Royal Highland Festival Tour

Trip Duration:

9 Days 8 Nights

Trip Type:

Festival

Season:

Seasonal (October)

Places Covered:

Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and Gasa

Tour Code

F1016

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 Royal Highland Festival in Bhutan is a unique and vibrant celebration held annually in the picturesque village of Laya, located in the Gasa district. This festival, typically held on October 23-24, offers a deep dive into the culture, traditions, and natural beauty of Bhutan’s highland communities.

Tips for Travelers

Altitude Preparation: Laya is located at 4,000 metres above sea level, so acclimatisation is crucial.
Warm Clothing: The highland region can be quite cold, especially in October and snow fall can be expected sometimes.

This package offers a comprehensive experience of the Royal Highland Festival and the stunning landscapes of Bhutan

Key Experience

Cultural Performances:
- Traditional songs, dances, and poetry recitations by the Layaps, the indigenous people of Laya.
- The traditional offering of Buelwa (gift offering) and Auley (epic poem/song recitation) to honor the leadership of Bhutan’s monarchs.
Highland Animal Competitions:
- Showcasing yaks, horses, and mastiff dogs, often adorned in colorful fabrics and bells.
- Competitions and parades featuring these animals.
Local Produce and Crafts:
- Stalls selling local produce, including dried yak cheese, butter, and traditional alcoholic beverages.
- Exhibitions of highland agriculture technology, medicinal herbs, and plants1.
Games and Activities:
- Traditional games such as khuru (a Bhutanese dart-throwing competition).
- Various races and competitions involving highland animals.
Scenic Beauty:
- The festival is set against the backdrop of the stunning Himalayan peaks, offering breathtaking views and a chance to explore the high-altitude trails and glacial lakes of the region.

Journey Map

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Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro

Arrive at Paro International Airport: Begin your Bhutanese adventure as you land at Paro International Airport, nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by majestic mountains.
Transfer to Thimphu: Embark on a scenic drive to Thimphu, the vibrant capital city of Bhutan. The journey, approximately 1.5 hours, takes you through lush landscapes and quaint villages, providing a glimpse of Bhutan’s serene countryside.
Overnight Stay in Thimphu: Settle into your comfortable accommodation in Thimphu, where you can relax and prepare for the exciting days ahead.

Day 2: Thimphu to Punakha

Visit Key Attractions in Thimphu: Start your day with a visit to the awe-inspiring Buddha Dordenma statue, a colossal figure that overlooks the Thimphu Valley, symbolizing peace and prosperity. Continue to Tashichho Dzong, an impressive fortress and monastery that serves as the seat of the Bhutanese government and the summer residence of the monastic body.

Drive to Punakha: After exploring Thimphu, embark on a scenic drive to Punakha. En route, stop at Dochula Pass, situated at an elevation of 3,100 meters. Here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas and the 108 memorial chortens, which add to the pass’s spiritual ambiance.
Overnight Stay in Punakha: Arrive in Punakha and settle into your accommodation, ready to explore this historically significant region.

Day 3: Punakha to Gasa

Explore Punakha Dzong and the Suspension Bridge: Begin your day with a visit to Punakha Dzong, also known as the “Palace of Great Happiness.” This stunning fortress, located at the confluence of two rivers, is a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture. Nearby, walk across the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan, offering breathtaking views of the river and valley below.
Drive to Gasa: Continue your journey to Gasa, a region renowned for its natural hot springs and stunning landscapes. The drive offers spectacular views of the rugged terrain and pristine forests.
Overnight Stay in Gasa: Settle into your accommodation in Gasa, where you can unwind and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Day 4: Gasa to Laya

Trek to Laya: Embark on a trek to Laya, a remote village known for its unique culture and beautiful alpine ecosystem. The trek takes you through lush forests, past cascading waterfalls, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Settle into Your Accommodation in Laya: Arrive in Laya and settle into your accommodation, where you can rest and acclimate to the high altitude.
Overnight Stay in Laya: Enjoy the serene atmosphere of Laya, preparing for the upcoming festival.

Day 5-6: Royal Highland Festival

Participate in Festival Activities: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Royal Highland Festival, a celebration of Bhutanese highland culture. Enjoy traditional dances, music, and rituals, and witness animal competitions that showcase the strength and agility of local livestock.
Explore Festival Stalls and Interact with Locals:Wander through the festival stalls, sampling local cuisine and purchasing handmade crafts. Engage with the highland communities, learning about their customs and way of life.
Overnight Stay in Laya: Continue to enjoy the festive atmosphere and the hospitality of the Laya community.

Day 7: Laya to Gasa

Trek Back to Gasa: Retrace your steps as you trek back to Gasa, taking in the beautiful landscapes and fresh mountain air.
Relax in the Natural Hot Springs: Upon arrival in Gasa, soothe your muscles in the natural hot springs, known for their therapeutic properties.
Overnight Stay in Gasa: Enjoy a restful night in Gasa, rejuvenated by the hot springs.

Day 8: Gasa to Paro

Drive Back to Paro: Begin your journey back to Paro, enjoying the scenic drive through Bhutan’s diverse landscapes.
Visit Paro Dzong and the National Museum: Upon arrival in Paro, explore Paro Dzong, a fortress that stands as a testament to Bhutanese history and architecture. Visit the National Museum, housed in a former watchtower, to gain insights into Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage.
Overnight Stay in Paro: Settle into your accommodation in Paro, reflecting on the incredible experiences of your journey.

Day 9: Departure

Transfer to Paro International Airport: Bid farewell to Bhutan as you transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure, carrying your unforgettable memories of this enchanting kingdom.

Our Price

The price of this festival tour depends on season. Get in touch with us and we will get back to you.

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.