Thimphu Tsechu Tour

Trip Duration:

7 Days 6 Nights

Trip Type:

Festival

Season:

Seasonal

Places Covered:

Thimphu, Punakha, Paro

Tour Code

F1011

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 Thimphu Tsechu Festival, held annually in Bhutan’s capital to honor Guru Rinpoche, is a vibrant celebration featuring traditional masked dances, colorful processions, and sacred rituals that draw people from all backgrounds. Over three days, attendees are captivated by performances like the renowned Guru Tshengye (Dance of the Eight Manifestations of Guru Rinpoche) and the ceremonial unveiling of the giant Thongdrol tapestry, shown only during this festival.

This event unites the community to celebrate Bhutan’s rich heritage and gain spiritual merit. People dress in their finest traditional attire, filling the atmosphere with joy, music, and dance. The Thimphu Tsechu Festival is a profound celebration of Bhutanese spirituality and culture, offering a truly memorable experience for all.

Key Experience

Immerse in the Thimphu Tsechu Festival .
Explore Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan.
Visit important landmarks in Paro and Punakha.
Experience unique Bhutanese culture and tradition.
Try Bhutanese food.

Journey Map

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Day to Day Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu

Welcome to the enchanting kingdom of Bhutan! Upon your arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by your guide, who will ensure you feel right at home.
After a brief reception, we will embark on a scenic drive to Thimphu, where you will check in at your comfortable hotel.
In the evening, immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of the National Memorial Chorten, located in the heart of Thimphu. Here, you can witness Bhutanese daily life and rituals up close.
If you’re still feeling energetic afterward, take a leisurely stroll through Thimphu’s Authentic Bhutanese Craft Market and treat yourself to a traditional Bhutanese attire to wear for the next day’s festival.

Day 2: Thimphu Tshechu Festival

After early breakfast, dressed in your elegant traditional Bhutanese attire, head to the opening day of the Thimphu Tsechu festival, and prepare to immerse yourself in the vibrant and spirited ambiance of the Tsechu festival alongside the locals.
At the event, enjoy the captivating mask dances that will transport you into the world of Bhutanese myths and legends, showcasing tales of wisdom, courage, and spirituality.
Enjoy Bhutanese dance performed in colorful traditional attire with rhythmic movements and lively music.
Be prepared to face the Atsara, the clown who wears brightly colored masks with exaggerated expressions, often with long red noses, and carries a wooden phallus to remind people not to take life too seriously.
Engage with locals to learn about the festival’s significance and gain deeper insights into their rich traditions.

Day 3: Thimphu excursions

Begin your day with a visit to the Buddha Dordenma statue, where you’ll enjoy stunning views of Thimphu and the surrounding valleys.
Discover Bhutanese culture and traditions at the Folk Heritage Museum, offering insights into the country’s rich heritage and way of life.
Explore Bhutan’s rich textile heritage at the Textile Museum, where you can admire intricate handwoven fabrics that showcase the artistry and tradition of Bhutanese craftsmanship.
In the evening, take a leisurely walk through Changyul Park and unwind with a cup of tea at a nearby local café.

Day 4: Bhutanese Arts and Crafts

Start your day at the Institute for Zorig Chusum (Painting School), where you can witness students mastering traditional Bhutanese arts and crafts.
Then, explore the National Library, home to ancient Buddhist manuscripts and texts that offer a window into Bhutan’s spiritual history.
Visit the bustling craft bazaar to shop for exquisite traditional Bhutanese handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
In the evening, savor a traditional Bhutanese dinner featuring local delicacies like Ema Datshi (chili cheese), Phaksha Paa (pork with red chilies), and Momos (dumplings).

Day 5: Day Trip to Punakha

On a short drive from Thimphu, our journey is through DochuLa Pass, adorned with 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens, that reveals panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas on clear days.
On arrival at Punakha, our first visit is the majestic Punakha Dzong, an architectural masterpiece situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.
After lunch, we’ll take a walk across the Punakha Suspension Bridge, one of the longest in Bhutan, offering stunning views of the fresh mountain river flowing beneath. This scenic crossing, lined with fluttering prayer flags, provides an exhilarating experience and a perfect vantage point for admiring Punakha’s natural beauty.
In the evening, we’ll return to Thimphu, stopping at the Temple of Fertility, where couples visit to seek blessings for children. This sacred site, steeped in local tradition, offers a unique insight into Bhutanese beliefs surrounding family and fertility.

Day 6: Short Hike to Tango Monastery

For the spiritual experience, the hike to Tango Monastery, a renowned Buddhist learning center will offer stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and meditation.
At the monastery, it offers an opportunity to interact and learn about the monastic life and teachings from the resident monks.
After visiting the temple, enjoy a packed picnic lunch amidst the serene surroundings of the monastery before returning to Thimphu.
In the evening, relax at your hotel or explore the city at your own pace.

Day 7: Explore and Departure from Paro

After your breakfast, drive to Paro and visit the National Museum of Bhutan, that holds a fascinating collection of artifacts, including traditional costumes, religious relics, and exquisite thangkas (Buddhist paintings).
For lunch, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant where you can savor authentic Bhutanese cuisine. You can try out Bhutanese dishes like Ema Datshi (chili cheese), Jasha Maru(spicy chicken), and Red Rice, many more.
As the evening draws near, we will escort you to Paro Airport for your departure. It has been a pleasure having you with us, and we wish you a safe and enjoyable journey ahead.

Thank you for choosing to explore Bhutan with us, and we hope to see you again soon!

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: price may differ from the standard offer as per your need and trip style. Get in touch with us to finalise it if you have any addons to make and customised trip styple from the standard offer

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.