Black-Necked Crane Festival
- 9 Days/ 8 Nights
The Black-Necked Crane Festival tour in Bhutan offers a captivating blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty.
Tour Overview
The Black-Necked Crane Festival tour in Bhutan offers a captivating blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty. Over nine days, explore Thimphu’s cultural landmarks, travel to Punakha and Gangtey, and witness the vibrant Black-Necked Crane Festival in Phobjikha Valley. Enjoy scenic drives, visit historic monasteries, and hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro. This tour combines traditional festivals with Bhutan’s stunning landscapes, providing a rich and memorable experience of the Kingdom of Bhutan.
Daily Itinerary for Black-Necked Crane Festival (9 Days)
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Day 1: Arrive in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu
Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to Thimphu, a scenic drive of 54 km taking about an hour. Once in Thimphu, you can visit major landmarks such as the Buddha Dordenma statue, the National Memorial Chorten, and Tashichho Dzong. Enjoy a relaxing evening in the city, adjusting to the altitude and soaking in the local culture.
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Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing
Spend the day exploring Thimphu’s rich cultural offerings. Visit the Folk Heritage Museum, which showcases traditional Bhutanese life, and the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, where Bhutan’s traditional arts are taught. See the takin at Motithang Takin Preserve and shop for handicrafts at the Craft Bazaar. The evening is free for you to explore the town at your leisure.
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Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha
Travel from Thimphu to Punakha, driving 76 km (approximately 2 hours). On the way, enjoy the panoramic views from Dochula Pass. In Punakha, visit the stunning Punakha Dzong, situated at the confluence of two rivers, and Chimi Lhakhang, known as the Temple of Fertility. Spend the night in Punakha, experiencing its tranquil atmosphere.
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Day 4: Punakha to Gangtey via Wangdue Phodrang
Drive from Punakha to Gangtey, covering 75 km in about 2 hours. On the way, pass through Wangdue Phodrang and enjoy the scenic landscape. Upon reaching Gangtey, visit the Gangtey Monastery and take in the serene beauty of Phobjikha Valley, a winter haven for black-necked cranes.
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Day 5: Gangtey – Black-Necked Crane Festival
Attend the Black-Necked Crane Festival held in Phobjikha Valley. The festival features traditional performances, dances, and cultural events celebrating the arrival of the black-necked cranes. Spend the day exploring the valley, observing the cranes, and participating in the festival’s activities.
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Day 6: Gangtey to Thimphu
Drive back to Thimphu from Gangtey, a journey of 128 km taking approximately 6 hours. Upon arrival, you have the rest of the day to revisit any sights you may have missed earlier or relax in the city.
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Day 7: Thimphu to Paro
Return to Paro, which is 54 km away and takes about an hour to drive. In Paro, explore key sites such as Paro Rinpung Dzong and Ta Dzong (the National Museum). Enjoy the evening discovering more about this picturesque town.
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Day 8: Paro Sightseeing – Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Embark on a hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), one of Bhutan’s most iconic sites. The 7 km hike, taking around 4 hours, rewards you with stunning views and the spiritual experience of visiting the monastery perched on a cliff. Return to Paro for relaxation and a farewell dinner.
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Day 9: Departure from Paro
On your final day, enjoy a leisurely morning in Paro before heading to Paro International Airport for your departure, concluding your memorable tour of Bhutan.
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- Included in this package
- Bhutan visa fee
- Government royalty & taxes
- Dedicated English speaking tour guide
- Dedicated tour vehicle and driver
- 3-star accommodation (twin sharing)
- Daily 3 meals (B/L/D)
- Airport transfers
- Bottled water in Vehicle
- Not Included in package
- Flights to and from Bhutan
- Personal expense/shopping
- Alcoholic Beverages
- 4 or 5 star accommodation (extra charges will apply)
- Premium Travel insurance
- Tips for guide and driver
- Reason To Book With Us
- Expertly Curated Itineraries
- Experience Bhutan's best with meticulously planned, culturally rich, and adventurous tours guided by locals.
- Personalized Service and Flexibility
- Tailored itineraries, special requests, and seamless travel for a customized experience.
- Commitment to Sustainable Travel
- Support local communities and eco-friendly practices, preserving Bhutan's culture and environment.
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