Overview

The Druk Wangyel Festival, celebrated annually on December 13th, commemorates a pivotal moment in Bhutan’s history when His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo personally led military operations against Indian insurgents in the south in 2003, after peace negotiations failed. This festival honors the visionary leadership of the Fourth King and the dedication of the Royal Bhutan Army in protecting the nation. Championed under the guidance and patronage of Her Majesty the Queen Mother Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, the event is unique in that its ceremonies are performed exclusively by the Royal Bhutan Army, rather than by monks or the general public, highlighting both national pride and military valor.

⟳

7 Days 6 Nights

⏱

Duration

7 Days>

👥

Group Size

1 & above

🎒

Tour Grade

Easy>

🛏

Accommodation

Hotels / Homestay

🚶

Walking Hours

4–5 Hours

🌤

Best Season

Mar-may, Sep-Oct

Tour Highlights

Witness the unique Druk Wangyel Festival at Dochula
Hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
Explore local Buddhist monasteries and dzongs
Visit towns, villages, and farmhouses for authentic local interactions.
Drive through Bhutan’s breathtaking natural landscapes.

PREVIEW THE ITINERARY

DAY 1 Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu

›

Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu

Land at Paro Airport and enjoy a welcome lunch before driving to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. On arrival, check in at your hotel and take a relaxed walk through the town to get a first glimpse of its charm.

DAY 2 Exploring Thimphu

›

Discover Thimphu’s rich culture and heritage with visits to the King’s Memorial Chorten, the School of Arts and Crafts, the National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Buddha Point, and the Motithang Takin Preserve. End the day with a visit to Tashi Chhoedzong, the majestic fortress that symbolizes Bhutanese spirituality.

DAY 3 Druk Wangyel Festival

›

Immerse yourself in the Druk Wangyel Festival at Dochula, celebrating Bhutan’s history and military valor. In the afternoon, continue your journey to Punakha.

DAY 4 Discovering Punakha

›

Discovering Punakha

Begin the day at Punakha Dzong, the winter seat of the Je Khenpo and monks. Head to Lobesa for a short hike to Chime Lhakhang, a temple famed for fertility blessings. After lunch, cross the suspension bridge and trek to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, passing scenic rice fields, villages, and pine forests. The panoramic views from the top are unforgettable. Return to your vehicle at the base.

DAY 5 Punakha to Paro

›

Travel back to Paro, enjoying the scenic Dochula Pass along the way and stopping in Thimphu for lunch. Once in Paro, check in to your hotel, then explore Rinpung Dzong and Kichu Lhakhang, two of Bhutan’s most historic and sacred sites. Finish the day with a leisurely stroll through Paro town.

DAY 6 Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery

›

Conclude your Bhutan adventure with a hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), dramatically perched on a cliff at 3180m. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew here on a tigress to meditate. Stop for lunch at the cafeteria halfway up, explore the monastery, and descend back to Paro.

DAY 7 Departure

›