11 Days Bhutan Tour with Folk Festival

Your 11-day Bhutan tour with folk festival begins as you arrive at Paro International Airport, nestled in a beautiful valley surrounded by towering peaks. Upon landing, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our experienced local guide who will accompany you throughout your journey.

After completing immigration formalities, enjoy a scenic drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. The winding mountain roads offer your first glimpse of Bhutan’s pristine landscapes, with traditional farmhouses dotting the terraced hillsides. Check into your hotel in Thimphu and enjoy a relaxing evening at leisure.

Stay overnight at the hotel in Thimphu.

On the second day of your 11-day Bhutan tour, you will visit several significant landmarks that showcase the country’s commitment to preserving tradition while embracing modernity. So finish your breakfast and get ready for your sightseeing tour.

• First, visit the National Library, home to an extensive collection of ancient Buddhist texts and manuscripts
• Explore the Traditional Painting School where young artists learn the sacred art of thangka painting
• Discover the Traditional Medicine Institute, understanding Bhutan’s holistic approach to healthcare
• Marvel at Trashichhodzong, the impressive fortress-monastery that serves as the seat of government
• Browse the Government Handicrafts Emporium for authentic Bhutanese crafts and textiles
• Pay respects at the Memorial Chorten, a revered stupa dedicated to world peace
• Conclude with the Textile & Folk Heritage Museum, showcasing Bhutan’s rich weaving traditions

After lunch, embark on a scenic drive to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan. En route, cross the magnificent Dochula Pass at 3,100 meters, where 108 memorial chortens stand majestically against the backdrop of snow-capped Himalayan peaks. After completing the check-in formalities, the rest of the time is yours to do whatever you want.

Stay overnight at the hotel in Punakha.

Today marks the highlight of your 11 Days Bhutan tour with folk festival as you participate in the three-day Tshechu celebration. This sacred festival transforms Punakha into a kaleidoscope of colors, sounds, and spiritual energy. Witness mesmerizing mask dances performed by monks in elaborate costumes, each movement carrying deep religious significance.

This immersive cultural experience provides unprecedented insight into the spiritual life and traditions that define Bhutanese society.

After breakfast, begin your journey to Trongsa, traversing some of Bhutan’s most spectacular mountain scenery. En route stop at Dochula Pass, where crystal-clear mountain air offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan range.

Admire the majestic peaks of Tsendagang, Terigang, Kangphugang, Zongphugang, Masagang, Jejegangphugang, and Gangkar Puensum, Bhutan’s highest unclimbed peak at 7,570 meters.

Continue to Wangduephodrang town for lunch before proceeding across the Pelela Pass. Along the way, stop at Chendbji Chorten, an 18th-century architectural marvel built by the revered Lama Shida. After exploring this attraction, begin your journey to Trongsa. Upon arriving in Trongsa, check into your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore the hotel surroundings. Later, return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast in the morning, head straight for Phobjikha by crossing semi-tropical dwarf bamboo and rhododendron trees. Arrive in the broad glacier valley of Phobijika. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll around Gangtey village and explore Gangtey Gompa.

Stay overnight at the Camp in Phobjikha.

Finish your breakfast and check out of the camp. On your way back to Thimphu, stop at Dochula Pass for refreshments at the mountain cafeteria en route. Sip on hot tea or coffee while taking in the stunning views of the Himalayas. You will arrive in Thimphu in the afternoon. Spend your leisure time exploring Thimphu’s weekend market or simply relaxing at your hotel.

Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Finish your breakfast and begin your sightseeing tour.

First, you will visit the National Memorial Chorten. It was built in 1974 to honor Bhutan’s third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Take part in the locals’ morning ritual of circumambulation, where you can spin prayer wheels and chant mantras. Next, continue to:

• Traditional Painting School to observe master artists creating intricate Buddhist artwork
• Textile Emporium showcasing Bhutan’s renowned handwoven fabrics and traditional garments
• National Library, repository of ancient Buddhist texts and historical documents

After lunch, travel to Paro, a historic town nestled in a fertile valley filled with sacred sites. Upon reaching, complete the check-in formalities. In the evening, you can explore Paro’s main street, which is lined with traditional shops selling local handicrafts, textiles, and religious items.
Overnight stay in Paro.

On the 8th day of your 11-day tour of Bhutan, you will focus on exploring Paro. Start with a short excursion to the upper valley of Paro, where you can enjoy stunning views of Goddess Mountain Chomolhari, which stands at 7,329 meters.

The highlight of your day is the exhilarating hike to Taksang Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliff face 900 meters above. This sacred site holds immense significance in Bhutanese Buddhism:

• Learn about Guru Rinpoche’s legendary flight to this location on the back of a flying tigress in the 8th century
• Experience the spiritual atmosphere of one of Buddhism’s most sacred pilgrimage sites
• Enjoy panoramic views of the entire Paro Valley from various viewpoints along the trail

The moderately challenging 3-hour round-trip hike rewards you with unforgettable memories and spiritual insights that epitomize the mystical nature of Bhutan.

Stay overnight in Paro.

Today is the last day of your 11-day tour in Bhutan. After breakfast, check out from the hotel, and you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey.