.
The temple, precariously perched on a hair-raising ravine about 1,000 metres above the valley floor, is considered sacrosanct as it was in a cave within this temple that the eight century tantric saint, Padmasambhava, subdued the evils who obstructed the teachings of the Buddha. The saint is believed to have come to Taktshang in a fiery wrathful form riding a tigress. Over the years, many Buddhist saints have meditated in and around the temple and discovered numerous hidden treasure teachings.
Day 15: Departure from Paro: After breakfast, you will be driven to Paro international airport for your onward flight. Our representative will see you off.
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Venue: Paro Dzong Courtyard
Duration: 8 days
Exit and Entry: Paro
Summary
Paro Tshechu is one of the biggest festivals in the Bhutanese calendar and was started by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, and Penlop Rigzin Nyingpo during the consecration of Paro Dzong in 1644. The festival is observed in three parts – the pre-festival rituals on the first day, ceremonies on the second day inside the Paro Dzong, and the main festival at the festival ground for three days. Bhutanese from all walks of life in their finery come to attend the five-day festival.
A special event in all Tsechus is the unfurling of the Thongdrol, meaning “Liberation at Sight.” This comes from the belief that seeing an aesthetically proportioned Buddhist image plants a seed of enlightenment in the viewer’s heart. That seed matures into the liberation of one’s mind and frees us from endless rebirths of suffering.
Thongdrol also means large silk appliqué thangkas (painting) that are displayed for a few hours during important religious ceremonies in Bhutan.
The sacred Thongdrol of Guru Rinpoche is displayed early in the morning on the last day of the Tshechu. On such occasion, the festival venue fills with people at dawn in freezing cold.
Day 01: Paro: Arrive at Paro (2280m)
The flight is exhilarating to say the least, as the route traverses parallel to the mighty Himalayas enabling passengers to see the world’s highest peak, Mt Everest, and many more. The descent affords a panoramic view of Bhutan’s foothills culminating into a thrilling landing at what is considered one of the world’s most challenging airports.
Meet your guide at the airport and head to the hotel for lunch. Devote the afternoon to sightseeing around the Paro valley famed for its natural beauty, historical monuments, agricultural farms and quintessentially Bhutanese village communities. Visit the National Museum, formerly a watch tower, and then the Castle on a Heap of Precious Jewels or Rinpung Dzong. Wind up the day with a stroll around Paro town. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 02: Paro-Excursion to Taktsang
After early breakfast drive to the Ramthangka (base camp) of Taktsang. The five-hour round trip follows an ancient but oft-trodden footpath flanked by water-driven prayer wheels.
The temple, precariously perched on a hair-raising ravine about 1,000 metres above the valley floor, is considered sacrosanct as it was in a cave within this temple that the eight century tantric saint, Padmasambhava, subdued the evils who obstructed the teachings of the Buddha. The saint is believed to have come to Taktshang in a fiery wrathful form riding a tigress. Over the years, many Buddhist saints have meditated in and around the temple and discovered numerous hidden treasure teachings.
Visit the ruins of Drugyel Dzong enroute. The fortress known as the “Castle of the Victorious Drukpa”, is a symbol of Bhutan’s victory over the Tibetan invasions in the 17th and 18th centuries. We can also get a view of the sacred mountain, Jumolhari, along the way. On the way back to our hotel, we will visit the 7th century Kyichu Temple, believed to have been built on a place that resembled a knee of a giant ogress.
Day 03: Whole day witness the Paro festival.
Day 04. Paro – Thimphu: Witness the festival in the morning and drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city in the evening. Overnight in Hotel.
Day 05: Thimphu Sojourn
In the morning we will visit places of cultural and historical office in the capital.
Memorial Chorten (Stupa): Your day will begin with visits to the Memorial Chorten, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful stupas built in memory of the Father of Modern Bhutan, Third King Jigmi Dorji Wangchuck.
Buddha Point: The next visit will be to Buddha Point, where the gigantic Buddha Statue stands.
Changangkha Lhakhang: A 13th century monastery, built by Phajo Drugom Shigpo and later embellished by his son Nyima, the monastery is believed to be the protector of all people born in the Chang valley.
Others: We will also be visiting the Takin Zoo, taking a drive to Sangaygang, a point from where you can have a bird’s eye view of Thimphu valley, Handicraft’s center, the Local Bhutanese Paper making factory, a Nunnery and the Arts and Craft School.
After lunch we move to Punakha, a drive of about 3 hours. In about 45 minutes, we will reach the Dochula Pass (3,100m).
Tashichho Dzong: The country’s main secretariat building, built in 1642, it is today the hub of Bhutanese polity. This massive structure houses the office of the King, the Throne Room, some government Ministries and the State Monastic Body. It is also the summer residence of the Chief Abbot and senior monks.
Day 06: Thimphu-Punakha
The three to four-hour drive from Thimphu traverses thorough a constantly changing kaleidoscope of vegetation, waterfalls, flowers, mountains and meadows. In about 45 minutes we will reach the famous Dochula pass (3,100m) where on a clear day we can see the entire eastern Himalayan range, teeming with 6,000m to 7,554m snow-capped mountains. The pass also known for its abundant species of extremely beautiful flowers has 108 Buddhist stupas exquisitely built around a mound, adding to the natural splendor of the place.
From the pass we descend to the sub-tropical valley of Punakha. Punakha served as the ancient capital of capital and still possesses the country’s main treasures in the form of Buddhist relics. Resembling a gigantic ship on an ocean floor from afar, and girdled by two (Male and Female) rivers, the castle-fortress also represents the best specimen of Bhutanese architecture.
On the way visit Chhimi Lhakhang, founded by Lama Dukpa Kinley also known as the “Divine Mad Man.” It is half an hour walk across a local village and rice field. After lunch visit Punakha Dzong-built in 1637 by Zhabdrung. It is one of the most beautiful Dzongs in the country.
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 07: Punakha-Thimphu
After breakfast drive towards the north of Punakha valley and start the hike to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, an hour round trip. After lunch, drive to Thimphu.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 08. Departure from Bhutan
After breakfast, drive to Paro international airport for your onward flight. Our representative will see you off.
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Venue: Punakha
Duration: 6 days
Entry and Exit: Paro
Summary:
One of the biggest festivals in the Bhutanese calendar, the Punakha Tshechu is held every year, sometime in February or March. The most important display during the five-day festival is the re-enactment of the Tibetan invasion of Bhutan in 1639. In this theatrical display, a mock throwing of a relic to the Mochu River is dramatized along with a group performance by more than a hundred people dressed as warriors, popularly known as “Pazaps.”.
This performance tells the story of 17th century Bhutan, when the Bhutanese were under siege by Tibetan forces. Devoid of a standing army of its own, the duty to hold the Fort fell on the local militiamen called “Pazaps”, from the eight great villages (Tshogchens) of Thimphu. The invaders were routed.
To celebrate the victory, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal introduced the Punakha Drubchen. The 17th century scene is re-enacted during the Drubchen with local men dressed as “Pazaps”.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive at Paro (2280m)
Arrive at Paro international Airport. During the journey to Paro, one will experience a breath taking view of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and other famous Himalayan peaks, including the sacred Jomolhari and Mount Jichu Drake in Bhutan and particularly exciting is the section through the Bhutanese foothills and the thrilling landing.
On arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be received by our representative, who will escort you for sightseeing, such as the National museum of Bhutan and Paro Rimpong dzong.
After lunch at Paro Town, we will visit Kyichu temple, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples built in 659 AD.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 2: Excursion to Taktsang
After early breakfast, we will drive up to the Ramthangka (base camp) of Taktsang and then hike to Taktsang, the Tiger’s nest.
The five-hour round trip follows an ancient but oft-trodden footpath flanked by water-driven prayer wheels.
The temple, precariously perched on a hair-raising ravine about 1,000 metres above the valley floor, is considered sacrosanct as it was in a cave within this temple that the eight century tantric saint, Padmasambhava, subdued the evils who obstructed the teachings of the Buddha. The saint is believed to have come to Taktshang in a fiery wrathful form riding a tigress. Over the years, many Buddhist saints have meditated in and around the temple and discovered numerous hidden treasure teachings.
Visit the ruins of Drugyel Dzong enroute. The fortress known as the “Castle of the Victorious Drukpa”, is a symbol of Bhutan’s victory over the Tibetan invasions in the 17th and 18th centuries. We can also get a view of the sacred mountain, Jumolhari, along the way. On the way back to our hotel, we will visit the 7th century Kyichu Temple, believed to have been built on a place that resembled a knee of a giant ogress.
Day 3. Paro-Punakha: After breakfast, drive to Punakha – approximately 4-hour drive through picturesque valleys and mountain slopes dotted with typical Bhutanese villages.We will pass the famous Dochula pass (3,100m) where on a clear day we can see the entire eastern Himalayan range, teeming with 6,000m to 7,554m snow-capped mountains. The pass also known for its abundant species of extremely beautiful flowers has 108 Buddhist stupas exquisitely built around a mound, adding to the natural splendor of the place.
From the pass we descend to the sub-tropical valley of Punakha. Punakha served as the ancient capital of capital and still possesses the country’s main treasures in the form of Buddhist relics. Resembling a gigantic ship on an ocean floor from afar, and girdled by two (Male and Female) rivers, the castle-fortress also represents the best specimen of Bhutanese architecture.
En-route visit the Temple of Fertility – Chimi Lhakhang. This temple, built in the 15th century to honour the “Divine Madman”, a saint iconoclast who is also associated with phallus worship, attracts barren couples from all over to receive fertility blessings from an anointed phallus.
Halt at hotel.
Day 4: Punakha Festival
One of the Kingdom’s most popular Tsechus and held in the Majestic Punakha Dzong (Fortress), the highlight of this festival is the Drubchen, which precedes the Tsechu.
Punakha Drubchen tells the story of 17th century Bhutan, when the Bhutanese were under siege by Tibetan forces. Devoid of a standing army of its own, the duty to hold the Fort fell on the local militiamen called “Pazaps”, from the eight great villages (Tshogchens) of Thimphu. The invaders were routed.
To celebrate the victory, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal introduced the Punakha Drubchen. The 17th century scene is re-enacted during the Drubchen with local men dressed as “Pazaps”.
The Tsechu follows the Drubchen.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 5. Punakha-Thimphu
After breakfast, we will drive to Thimphu and witness the capital city’s historical and significant places.
Thimphu has lots to offer and the pick for you will firstly be the Memorial Chorten, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful stupas, built in memory of the Third King, Late His Majesty Jigmi Dorji Wangchuck, known as the Father of Modern Bhutan. A short drive from there will take you to Buddha Point, where the statue of the World’s largest Future Buddha (Maitreya) will be seen.
From there we will move to the Handicraft’s Emporium, Weaving Centre and Changangkha monastery, one built in the 12th century. There will also be visits to the Takin zoo, Sangaygang, which offers a view point of Thimphu valley and a Nunnery.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant, after which we visit the National Library where ancient manuscripts are preserved and the Wood Craft and Painting school.
In the evening, we will visit Tashichho Dzong, the main secretariat building. This massive structure houses part of the government Ministries, the office of the King and the Throne Room. It also houses the State Monastic Body and the living quarters of the Chief Abbot and the senior monks.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 6: Departure from Bhutan
After breakfast, we will drive to Paro international airport for your onward flight. Our representative will see you off.
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Venue: Trashigang Dzong
Duration: 16 days
Entry: Guwahati, Assam, India
Exit: Paro, Bhutan
Summary
Held within the confines of Bhutan’s largest district in Trashigang Dzong (Fortress), the three day tsechu is observed during the 7th to 11th days of the tenth month of the Bhutanese calendar (December).
The unfurling of the Thongdrol of Neten Chudrug (Sixteen Arhats) on the 10th day is one of the highlights of the festival. The Thongdrol of Guru Tshengyed is also displayed on the last day.
Hundreds of people from the neighboring districts of Trashiyangtse, Mongaar and nomads from Merak and Sakteng join in the festive.
For this tsechu, you have the choice to either enter from Paro and exit from Guwahati or do the opposite.
Itinerary
Day 01: Gawahati (India) –Samdrup Jongkhar: On arrival at Guwahati airport, you will be greeted by our company’s representative and drive to Samdrup Jongkhar, south-eastern part of Bhutan bordering the Indian states of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
Overnight in hotel.
Day 02: Samdrup Jongkhar-Trashigang
After breakfast drive to Tashigang, passing through several villages. En-route visit hand loom (weaving centre) in Khaling and the School for the disabled.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 03: Trashigang Festival
Visit Dzong and witness Trashigang festival. Held within the confines of Bhutan’s largest district in Trashigang Dzong (Fortress), the three day tsechu is observed during the 7th to 11th days of the tenth month of the Bhutanese calendar (December).
The unfurling of the Thongdrol of Neten Chudrug (Sixteen Arhats) on the 10th day is one of the highlights of the festival. The Thongdrol of Guru Tshengyed is also displayed on the last day.
Hundreds of people from the neighboring districts of Trashiyangtse, and Mongaar join in the festive.
Overnight in the hotel.
Day 04: Tashigang – Excursion to Phongmey/Radhi/Rangjung
Morning witnesses the festival and later drive to Phongmey Gewog and visit Phongmey monastery. On the way back, visit Radhi village, where you will have your lunch. After lunch drive to Rangjung and visit Rangung Woesel Chholing Monastery – this was founded by Garab Rinpochhe in 1990.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 05. Tashigang – Tashiyangtse – Tashigang: Early in the morning drive to Tashiyangtse and on the way visit Gom Kora temple and continue the drive to Yangtse. The main attractions in this valley, is a great stupa, Chorten Kora built in 1940 modelled on the style of the Boudhnath stupa in Nepal.
After lunch visit Trashiyangtse town, small but beautiful with traditional designs and colors of the houses. It is also famous for wooden products like dapa (wooden plate), phob (cup) and others. One of the traditional painting schools is located in Tashiyangtse. Drive back to Tashigang. Overnight at hotel.
Day 06. Trashigang – Mongar
After breakfast drive to Mongar. En route, stop to visit Drametse monastery founded by Ani Choten Zangmo, Pema Lingpa’s granddaughter, who fled from Bumthang to escape a proposal of marriage from the local king. She fled east and when she found a place ideally suited for meditation she named it ‘Drametse’ which literally means ‘the peak where there are no enemies’. Ani Choeten Zangmo’s kudung (remains) is preserved to this day in the monastery as the most important relic.
Continue driving to Monger. After lunch, visit Mongar dzong which is built in keeping with traditional by not using any drawings or nails and then visit Yaggang Lhakhang .
Overnight at hotel.
Day 07: Mongar – Lhuentshi-Mongar: After early breakfast drive to Lhuntse, one of the most rural and isolated districts in Bhutan. The landscape is spectacular with stark cliffs and gorges, beautiful conifer and pine forests, and remote villages. The Kurtoe region of Lhuntse is the ancestral home of Bhutan’s Royal family. And also consider being the best for Kishu Thara textiles. Visit Lhuntse Dzong and the weaving centres. Drive back to Monger.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 08. Mongar – Bumthang: After breakfast drive to Bumthang and you would notice a change in the weather condition as it becomes colder. We will stop at Sengor and few other places. Upon arrival at Bumthang, we can visit the town and meet the people.
Overnight in hotel
Day 09: Bumthang Halt
One of the most sacred regions in the Kingdom, Bumthang valley is a blend of the abstract and concrete with innumerable legends surrounding the area.
You will be visiting Kurje Lhakhang where the Great Indian Saint Guru Padsambhava subdued a local demon and left his body imprint on a rock. The other is Jamphel lhakhang, which was built in the 7th century by Songsten Goembo, the Tibetan Buddhist King. Jakar Dzong (the fortress of white bird) built in the 17th century by Tenzin Rabgay (the fourth Desi) is another famous landmark.
You will also be visiting, Tamshing lhakhang built in 1501 by Terton Pema Lingpa (the founder of religious treasures). Kunchosum lhakhang and Membertsho (the flaming lake) are other places. Legend has it that Pema Lingpa discovered several religious text from the lake.
Overnight at the hotel
Day 10. Bumthang – Phobjikha
After breakfast we drive to Phobjikha. En-route, we will stop to visit Trongsa Dzong – seat of the district administration, built in the 1648, including the Tower of Trongsa, which has been converted into a museum from a watchtower. Continue driving to Phobjikha.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 11. Phobjikha – Punakha: After breakfast drive to Punakha. On the way visit Chhimi Lhakhang – which was founded in the 15th century by Lama Dukpa Kinley also known as the divine mad man. After lunch visit Punakha Dzong- built in 1637 by Zhabdrung. It is one of the most beautiful Dzongs in the country. Later walk around Punakha and Khuruthang town.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 12. Punakha -Thimphu: The three to four-hour drive traverses thorough a constantly changing kaleidoscope of vegetation, waterfalls, flowers, mountains and meadows. In about 45 minutes we will reach the famous Dochula pass (3,100m) where on a clear day we can see the entire eastern Himalayan range, teeming with 6,000m to 7,554m snow-capped mountains. The pass also known for its abundant species of extremely beautiful flowers has 108 Buddhist stupas exquisitely built around a mound, adding to the natural splendour of the place.
Overnight at Thimphu hotel.
Day 13. Thimphu – Sightseeing
There are great many places to see in Bhutan’s capital. In the morning we will drive to Buddha Point which provides a spectacular 360 degree close-quarter view of entire Thimphu and the adjoining areas. This is the site of the world’s tallest statue of Shakyamuni Buddha. Our next destination is the 12th century Changangkha Temple, Takin Zoo and the viewpoint at Sangaygang. On our way back, we stopover at a nunnery, the Folk Heritage Museum and the Textile Museum.
After lunch, we will proceed to Tashichho Dzong, a 17th century castle-fortress which today houses the offices of the King, Chief Abbot and government ministries. We will also take the opportunity to see the nearby parliament complex, the School of Arts and Crafts, vegetable market, and then spend the rest of the day watching an archery match and strolling around the town.
Overnight at Thimphu.
Day 14: Thimphu – Paro
After early breakfast, we drive to Paro and check in the hotel.
We will devote the day to sightseeing around the Paro valley famed for its natural beauty, historical monuments, agricultural farms and quintessentially Bhutanese village communities. Visit the National Museum, formerly a watch tower, and then the Castle on a Heap of Precious Jewels or Rinpung Dzong. Wind up the day with a stroll around Paro town. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 15: Paro – Excursion to Taktsang
After breakfast, drive for half an hour and start hiking up to the temple that is renowned in the Himalayan Buddhist world as one of the most popular sites of pilgrimage. The five-hour round trip follows an ancient but oft-trodden footpath flanked by water-driven prayer wheels.
The temple, precariously perched on a hair-raising ravine about 1,000 metres above the valley floor, is considered sacrosanct as it was in a cave within this temple that the eight century tantric saint, Padmasambhava, subdued the evils who obstructed the teachings of the Buddha. The saint is believed to have come to Taktshang in a fiery wrathful form riding a tigress. Over the years, many Buddhist saints have meditated in and around the temple and discovered numerous hidden treasure teachings.
Day 16: Departure from Paro: After breakfast, you will be driven to Paro international airport for your onward flight. Our representative will see you off.
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enue: Jampa Lhakhang (Bumthang) grounds
Total Duration: 10 days
Other places: Western and Central Bhutan.
Entry : Paro
Exit: Paro
The Naked Dance of Jampa Lhakhang Drub is one of the most unique amongst scared mask dances held around the country. At midnight, 16 naked men perform the sacred dance, which has its origin in the 8th century.
It is said that the dance was first held in Nabjikorphu in Trongsa by the great treasure discoverer, Tertoen Dorji Lingpa, on the prophecy of Guru Rinpoche. Like several dances, this has a story, too.
Legend has it that a band of devils were obstructing the construction of a Lhakhang (Temple) in Nabjikorphu, delaying the work. As a ruse and to distract the devils, Terton Dorji Lingpa launched the naked dance. It served the purpose as the outrageous antics of the naked performers during the dance kept the devils spellbound. The construction was thus completed. The dance reached Jampa lhakhang as Terton Dorji Lingpa also consecrated Jampa lhakhang.
This dance is performed by selected men from the four villages of Jampa lhakhang, Nobgang, Changwa and Nashphey.
The main high light of this festival is ‘the scared naked dance known as Ter Cham and Mewang-the fire blessing’. A fire dance or Mewang is held in the evening to bless the infertile women so that they may bear the children.
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive at Paro
Arrive at Paro international Airport. During the journey to Paro, one will experience a breath taking view of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and other famous Himalayan peaks, including the sacred Jomolhari and Mount Jichu Drake in Bhutan and particularly exciting is the section through the Bhutanese foothills and the thrilling landing. On arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be received by representatives of our tour guide. After checking in and lunch you will visit places of historical importance in Paro, such as the National museum of Bhutan, and Paro Rimpong dzong. You will also be visiting Kyichu temple, which was built by King Songtsen Gyempo of Tibet in 659 AD.
Day 02: Excursion to Taktsang:
After an early breakfast drive up to the Ramthangka (base camp) of Taktsang and then hike up to the famous Tiger’s Lair.
It is a 5 hour round trip. Follow an ancient path marked by river powered prayer wheels to Taksang Monastery, perched some 1000m/3,000ft up on a cliff overlooking the valley. It is said that to be where the legendary Indian saint, Guru Padma Sambhava, flew from Tibet on the back of a tiger to defeat five demons, who were opposing the spread of Buddhism in Bhutan in 746 A.D. On the way, visit the Drugyel Dzong, located 16 Km. away from the Paro town. Although in ruins, this Dzong is of great historical importance. It was here that the Bhutanese finally defeated the invading Tibetans and drove them back. From here, Jomolhari peak or “Mountain of the Goddess” can be seen on a clear day (Alt. 7,329m/24,029ft.). If time permits, we will visit local farmhouse. Overnight at the hotel
Day 03. Paro-Punakha
The three to four-hour drive from Paro traverses thorough a constantly changing kaleidoscope of vegetation, waterfalls, flowers, mountains and meadows. In about 45 minutes we will reach the famous Dochula pass (3,100m) where on a clear day we can see the entire eastern Himalayan range, teeming with 6,000m to 7,554m snow-capped mountains. The pass also known for its abundant species of extremely beautiful flowers has 108 Buddhist stupas exquisitely built around a mound, adding to the natural splendour of the place.
From the pass we descend to the sub-tropical valley of Punakha. Punakha served as the ancient capital of capital and still possesses the country’s main treasures in the form of Buddhist relics. Resembling a gigantic ship on an ocean floor from afar, and girdled by two (Male and Female) rivers, the castle-fortress also represents the best specimen of Bhutanese architecture.
After lunch in a small nearby village together with a rural farming household, we will walk along a footpath flanked by an endless view of ripening paddy fields to the Temple of Fertility – Chimi Lhakhang. This temple, built in the 15th century to honour the “Divine Madman”, a saint iconoclast who is also associated with phallus worship, attracts barren couples from all over to receive fertility blessings from an anointed phallus.
Night halt in Punakha
Day 04 : Punakha-Phobjikha
After breakfast, we will drive to Phobjikha- a bowl-shaped valley on the western slopes of the Black Mountain. After lunch, we will visit Gantey Goenpa, seat of the Peling tradition. Later walk around the valley which is also the winter home to the rare black-necked cranes, which migrate, from remote parts of Tibet, China and Siberia during winter to this valley.
Overnight will be at hotel.
Day 05: Phobjikha-Bumthang: After breakfast, we drive to Bumthang via Pelela pass, the traditional boundary between Western and Eastern Bhutan. En-route we will stop at Chummy village to visit the yathra weaving centre. Continue driving to Bumthang and stay at a local hotel.
Day 06: Bumthang: Whole day sightseeing.
Chakhar Lhakhang (Iron Castle). It is the site of the palace of the Indian King Sendha Gyab also known as Sindhu Raja. Kurjey Lhakhang (Kurjey means, “Body imprint”). The temple to the right was built by Minjur Tempa in 1652. It was built around the cave in which Guru Rinpoche meditated and left his body imprint. Tamshing Lhakhang. This temple is also known as Tamshing Lhendrup Chholing (Temple of the Good Message). And visit Jakar Dzong. The fortress is now used as an administrative center of the valley and summer residence of monks. Later in the evening, we will witness the festival. The first day of the festival begins last in the night.
Apart from the Naked dance, another attraction unique to this festival is the Fire Dance (Mecham). The arch of pine is set on fire. The fire is said to purify the earth of evil spirits. People who pass through the arch have their sins cleansed. A dancer chases away the evil spirits.
Night in the hotel.
Day 07. Jambay Lhakhang Drub and MebarTsho (Burning Lake): After breakfast, attend the second day of Jambay Lhakhang Drup (festival). You will watch number of different dances, subdivided into three categories: those that are intended to give moral instruction; those that are designed to drive away evil spirits and those that celebrate the Buddhist faith in its many guises. This is the occasion where the local people, dressed in their finest clothes, come to attend the festival with packed lunches.
After lunch drive to Tang valley to visit Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake.
Night halt will be in the hotel.
Day 08: Bumthang – Trongsa: After breakfast drive to Trongsa. And then Visit Trongsa Dzong – seat of the district administration, built in the 1648. And visit Tower of Trongsa -converted into the museum from watchtower that once guarded Trongsa Dzong from internal rebellion, stands in Bhutan’s history. Overnight at hotel.
Day 09: Trongsa-Thimphu: After breakfast drive to Thimphu.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 10: Thimphu Sightseeing
In the morning we will visit places of cultural and historical office in the capital.
Memorial Chorten (Stupa): Your day will begin with visits to the Memorial Chorten, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful stupas built in memory of the Father of Modern Bhutan, Third King Jigmi Dorji Wangchuck.
Buddha Point: The next visit will be to Buddha Point, where the gigantic Buddha Statue stands.
Changangkha Lhakhang: A 13th century monastery, built by Phajo Drugom Shigpo and later embellished by his son Nyima, the monastery is believed to be the protector of all people born in the Chang valley.
Others: We will also be visiting the Takin Zoo, taking a drive to Sangaygang, a point from where you can have a bird’s eye view of Thimphu valley, Handicraft’s center, the Local Bhutanese Paper making factory, a Nunnery and the Arts and Craft School.
Tashichho Dzong: The country’s main secretariat building, built in 1642, it is today the hub of Bhutanese polity. This massive structure houses the office of the King, the Throne Room, some government Ministries and the State Monastic Body. It is also the summer residence of the Chief Abbot and senior monks.
Day 11: Departure from Paro: After breakfast, you will be driven to Paro international airport for your onward flight. Our representative will see you off.
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