Jambay Lhakhang Drup Tour

Trip Duration:

7 Days 6 Nights

Trip Type:

Festival

Season:

Seasonal

Places Covered:

Paro and Bumthang

Tour Code

F1013

Trip Style:

Customisable, flexible date, flexible number of travelers

Trip Components:

Buddhist, Culture, Religious Sites, Museums, Arts and Crafts, Nature, Hiking, Valley, River, Mountain, interaction with locals, Himalayan View, Villages, Wildlife

Price:

Price may differ if your requirement vaires from standard offer

Overview

The Jampa Lhakhang Drup is a mystical festival that celebrates the temple’s creation while honoring Guru Rinpoche, the temple’s founder, Songtsen Gampo, the Tibetan king recognized for spreading Buddhism in the region.

A key highlight of the festival is the Mewang, or “fire blessing” ceremony, where participants walk through a flame arch, symbolizing purification and the removal of obstacles. Another significant aspect is the Tercham, or “naked dance,” which has ancient roots and is believed to ensure fertility and good harvests, representing openness and the enduring connection to Bhutan’s ancestral traditions.

In addition to these, the festival features various activities, including a famous drumbeat dance, a clown dance known as Dola Pangtoy Shazam, and Raksha Mangcham, a dance that symbolizes life after death, among many others. The events unfold in a way that captivates onlookers, creating a magnificent spectacle.

Key Experience

Experience the Mewang or “fire blessing” ceremony.
Witness the Tercham, or “naked dance” .
Enjoy a variety of captivating performances which is better kept a secret.

Journey Map

Show Places

Geocoding Error Occured.

Tried to Geocode:

Error Type:

Please be sure to follow the tutorial on how to setup the Google APIs required for the Advanced Google Map Widget.

Google Map API Key Tutorial

Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu

Your journey begins with a warm welcome upon arrival in Paro.
As you drive through the scenic landscapes to Thimphu, the capital city, you’ll be captivated by the lush valleys and majestic mountains.
In Thimphu, explore the city’s main attractions, including the serene Memorial Chorten, the towering Buddha Dordenma statue, and the grand Tashichho Dzong, each offering a glimpse into Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage.

Day 2: Paro to Bumthang (Flight)

Morning drive to Paro and then embark on a breathtaking flight over Bhutan’s stunning landscapes to Bumthang, the spiritual heartland of the country.
Upon arrival, visit the sacred Jambay Lhakhang and Kurjey Lhakhang temples. These ancient sites are steeped in history and spiritual significance, providing a profound sense of peace and reverence.

Day 3: Attend Jakar Tshechu Festival

Immerse yourself in the vibrant Jakar Tshechu festival, where traditional mask dances and religious rituals come to life. The lively atmosphere is filled with the sounds of music and the sight of colorful costumes, offering a deep dive into Bhutanese culture and spirituality. Witness the spiritual performances that have been passed down through generations.
After breakfast, you will attend the full second day of the Jambay Lhakhang Drup (festival) which will start around 10:30 am. You will be watching many ritual dances, which are performed in the courtyard of Jambay Lhakhang. There are several different dances, subdivided into three categories: those that are intended to give moral instruction; those that are designed to drive away evil spirits, and those that celebrate the Buddhist faith in its many guises. This is the occasion where the local people, dressed in their finest clothes, come to attend the festival with packed lunches. This occasion also allows the local businesses- there will be several stalls selling craftwork, jewelry, religious artifacts, and Thangka.
Details of the 2nd Day Jambay Lhakhang Drub (festival) are as follows:
It follows a ceremony where a small girl representing the daughter of Sindhu Raja blesses the villagers. Dance of Singje Yab Yum (Lord of death and his consort): The Lord of Death and his consort perform this dance to protect the four realms over which he has power.
Dance of Nyulema and Peling Ging Sum (Three kinds of Ging): The Nyulema is an evil spirit represented by a boy in a skeleton mask. The Ging with the sticks catches the Nyulema. The Durdag or the Lords of the Cremation Ground (represented by dancers wearing white skeletal masks) bring forward a box, which represents evil spirits. The Ging with swords liberates the mind of the evil spirit by killing its body of flesh. The Ging with drums dances to celebrate the victory of religion over the evil spirit.
Dance of the Jachung Bochung (Two mythical birds): Dancers wearing masks representing the auspicious birds dance. The play of the Atsara Gapo Pawo Solgyo (Atsara who acts like a Pawo). Though most of the stories and plays were original with Buddhist subtext they now serve as comedy relief for the crowd. This story is about an Atsara (clown with a red mask) who is mad. The Atsara injures his son, as he did not recognize him. He tries to save his son’s life by impersonating a Pawo or medium and tries to perform a religious curative ceremony. Being unsuccessful he has to finally call a doctor and a monk to cure his son.

Day 4: Explore Bumthang’s Cultural Sites

Discover the spiritual essence of Bumthang by visiting its cultural landmarks.
Explore Tamshing Lhakhang, known for its ancient murals, and the mystical Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake), a site of pilgrimage and legend. Stroll through local markets, where you can interact with artisans and experience the local way of life.

Day 5: Attend Jambay Lhakhang Festival

Participate in the Jambay Lhakhang festival, renowned for its sacred fire dance and mesmerizing masked dances. Engage in the religious ceremonies and witness the re-enactment of Bhutanese spiritual legends, feeling the deep spiritual energy that permeates the air.
You will get to witness one of the unique and famous naked dance known as Tercham, considered to be one of the oldest and most revered masked dance believed to ward off evil spirits and bring blessings to the onlookers.

Day 6: Bumthang to Paro

Return to Paro by flight and spend the day exploring Paro Valley.
Visit the National Museum to delve into Bhutan’s rich history and culture.
Wander through Paro town and its local markets, where you can find unique handicrafts and souvenirs.

Day 7: Hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest)

Conclude your journey with an iconic hike to the Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest. Perched on a cliffside, this sacred site offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere perfect for meditation and reflection.
After the hike, transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure, carrying with you unforgettable memories of the Jambay Lhakhang Drup festival and Bhutan’s enchanting beauty.

Our Price

Slotrave Traveller: USD 2240 per-person
Couple: USD 2065 per-person
Group Size (3 to 6): USD 1960 per-person
Group Size (7 to 9): USD 1925 per-person
Group Size (10+): USD 1855 per-person

Note: In addition to the above price, you are required to pay for the cost of domestic airfair from Paro to Bumthang. Further, price may differ from the standard offer as per your need and trip style. Get in touch with us to finalise it if you wish to customise your trip.

Included in the price

✓ USD 40 visa fee per person for a single entry.
✓ SDF (Sustainable Development Fees) & Taxes for the duration of trip in Bhutan
✓ Visa process and E-permits arrangement as per the itinerary
✓ All accommodations on twin/double sharing basis or as per the group size in three star hotel.
✓ Breakfast & your choice of lunch and dinner.
✓ Full-time English-Speaking License Guide
✓ Transfers and sightseeing as per your itinerary by comfortable imported vehicles, excluding domestice air travel
✓ Applicable entrance fees to those sightseeing indicated in the itinerary only.
✓ Farmhouse experiences for those interested guests.
✓ Cultural experiences and activities for those interested.
✓ Complimentary bottled water throughout the journey.

Excluded from the price

✗ Flight Fares (domestic & internationals), we can organize your flights
✗ Additional/Extra room supplement and room upgrade charges.
✗ Bank charges for payment transfers. Card payment charges are higher than wire transfer.
✗ Any alcoholic or nonalcoholic beverages taken from the hotels/restaurants
✗ Personal expenses or shopping, phone calls, use business center in the hotels etc.
✗ Travel Insurance
✗ Unexpected cost resulting out of any circumstances
✗ Gratuities/tipping to guides and drivers.
✗ Activities like (Cycling, River Rafting, Motor Biking, Horse Riding, Cultural Program etc.).
✗ Anything which is not mentioned under included in the price.

Solo Traveler:

Tourism Policy of Bhutan

Bhutan’s tourism policy is guided by the principle of “High Value, Low Impact,” aims to preserve its natural and cultural heritage while promoting sustainable development. The country limits tourist numbers through a mandatory daily tariff/SDF (sustrainable development fee) ensuring that tourism benefits local communities and supports environmental conservation. The policy encourages quality experiences over quantity, attracting tourists who appreciate Bhutan’s unique landscapes, cultural festivals, and traditional way of life. By carefully managing tourism, Bhutan aims to maintain its distinct identity and protect its natural resources, aligning with its commitment to Gross National Happiness as a measure of progress.

Sustrainable Development Fee

Bhutan introduced the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) as part of its tourism policy to support environmental conservation, infrastructure development, and cultural preservation. As of 2022, international tourists visiting Bhutan pay an SDF of USD 200 per person, per day. However, a 50% discount is granted on USD 200 until 31 August 2027. This fee is in addition to the daily package cost and is intended to ensure a minimal environmental footprint while generating revenue for sustainable projects across the country. Regional tourists from India, who previously had no SDF, now pay a reduced rate of INR 1,200 per person, per day. This fee structure reinforces Bhutan’s “High Value, Low Impact” tourism model, promoting responsible tourism that aligns with the country’s sustainable development goals.

Visa and Entry Requirement for Bhutan

To obtain a tourist visa for Bhutan, all tourists (excluding Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals) must apply through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or an international partner, who will handle the entire visa application process. The steps to apply include selecting a licensed tour operator, providing the necessary documents to them, and paying the minimum daily package rate, which covers the visa fees. The tour operator will then submit your application to the Department of Tourism, and once it is approved, a visa clearance letter will be issued. Upon arrival in Bhutan, you must present this visa clearance letter at the port of entry, where your visa will be stamped into your passport.

Documents Required for Processing Visa

Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from the intended date of entry.
Passport Size Photographs : Two recent photographs.
Completed Visa Application Form : Provided by your tour operator.
Travel Itinerary : Detailed itinerary arranged by the tour operator.
Proof of Payment : Confirmation of tour package payment.

Visa and Entry Requirements for Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian Nationals

Indian nationals visiting Bhutan can obtain an entry permit at the port of entry, which includes Phuentsholing, Paro, Gelephu, or Samdrup Jongkhar, by presenting a valid passport or voter ID card. Additionally, there is an option to apply for an online permit before arrival for added convenience.