7 Days Bhutan Sports Festival

Experience the thrill of the 7 Days Bhutan Sports Festival – where tradition meets adrenaline in the heart of the Himalayas!

Bhutan Trail Run & Mountain Bike Festival – A Unique Adventure in the Land of Happiness

Experience the magic of Bhutan, the mystical Himalayan kingdom known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and commitment to Gross National Happiness. Join us for an unforgettable 25K or 50K trail running or mountain biking event through this environmentally protected region, surrounded by prayer flags, chortens, and remote villages. After the race, celebrate your achievement at a traditional Bhutanese cultural festival, set against the backdrop of the pristine valley.

This event is perfect for trail runners and mountain bikers of all abilities, offering a user-friendly course in the world’s only carbon-negative country.

Your journey to Bhutan, the mystical Land of the Thunder Dragon, begins as you land at Paro International Airport. Your guide will greet you with a warm smile and a traditional white scarf (khadar) as you step out of the arrival hall. Today is all about taking it easy, getting used to the altitude, and enjoying your first taste of Bhutan’s beauty and culture.

Highlights of Your Day

1. Scenic Drive to Thimphu

Experience: Enjoy a peaceful drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city. The road winds through green valleys, terraced fields, and small villages, giving you a glimpse of Bhutan’s natural beauty.
Significance: This drive helps you acclimatize to the altitude (Thimphu is 2,320 meters above sea level) while soaking in the stunning views.

2. Buddha Point

Experience: Visit Buddha Point, home to the 169-foot-tall bronze statue of Buddha Dordenma, one of the largest Buddha statues in the world. Located at Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, this statue symbolizes peace, happiness, and indestructibility.
Significance: The statue is a powerful symbol of Bhutan’s spiritual heritage and offers stunning views of Thimphu Valley.
Time: 1 hour

3. National Memorial Chorten

Experience: Stop by the National Memorial Chorten, a sacred stupa built in memory of the Third King of Bhutan. Join locals in circumambulation (walking around the chorten) and admire the beautiful paintings and sculptures that depict Buddhist teachings.
Significance: This chorten is a place of peace and devotion, where people come to pray and reflect.
Time: 1 hour

4. Tashichhodzong (Thimphu Dzong)

Experience: Visit Tashichhodzong, the “Fortress of the Glorious Religion.” Built in 1641 and restored in the 1960s, this dzong houses government offices and the central monastic body.
Significance: The dzong is a symbol of Bhutan’s spiritual and political history, with stunning architecture and serene courtyards.
Time: 1 hour
Opening Hours:
- Weekdays: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Weekends: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Winter: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

5. Walk Around Thimphu Town

Experience: Take a leisurely stroll through Thimphu town, where modern life meets traditional culture. Explore shops, cafes, and restaurants, and get a feel for the city’s unique charm.
Significance: Thimphu is Bhutan’s most modern city, but it still holds onto its cultural identity, offering a perfect blend of old and new.
Time: 1 hour

6. First Taste of Bhutanese Cuisine

Experience: Savor your first Bhutanese meal, featuring local delicacies like ema datshi (chili cheese), red rice, and suja (butter tea).
Significance: Bhutanese cuisine is a reflection of the country’s culture and traditions, offering a delicious introduction to your journey.

Today, you’ll travel from Thimphu to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan. This scenic journey takes you through stunning mountain passes, fertile valleys, and along sparkling rivers. Along the way, you’ll visit sacred landmarks and one of Bhutan’s most iconic dzongs, offering a perfect blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty.

Highlights of Your Day

1. Dochula Pass

Experience: Stop at Dochula Pass, located at 3,050 meters. Here, you’ll see 108 chortens (stupas) built by Her Majesty the Queen Mother, Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, to honor Bhutan’s victory and remember those who lost their lives. On a clear day, enjoy stunning 360-degree views of the Himalayan mountain range.
Significance: The pass is a spiritual destination and a symbol of peace and prosperity.
Time: 2 hours

2. Chhimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple)

Experience: Visit Chhimi Lhakhang, also known as the Fertility Temple, located in the village of Sopsokha. The temple is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley, the “Divine Madman,” known for his unconventional teachings. Take a short walk through rice fields to reach the temple.
Significance: Many couples visit this temple to pray for children, and it’s a place of blessings and spiritual energy.
Time: 2 hours

3. Punakha Dzong

Experience: Visit Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and historic dzongs. Located at the junction of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers, this six-story structure is surrounded by lush greenery and offers breathtaking views.
Significance: Built in 1637, Punakha Dzong is the second oldest and second largest dzong in Bhutan. It served as the capital until the 1950s and is the winter home of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot). It also hosted the royal wedding of King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema in 2011.
Time: 2 hours

4. Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge

Experience: Walk across the Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge, the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan at 160 meters. Enjoy spectacular views of Punakha Dzong and the Pho Chhu Valley.
Significance: The bridge offers a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to soak in the natural beauty of Punakha.
Time: 1 hour

Today, you’ll travel from Thimphu to Gangtey, a serene valley known as the winter home of the endangered Black-Necked Cranes. This scenic journey takes you through lush forests and rolling hills, offering a perfect blend of nature, spirituality, and culture. Along the way, you’ll visit a historic monastery, learn about the cranes, and prepare for the upcoming Bhutan Sports Festival.

Highlights of Your Day

1. Gangtey Goempa

Experience: Visit Gangtey Goempa, a 17th-century monastery located in the heart of the Phobjikha Valley. This is the largest Nyingma monastery in western Bhutan and a place of deep spiritual energy.
Significance: The monastery was founded by Gyalse Pema Thinlay, the grandson of a famous treasure seeker, and is a center of Buddhist learning and practice.
Time: 1 hour

2. Black-Necked Crane Information Centre

Experience: Stop by the Black-Necked Crane Information Centre, where you’ll learn about these elegant birds and their migration to Phobjikha Valley. Use the center’s spotting scopes to observe the cranes and check your sightings against their guidebook.
Significance: The center is dedicated to protecting the cranes and educating visitors about their importance to Bhutan’s ecosystem.
Time: 1 hour
Note: The cranes can be observed from early November to late March.

3. Remarks on Accommodation

Experience: Your first choice for accommodation is Dewachen Hotel, but due to high demand, we may arrange a stay in Wangdue or a homestay in Gangtey.
Significance: Whether at Dewachen, Wangdue, or a homestay, you’ll enjoy a comfortable and authentic experience.

4. Bhutan Sports Festival Briefing

Experience: Attend the pre-race briefing and packet pick-up for the Bhutan Sports Festival. Learn about the event schedule, routes, and safety guidelines.
Significance: This briefing ensures you’re well-prepared for the upcoming festival activities.
Time: 2 hours

Today is the highlight of your Bhutan adventure – the Bhutan Sports Festival! This unique event combines trail running, mountain biking, and cultural celebrations in the stunning Phobjikha Valley. Whether you’re participating in the 25K or 50K trail run or the 25K or 50K mountain bike race, you’ll experience the thrill of racing in one of the most beautiful and environmentally protected regions in the world. After the race, celebrate your achievement with a traditional Bhutanese cultural festival.

Highlights of Your Day

1. Bhutan Sports Festival – Trail Running and Mountain Biking

Experience: Choose between the 25K or 50K trail run or the 25K or 50K mountain bike race. The courses take you through remote villages, lush valleys, and along roaring rivers, surrounded by prayer flags and chortens.
Significance: This is the first international ultra and trail running event in Bhutan, offering a rare opportunity to race in a carbon-negative country.
Time: 9 hours (including race and post-race activities)
Start Time: 6:30 AM

2. Traditional Bhutanese Cultural Festival

Experience: After the race, enjoy a traditional Bhutanese cultural festival featuring music, dance, and local cuisine. The festival is held overlooking the pristine Phobjikha Valley, offering a perfect way to celebrate your achievement.
Significance: The festival is a celebration of Bhutan’s rich culture and traditions, giving you a deeper connection to the Land of Happiness.

3. Scenic Beauty and Conservation

Experience: The Phobjikha Valley is enclosed by mountain ranges and bisected by the Nake Chuu and Phag Chuu rivers. The valley floor is home to a special variety of dwarf bamboo, the prime diet of the Black-Necked Cranes.
Significance: The festival is designed to avoid disrupting the cranes’ habitat, ensuring the conservation of this beautiful region.

Today, you’ll explore the enchanting Paro Valley, a place where Bhutan’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture come together. From ancient dzongs to fascinating museums, every moment offers a deeper connection to the soul of Bhutan.

Highlights of Your Day

1. Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong)

Experience: Visit Paro Dzong, also known as Rinpung Dzong (Fortress on a Heap of Jewels). Built in 1646, this majestic dzong stands on a hill above Paro Township and is connected by a traditional cantilever bridge (Nemi Zam) over the Pachu River. Walk up the stone-paved path and explore the dzong’s stunning architecture, ancient frescoes, and serene courtyards.
Significance: The dzong is a symbol of Bhutan’s spiritual and political history, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage.
Time: 2 hours

2. National Museum (Ta Dzong)

Experience: Explore the National Museum, housed in a historic watchtower above Rinpung Dzong. The museum showcases a fascinating collection of art, relics, religious paintings (thangkas), stamps, coins, and handicrafts.
Significance: The museum offers a comprehensive overview of Bhutan’s cultural and natural heritage, making it a must-visit for history and art lovers.
Time: 1 hour

3. Paro Valley

Experience: Take in the breathtaking beauty of Paro Valley, home to ancient monasteries, temples, and the majestic Mount Chomolhari (7,300 meters). The glacier waters from Chomolhari feed the Pachu River, which flows through the valley.
Significance: Paro Valley is a symbol of Bhutan’s natural beauty and spiritual heritage, offering a perfect blend of tradition and modernity.
Time: Flexible

Today is the day you’ve been waiting for – the hike to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest. Perched dramatically on a cliff 10,000 feet above sea level, this sacred site is Bhutan’s most iconic landmark and a must-visit for every traveler. The hike is both a physical challenge and a spiritual journey, offering breathtaking views and a deep sense of accomplishment.

Highlights of Your Day

1. Hike to Taktsang Monastery

Experience: Embark on a 6-hour hike to Taktsang Monastery, one of Bhutan’s most sacred and photographed sites. The trail takes you through pine forests, past colorful prayer flags, and up steep cliffs to the monastery, which clings to the edge of a sheer rock face.
Significance: According to legend, Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) flew to this location on the back of a tigress and meditated in a cave here. The monastery is a symbol of Bhutan’s spiritual heritage and offers a profound sense of peace and achievement.
Time: 6 hours (round trip)

2. Kyichu Lhakhang

Experience: Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. Built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, this temple is one of 108 built to subdue an ogress obstructing the spread of Buddhism.
Significance: The temple is a place of peace and blessings, with a rich history that connects you to Bhutan’s spiritual roots.
Time: 1 hour

3. Hot Stone Bath

Experience: After your hike, relax with a traditional hot stone bath. Locally heated stones are placed in a wooden tub, creating a soothing and therapeutic experience. This bath helps loosen joints, release muscle tension, and promote deep relaxation.
Significance: The hot stone bath is a perfect way to unwind after a challenging hike and immerse yourself in Bhutan’s traditional healing practices.
Cost: Approximately USD 25 per person
Time: Flexible

Today marks the end of your unforgettable journey through Bhutan. As you prepare to leave this magical land, take a moment to reflect on the memories you’ve made, the friendships you’ve formed, and the beauty you’ve experienced. Your guide will accompany you to Paro International Airport for your early morning flight back home, ensuring a smooth and heartfelt farewell.

Highlights of Your Day

1. Farewell to Bhutan

Experience: Enjoy a peaceful morning as you prepare to depart. Take one last look at the stunning landscapes of Paro Valley and reminisce about your adventures.
Significance: This is a time to reflect on the transformative experiences you’ve had and the connections you’ve made with Bhutan’s culture, people, and nature.

2. Transfer to Paro International Airport

Experience: Your guide will accompany you to the airport, helping with check-in and ensuring a smooth departure.
Significance: A heartfelt farewell from your guide symbolizes the warmth and hospitality of Bhutan.