10 Days 9 Nights with Jakar Tshechu

Immerse yourself in Bhutan’s vibrant culture and spiritual heritage on a 10-day journey, featuring the colorful Jakar Tshechu festival, majestic dzongs, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.

Welcome to Bhutan – A Gentle Introduction to the Land of the Thunder Dragon

Your journey to Bhutan, the mystical Land of the Thunder Dragon, begins the moment you touch down at Paro International Airport. As you exit the arrival hall, your friendly and knowledgeable guide will warmly welcome you, setting the tone for an unforgettable adventure. Today is all about easing into the rhythm of Bhutan, acclimatizing to the altitude, and soaking in the serene beauty of this enchanting kingdom.

Your journey to Bhutan, the magical 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. Check-In and Relaxation

Experience: Arrive at your hotel, where traditional Bhutanese design meets modern comfort. Take some time to rest and settle in after your journey.
Significance: A relaxed start ensures you’re ready for the adventures ahead.

3. First Taste of Bhutanese Cuisine

Experience: Enjoy your first Bhutanese meal, featuring dishes like ema datshi (chili cheese), red rice, and suja (butter tea).
Significance: Bhutanese food is a delicious introduction to the country’s culture and traditions.

4. Visit Tashi Chhoe Dzong

Experience: Stop by Tashi Chhoe Dzong, the “Fortress of the Glorious Religion.” Built in 1641 and rebuilt in the 1960s, this stunning fortress houses government offices and the central monk body. While you may not enter before 5 pm, the view from outside is breathtaking. Don’t miss the quirky nine-hole golf course nearby for a fun photo opportunity.
Significance: The dzong is a symbol of Bhutan’s rich history and spiritual heritage.

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.

Today, you’ll explore Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city, and discover its rich culture, spiritual landmarks, and natural wonders. From towering Buddha statues to sacred temples and unique wildlife, this day is packed with experiences that will deepen your connection to Bhutan.

Highlights of Your Day

1. Buddha Point

Experience: Visit Buddha Point, home to the 51.5-meter-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

2. 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

3. Takin Enclosure

Experience: Visit the Takin Enclosure, home to Bhutan’s national animal, the Takin. This unique animal, which looks like a mix between a moose and a goat, is a must-see.
Significance: The Takin is a symbol of Bhutan’s rich biodiversity and cultural identity.
Time: 2 hours

4. Folk Heritage Museum

Experience: Step back in time at the Folk Heritage Museum, a replica of a traditional Bhutanese house from 100 years ago. Learn how Bhutanese families lived and continue to live today.
Significance: This museum offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s rural life and traditions.
Time: 1 hour
Note: Opening hours are weekdays 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM, Saturdays 10:30 AM – 1:00 PM, and Sundays 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM.

5. Centenary Farmers’ Market

Experience: Explore the Centenary Farmers’ Market, where locals gather to buy and sell fresh produce, handicrafts, and traditional goods. It’s a great place to mingle with locals and pick up souvenirs.
Significance: This market is the largest in Bhutan and offers a vibrant glimpse into daily life.
Time: 1 hour
Note: Open Fridays to Sundays, 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM.

6. Tashichhodzong (Thimphu Dzong)

Experience: End your day with a visit to Tashichhodzong, the “Fortress of the Glorious Religion.” This stunning dzong houses government offices and the central monastic body.
Significance: The dzong is a symbol of Bhutan’s spiritual and political history.
Time: 1 hour
Note: Opening hours are weekdays 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM, weekends 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM, and winter 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM.

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 temples, breathtaking viewpoints, and one of Bhutan’s most iconic dzongs.

Highlights of Your Day

1. Dochula Pass

Experience: Start your day with a drive to Dochula Pass, located at 3,100 meters. Here, you’ll see 108 chortens (stupas) built by Her Majesty the Queen Mother. 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: 1 hour

2. Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple)

Experience: Visit Chimi 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 30-minute walk through beautiful 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: 1 hour
Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

3. Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge

Experience: Stop at 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

4. 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 dzong was built in 1637 and served as the religious and administrative center of Bhutan.
Significance: Punakha Dzong is a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture and a symbol of the country’s unity and strength. It’s also the winter home of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot) and 1,000 monks.
Time: 1-2 hours
Visiting Hours: Summer (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM), Winter (9:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

Today, you’ll travel from Wangduephodrang to Trongsa, the ancestral home of Bhutan’s royal family. This scenic journey takes you through stunning landscapes and introduces you to some of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks. From ancient dzongs to sacred chortens, every moment is designed to deepen your connection to Bhutan’s rich history and culture.

Highlights of Your Day

1. Chendebji Chorten

Experience: Stop at Chendebji Chorten, a large white stupa located by a river confluence. Built in the 19th century by Lama Shida, this chorten is modeled after the Swayambhunath Stupa in Kathmandu.
Significance: The chorten was built to cover the remains of an evil spirit and is a place of peace and blessings.
Time: 1 hour

2. Trongsa Dzong

Experience: Visit Trongsa Dzong, a massive fortress that looms high above the Mangde Chu Valley. Built in the 16th century by Pema Lingpa and expanded in the 17th century, this dzong is a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture.
Significance: Trongsa Dzong is a symbol of Bhutan’s political and religious history. It’s also the ancestral home of Bhutan’s royal family, where the first two kings ruled the kingdom.
Time: 1 hour

3. Trongsa Museum (Taa Dzong)

Experience: Explore Taa Dzong, a former watchtower turned museum. Located high above Trongsa Dzong, this museum tells the story of the Wangchuck dynasty and Bhutan’s monarchy.
Significance: The museum houses 224 artifacts, including sacred statues, ancient costumes, and historical treasures. It’s a fascinating glimpse into Bhutan’s royal heritage.
Time: 1 hour

4. Rest in Bumthang

Experience: After a long day of travel and exploration, check into your hotel in Bumthang and relax.
Significance: Bumthang is known as the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, offering a peaceful end to your day.
Time: 1 hour

Today, you’ll explore Bumthang, the spiritual heartland of Bhutan. This serene valley is home to some of the country’s most sacred monasteries and dzongs, each with its own unique history and significance. From ancient temples to vibrant festivals, every moment is designed to deepen your connection to Bhutan’s rich spiritual heritage.

Highlights of Your Day

1. Jakar Dzong

Experience: Visit Jakar Dzong, also known as the “Castle of the White Bird.” Built in 1549, this dzong sits on a hill overlooking the town and serves as the administrative center for Bumthang Valley.
Significance: Jakar Dzong is a symbol of Bhutan’s spiritual and political history. It’s also the venue for the Jakar Tshechu, a vibrant festival that honors Guru Rinpoche with masked dances and Buddhist rituals.
Time: 1 hour

2. Jambay Lhakhang

Experience: Explore Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan. Built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, this temple is dedicated to subduing evil spirits and spreading Buddhism.
Significance: The temple is famous for its Jambay Lhakhang Drup festival, which features the unique Tercham (Naked Dance). The inner shrine houses a sacred statue of the Future Buddha, believed to be over 1,400 years old.
Time: 1 hour

3. Kurjey Lhakhang

Experience: Visit Kurjey Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s most sacred monasteries. Built in 1652, this temple houses a rock with the body imprint of Guru Rinpoche, who meditated here to defeat a demon.
Significance: The monastery is a place of deep spiritual energy and is surrounded by 108 chortens, symbolizing peace and blessings.
Time: 1 hour

Today, you’ll explore the stunning Phobjikha Valley, a place of natural beauty and spiritual significance. Known as the winter home of the endangered Black-Necked Cranes, this serene valley offers a perfect blend of wildlife, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From visiting a crane information center to hiking through the valley and exploring a historic monastery, every moment is designed to inspire and captivate.

Highlights of Your Day

1. Black-Necked Crane Information Centre

Experience: Visit 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.

2. Gangtey Goemba

Experience: Visit Gangtey Goemba, a 17th-century monastery perched on a hill overlooking 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

3. Gangtey Nature Trail

Experience: Embark on the Gangtey Nature Trail, a scenic hike that takes you through the beautiful Phobjikha Valley. The trail starts near Gangtey Goemba, passes through Semchubara Village, and ends near a primary school.
Significance: This easy hike offers stunning views of the valley, forests, and farmland, and is a great way to connect with nature.
Time: 2 hours

4. Explore Gangtey Valley

Experience: Spend time exploring the Gangtey Valley, a U-shaped glacial valley known for its natural beauty and as the winter home of the Black-Necked Cranes.
Significance: The valley is one of Bhutan’s most picturesque destinations, offering peace and tranquility.
Time: Flexible

Today, you’ll explore the beautiful Paro Valley, a place rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From ancient temples to traditional games and vibrant markets, this day offers a perfect blend of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories of Bhutan.

Highlights of Your Day

1. Kyichu Lhakhang

Experience: Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built 1,300 years ago 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 museum dedicated to Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, a revered Buddhist master.
Time: 1 hour

2. Archery and Khuru Tryout

Experience: Try your hand at archery and khuru (a traditional dart game) at a local farmhouse. Your guide will teach you how to shoot arrows and throw darts, giving you a taste of Bhutan’s traditional sports.
Significance: Archery is Bhutan’s national sport, and khuru is a fun, social game often played during festivals.
Time: 1 hour

3. Kha Ja Throm (Paro Farmer’s Market)

Experience: Visit Kha Ja Throm, a vibrant farmer’s market built as a gift from His Majesty the King to the people of Paro. Explore 147 stalls selling fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious food. Enjoy live music and a children’s park, making it a lively space for families and visitors.
Significance: The market showcases the best of Paro’s local produce and culture, offering a chance to interact with locals and enjoy the community vibe.
Time: 1 hour

Today, you’ll dive deeper into the rich history and natural beauty of Paro Valley. From hiking to the oldest dzong in Bhutan to exploring a fascinating museum and a majestic fortress, this day is packed with experiences that will leave you with a deeper appreciation of Bhutan’s heritage and culture.

Highlights of Your Day

1. Zuri Dzong Hike

Experience: Embark on a scenic hike to Zuri Dzong, the oldest dzong in Bhutan. Along the way, explore a cave where Buddha meditated in the 8th century. The hike starts near the National Museum (Ta Dzong) and takes about 40 minutes to reach the dzong, with an additional hour to exit towards Uma.
Significance: Zuri Dzong is a place of deep spiritual energy and offers stunning views of Paro Valley. The cave adds a mystical touch to the hike.
Time: 2 hours

2. National Museum (Ta Dzong)

Experience: Visit the National Museum, housed in a historic watchtower above Rinpung Dzong. The museum showcases a fascinating collection of art, relics, religious paintings, 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 Dzong (Rinpung Dzong)

Experience: Explore Rinpung Dzong, also known as the “Fortress of 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.
Significance: The dzong is a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture, with beautiful frescoes and a rich history. It’s a highlight for anyone interested in art and history.
Time: 1 hour

Today is the highlight of your Bhutan adventure – the hike to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest. Perched dramatically on a cliff 900 meters above Paro Valley, this sacred site is Bhutan’s most famous 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. Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)

Experience: Embark on a 6-hour hike to Taktsang Monastery, one of Bhutan’s most iconic and sacred sites. The trail takes you through pine forests, past 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)

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 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.