Thimphu Festival - 8 days

Thimphu Festival - 8 days

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8 Days From

$3465

Thimphu Festival - 8 days

8 Days Starting and ending in Paro, Bhutan

Visiting: Paro, Punakha, Punakha Valley, Thimphu

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 16

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

18-

Special diets catered:

Please advise requests

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Camping, Special Events

Activities:

Walking

From: $3465 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 18-Jan-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 8-day journey through Bhutan with the Thimphu Festival tour. Experience the vibrant Thimphu Tshechu Festival, where colorful masked dances and cultural displays captivate the senses. Explore the historic city of Paro, visiting the National Museum and Rinphung Dzong, and hike to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery perched on a cliff. Discover the serene Punakha Valley, hike to Chimi Lhakhang Temple, and camp by the scenic Mo Chu River. Wander through picturesque villages like Talo, and enjoy the breathtaking views from Dochula Pass. In Thimphu, delve into Bhutanese culture with visits to the Memorial Chorten, Kuenselphodrang, and a handmade paper factory. This small group tour offers a unique blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty, complete with traditional Bhutanese meals and the opportunity to interact with local families. Enjoy comfortable accommodations and guided sightseeing, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience in the heart of Bhutan.

Highlights

  • Thimphu Tshechu Festival - Experience the vibrant masked dance performances and cultural displays.

  • Paro - Explore the National Museum and Rinphung Dzong on a guided tour.

  • Punakha Valley - Hike to Chimi Lhakhang Temple and camp by the Mo Chu River.

  • Explore the picturesque villages of Talo or Nobgang, the ancestral home of the Queen Mothers of Bhutan.

  • See the stunning Himalayan peaks from Dochula Pass, including Masagang and Gangkar Punsum.

  • Thimphu - Visit the Memorial Chorten, Kuenselphodrang, and a handmade paper factory.

  • Hike to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, perched on a cliff face.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Paro

Location: Paro

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

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.

Day 2: Punakha, Chimi Lhakhang Temple & Camp By The Mo Chu River

Location: Punakha

Accommodation Name: camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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 Bhutanese

architecture 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.

Day 3: Punakha Valley

Location: Punakha Valley

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Punakha Valley – Thimphu. After an early breakfast, we drive along the shores of the

Mo 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.

Day 4: Masked Dances Of The Thimphu Tshechu (Festival)

Location: Thimphu

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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 of

Thimphu and nearby districts of Paro, Punakha, whom are dressed in their best attire

to witness the unique spectacle that is - the famed masked dances, and other colourful

and exciting displays of traditional culture performed on this very special day.



Day 5: Memorial Chorten & Handicrafts

Location: Thimphu

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Thimphu is the political, social and spiritual heart of the nation and although this is

Bhutan'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.

Day 6: National Museum And Kichu Lhakhang

Location: Paro

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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 by

Thangthong 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 the

Fourth 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.

Day 7: Tiger's Nest Monastery

Location: Paro

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tiger’s Nest Monastery, officially Taktshang Pelphung Monastery is regarded as one of

the most venerated and famous of Bhutan’s monasteries. It is located on the face of a

sheer 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 the

opportunity to interact with a local family and learn about the local cuisine of Bhutan.

Day 8: Paro

Location: Paro

Meals Included: Breakfast

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

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    3-4 star

  • Airport Transfers

    Airport arrival and departure transfer on day 1 and day 8 are included.

  • Guided Sightseeing

    Enjoy guided sightseeing of Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and the Punakha Valley.

  • Traditional Bhutanese Dinner

    Experience a traditional Bhutanese dinner at a farmhouse, providing an opportunity to interact with a local family.

  • Licensed Tour Guide

    The tour is escorted by a licensed English-speaking local tour guide.

  • Private Transportation

    All relevant transfers and transportation are provided in private A/C vehicles.

  • Entrance Fees

    Entrance fees to all included sightseeing are covered.

  • Government Royalties and Taxes

    All Bhutan government royalties and taxes are included.

  • Bhutan Visa Fee

    The Bhutan Visa fee and travel permit are included, excluding the visa admin fee.

What's Not Included

  • International Flights

    International flights are not included in the tour package.

  • Visa Administration Fee

    The Bhutan visa administration fee of USD$40 is payable upon arrival and is not included.

  • Tipping

    Tipping is not included and is an entirely personal gesture.

Age Policy

18 years or 16 years with an adult

Mode of Transport

Travel in comfort with all relevant transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned vehicles, including airport arrival and departure transfers on day 1 and day 8.

Accommodation

Enjoy 6 nights in comfortable 3-4 star hotels and 1 night camping near the scenic Mo Chu River, offering a blend of modern amenities and natural beauty.

Check out our Q&As

  • What is the significance of the Thimphu Tshechu Festival?

    The Thimphu Tshechu Festival is a religious event that marks the tenth day of the lunar calendar and honors the birthday of Guru Rimpoche Padmasambhava, an Indian Saint who spread Buddhism in Bhutan in the 8th century. It is a grand occasion where communities gather to witness religious mask dances, receive blessings, and socialize. Each mask dance has a special meaning or story, often based on the life of the Guru.

  • What can I expect during the hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery?

    The hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery is a scenic journey that takes approximately 4 to 6 hours. The monastery is perched on a sheer 900m cliff above the Paro Valley and is only accessible by foot, although you can ride a pony part of the way if arranged in advance. Once at the monastery, you can explore the temples and observe the monks residing there.

  • What activities are included during the visit to Punakha Valley?

    In Punakha Valley, you will enjoy a scenic walk to Chimi Lhakhang Temple, visit the impressive Punakha Dzong, and have free time to relax at a campsite by the Mo Chu River. You can also opt for a hot stone bath with local drinks in the evening.

  • What cultural experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes attending the Thimphu Tshechu Festival, visiting the Memorial Chorten and Kuenselphodrang in Thimphu, exploring the National Museum and Rinphung Dzong in Paro, and enjoying a traditional Bhutanese dinner at a farmhouse with a local family.

  • Are there any special arrangements for meals during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 7 dinners. Additionally, there is a traditional Bhutanese dinner at a farmhouse, providing an opportunity to interact with a local family.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1998

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin  

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot
Norma Sullivan  

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10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)  

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05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)  

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan  

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free.  Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions.   The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too.  On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places.  I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace.  If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)  

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Simla Patel (Google Reviewer)  

This company doesn’t deserve even...

26-Nov-2024

This company doesn’t deserve even 1 star. I would not recommend this company. There are hidden fees which means the cost of the holiday ends up being very expensive. We recently came back from our trip to China where it is not customary to tip in restaurants & hotel staff. Yet we had to make a payment upfront in cash to to the guide for more than £100. The hotel service was appalling. Just think £100 from each person. The trip was suppose to be a Tour yet we had to pay for all entrance fees. We complained about the poor condition of the hotels but no one responded to our emails to date. The after sales service is non existent. Do not use this company. Far far too expensive for what you get. Not competitive at all. They messed up our booking; repeatedly asked for the same information. We spent so much time correcting their errors. Very difficult to get hold of anyone because they all work in S Africa or New Zealand. Absolute nightmare

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)  

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)  

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 28, 2025 - Oct 05, 2025
$3465 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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