Paro Tshechu
Destinations: Thimphu, Punakha, Paro
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
The Paro Tshechu Festival is one of Bhutan’s most sacred and visually stunning events, celebrated annually in the courtyard of the historic Rinpung Dzong in Paro. This vibrant religious celebration showcases ancient Cham dances, performed by monks wearing brightly colored silk costumes and intricately carved masks representing deities, demons, and animals. According to Bhutanese belief, witnessing these sacred dances brings spiritual blessings and purifies negative karma.
This cultural tour offers an immersive experience into Bhutanese traditions, spectacular Himalayan scenery, and key historical landmarks.
Tour Highlights
Experience the sacred Paro Tshechu Festival
Hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang)
Visit the world’s tallest seated Buddha, Buddha Dordenma
Explore Tashichho Dzong, a 17th-century fortress and monastic seat
Discover the grandeur of Punakha Dzong, the Palace of Great Bliss
Enjoy an authentic Bhutanese homestay experience
Explore cultural treasures at the Paro National Museum
Detailed Itineraray
Day 1: Arrive in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu
Your private driver and licensed guide will greet you at Paro International Airport.
Drive to Thimphu (approx. 1 hour, 54 km).
After lunch, explore the capital’s key attractions:
Tashichho Dzong – seat of the Bhutanese government and monastic body
Memorial Chorten – a popular spiritual monument
Buddha Dordenma – a colossal golden Buddha overlooking Thimphu Valley
Folk Heritage Museum
Authentic Craft Bazaar
Overnight in Thimphu
Day 2: Thimphu – Dochula Pass – Punakha
En route to Punakha, stop at the Dochula Pass (3,100m) for panoramic views of the Himalayan range and 108 commemorative stupas.
Continue to Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most majestic structures, located at the confluence of the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu rivers.
Short hike through Sopsokha village to Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple associated with the Divine Madman.
Attractions:
Lungchutse Hike (optional)
Dochula Pass
Punakha Dzong
Chimi Lhakhang
Punakha Suspension Bridge
Overnight in Punakha
Day 3: Punakha – Return to Paro
Drive back to Paro (approx. 3.5 hours, 126 km).
After lunch, explore Paro and surrounding heritage sites:
National Museum (Ta Dzong)
Rinpung Dzong
Kyichu Lhakhang – one of the oldest temples in Bhutan
Paro Town for local handicrafts and strolls
Overnight in Paro
Day 4: Paro Tshechu Festival
Attend the Paro Tshechu at the courtyard of Rinpung Dzong.
Witness vibrant religious dances such as:
Dance of the Lords of the Cremation Grounds
The Judgment Day drama based on Buddhist mythology
Unfurling of the Thongdrel, a sacred giant appliqué thangka
Experience local hospitality and join in by trying on traditional Bhutanese attire.
Overnight in Paro
Day 5: Hike to Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery)
Embark on a memorable trek to the sacred Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched on a cliffside 900 meters above the Paro Valley.
Along the forest trail, enjoy the scent of pine, fluttering prayer flags, and your guide’s tales of the monastery’s legendary connection to Guru Rinpoche.
Overnight in Paro
Day 6: Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport.
Bid farewell to Bhutan with unforgettable memories, new friendships, and a deeper understanding of its rich spiritual culture.
We hope to welcome you again. Tashi Delek!
Cost Details
Contact us for a customized quote tailored to your interests, travel dates, and budget.