Save Up To 10% On This tour – Limited Availability, Book Today!
24/7 support
No card fees

Thimphu Festival

8 days

Take your place at the famed mask dance performances at the Thimphu Tshechu Festival, whilst discovering the best of Bhutan. Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery, see the world's biggest Buddha Dordenma statue and explore the Punakha Valley before sitting back to watch the unique and colourful displays of traditional culture performed at the city's most popular event.

For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.

Save up to 10% today

Tour Overview

Duration

- 8 days

Starts

- Paro

Ends

- Paro

Tour Guide

- Yes - escorted by a tour guide

Meals included

- Breakfast: 7, Lunch: 7, Dinner: 7

Group Size

- Min 2 / Max 16

Hotel Rating

- 3 star & 1 night camping

Arrival Transfer

- Yes

Departure Transfer

- Yes

Range

- Signature Journeys

Minimum age

- 15 yrs, accompanied by an adult

Guiding Style

- Fully Guided

Country

- Bhutan

Tour Pace

- Medium

Physical Rating

- Moderate

Trip Type

- Group Tours
Adults (15+)
Price Breakdown
Shown in NZD
Save 10% today
Per Person From
$5,815.00
NZD

$5,233.50

Deposit Per Person From
Final payment
NZD

$500.00

$9,467.00
Call Us

Tour Highlights

Thimphu Tshechu Festival - See the colourful masked dance performances and other cultural displays at the city's most popular event
Paro - Enjoy a guided tour of the city, including the National Museum and Rinphung Dzong
Punakha Valley - Hike up to Chimi Lhakhand Temple (the temple of Divine Madman) and camp next to scenic Mo Chu River
Picturesque villages of Talo or Nobgang - Explore the ancestral home of the Queen Mothers of Bhutan
See Dochula Pass - Himalayan peaks - Masagang, Tsendagang, Terigang, Jejegangphugang, Gangkar Punsum
Thimphu - Explore Bhutan’s capital city including, the Memorial Chorten, Kuenselphodrang, a handmade paper factory and Drubthob Nunnery
Handicraft Emporium - Browse through beautiful hand-woven and crafted products in Thimphu
Tiger’s Nest Monastery - Hike up to this famous Buddhist monastery, perched on a cliff face

Included

7 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners
6 nights 3 star hotels and 1 night camping near the banks of scenic Mo Chu River
Airport arrival and departure transfer on day 1 & day 8 (only)
Guided sightseeing of Paro, Thimphu, Punakha and the Punakha Valley
Traditional Bhutanese dinner at a farm house, giving you the opportunity to interact with a local family
Escorted by a licensed English-speaking local tour guide
All relevant transfers and transportation in private A/C vehicles
Entrance fees to all included sightseeing
All Bhutan government royalties and taxes
Bhutan Visa fee and travel Permit
Sustainable Development Fees

Not Included

International flights
Tipping - an entirely personal gesture

Itinerary

Day 1 - Paro

Welcome to Bhutan! Upon arrival to Paro Airport you'll be met and transferred to our hotel. The remainder of today is free for you to independently explore.

Overnight:Paro
Meals:Lunch, Dinner
Day 2 - Punakha, Chimi Lhakhang Temple & Camp by the Mo Chu River

Paro – Punakha. It's an early start as we travel the road to Punakha, climbing up through pine, oak and rhododendron forest to reach Dochu La Pass (3050m). After a short break we continue onto the spectacular Punakha Valley, where we enjoy a scenic 1.5 - 2 hour walk up to Chimi Lhakhang Temple - dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley (also known as the Divine Mad Monk).

After, we visit the impressive Punakha Dzong an exemplary masterpiece of Bhutanesearchitecture built at the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu Rivers. Later this afternoon we head to our campsite on the banks of the Mo Chu River, where there's free time to relax and explore the natural surrounds. In the early evening you can opt for a hot stone bath served with local drinks, followed by dinner.

Overnight:Punakha
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 - Punakha Valley

Punakha Valley – Thimphu. After an early breakfast, we drive along the shores of theMo Chu River and hike (approximately 2 - 2.5 hours) up through rice fields to the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, a stunning temple located on a hill with impressive views of the valley below. After exploring the area, we drive to the picturesque villages of Talo scattered along a ridge above the Punakha Valley.

This afternoon, we stop for a picnic lunch before visiting Sangchen Dorji Lhendrup Nunnery, perched on a ridge with spectacular views of the Punakha and Wangdue Valleys. In addition to religious training, the nuns are also taught skills such as embroidery, tailoring and statue making. After our visit to the nunnery we drive to Thimphu.

Overnight:Thimphu
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 - Masked dances of the Thimphu Tshechu (Festival)

The Tshechu Festival of Thimphu is a 3 day religious event which marks the tenth day of the lunar calendar and honours the birthday of Guru Rimpoche Padmasambhava, an Indian Saint who spread Buddhism in the country in the 8th century. Tshechus are grand occasions where entire communities come together to witness religious mask dances, receive blessings and socialise. It is said that anyone who attends a Tshechu and witnesses the colourful masked dances is profusely blessed. Every mask dance performed has a special meaning or a story behind it and many are based on stories of the life of the Guru.

Today, we drive to Tendrelthang at Tashichho Dzong and mingle with the residents ofThimphu and nearby districts of Paro, Punakha, whom are dressed in their best attireto witness the unique spectacle that is - the famed masked dances, and other colourfuland exciting displays of traditional culture performed on this very special day.

Overnight:Thimphu
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 - Memorial Chorten & Handicrafts

Thimphu is the political, social and spiritual heart of the nation and although this isBhutan's most modern city, it has retained the unique character of a Bhutanese town.Today we discover the city's sites with visits to, the Memorial Chorten - a beautiful stupa built in the memory of Bhutan’s third King, Kuenselphodrang (Buddha point) - to see the world's biggest Buddha Dordenma statue and enjoy the views of Thimphu Valley, a handmade paper factory where the age old tradition of paper making is still followed.

Overnight:Thimphu
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 - National Museum and Kichu Lhakhang

Thimphu - Paro. Today we drive to Paro with sightseeing en route. We'll stop at Chuzom, the confluence of Paro (Pachu) and Thimphu (Wangchu) rivers which provides incredible views of three different types of Stupas – Bhutanese, Tibetan and Nepalese. We continue, to Tachogang Iron chain bridge and Lhakhang (Temple) which was built byThangthong Gyalpo in the fifteenth century. The temple was likely constructed in 1420.While the Tibetan master was meditating here, he had a vision of an emanation of Avalokiteshvara and decided to build a temple, as well as an iron suspension bridge at this location. A new temple at Tachogang was built in the seventeenth century by theFourth Druk Desi (local leader) Tenzin Rabgye as the original was destroyed after it served as the main seat for the Five Groups of Lamas, a coalition of local leaders who had opposed Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel (a Buddhist teacher who unified Bhutan).

Arriving into Paro we visit the National Museum, housed within the old watch tower Ta Dzong and perched on of a hilltop, overlooking the city. We continue to the famed Rinphung Dzong, the backdrop for the Hollywood film, Little Buddha. After lunch, we tour Kichu Lhakhang - one of the oldest temples in the Kingdom built in the 7th century, and lastly Dungtse Lhakhang Temple.

Overnight:Paro
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 - Tiger's Nest Monastery

Tiger’s Nest Monastery, officially Taktshang Pelphung Monastery is regarded as one ofthe most venerated and famous of Bhutan’s monasteries. It is located on the face of asheer 900m cliff above the floor of Paro Valley. Today, we embark on a scenic hike (approx. 4 -6 hours) to view this spectacular and unmissable sight. The monastery is only accessible by foot (you can ride a pony part of the way, but this must be arranged in advance by your guide). Once inside the Monastery, there are a temples to see and the monks that reside. After exploring the monastery we retrace our steps and return to Paro.

This evening we enjoy a traditional Bhutanese dinner at a farm house, giving you theopportunity to interact with a local family and learn about the local cuisine of Bhutan.

Overnight:Paro
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 - Paro

Today, our holiday sadly concludes after breakfast. Bidding farewell to your fellow travellers, a departure transfer will take you to Paro airport to meet your onward flight

Meals:Breakfast

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Rema Resort
Paro

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the scenic Paro Valley, Rema Resort offers a peaceful retreat. Designed to reflect traditional Bhutanese architecture and rural charm, the resort provides a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the quiet rhythms of farm life, all while enjoying modern comforts. Each room features a private bathroom, balcony, garden or mountain views, a TV, and free toiletries. Guests can unwind with spa facilities, soak in the hot tub, or relax on the sun terrace surrounded by a lush garden. The on-site restaurant serves a range of dishes.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Hotel Olathang
Paro

Established in 1974 for guests invited to the coronation of King Jigme Singye Wangchuk, the Olathang is Bhutan's largest hotel. Guests have the option of staying in any one of the exquisite wood-panelled rooms in the central building or in one of the picturesque cottages. There is a wonderful dining hall serving a plethora of delicious meals and the whole place has a purely Bhutanese touch. The property is set over 28 acres of wooded land situated atop a hill, overlooking the visually stunning and historically fascinating Paro valley.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Khangkhu Resort
Paro

Perched on the mountain slopes above Paro Airport, Khangkhu Resort offers spacious rooms with stunning views of the Paro Valley. Combining traditional Bhutanese design with modern comforts, the resort features authentic Bhutanese, Indian, and Chinese fusion cuisine, a relaxing spa, cultural programs, and convenient amenities such as free Wi-Fi, and a coffee shop serving locally roasted brews. Ideal for travellers seeking luxury, tranquility, and easy access to Paro’s historic sites.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Tiger's Nest Resort
Paro

Made up of cottages, rooms and suites, the Tiger's Nest Resort overlooks the stunning Taktsang monastery, one of the most famous landmarks in Bhutan. All of the accommodation options are simply decorated and feature wooden rimmed windows, which command spectacular views of the surrounding wilderness. Modern en suite facilities and satellite TVs come as standard with every room along with other modern amenities. Delicious Bhutanese and international food can be sampled at the hotel's restaurant.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Mo Chu River Camp
Punakha

A short drive from Punakha, the Mo Chu River Premium Camp sit on the banks of the River Mo Chu. Our accommodation tonight is set up 8 kilometres from the centre of Punakha on the banks of the Mo Chu River. We camp in two man walk in tents (twin/double sharing), which include thick mattresses, all bedding and towels. A toilet tent is built for the evenings stay, as is a shower tent (with hot water!) and there is also the option to try out a traditional hot stone bath. There is a central area with space to relax around a camp fire and the cook team will create traditional Bhutanese meals which will be served in the dining tent.

Our Rating
Simple
Local Rating
Standard Camp
Hotel Migmar
Thimphu

Hotel Migmar in Thimphu offers comfortable and well-equipped rooms with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, work desks, wardrobes, and complimentary toiletries. Guests can unwind at the spa and wellness centre, enjoy the serene garden, or relax with a drink at the bar. The hotel also features a fitness centre, sauna, and outdoor seating area for added leisure. Dining is a highlight, with a family-friendly restaurant serving a wide range of cuisines. For added convenience, the hotel provides 24-hour front desk service, concierge support, a minimarket, tour desk, and free on-site parking.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Hotel Amodhara
Thimphu

Nestled just on the outskirts of bustling Thimphu, Hotel Amodhara offers a peaceful escape, surrounded by serene landscapes and offering stunning views. The hotel features comfortable rooms, all equipped with private bathrooms, free WiFi, mountain views, work desks, and minibars. Guests can savour many cuisines at the on-site restaurant. Additional amenities include a cosy bar, outdoor fireplace, seating areas, and free private parking. With services such as a 24-hour front desk and room service, Hotel Amodhara ensures a welcoming and seamless stay.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Pelyang Boutique
Thimphu

Located in the heart of Thimphu, Pelyang Boutique offers a cosy and modern stay with well-appointed rooms that include air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and complimentary WiFi. Whether you're unwinding in the sauna, working out in the fitness centre, or taking in the views from the terrace, the hotel provides a relaxing atmosphere for all guests. The on-site restaurant and bar serve a wide selection of Chinese, Indian, Nepalese, and international cuisine. With a 24-hour front desk, Pelyang Boutique ensures a smooth and comfortable experience throughout your stay.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Peaceful Resort
Thimphu

Peaceful Resort in Thimphu is ideal for travellers looking for comfort and convenience. The hotel offers cosy rooms with flat-screen TVs and free WiFi, making it easy to stay connected. Additional amenities include a 24-hour front desk and room service. The resort provides easy access to many of Thimphu’s cultural highlights. Whether you're exploring the city or simply relaxing, Peaceful Resort offers a welcoming retreat that puts the best of Thimphu within easy reach.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel

Prices & Dates

Departures are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 persons booked on the tour. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. Room sharing is not available on this tour.

2025
Double/Twin
Single
28 Sep - 5 Oct
Sold Out
Sold Out
29 Sep - 6 Oct
Save 10%
$5,815NZD$5,234
$7,155NZD$6,440
2026
Double/Twin
Single
18 Sep - 25 Sep
NZD$5,815
NZD$7,155

Similar Tours

Explore more exciting tours in Bhutan to discover even more unforgettable adventures!