7 Days Punakha Festival Tour
Places You’ll See
Introduction
Punakha Tshechu and Dromchhoe are two distinct festivals celebrated in the Majestic Punakha Dzong, the most significant and grand fortress in Bhutan. It falls in early March this year based on the lunar calendar. While both are important, they differ in their origins, significance, and activities.
The Punakha Domchoe has more historical significance, the revered festival commemorating the victory of Bhutan over Tibetan invaders in the 17th century. It also celebrates the legacy of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan, who defended the country. This reenactment is a key part of the festivities, symbolizing Bhutan’s strength and unity. Immediately following Domchoe is the Punakha Tshechu, a colorful religious festival celebrating in honor of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), the great Buddhist saint who brought Tantric Buddhism to Bhutan.
Sacred masked dances (cham) as the central feature, performed by monks and laymen, wearing colorful costumes and elaborate masks. Each dance is believed to invoke deities and ward off evil spirits, bringing peace. Each dance is believed to invoke deities and ward off evil spirits, bringing peace, prosperity, and good fortune to the attendees.
Besides masked dances, the event also includes traditional music and folk dances, bringing Bhutan’s cultural expressions to life. Festivals offer an immersive and authentic glimpse into Bhutan’s culture, historical and religious heritage. In essence, the Punakha Tshechu not only serves as a religious and cultural event but also as a link between Bhutan’s past and present, offering a deep insight into the spiritual life of people of Bhutan. The festival thus stands as a symbol of Bhutanese unity, faith, and resilience, blending history, spirituality, and communal joy.
Visitors can immerse themselves in Bhutan’s rich traditions and enjoy the scenic beauty of Punakha Dzong, making it a must-see destination for anyone seeking a deep connection with its roots and heritage. We will be very delighted to have you as a part of the celebration
Itinerary
The flight into Paro on our national carrier, Druk Air, is a befitting introduction to the spectacular beauty of our country. In clear weather, magnificent views of the world’s highest peaks like Gangkar Puensum, give way to the lush green Paro valley as you land. Your Bhutanese escort from Authentic Bhutan Tours- For Your Bhutan Experience! will warmly welcome & greet you on arrival, and then to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan.
The drive will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes along a river valley, past small villages and traditional farmhouses, through peaceful countryside. It’s a small & charming capital city located in the heart of the Himalayas. On reaching Thimphu, we will do a short hike, from Kuensel Phodrang to Depsi (South of Thimphu). Before we start the hike, we will visit the Tallest Buddha Statue in the world.
Then we will start the hike. The hiking is more or less very easy and a plain walk through the forest of Pine, Rhododendron and Oak trees. The hike will take about 1-hour and 30 mins. We can see Thimphu city, Thimphu River (Wangchhu) and other adjacent towns through this hike. We can also take some fluttering prayer flags (Lungta) and hang them between two to three trees that will bring fortune, happiness and good health to every one in this world including your enemy.
In the evening, visit Tashi Chho Dzong, seat of the national government and the Central Monastic Body, including the summer residence of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot of Bhutan) and stroll around Thimphu town. Dinner and overnight stay in the hotel, Thimphu
Meal Plan: Welcome Dinner Accommodation: Hotel
What's Included
Customer Reviews
4.9 / 5
Based on 26K+ reviews
Sarah M.
London, UK
7-Day Cultural Tour,
“Without question the best cultural tours in Bhutan I could have chosen. Our guide Karma arranged a private blessing ceremony at a monastery not on any tourist map. I cried. Best Bhutan tour experience of my life.”
James T.
New York, USA
27 May 2024
10-Day Heritage Tour,
“I’ve done cultural tours across Southeast Asia and nothing compares to this Bhutan travel package. The farmhouse stay alone was worth the entire trip. Already planning to return for the Paro Tshechu next spring.”
From
$1,200
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