Black-Necked Crane festival
Destinations: Thimphu, Punakha, Paro, Phobjikha
Max Altitude: 3120m/10,240 ft
Best Season: March to May and September to November
Meal: Full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Accommodation: Government approved 3 stars hotels and above
Transportation: 4 wheel drive – suvs, tour vans & mini buses
Tour Overview
Embark on an immersive journey through Bhutan’s most breathtaking valleys—Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and the pristine Phobjikha Valley, home to the revered Black-Necked Cranes. This exclusive small-group tour (max 8 guests) is timed to coincide with the spectacular Black-Necked Crane Festival, a cultural celebration like no other. Witness sacred dances, engage with friendly locals, and explore ancient fortresses and monasteries while surrounded by Bhutan’s untouched natural beauty.
Tour Highlights
Attend the vibrant Black-Necked Crane Festival at Gangtey Monastery.
Hike through lush valleys and pristine pine forests.
Visit iconic dzongs, including Punakha Dzong and Paro Dzong.
Enjoy cultural experiences: archery, butter tea tasting, and artisan visits.
Make a spiritual pilgrimage to the majestic Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
Detailed Itineraray
Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Drive to Thimphu
Your Bhutan adventure begins with a scenic drive to Thimphu, the modern capital with deep traditional roots. Visit the Royal Textile Academy, National Memorial Chorten, and meet Bhutan’s odd yet endearing national animal—the Takin.
Overnight in Thimphu
Day 2: Explore Thimphu
Start your day with panoramic views from the giant Buddha Dordenma. Enjoy a forest hike, explore monasteries like Tara Lhaden Zhingkham, and experience Bhutanese culture at “Simply Bhutan,” where you’ll try ara (local spirit), suja (butter tea), and traditional archery.
Overnight in Thimphu
Day 3: Thimphu to Phobjikha Valley
Travel over Dochu La Pass and witness the 108 chortens before descending into the glacial beauty of Phobjikha, a haven for endangered black-necked cranes. En route, stop at Semtokha Dzong and admire views of Rinchengang, one of Bhutan’s oldest villages.
Overnight in Phobjikha
Day 4: Black-Necked Crane Festival Day
Celebrate one of Bhutan’s most heartwarming festivals at Gangtey Goenpa. The annual Black-Necked Crane Festival blends folklore, conservation, and spirituality. In the afternoon, visit the Crane Information Centre and enjoy nature walks through the valley.
Overnight in Phobjikha
Day 5: Phobjikha to Punakha
Descend into the lush Punakha Valley, Bhutan’s winter capital. Walk across rice fields to the fertility temple, Chimi Lhakhang, then explore the charming Talo village and Sangchen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery.
Overnight in Punakha
Day 6: Punakha Exploration
Tour the magnificent Punakha Dzong, a historic fortress nestled at the confluence of two rivers. After lunch, hike to the beautifully perched Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten, built to protect Bhutan and its monarch.
Overnight in Punakha
Day 7: Punakha to Paro
Drive back west to Paro, stopping again at Dochu La Pass for Himalayan views. Explore Paro Dzong, the National Museum, and shop along Paro’s charming main street for handicrafts and souvenirs.
Overnight in Paro
Day 8: Tiger’s Nest Hike
Make the iconic pilgrimage to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)—a spiritual highlight of any Bhutan trip. Choose from a 2-hour or 5-hour hike depending on your pace. Visit the ancient Kyichu Lhakhang, known for its ever-fruiting orange tree, before a relaxed evening.
Overnight in Paro
Day 9: Departure
Bid farewell to the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Depart Bhutan with a heart full of blessings, memories, and timeless stories.
Cost Details
Enquire now to receive a customized quote based on your travel dates and preferences.