Paro Tsechu Tour

Trip Duration:

8 Days 7 Nights

Trip Type:

Festival, Culture

Season:

Seasonal

Places Covered:

Paro, Thmphu, Punakha and Wangdue

Tour Code

F1012

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

Paro Valley, known for its rich cultural heritage and historical importance, offers visitors a unique insight into Bhutan’s past and present. One of its main attractions is the Paro Tshechu, a festival held to honor Guru Rinpoche, the revered Buddhist master who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan. The festival is a time for receiving blessings, purifying karma, and reaffirming faith.

Each year, Paro Tshechu draws thousands of locals and tourists who come to witness the vibrant masked dances, receive blessings, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. It is also a social gathering that strengthens community bonds, with people dressing in their finest traditional attire and celebrating with family and friends. This annual event preserves Bhutan’s cultural identity, passing Tshechu traditions through generations and reflecting Bhutan’s dedication to its spiritual heritage and cultural continuity.

Key Experience

Prepare to be captivated by the mesmerizing masked dances performed by monks, each one telling a unique story from Buddhist mythology and history.
Attend unveiling of the Thongdrol, a large thangka painting of Guru Rinpoche, at the dawn of the final day of Tsechu.
Immerse in Bhutanese spirituality, culture and hospitality.

Journey Map

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Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro

Your enchanting journey begins as you arrive at Paro International Airport, where the crisp mountain air and serene landscapes greet you.
A comfortable transfer takes you to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. Here, you will visit the majestic Tashichho Dzong, a grand fortress and monastery that houses the throne room and offices of the King of Bhutan. The dzong’s impressive architecture and serene surroundings set the tone for your adventure.

Day 2: Paro Tshechu Festival

Immerse yourself in the vibrant Paro Tshechu Festival, a celebration of Bhutanese culture and spirituality. Witness the mesmerizing Cham dances, performed by monks in elaborate costumes and masks. The festival’s colorful pageantry and religious rituals offer a deep insight into Bhutanese traditions. The highlight of the day is the unveiling of a large Thangka (sacred scroll painting) of Guru Rinpoche, a moment of profound spiritual significance.

Day 3: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Embark on an unforgettable hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang). The hike takes you through lush pine forests, past fluttering prayer flags, and offers panoramic vistas of the Paro Valley below.
After your spiritual journey, visit the Paro Rinpung Dzong, a stunning fortress-monastery with intricate woodwork, ancient murals, and serene courtyards. The dzong also provides a fantastic view of the Paro Chhu river and the surrounding landscape.

Day 4: Thimphu Sightseeing

Start your day with a visit to the towering Buddha Dordenma, a colossal statue that offers panoramic views of the valley.
Next, visit National Memorial Chorten, a stupa built in honor of the third King of Bhutan.This important cultural site serves as a focal point for prayer and meditation, reflecting Bhutan’s rich Buddhist heritage.
Dive into Bhutanese culture at the Folk Heritage Museum, where traditional artifacts and exhibits bring the past to life.
End your day by wandering through local markets, where you can find unique handicrafts and interact with friendly locals.

Day 5: Thimphu to Punakha

Embark on a scenic drive to Punakha, with a stop at the breathtaking Dochula Pass. Here, you can marvel at the 108 chortens and enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan range.
Visit Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Fertility Temple, where you can learn about its fascinating legends and receive blessings.
After arrival, visit the Punakha Dzong, “the Happiness Palace” known for its marvellous architecture and historical significance.

Day 6: Punakha to Gangtey

Journey to the serene valley of Gangtey, home to the beautiful Gangtey Monastery. This monastery, perched on a hilltop, offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Explore the Phobjikha Valley, renowned for its black-necked cranes that migrate here during winter. The valley’s tranquil beauty and the sight of these graceful birds create a truly magical experience.

Day 7: Gangtey to Paro

Return to Paro, enjoying a scenic drive through lush valleys and towering mountains. The journey itself is a feast for the eyes, with picturesque landscapes unfolding at every turn.

Day 8: Departure from Paro

As your magical journey comes to an end, you will be transferred to Paro International Airport for your departure.
Take with you the memories of Bhutan’s captivating landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality.

Our Price

Slotrave Traveller: USD 2560 per-person
Couple: USD 2360 per-person
Group Size (3 to 6): USD 2240 per-person
Group Size (7 to 9): USD 2200 per-person
Group Size (10+): USD 2120 per-person

Note: 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.