10-Day Bhutan Adventure: Padtshelling Kuchey Festival

Day -1

Arrival in Paro

• Arrival: Land at Paro International Airport, where you’ll receive a warm welcome from your guide.
• Transfer to Thimphu: Enjoy a scenic drive to Bhutan’s capital city, Thimphu.
• Accommodation: Check into your hotel and take some time to relax.
• Dinner: Savor your first taste of authentic Bhutanese cuisine at a local restaurant.

Overnight: Thimphu

Day -2

Thimphu Sightseeing

• Trashi Choe Dzong: Explore this grand fortress and administrative center, known for its impressive architecture and spiritual significance.
• Thimphu City: Wander through Thimphu, experiencing a blend of modernity and traditional Bhutanese culture.
• Additional Sites: Depending on time, visit local markets, craft centers, or other cultural landmarks.
• Overnight: Thimphu.

Day-3

Thimphu to Punakha

• Dochula Pass: Drive through this scenic pass, adorned with 108 chortens (stupas) and enjoy stunning views of the Himalayan range.
• Punakha Dzong: Visit this architectural marvel located at the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. The dzong is renowned for its intricate woodwork and historical importance.
• Accommodation: Check into your hotel in Punakha.
• Overnight: Punakha.

Day -4

Punakha to Bumthang via Trongsa

• Chendebji Chorten: Stop at this chorten modeled after Kathmandu’s Swayambhunath, offering insight into Bhutanese religious practices.
• Trongsa Dzong: Explore this ancestral fortress of Bhutan's monarchy and visit the Trongsa Museum (Taa Dzong), which offers exhibits on Bhutan’s royal history.
• Drive to Bumthang: Continue through scenic mountain roads to Bumthang.
• Overnight: Bumthang.

Day -5

Bumthang Exploration

• Jakar Dzong: Visit this historical fortress offering commanding views over Bumthang Valley.
• Padtshelling Kuchey Festival: Immerse yourself in the vibrant celebrations of the Padtshelling Kuchey Festival. Witness traditional masked dances, music, and cultural performances that honor local deities and historical events.
• Additional Temples: Explore nearby temples such as Tamshing Goemba, known for its ancient murals, and Kurjey Lhakhang, which holds religious significance due to Guru Rinpoche's body imprint.
• Overnight: Bumthang.

Day - 6

Bumthang to Gangtey

• Drive to Gangtey: Journey through picturesque landscapes to Phobjikha Valley, known for its natural beauty and black-necked cranes.
• Gangtey Goempa: Visit Bhutan’s largest Nyingma monastery, established in 1613 and renowned for its serene atmosphere and historical significance.
• Gangtey Nature Trail: Enjoy a scenic hike through the valley, where you can observe the black-necked cranes, especially if visiting in winter.
• Overnight: Gangtey.

Day - 7

Gangtey to Paro

• Kyichu Lhakhang: Visit one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, dating back to the 7th century. It’s a key site in Bhutanese history and spiritual practice.
• Traditional Sports: Participate in traditional Bhutanese sports such as archery and khuru (dart) games at the Paro Ka Ja Throm.
• Return to Paro: Drive back to Paro and check into your hotel.
• Overnight: Paro.

Day -8

Paro Sightseeing

• Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest): Hike to this iconic cliffside monastery, renowned for its breathtaking views and spiritual significance. The trek offers beautiful scenery and a unique cultural experience.
• Rinpung Dzong: Explore this ancient fortress-monastery, celebrated for its Bhutanese architecture and historical importance.
• Additional Exploration: Optionally visit local markets or additional sites in Paro, depending on your interests and time.
• Overnight: Paro.

Day -9

Leisure Day in Paro

• Optional Hike: Trek to Zuri Dzong, Bhutan’s oldest dzong, for panoramic views of Paro Valley and a serene environment.
• National Museum (Ta Dzong): Delve into Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage through an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits.
• Relax: Enjoy a leisurely day exploring Paro, shopping for souvenirs, or engaging in local activities.
• Overnight: Paro.

Day -10

Departure from Paro

• Farewell: Transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey.
• Reflect: Cherish the memories of your exploration through Bhutan’s cultural and natural wonders, and take with you the experiences and beauty of the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
• Departure: Board your flight, carrying with you lasting memories of Bhutan.