10 Day Nakhlang Tshechu Experience

Day -1

• Touchdown in Paro and Scenic Journey to Thimphu
• Arrival: Land at Paro International Airport. Your guide will warmly welcome you and assist with the transfer.
• Drive to Thimphu: Enjoy the scenic drive to Bhutan’s capital city, passing through picturesque landscapes.
  • Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang): Visit the 169-foot Buddha Dordenma statue, which offers panoramic views of Thimphu Valley and serves as a symbol of peace and prosperity.
  • National Memorial Chorten: Explore this sacred monument dedicated to King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. It’s a focal point for local prayers and meditation.
  • Thimphu Dzong: Discover the largest fortress in Bhutan, which serves as the administrative and religious center of Thimphu.
• Evening: Check into your hotel and enjoy your first taste of traditional Bhutanese cuisine at a local restaurant.
• Overnight: Thimphu.

Day -2

Thimphu Sightseeing

• Cultural Exploration:
  • Heritage Museum: Gain insights into Bhutanese rural life through exhibits showcasing traditional artifacts and daily living.
  • Textile Museum: Discover the intricacies of traditional Bhutanese weaving techniques and the cultural significance of textiles.
  • Papermaking Factory: Witness the traditional art of papermaking, a craft that has been practiced in Bhutan for centuries.
  • Simtokha Dzong: Visit Bhutan's oldest dzong, known for its intricate murals and historical importance as a religious and administrative center.
• Leisure: Optional light hiking or further exploration of Thimphu’s vibrant streets.
• Overnight: Thimphu.

Day-3

Thimphu to Punakha via Dochula Pass

• Drive to Punakha: Journey through the scenic Dochula Pass.
  • Dochula Pass: Admire the 108 chortens (stupas) and enjoy stunning Himalayan views. This pass is an excellent spot for photos and to experience the beauty of Bhutan’s landscape.
  • Punakha Dzong: Explore this architectural marvel located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. It’s renowned for its intricate woodwork, murals, and historical significance as the winter residence of the monk body.
• Evening: Check into your hotel in Punakha and relax.
• Overnight: Punakha.

Day -4

Punakha to Bumthang

• En Route:
  • Chhimi Lhakhang: Visit the fertility temple dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley, known for its associations with fertility and good fortune.
  • Wangdue Phodrang Dzong: Explore this historic fortress, a crucial site for regional administration and monastic activities.
• Scenic Drive: Enjoy the picturesque landscapes as you travel through Bhutan’s beautiful countryside, leading you to Bumthang.
• Evening: Relax and prepare for the cultural experiences ahead in Bumthang.

Overnight: Bumthang.

Day -5

Bumthang - Tsechu Festival and Sightseeing

• Tsechu Festival: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Nalakhang Tshechu festival.
  • Cham Dances: Witness traditional masked dances and rituals that narrate Bhutanese folk tales and religious stories.
  • Cultural Performances: Enjoy performances that celebrate Bhutanese culture and spirituality.
• Temple Visits:
  • Tamshing Goemba: Explore this ancient monastery renowned for its vibrant murals and historical significance.
  • Kurjey Lhakhang: Visit this sacred site where Guru Rinpoche is said to have left his body imprint.
  • Jambay Lhakhang: Discover one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, known for its rich history and spiritual importance.
• Hike:
  • Thangbi Valley: Enjoy a scenic hike to Thangbi Lhakhang, a 14th-century temple offering beautiful views of the surrounding valley.
• Overnight: Bumthang.

Day - 6

Bumthang to Gangtey

• Drive to Gangtey: Journey through scenic landscapes, including a stop at Trongsa.
  • Trongsa Dzong: Explore this impressive fortress, a key site in Bhutanese history and administration.
  • Taa Dzong: Visit the Heritage Museum located in the historic watchtower of Trongsa Dzong, showcasing Bhutanese history and culture.
• Gangtey:
  • Phobjikha Valley: Explore this serene valley, known for its natural beauty and as a winter habitat for black-necked cranes.
  • Gangtey Gompa: Visit the 17th-century monastery and enjoy short hikes around the valley to experience its tranquil environment.
• Overnight: Gangtey.

Day - 7

Gangtey to Paro

• Travel: Return to Paro, enjoying the scenic drive and quaint village views.
• Paro Exploration:
  • Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong): Visit this grand fortress-monastery, central to Bhutanese administration and religion.
  • Ta Dzong: Explore the National Museum housed in a historic watchtower, offering a rich collection of Bhutanese art and artifacts.
  • Local Markets: Shop for souvenirs and experience the vibrant local atmosphere.
• Overnight: Paro.

Day -8

Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)

• Hike: Trek to Taktsang Monastery, perched on a cliffside. The challenging hike offers stunning views of the Paro Valley and the monastery’s dramatic perch on a sheer cliff.
  • Scenic Trek: Enjoy lush forests and prayer flags along the way.
  • Monastery Exploration: Visit the sacred site where Guru Rinpoche meditated, absorbing the spiritual ambiance.
• Visit:
  • Kyichu Lhakhang: Explore one of Bhutan’s oldest and most revered temples, known for its historical and spiritual significance.
• Overnight: Paro.

Day -9

Additional Paro Exploration and Preparation for Departure

• Optional Visits:
  • Drukgyal Dzong: Explore the historic fortress ruins with panoramic views of the Paro Valley.
  • Kyichu Lhakhang: A serene visit to one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, enhancing your cultural immersion.
• Relax: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, stroll through Paro town, or relax at a local café.
• Evening: Prepare for departure and reflect on your Bhutanese journey.
• Overnight: Paro.

Day -10

Departure from Paro

• Departure: Transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward flight.
• Final Reflections: Cherish the memories of Bhutan's majestic landscapes, rich culture, and spiritual heritage as you bid farewell to this enchanting Himalayan kingdom.