Druk Wangyel Festival
- 7 Days/ 6 Nights
The Druk Wangyel Festival, held annually on December 13th at Dochula Pass
Tour Overview
The Druk Wangyel Festival, held annually on December 13th at Dochula Pass, commemorates Bhutan’s victory over Indian insurgents in 2003. Set against the stunning backdrop of 108 stupas and panoramic Himalayan views, the festival features vibrant masked dances and cultural performances. This tour combines the festival with visits to Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro, including iconic sites like the Punakha Dzong and Taktsang Monastery, offering a rich cultural immersion in Bhutan’s heritage and spirituality.
Daily Itinerary for Druk Wangyel Festival (7 Days)
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Day 1: Arrival in Paro and Transfer to Thimphu
Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you'll be greeted by your guide and immediately transferred to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, which is a scenic 1.5-hour drive away. In the afternoon, you'll visit the Memorial Chorten, a stupa built in honor of the third King of Bhutan, and then marvel at the giant Buddha Dordenma statue overlooking the valley. A visit to the National Library will give you a glimpse of Bhutan’s rich literary heritage. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll around Thimphu’s main street, exploring local handicrafts before settling in for the night at your hotel in Thimphu.
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Day 2: Thimphu Cultural Tour
Your second day in Bhutan is dedicated to exploring the cultural and artistic heritage of Thimphu. Start the day with a visit to the Institute for Zorig Chusum, where students learn traditional Bhutanese arts and crafts. Continue to the Folk Heritage Museum, which offers a glimpse into Bhutanese rural life, and the Textile Museum, where you can admire intricate Bhutanese fabrics. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Tashichho Dzong, the impressive fortress-monastery that serves as the administrative and religious center of Bhutan. If it’s a weekend, wrap up the day with a visit to the Centenary Farmers’ Market, where locals sell fresh produce and handicrafts. Overnight in Thimphu.
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Day 3: Druk Wangyel Festival
On the third day, you’ll rise early and drive to Dochula Pass to attend the Druk Wangyel Festival. Held at an elevation of over 3,000 meters, this festival is set against the backdrop of the 108 stupas (Druk Wangyel Chortens) and the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Spend the day immersed in the vibrant cultural performances and masked dances that celebrate Bhutan’s military history and spiritual heritage. In the evening, you’ll drive to Punakha, a journey of approximately 2.5 hours. Overnight in Punakha.
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Day 4: Punakha Exploration
Begin your exploration of Punakha with a visit to Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Fertility Temple, where couples seek blessings for children. In the afternoon, visit the stunning Punakha Dzong, which is considered the most beautiful dzong in Bhutan, situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Later in the day, take a short hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a splendid monument that offers panoramic views of the Punakha Valley. Overnight in Punakha.
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Day 5: Punakha to Paro
On the fifth day, you’ll drive back to Paro, stopping en route to visit Simtokha Dzong, one of the oldest dzongs in Bhutan. Upon arrival in Paro, visit the National Museum housed in Ta Dzong, which showcases Bhutan’s rich cultural artifacts, and then explore Rinpung Dzong, a fortress-monastery with commanding views of the Paro Valley. Enjoy some leisure time in Paro town in the evening. Overnight in Paro.
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Day 6: Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)
Day six features the highlight of your Bhutan journey: the hike to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest. Perched on a cliff 900 meters above the Paro Valley, this iconic monastery is one of the most sacred sites in Bhutan. The hike is strenuous but rewarding, taking about 4-5 hours round trip. After descending, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most revered temples in Bhutan. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with traditional Bhutanese cuisine. Overnight in Paro.
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Day 7: Departure from Paro
On your final day in Bhutan, you’ll be transferred to Paro International Airport for your departure flight, taking with you unforgettable memories of Bhutan’s rich culture and the Druk Wangyel Festival.
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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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