PUNAKHA FESTIVAL (22ND FEB – 2ND MARCH 2026)
Punakha Festival (22nd Feb – 2nd March 2026) - Bhutan Festival & Cultural Journey
Tour Overview
This 9-day cultural journey through Bhutan is designed around the vibrant celebrations of the Punakha Drubchen and Punakha Tsechu, two of the country’s most significant festivals. Beginning in Paro and Thimphu, travelers explore majestic dzongs, sacred monasteries, and bustling markets before heading east to Punakha. Here, the tour immerses guests in centuries-old traditions, witnessing dramatic mask dances, spiritual rituals, and the colorful pageantry of Bhutanese culture. The itinerary also includes a serene visit to the Phobjikha Valley, home of the black-necked cranes, and a hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro. Scenic drives across high mountain passes, cultural encounters in villages, and guided visits to heritage sites ensure a rich blend of spirituality, history, and natural beauty. With festival highlights at its core, this journey offers an unforgettable glimpse into Bhutan’s living traditions and breathtaking landscapes.
Tour Highlight
- Participation in Punakha Drubchen and Punakha Tsechu festivals.
- Iconic cultural sites: Tiger’s Nest, Punakha Dzong, Gangtey Monastery.
- Scenic valleys: Phobjikha and Dochula Pass.
- Balanced mix of heritage, nature, and living traditions.
- Arrival at Paro International Airport.
- Drive to Thimphu (1.5 hrs).
- Sightseeing: Paro Rinpung Dzong, National Museum, and en route stop at Tachogang Bridge.
- Evening stroll in Thimphu city.
- Overnight in Thimphu.
- Visit Buddha Dordenma, Memorial Chorten, and Tashichho Dzong.
- Explore Folk Heritage Museum and School of Arts & Crafts.
- Evening visit to local markets.
- Overnight in Thimphu.
- Drive via Dochula Pass (108 chortens, panoramic Himalayan views).
- Visit Punakha Dzong and Punakha Suspension Bridge.
- Short hike to Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility).
- Overnight in Punakha.
- Attend the final day of Punakha Drubchen festival, with traditional mask dances and cultural rituals.
- Free evening to explore Punakha valley.
- Overnight in Punakha.
- Morning: Experience the opening day of Punakha Tsechu festival.
- Afternoon: Drive to Phobjikha Valley (3–4 hrs).
- Evening walk in the valley, known for black-necked cranes.
- Overnight in Phobjikha.
- Morning nature hike in Phobjikha Valley.
- Visit Gangtey Monastery.
- Drive back to Thimphu (5–6 hrs).
- Overnight in Thimphu.
- Drive to Paro (1.5 hrs).
- Visit Kyichu Lhakhang and Paro Dzong.
- Evening free for shopping and leisure.
- Overnight in Paro.
- Full-day hike to Taktsang Monastery, Bhutan’s most iconic site.
- Afternoon rest and farewell cultural dinner.
- Overnight in Paro.
- Transfer to Paro International Airport for departure.
- End of Tour.
Payment & Cancellation Policy
Payment Terms
- The approval of tourists VISA is contingent on the full payment of the tour
- Flight ticket payment is subject to the Ticketing Time Limit issued by the airlines
Tour Cancellation and Refund Policy
- 30 to 15 days prior to arrival – 20% of the total tour cost will be levied as cancellation fee
- 14 to 7 days prior to arrival – 50% of the tour cost will be levied as cancellation fee
- Less than a week prior to arrival – 100% cancellation charge will be levied as cancellation fee
Flight Ticket Cancellation and Refund Policy
- Subject to the cancellation terms of the Airline
Rescheduling Tour Dates:
- There are no charges for rescheduling your trip. However the minimum daily tariff, hotel rates, airline charges are subject to change depending on your new travelling dates.
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