Ura Yakchoe Festival Tour

Trip Duration:

10 Days 9 Nights

Trip Type:

Festival

Season:

Seasonal

Places Covered:

Paro, Punakha, Bumthang and Gangtey

Tour Code

F1014

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 Ura Yakchoe, meaning “Yak Offering,” is an ancient festival held in Bumthang’s scenic Ura Valley. This ritual, led by a priest dressed as a Bonpo to invoke the cattle god, originates from animistic practices that later evolved into a Buddhist ceremony. The festival opens with a grand procession from Gaden, the residence of Ura’s local lama, winding gracefully through meadows and streams. Upon reaching Ura Valley, rituals of exorcism and sacred dances infused with spiritual wisdom commence, along with traditional folk performances that continue over five vibrant days.

Experiencing the Ura Yakchoe Festival offers a unique insight into Bhutan’s commitment to preserving its rich cultural heritage amidst modernity, all while surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, cultural landmarks, and ancient temples.

Key Experience

Experience the powerful rituals of exorcism and traditional sacred dances, infused with spiritual wisdom, that take place throughout the festival.
Enjoy captivating folk performances that showcase Bhutan’s cultural richness, offering a delightful blend of music, dance, and storytelling over five vibrant days of celebration.
Traverse spiritual and cultural heartland of Bumthang.

Journey Map

Show Places

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Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro - Transfer to Thimphu

Touch down at Paro International Airport, where your journey begins with a warm Bhutanese welcome.
Drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s vibrant capital. The 1.5-hour journey winds through lush landscapes, with glimpses of traditional Bhutanese architecture and serene countryside.
Upon arrival, check into a hotel.
After a short rest or nap, visit Tashichho Dzong, which houses seat for both spiritual and secular heads of state.

Day 2: Explore Thimphu

Begin your day by circumambulating the colossal Buddha Dordenma statue, a symbol of peace and prosperity. Walk in a clockwise direction, making sure to complete the circuit in odd numbers for an added layer of spiritual significance.
Next, visit the National Memorial Chorten, a stupa built in memory of the third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. This sacred site is a hub of daily worship, where locals come to spin prayer wheels and offer prayers.
Dive into Bhutanese culture at the Folk Heritage Museum. Through its exhibits and artifacts, gain a deep understanding of rural Bhutanese life, traditions, and customs.

Day 3: Drive to Punakha

En route to Punakha, stop at Dochula Pass (3,100 meters). This pass offers panoramic views of the Himalayas and is adorned with 108 memorial chortens, making it a picturesque and spiritually uplifting stop.
Arrive in Punakha and visit the “Palace of Great Happiness.” This dzong, located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, is renowned for its stunning architecture and historical significance.
Halt the night at Punakha.

Day 4: Drive to Bumthang

Begin your day early towards Bumthang.
On your way, visit Trongsa Dzong, the largest fortress in Bhutan. This majestic dzong is historically significant, serving as a strategic stronghold and a symbol of Bhutanese unity.
Settle into your accommodation in Bumthang, a region known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty. Prepare for the vibrant Ura Yakchoe Festival.

Day 5: Bumthang, Ura: Attend the Ura Yakchoe

Experience the powerful rituals of exorcism and traditional sacred dances, infused with spiritual wisdom, that take place throughout the festival.
Engage with the community, learn about their customs, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Day 6: Continue Festival Experience

Spend the day exploring the scenic Ura Valley. Visit local homes, participate in ongoing festival activities, and soak in the natural beauty of the valley.

Day 7: Visit Jakar Dzong and Kurje Lhakhang

Discover Jakar Dzong, also known as the “Castle of the White Bird.” This fortress offers panoramic views of the Bumthang Valley and is steeped in history and legend.
Visit Kurje Lhakhang, a sacred site where Guru Rinpoche meditated, leaving an imprint of his body on a rock. This site is a significant pilgrimage destination for Buddhists.

Day 8: Drive to Gangtey

Travel to Gangtey and visit the Gangtey Monastery, an important center of the Nyingma school of Buddhism. Located in the picturesque Phobjikha Valley, the monastery is a serene and spiritual haven.

Day 9: Explore Phobjikha Valley

Black-Necked Crane Information Centre: Learn about the endangered black-necked cranes that migrate to the Phobjikha Valley in winter. The center provides insights into the conservation efforts and the ecological significance of these majestic birds.
Nature Walks: Enjoy nature walks through the serene landscapes of the valley. If visiting during the migration season, you might spot some of the cranes in their natural habitat.

Day 10: Return to Paro

Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery: Conclude your journey with a hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest. Perched on a cliffside, this monastery is one of Bhutan’s most famous landmarks and offers breathtaking views and a sense of spiritual tranquility.
Departure from Paro: After the hike, transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure, carrying with you unforgettable memories of Bhutan’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.

Our Price

Slotrave Traveller: USD 3200 per-person
Couple: USD 2950 per-person
Group Size (3 to 6): USD 2800 per-person
Group Size (7 to 9): USD 2750 per-person
Group Size (10+): USD 2650 per-person

Note: price may differ from the standard offer depending on your need and trip style. Get in touch with us to finalise 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.