Bhutan Travel Specialist, Druk Air Representative (Royal Bhutan Airlines)

7 Day Thimphu Tshechu Tour

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and unique traditions of Bhutan. Witness the colorful masks, mesmerizing dances, and spiritual ceremonies of the Thimphu Festival, an ancient celebration that brings together locals and travelers in a spectacle of Bhutanese heritage.

  • Guaranteed visa approval
  • 16,000+ satisfied travellers
  • Fast, easy and fuss free experience
  • Free consultation from our travel specialists

From

US$1,920.00*

*per adult
Check Availability Talk to us

What's Included

  • Guided tour
  • Visas for Bhutan
  • Airport transfers
  • Daily 3 meals (B/L/D) at designated restaurants or hotels
  • Accommodation at 3 star hotel
  • A qualified & licensed English-speaking guide
  • An experienced driver
  • A tour vehicle
  • Entry fees & road permits
  • Government fee, royalty, taxes & surcharges
  • Mineral bottled water
  • Set of traditional costume (to be return at the end of your stay)
  • Full service & assistance before, during and after your Bhutan trip

What's Excluded

  • Flight into Bhutan via Drukair (can be arranged with us)
  • Flight on other airline to catch Drukair Flight
  • Meals at 4-5 stars restaurants
  • Hotel stay outside of Bhutan
  • Expenditure of personal nature
  • Travel Insurance (can be arranged with us)
  • Tips for the guide and driver
  • Alcoholic drink

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Paro, head To Thimphu

Welcome to Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Touching down at Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide upon exiting the arrival hall. Today, we will take it easy to acclimatise to the altitude. Drive to Thimphu, check in to the hotel and lets have your first taste of Bhutanese cuisine.

Activities

Simply Bhutan

Simply Bhutan is an interactive living museum that gives an introduction to Bhutanese traditions. There’s also a café that dishes nosh that locals eat at home. [Opening hour Summer 09.00 AM - 17.00 PM, Winter 10.00 AM - 16.00 PM]

Buddha Point

Located at Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, the 51.5-metre-tall bronze statue of Buddha Dordenma, Vajra Throne Buddha is one of the largest statues of Buddha in the world. The Buddha Dordenma symbolises indestructibility, and is said to emanate peace and happiness to the world.

National Memorial Chorten

Meet the elderly generation in circumambulation at the National Memorial Chorten. Chorten means ‘Seat of Faith’ and Buddhists often call such monuments, the ‘Mind of Buddha’. Treat yourself with the fantastic depiction of Buddhist teachings in the form of paintings and sculptures at this temple. As the name denotes this National Memorial Chorten was consecrated on July 28, 1974, in memory of the Third King.

Simtokha Dzong

Five miles from Thimphu, on a lofty ridge, stroll through the very first dzong, built in 1627 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. The Institute for Language and Cultural Studies is located here now. Enthral yourself with the most noteworthy artistic feature in from of over 300 finely worked slate carvings behind the prayer wheels in the courtyard.

Walk Around Thimphu Town

Shop and walk around Thimphu town.Thimphu is the most modern city in Bhutan with an abundance of restaurants, cafes, shops and nightclubs. However, it still retains its cultural identity and values amidst the signs of modernization.

Hotel

Hotel Damisa or similar

3 star

Day 2 Thimphu

Situated at an altitude of 2400m, Thimphu is the centre of government, religion and commerce. The capital has an interesting combination of tradition and modernity and includes some of the most advanced and remotest parts of the kingdom. The Thimphu Tshechu, as all Tshechu festivals, honours Padma Sambhawa, also known as Guru Rimpoche, the precious yogi and saint who is credited with having introduced Tantric Buddhism throughout the Himalayas.

Activities

Tashichhodzong (Thimphu Dzong)

The “fortress of the glorious religion” was first constructed in 1641 and restored by the Third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in the 1960s. Tashichhodzong houses the offices of some ministries, His Majesty’s secretariat, and the central monastic body. Opening hour: Weekday 05:00 PM - 06:00 PM Weekend 09:00 AM - 06:00 PM Winter 04:00 PM - 06:00 PM

Thimphu Tshechu Festival

The Thimphu Tshechu, as all Tshechu festivals, honors Padma Sambhawa, also known as Guru Rimpoche, the precious yogi and saint who is credited with having introduced Tantric Buddhism throughout the Himalayas. The festival's masked dances are performed by monks clad in colorful brocade attire and permeated by chants and reading of Buddhist scripts. The culmination of festival constitutes the unfolding of a huge cloth thanka, a sacred scroll, depicting Padma Smabhawa and imagery from Buddhist pantheon.

Centenary Farmers' Market

Most of the Thimphu population congregate on the banks of Wangchhu River where the market is held. Villagers from the Valley and other nearby places come to sell their wide range of agriculture products in the market. The market is by far the largest domestic market in Bhutan. A visit to the market provides great photo opportunities, as well as the chance to mingle with local people and perhaps buy souvenirs.

Sangaygang (BBS Tower)

Drive about 15 minutes from the main city to a hillock where the Bhutan Broad Casting Tower is stationed. From there you can relish the beautiful scene of the whole of Thimphu City. On the way up or down from the hillock, you can also see Takin the national animal of Bhutan. It is also possible to request for the early morning walk up to this viewpoint.

Takin Enclosure

On the way to the viewpoint over Thimphu is the home of Bhutan’s national animal, the Takin, a strange looking beast some say looks like a bee-stung moose.

Hotel

Hotel Damisa or similar

3 star

Day 3 Thimphu to Punakha

We will set off early from Thimphu after breakfast. Then proceed to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan, about 2 1/2 hours drive from Thimphu across Dochu-la pass. Once you cross the pass, you wind down into a warm fertile valley and meander along a gently flowing aquamarine river that leads you to the Punakha Dzong, the second dzong to be built in Bhutan.

Activities

Dochula Pass

At 3,100 metres, this beautiful pass located on the way to Punakha from Thimphu offers stunning 360-degree panoramas of the Himalayas mountain range. Here you will also see 108 chortens built by Her Majesty The Queen Mother Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck. The pass is a popular spiritual destination for both locals and tourists.

Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge

At 160 metres, this is known as the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan. From here, you will get spectacular views of Punakha Dzong and the Pho Chhu Valley.

Punakha Dzong

Located strategically at the junction of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers, the Dzong was built in 1637 by the Great Unifer of Bhutan as the religious and administrative seat of the region. It was here that the dual system of government in Bhutan was introduced in the 17th century. The first King Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck was crowned here in 1907. Damaged by four fires and an earthquake over the centuries, the Dzong was fully restored in recent years by the 4th King Jigme Singye Wangchuck. It is now the winter home of Je Khenpo, the head abbot of Bhutan, along with a retinue of 1,000 monks. Marvel over intricate woodwork by the best craftsmen in Bhutan. Visiting Window: Summer Timing: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Winter Timing: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Chimi Lhakhang

Also known as the Fertility Temple, this monastery is located in the beautiful village of Sopsokha. It stands on a small hill close to the village of Lobesa and was constructed in 1499 by Ngawang Choegyel, the 14th Drukpaheirarch. This monastery is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley, the 'Divine Madman', known for his risqué behavior. The footpath to Chimi Lhakhang meanders through beautiful terraces of paddy fields. The walk across the fields takes about 30 minutes. Many have been blessed with children after praying at the temple. Visiting Window 9:00 A.M to 12:00 NOON 2:00 P.M to 4:00 P.M

Rest in Punakha

Check in to hotel and rest for the night

Hotel

The Four Boutique Hotel or similar

3 star

Day 4 Punakha

Activities

Khamsum Yuley Temple

[Duration 2 hour, 1 hour to ascend and 1 hour to descend] There is no temple in Bhutan built elaborately as this. This fascinating temple was built by the Queen Mother of the 5th King to bring universal peace in this world. The best of the spiritual art works are painted on the inner walls. There are also paintings of Buddhist teachers and tutelary deities of the country. This is a great temple to study the symbolic meanings from frescoes and sculptures.The Chorten is situated along a hill up the valley and can be reached after a leisurely hike through the woods and paddy fields.

Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang

A temple and nunnery perched on a ridge and overlooking Toebesa, Punakha and Wangduephodrang valleys. The temple is consecrated by His Holiness and was attended by His Majesty the King, the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, members of the royal family along with hundreds of people from Punakha. The temple is dedicated to the bodhisattva of compassion.

Home Visit

Visit a Bhutanese family at their home. Take a peek into their lives and experience dining in a traditional Bhutanese home embraced by the warm hospitality of the family.

Hotel

The Four Boutique Hotel or similar

3 star

Day 5 Punakha to Paro

The beautiful valley of Paro is home to many of Bhutan's old monasteries and temples. The country's only Airport is in Paro. The valley is also home to mount Chomolhari (7,300 meters) situated at the northern end of the valley whose glacier water forms the Pachu flowing through the valley

Activities

Paro Dzong (aka Rinpung Dzong)

Explore Rinpung Dzong, which the locals call the ‘fortress of a heap of jewels’. Built in 1646 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the dzong stands on a hill above Paro Township. It is linked by a traditional cantilever bridge called the Nemi Zam over the Po Chhu. Walk up the stone paved path running alongside imposing outer walls. Once inside the Dzong, you will be welcomed by the monks, architecture and beautiful frescoes. This dzong is a highlight for art and history lovers.

Paro Town

Explore the main street of Paro town and check out if there's anything you will like to pick up as a souvenir!

Kyichu Lhakhang

At 1,300 years old, this is one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. Like the Jambhay Lhakhang in Bumthang, it is one of 108 temples built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo to subdue and vanquish an ogress that was obstructing the spread of Buddhism. Legend has it that all 108 temples were built in a single night. The Kyichhu temple’s name means “reservoir of peace”. Next to the temple is a museum dedicated to the late Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche. You will see photographs and other personal artefacts belonging to the Rinpoche.

Hotel

Tashi Namgay Resort or similar

3 star

Day 6 Paro

Are you ready? We will be making the hike up to one of the key highlights in Bhutan today! Tiger's Nest aka Taktsang Monastery

Activities

Taktsang Monastery

Also known as the Tiger’s Nest, this monastery set dramatically on the cliffs of Paro Valley, is Bhutan’s most famous landmark. In fact, some tourists would even say that “A trip to Bhutan is not complete without climbing to Taktsang.” According to local folklore, the Guru Rinpoche flew to this location from Tibet on the back of a tigress (his consort Yeshey Tshogyal) and meditated in one of the caves, before emerging in eight manifestations. A hike up to Taktsang draws people with different interests. It fills those who are spiritually inclined with a sense of peace, while avid hikers feel a sense of achievement upon reaching the monastery. Take time to process the mental and physical sensations that wash over you during the uphill climb as you ascend more than two thousand feet from the valley floor to reach the monastery.

Hot Stone Bath

After the trekking we special arrange Bhutanese traditional hot stone bath for you to relax your muscles.The process of a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath is unique. It uses Menchu (medicinal water) which is nothing but fresh river water mixed with Artemisia leaves. The water is heated using river stones that are roasted on fire till they are glowing red. The temperature of the water can be increased by adding more heated stones into a wooden chamber via a chute. This chamber is connected to the main tub (also made of wood) which contains the water. The holes in the chamber allow the heat to be infused into the bath (so there is no danger of being burned by the hot stones) and the stones are said to release key minerals into the water which are believed to have medicinal benefits. One can soak in the water for about half and hour after a tiring day. **additional charges USD 25 per person

Hotel

Tashi Namgay Resort or similar

3 star

Day 7 Depart Paro

Today we will bid a fond farewell to this beautiful Himalayan country and take a flight back home. We hope by now you would have made some friends and also kept many photos and beautiful memories of Bhutan! And we look forward to seeing you again in this beautiful land of endless Enchantments! Tashi Delek


Availability

02 Oct 2025

08 Oct 2025

08 Oct 2025

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From

US$1,920.00

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What customers are saying about this itinerary

4.71/5.00 (7 reviews)
RH

Roger Higgs

from United States, Sep 2015

Star 5 5.00

Dear Sonam,

I completed the survey form provided by the guide on my last day and indicated my rating of excellent for both guide and driver. But I do want to expand on that a bit.

My guide, Tshering Dendup, was one of the best, if not the best guide I've ever had and that is comparing to our travels to around 100 countries in the past 15 years. His knowledge of both Buddhism and the history of Bhutan is encyclopedic. In addition he has broad knowledge in a wide variety of subjects, especially the flora and fauna of the country. Beyond that, he was able to note my preferences, eg food, kinds of sites to visit and make adjustments to accommodate me as much as possible without my asking.

I also want to make special compliments to the driver, Mr. Rabgay, who had to drive under extremely

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DG

Daphne Go

from Singapore, Sep 2015

Star 5 5.00

Hi Sonam,

Great to hear from you! The trip is great - Ugyen and Chime are fantastic. Ugyen I think is the best guide I've had in all of my travels. Knowledgeable, great attention to detail, and very attentive! He remembers each feedback and takes them seriously. Bhutanese people in general don't have much attention to detail, but both Ugyen and Chime do, so my guess is your training must be fantastic for them to get to that level, even better than that of Western tour directors and drivers. Bhutan is the 89th country I visited and I find it amazing that I found the best guide and driver in this trip.

I will send some pictures once I've sorted them - I brought a good camera for the festival so can share a couple of in-action photos.

We sent in our feedback form as well.

Overall though,

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PT

Patricia Tan

from Malaysia, Oct 2014

Star 5 5.00

Sonam,

We had a GREAT time in BHUTAN ! Your country is so beautiful and unspoilt. I hope Bhutan will not be influenced or spoilt by outside world too much. Thank you again for arranging the trip for us. By the way, my legs cannot walk now... hahahaha... the Bumdra trek is very tough la. Hahaha. But the camping facilities up there is 5-star standard ! Even have beds, dining tent with proper chairs and table!

Oh yes... recovering well now. Today my legs are almost back to normal ! hahahaha... It is really worth the trek up, even though its hard for us. The camp site is a surprise! I have attached some pictures to show you and your future groups.

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TC

Thibaud Crivelli

from France, Oct 2014

Star 5 5.00

Dear Sangay,

I hope you are fine. Our trip went very well. To give you some feedback I would like to particularly recommend our driver and also our second guide Chimi Rinzin (licence 2361). Chimi was very professional and friendly. We have been very satisfied with his service and pro active ness to share with us information about Bhutan and Bhutanese culture. His dedication was sincere and we enjoyed his company a lot. Overall the quality of his work was much better than our first guide - who did not provide a good service and whose knowledge was more limited.

Please share this info with your local agency in Bhutan as Chimi deserves recognition for this. Thanks in advance!

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RL

Ron Loh

from Singapore, Sep 2014

Star 5 5.00

Hi Sonam,

Kuzuzangpo La. I had a great time as expected =). Unfortunately Tobgay had to lead a Snowman Trek instead, but Ngawang did his job well too. He managed to arrange for me to meet up with my friend Michael Lee who was in Bhutan with DrukAsia too. I would like to specially mention Mr Nim Dorji (Cook) and Uygen (his assistant) for their experience and great service.

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TC

Tudor Clee

from New Zealand, Sep 2014

Star 3 3.00

Hi Sonam

OK - I am back in NZ - great trip.

I didn't have time to complete the form due to the airport issue - the guide and driver were really nice.

Few things: don't worry - not end of the world - I will definitely be recommending you to anyone going to Bhutan. Just suggestions especially if you have people who don't usually do booked tours (North Korea, Turkmenistan and Bhutan are the only countries in the world where a guide is required, though Turkmenistan you can avoid it with a transit visa).

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DD

Denise Danks

from Australia, Oct 2013

Star 5 5.00

Kuzuzangpola Sangay, I arrived back to Australia yesterday after a fantastic month of holidays. After my great time in Bhutan I went on to spend two weeks in Myanmar and finished with a week in Bali. Firstly I would like say a BIG THANKYOU to you and Druk Asia for a well-organized and great journey through Thimphu, Paro, Punakha and Gangtey. The ease of arrangement and payment with you was very good and the communication from you was beneficial to my decision to book with Druk Asia. Secondly I had two tour guides in the end. I hope the guide doesn't get into trouble for what I am going to tell you, Tashi was first but had a family emergency on the second day so quickly arranged chilly to take over. Tashi is very experienced from his lengthy guiding career and I noticed this more when an

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  • Guaranteed visa approval
  • 17,000+ satisfied travellers
  • Fast, easy and fuss free experience
  • Free consultation from our travel specialists

From

US$1,920.00*

*per adult
Check Availability Talk to us