The Last Shangri-La Bhutan Thimpu Festival
Duration
12 days
On specific dates
on Monday
Guaranteed
with 4 travellers
Max group size
16 travellers
From AUD $7,872
WHAT TO EXPECT
The journey begins with a breathtaking flight into Paro, a verdant valley at 2,200 meters, surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks like Chomolhari and home to Bhutan’s only international airport. Guests then travel to Thimphu, Bhutan’s unique capital, blending ancient traditions and modern life. Highlights include Memorial Chorten, Changangkha Lhakhang, and the Folk Heritage Museum. A scenic drive through Dochula Pass leads to Gangtey, a serene valley renowned for its Black-Necked Cranes and the stunning Gangtey Monastery. Stops in Punakha reveal treasures like Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang. Back in Paro, visits to iconic sites like Tiger’s Nest and Chelela Pass conclude this cultural immersion.
The Last Shangri-La Bhutan Thimpu Festival
Day 1: Arrive Paro and Drive to Thimphu
A flight to Paro offers spectacular views of the Himalayas, descending into a valley rich in culture, legends, and scenic beauty at 2,200 meters. Paro is home to Bhutan’s oldest temples, monasteries, and its sole international airport, with the majestic Chomolhari Mountain and Pa Chhu River defining its landscape. After arriving and enjoying lunch, guests drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s lively capital blending modernity with tradition. Highlights include Memorial Chorten, dedicated to King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, and a walk along Thimphu’s main street and market. The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay at 2,320 meters.
Day 2: Thimphu
Begin the day by attending the vibrant Thimphu Tshechu festival at Tendrel Thang, where monks and laymen perform symbolic dances in ornate costumes and masks to purify souls, ward off evil, and bring merit to attendees. In the late afternoon, visit Trashichhoedzong, a historic fortress that serves as Bhutan's government and religious hub, reconstructed in the 1960s without nails or blueprints. Conclude the evening with a traditional welcome dinner at a local family’s home, enjoying Bhutanese delicacies and exchanging cultural insights.
Day 3: Thimphu to Gangtey
After breakfast, drive to Gangtey, stopping at Dochula Pass (3,080m) to admire the panoramic mountain views, weather permitting, and the beautifully adorned chorten, mani wall, and prayer flags. From here, descend into the valley to join a section of the Trans Bhutan Trail, known as the 'Divine Madman Trail,' tracing the footsteps of Drukpa Kuenley, a revered spiritual figure. Visit Thinleygang Lhakhang, a temple significant for its connection to Bhutan's monastic traditions. After lunch at a local restaurant, continue to Gangtey, a stunning open valley surrounded by dense forests. The area is renowned for the winter migration of black-necked cranes and its serene village of Phobjikha, located on the valley floor near the Black Mountain National Park.
Day 4: Gangtey
After breakfast, visit the historic Gangtey Gompa, the largest Nyingmapa monastery in Bhutan, perched on a hill surrounded by a village of families caring for the monastery. Explore a nearby village to experience traditional Bhutanese life, where locals still work as stonemasons and craftsmen. Visit a farmer’s farmhouse to gain insights into rural life, observe traditional architecture, and try making Suja, Bhutan’s salted butter tea. Conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 5: Gangtey to Bumthang
After breakfast, drive to Bumthang via the Pele-la Pass, marked by a large white chorten and prayer flags, with striking vegetation changes along the way. Stop in Trongsa for lunch and visit the historic Trongsa Dzong, the former seat of power for central and eastern Bhutan, and the recently restored Ta Dzong museum. Continue across the Yutong-la Pass to reach the Bumthang valley, a picturesque region comprising four valleys—Chumey, Choekhor, Tang, and Ura—renowned for its Buddhist temples and monasteries. Upon arrival, check into the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 6: Bumthang to Punakha
After breakfast, explore Bumthang Valley, beginning with visits to Kurje Lhakhang, where Padmasambhava left his body imprint; Jambey Lhakhang, a 7th-century temple; Tamshing Lhakhang, known for its ancient wall paintings; and Jakar Dzong, the regional administrative center. Enjoy a stroll through the village, browse handicrafts, and relax at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, take a short hike to Lhodrak Kharchhu Monastery, founded in 1984 by Namkhai Nyingpo Rinpoche to preserve Tibetan culture. The monastery offers insight into monastic life, including prayer recitations, sacred rituals, dharma dances, and traditional arts.
Day 7: Punakha
After breakfast, set out to explore the Bumthang Valley with visits to Kurje Lhakhang, where Padmasambhava's body imprint remains; Jambey Lhakhang, a 7th-century temple; Tamshing Lhakhang, famed for its ancient wall paintings; and Jakar Dzong, the region's administrative hub. Take a leisurely walk through the village, explore local handicrafts, and unwind at a nearby restaurant. In the afternoon, enjoy a short hike to Lhodrak Kharchhu Monastery, established in 1984 by Namkhai Nyingpo Rinpoche to safeguard Tibetan culture. The monastery provides a glimpse into monastic life, including prayer rituals, dharma dances, sacred ceremonies, and traditional arts.
Day 8: Punakha
Enjoy a scenic hike to the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chhorten, a beautiful monument built to promote peace and harmony. The hike offers stunning views of the Mo Chhu river and the surrounding mountains, taking about an hour to ascend and 45 minutes to descend. After the hike, relax with a picnic lunch by the riverside. Post-lunch, explore Punakha, beginning with a visit to the historic Punakha Dzong, strategically located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the Dzong has been central to Bhutan's religious and administrative history. Also, visit a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse to experience local life, where you can enjoy a warm cup of tea with the villagers.
Day 9: Punakha to Paro
Drive to Paro, a picturesque valley nestled at 2,200 meters above sea level, known for its rich culture, scenic beauty, and ancient legends. Paro is home to Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries, as well as the country's only international airport. The majestic Chomolhari Mountain towers over the valley, with the Pa Chhu River winding through it. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel, then visit Ta Dzong, the National Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of Bhutanese art, artifacts, and Thangkha paintings. Next, enjoy a scenic walk to Rinpung Dzong, a historical fortress built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, which serves as the spiritual and administrative heart of Paro.
Day 10: Paro
Embark on a 5-hour round-trip hike to Taktshang Monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest, perched 900 meters above the Paro valley. Revered as one of Bhutan’s most sacred sites, it is said to be where Guru Rinpoche meditated after arriving on the back of a tigress. After exploring the monastery, enjoy lunch at the Taktshang Cafeteria before returning to the starting point of the hike. In the afternoon, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, marking the introduction of Buddhism to Bhutan. Return to the hotel afterward.
Day 11: Paro
Early in the morning, participate in the Tshewang Ceremony, a special Puja at a monastery in Paro, Thimphu, or Bumthang, aimed at promoting peace, prosperity, and good health, where guests light butter lamps. Afterward, return to the hotel for breakfast. Post-breakfast, embark on an excursion to Chelela Pass, one of Bhutan’s highest points at 3,988 meters, offering stunning views of the Chomolhari and Jichu Drake mountains, and a vibrant display of prayer flags. Enjoy a hike to Kila Goemba, a serene monastery for Buddhist nuns. Later, experience Bhutanese culture by participating in a traditional dress-wearing session. Finally, explore Ka Ja Throm, a vibrant market that blends modern and traditional aspects of Bhutanese life.
Day 12: Paro Departure
After breakfast, transfer to the Airport to connect flight for onwards journey.
Tour Images
Inclusions
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Insider Experiences
Memorial Chorten (Thimphu): A tranquil stupa where locals gather for prayer, offering a spiritual atmosphere and stunning views of Thimphu's valley.
Dochula Pass (Gangtey): Marvel at panoramic Himalayan views and vibrant chortens, prayer flags, and a mani wall, a perfect spot for photos.
Gangtey Gompa (Gangtey): A sacred Nyingmapa monastery with panoramic views, offering a glimpse into Bhutanese spirituality and traditional village life.
Taktshang Monastery (Paro): A legendary monastery perched 900m above Paro, offering a mystical hiking experience and breathtaking views of the valley below.
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Accommodation
11 nights in 3 - 4 star hotels
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Meals
Daily breakfast
11 local lunches
11 local dinners
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Transport
Airport transfer on arrival and departure
Air-conditioned vehicle
All flights as specified in the itinerary
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Touring
English speaking tour guide
All entrance fees
All tipping
Rental of Bhutanese Dress
Bhutan visa fees
Departure Dates
| START DAY | END DAY | TWIN ROOM | SINGLE ROOM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thursday, 02 October 2025 | Monday, 13 October 2025 | 7872 | 9633 |
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