Festival & Fortresses: Bhutan's Living Cultural Experiences

Duration: 12 Nights / 13 Days
Destinations Covered: Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey (Phobjikha Valley), Bumthang, Mongar, Trashigang, and Trashiyangtse

A Glimpse of What’s Ahead

Trashigang Dzong: The Dragon’s Fortress on the Edge of the World

Perched like a watchful guardian atop a razor-edged ridge, Trashigang Dzong commands the wild eastern valleys of Bhutan—a fortress where myth and history collide. Its towering white walls and golden roofs blaze against the sky, defying the sheer drops below, while ancient battle scars whisper tales of invasions and warrior monks.

Inside, flickering butter lamps illuminate sacred relics, and the wind carries echoes of chanting that has lasted centuries. This isn’t just a dzong; it’s a living sentinel, daring you to unravel its secrets.

Chorten Kora: Where Two Countries Unite in Awe and Devotion

Legend whispers that Lama Ngawang Loday traveled from Bhutan to Nepal and returned with a radish carving of Bodhnath. When the radish shrank, it gave Chorten Kora its unique form, forever linking these two sacred lands. This magical origin still captivates visitors who stand in awe of its story.

Every first lunar month (February or March), an air of excitement sweeps the valley as people gather for the twin koras. On the 15th day, the Dakpa community from Arunachal Pradesh, India, embarks on a three-day pilgrimage to honor the brave sacrifice of a young girl. Then, on the 30th day, Bhutanese from far-flung regions come to witness the grand unfurling of a giant thondrol. Together, they circle the chorten, forging bonds and creating a pulse of unity that echoes across both countries.

Wangduechhoeling Palace: Bhutan’s Hidden Royal Gem

This 19th-century masterpiece showcases awe-inspiring Bhutanese architecture—intricate wood carvings, golden murals, and sacred shrines within its unique four-winged design. Once the royal residence of Bhutan’s first king, it’s now a meticulously restored museum housing rare artifacts and manuscripts.

A perfect blend of history and artistry, it is a must-visit in Bumthang for anyone seeking Bhutan’s cultural soul. Don’t miss it. Otherwise, you have missed this timeless treasure – the soul of Bhutan.

 

View Itinerary

  • Arrival at Paro International Airport: Welcome by your White Happiness Travel representative.

    Included Activities

    • Visit Ta Dzong (National Museum): Explore the ancient watchtower, now a museum showcasing Bhutanese art and history.

    • Visit Rinpung Dzong: A stunning fortress-monastery with beautiful architecture and religious significance.

    • Drive to Thimphu: Scenic 1.5-hour drive to Bhutan’s capital.

    • Evening at Leisure: Stroll around Thimphu town and explore local markets.

    Overnight: Thimphu

    Transportation

    SUV Car

    • Meals

      Breakfast

      Lunch

      Dinner

  • Included Activities

    • Visit Buddha Dordenma: A massive statue of Buddha overlooking the valley.

    • Explore Tashichho Dzong: The seat of Bhutan’s government and religious affairs.

    • Visit Memorial Chorten: A revered stupa built in memory of the third king of Bhutan.

    • Lunch at a Local Restaurant: Enjoy authentic Bhutanese cuisine.

    • Visit Changangkha Lhakhang: An ancient temple offering panoramic views of Thimphu.

    • Explore Simply Bhutan Museum: A living museum showcasing Bhutanese culture and traditions.

    Accomodation

    • Overnight: Thimphu

    Transportation

    • SUV Car

    Meals

    • Breakfast

      Lunch

      Dinner

  • Included Activities

    • Drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass: Stop at Dochula Pass (3,100m) to enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the 108 Druk Wangyel Chortens.

    • Visit Punakha Dzong: One of Bhutan’s most beautiful fortresses, located at the confluence of two rivers.

    • Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple): A unique temple dedicated to the Divine Madman, Lama Drukpa Kunley.

    • Evening at Leisure: Relax by the riverside or explore Punakha town.

    Accomodation

    • Overnight: Punakha

    Transportation

    • SUV Car

    Meals

    • Breakfast

    • Lunch

    • Dinner

  • Included Activities

    • Morning Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten: A beautiful hike offering stunning views of the Punakha Valley.

    • Drive to Phobjikha Valley: A serene glacial valley and winter home to the endangered black-necked cranes.

    • Visit Gangtey Monastery: A prominent monastery of the Nyingma school of Buddhism.

    • Explore Phobjikha Valley: Walk through the valley and visit local villages to experience rural Bhutanese life.

    Accomodation

    • Overnight: Gangtey

    Transportation

    • SUV Car

    Meals

    • Breakfast

    • Lunch

    • Dinner

  • Included Activities

    • Drive to Bumthang: A scenic drive through lush forests and picturesque landscapes.

    • Visit Jakar Dzong: The "Castle of the White Bird," offering panoramic views of the Bumthang Valley.

    • Explore Jambay Lhakhang: One of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in the 7th century.

    • Visit Kurjey Lhakhang: A sacred temple complex associated with Guru Rinpoche.

    Accomodation

    • Overnight: Bumthang

    Transportation

    • SUV Car

    Meals

    • Breakfast

    • Lunch

    • Dinner

  • Included Activities

    • Visit Tamshing Lhakhang: A monastery known for its ancient murals and religious significance.

    • Explore Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake): A sacred site where treasures were discovered by Terton Pema Lingpa.

    • Visit Local Cheese and Honey Factory: Experience the production of Bhutanese cheese and honey.

    • Interact with Local Villagers: Learn about their daily lives and traditions.

    Accomodation

    • Overnight: Bumthang

    Transportation

    • SUV Car

    Meals

    • Breakfast

    • Lunch

    • Dinner

  • Included Activities

    • Drive to Mongar: A scenic drive through lush forests and picturesque landscapes.

    • Visit Mongar Dzong: A stunning fortress with beautiful architecture and religious significance.

    • Explore Mongar Town: Walk around the town and interact with locals.

    Accomodation

    • Overnight: Mongar

    Transportation

    • SUV Car

    Meals

    • Breakfast

    • Lunch

    • Dinner

  • Included Activities

    • Drive to Trashigang: A scenic drive through lush forests and picturesque landscapes.

    • Visit Trashigang Dzong: A stunning fortress with beautiful architecture and religious significance.

    • Explore Trashigang Town: Walk around the town and interact with locals.

    Accomodation

    • Overnight: Trashigang

    Transportation

    • SUV Car

    Meals

    • Breakfast

    • Lunch

    • Dinner

    • Drive to Trashiyangtse: A scenic drive through lush forests and picturesque landscapes.

    • Visit Trashiyangtse Dzong: A stunning fortress with beautiful architecture and religious significance.

    • Explore Trashiyangtse Town: Walk around the town and interact with locals.

      Accomodation

      • Overnight: Trashiyangtse

      Transportation

      • SUV Car

      Meals

      • Breakfast

      • Lunch

      • Dinner

  • Included Activities

    • Drive to Bumthang: A scenic drive back to Bumthang.

    • Evening at Leisure: Relax and explore Bumthang town.

    Accomodation

    • Overnight: Bumthang

    Transportation

    • SUV Car

    Meals

    • Breakfast

    • Lunch

    • Dinner

  • Included Activities

    • Drive to Paro: Enjoy the scenic journey through Bhutan’s countryside.

    • Evening at Leisure: Relax by the riverside or explore Paro town.

    Accomodation

    • Overnight: Punakha

    Transportation

    • SUV Car

    Meals

    • Breakfast

    • Lunch

    • Dinner

  • Included Activities

    • Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest): Bhutan’s most iconic landmark, perched on a cliff at 3,120m. The hike takes about 4-5 hours round trip.

    • Lunch at Taktsang Cafeteria: Enjoy a meal with a stunning view of the monastery.

    • Explore Paro Town: Visit local handicraft shops and relax after the hike.

    Accomodation

    • Overnight: Punakha

    Transportation

    • SUV Car

    Meals

    • Breakfast

    • Lunch

    • Dinner

    • Breakfast at Hotel: Enjoy a leisurely morning.

    • Transfer to Paro International Airport: Bid farewell to Bhutan with unforgettable memories.

    Accomodation

    • Overnight: Paro

    Transportation

    • SUV Car

    Meals

    • Breakfast

    • Lunch

    • Dinner

    • Accommodation in 3-star hotels (upgrade available).

    • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner).

    • Licensed English-speaking guide.

    • Private transportation.

    • All entry fees and permits.

    • Mineral water during the trip.

    • Airfare to/from Bhutan.

    • Travel insurance.

    • Personal expenses (shopping, tips, etc.).

    • Alcoholic beverages.

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