7 Day Dochula Pass Festival

Welcome to Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon! Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by your local guide. Today will be an easy day to help you acclimatise to the altitude. We’ll drive to Thimphu, check in to your hotel, and enjoy your first taste of Bhutanese cuisine. If time permits, we’ll do some light sightseeing around the capital.

• Buddha Dordenma (Kuenselphodrang) – Standing at 169 feet, this massive bronze statue of Buddha overlooks Thimphu Valley and is one of the largest seated Buddha statues in the world. The views, especially at night, are simply spectacular.
• National Memorial Chorten – Built in honour of the Third King, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, this chorten is a place of daily worship for locals.
• Tashichho Dzong – This impressive fortress-monastery houses the offices of the King and government and is the summer residence of the Chief Abbot.

Spend the day exploring the capital’s rich cultural traditions and thriving local life.

• Folk Heritage Museum – Step back in time and explore rural Bhutanese life through a curated display of traditional household artifacts.
• Textile Museum – Get an insight into Bhutan’s vibrant weaving traditions and witness the intricate patterns of handwoven garments.
• Paper-Making Factory – Learn how Bhutanese handmade paper (desho) is created using age-old techniques.
• Takin Reserve – Visit the Motithang Takin Preserve to meet Bhutan’s national animal, the odd yet endearing takin.
• Centenary Farmers’ Market (weekends only) – Experience the buzz of local life at this riverside market, where villagers gather to sell fresh produce and regional delicacies.

Today, journey through one of Bhutan’s most scenic routes as we travel to Punakha.

• Dochula Pass (3,100m) – Stop at this stunning mountain pass adorned with 108 chortens, built by Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck to honour Bhutan’s victory in the 2003 conflict and in memory of the fallen. The panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas are breathtaking on a clear day.
• Punakha Dzong – Situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, this architectural masterpiece dates back to 1637. Once the seat of government, it remains the winter residence of the Central Monastic Body.
• Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten – A short hike leads to this exquisite chorten built by the Queen Mother Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck. Rich in symbolic imagery and fine artistry, it is a modern marvel rooted in ancient spiritual purpose.

Start your day at the vibrant Druk Wangyel Tshechu, held at Dochula Pass.

• Dochula Festival – Witness this one-of-a-kind tshechu performed entirely by the Royal Bhutan Army, blending sacred mask dances with a sense of national pride. The setting, amid Himalayan peaks and fluttering prayer flags, is unforgettable.
• Continue your journey to Paro, a valley filled with history and myth.
• Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong) – Explore this majestic 15th-century fortress which serves as both a religious and administrative centre.
• Paro Valley – Soak in the natural beauty of the valley, with its sweeping views of Mount Jomolhari and the Pa Chhu River.
• Drukgyal Dzong – Visit the ruins of this strategic fortress built to mark Bhutan’s military victory against Tibetan invaders.

Today, dive deeper into Paro’s ancient spiritual sites.

• Kyichu Lhakhang – One of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan, built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. Nearby, visit a small museum dedicated to Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche.
• Dumtse Lhakhang – A rare three-storey temple built by the Iron Bridge Builder Thangtong Gyalpo. Each level symbolises hell, earth, and heaven. Special permits are required for entry.

The journey culminates in one of Bhutan’s most iconic sites.

• Taktsang Monastery – Embark on a hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliff 900 metres above the valley floor. According to legend, Guru Padmasambhava flew here on the back of a tigress to subdue local demons. The viewpoint en route offers spectacular photo opportunities.
• Paro Town – Before you bid farewell to Bhutan, take a leisurely stroll through Paro Town—one of the most picturesque and charming towns in the country. Lined with traditional Bhutanese buildings adorned with hand-painted motifs and wooden facades, the town offers a delightful blend of old-world charm and modern comforts. Browse through local handicraft shops and artisan boutiques to pick up meaningful souvenirs.

We hope you leave with cherished memories, meaningful connections, and a deeper appreciation for Bhutan’s beauty and spirit. Tashi Delek and we look forward to welcoming you back to the Land of the Thunder Dragon.