The Druk Wangyel Festival is an annual celebration held on December 13 at the Druk Wangyel Festival ground on Dochula Pass, located 45 minutes from Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. Perched at an elevation of 3,150 meters, Dochula Pass is renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayan Mountain range, including Bhutan’s highest peak, Gangkar Puensum. The area is beautifully adorned with prayer flags and 108 small stupas, adding to its spiritual and scenic allure.
Established in 2011, the festival commemorates His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo and the triumph of the Bhutanese Armed Forces over insurgent forces from India in southern Bhutan in 2003. This annual event honors the courage and resilience of the Bhutanese military and serves as a tribute to the nation’s enduring peace and stability.
Dochula Druk Wangyel Tsehchu is distinct from other Bhutanese festivals, offering a unique glimpse into Bhutanese cultural traditions. The festival showcases traditional dances, music, and ceremonies that reflect Bhutan’s rich heritage, making it a special and unparalleled experience for visitors seeking to understand and appreciate the depth of Bhutanese culture.
Day 1: Arrive Paro by Druk Air & transfer to Thimphu (55km, approx. 1.1/2 hour drive)
Arrive Paro International airport and drive to Thimphu, the capital town of Bhutan. On arrival to Thimphu check into the hotel and later in the day visit Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang). The largest seated Buddha statue(169ft) in the country Located at a short drive from Thimphu city. Then, visit King’s Memorial Chorten and towards evening go for a walk in Coronation Park & stroll through the government-run Handicrafts Emporium and local crafts bazaar.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Thimphu (Altitude 2,320m)
Day 2: Local sightseeing in Thimphu
After breakfast drive to visit National Library and Institute for Zorig Chusum (Commonly known as Arts & Crafts School or Painting School) then drive to Takin Preserve – Takin is national animal of Bhutan, Later in the afternoon visit Trashichhoedzong, “fortress of the glorious religion”. This is the center of government and religion. The Folk Heritage Museum (Phelchey Toenkhyim), simply Bhutan museums and to National Textile Museum.. Evening time at leisure…
Overnight stay at the hotel in Thimphu (Altitude 2,320)
Day 3: Drive to Punakha attaining Druk wangyel Festival (75km, approx 2 ½ hr drive.)
After breakfast, drive to Punakha across Dochu La pass located at a height of 3,088m/ 10,130 ft, there visit Druk Wangyel Festival, held annually on December 13 at Dochula Pass, celebrates Bhutan’s military victory and honors His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo. Located 45 minutes from Thimphu, Dochula Pass offers panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas and is adorned with 108 chortens and colorful prayer flags. Established in 2011, the festival commemorates the Bhutanese Armed Forces’ 2003 triumph over insurgent forces, reflecting Bhutanese cultural traditions through vibrant dances, music, and rituals. This unique event provides a profound cultural experience against a stunning backdrop, highlighting Bhutan’s rich heritage and historical achievements.
Later in the day drive further to Punakha and visit Bhutan longest suspension bridge & Punakha Dzong or (Palace of Great Happiness), built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal at the junction of the Phochu and Mochu rivers.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Punakha (Altitude 1,300m)
Day 4: Punakha to Paro (125km, approx 4 ½ hrs drive)
After breakfast drive back to Paro across Dochu la pass via Thimphu. On your way visit Tachog lhakang & Suspension Bridge which was built around 1420 by Thangtong Gyalpo who was great architect and saint of Bhutan. Then drive further to paro and after checking into hotel, proceed to visit Ta Dzong, then walk down the trail to visit Rinpung Dzong (“fortress of the heap of jewels”).
Overnight stay at the hotel in Paro. (Altitude 2,280m)..
Day 5: Hike to Tiger Nest (approx 6 hours hike).
After breakfast hike to Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s next) approx 6 hours round trip hike. It is one of the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries, perched on the side of a cliff 900m above the Paro valley floor. After Hike drive back to the hotel to refresh and relax. Then visit Drukgyel Dzong, along the way, visit the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by Tibetan King, Songten Gampo.
Evening an exploratory walk around Main Street and market area…
Overnight stay at the hotel in Paro. (Altitude 2,280m)
Day 6: “Final Adieu” – Farewell & Departure
After the hearty breakfast check out of the hotel and transfer to Paro Airport enjoying the and there your team will bid you the final adieu with an undying hope of your visiting our country again to explore the unvisited parts and regions with many more adventures together. We bid you farewell with picturesque memories of Bhutan.
For your accommodation, we have selected Department of Tourism-approved 3-star hotels, ensuring you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay throughout your trip. These hotels offer great services and amenities to enhance your experience in Bhutan.
If you would like to make any changes to the hotel selections or upgrade your stay to a higher category, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is happy to assist you in customizing your accommodations to better suit your preferences.
We are here to ensure that your tour is tailored to your needs and expectations. Looking forward to hearing from you!
Day 1: Thimphu – Overnight stay at Hotel Dharla
Day 2: Thimphu – Overnight stay at Hotel Dharla
Day 3: Punakha – Overnight stay at Hotel Kingaling
Day 4: Paro – Overnight stay at Riverfront Resort
Day 5: Paro – Overnight stay at Riverfront Resort
Please note that the type of vehicle will be, SUV, Ertiga, Innova, H1 Bus, HiAce Bus, or Coaster Bus—will be arranged based on the number of travelers in group.
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6Days/5 Nights
Bhutan