Bhutan Ura Yakchoe- 12 Days

You can fly into Paro from cities like Bangkok, New Delhi, Kathmandu, Dhaka, and more. We recommend flying from Bangkok as Druk Air operates daily flights between Bangkok and Paro, while flights from other locations may not be as frequent.

Arriving in Paro on Druk Air, Bhutan’s national carrier, offers a stunning introduction to the country’s natural beauty. On clear days, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the world’s highest peaks, followed by the lush Paro valley as you descend. As you step off the plane, the cool, clean air of Bhutan greets you. After clearing customs and visa control, you’ll be driven to Thimphu, Bhutan’s modern capital, which is just about an hour’s drive away. With a population of around 98,000, Thimphu has only three main streets, and it is the only capital city in the world without traffic lights.

In the morning, we begin by visiting Bhutan’s National Bank to exchange currency and stop by the post office to explore and purchase the beautiful Bhutanese collector stamps. Next, we head to the National Memorial Chorten, built in 1974 in honor of the third king. We will also visit the National Library, where ancient manuscripts are carefully preserved, and the Takin Reserve, home to Bhutan’s national animal. After lunch, we’ll explore the Textile Museum and the Arts and Crafts School. The House of Incense and House of Paper are always popular stops as well.

After breakfast, we leave Thimphu and begin a scenic drive toward Punakha. En route, we stop at Dochula Pass (3,050 m), known for its 108 chortens and panoramic Himalayan views on clear days. From the pass, we descend through pine forests into the fertile Lobesa Valley. A short walk leads us to Chimi Lhakhang, the Temple of Fertility, visited by many for blessings. In Punakha, we explore the majestic Punakha Dzong, beautifully located at the meeting point of two rivers. If time permits, we hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten for stunning valley views

We begin the day early for an exciting drive to the central valleys of Bhutan. The journey to Bumthang, via Trongsa, takes approximately 7 hours, passing over the Pele La pass (3,300 m) and Yotongla pass (3,400 m). The Central Road, completed 30 years ago, has brought significant changes to the people of central Bhutan. Along the way, we pass through Wangdue, a major town and district headquarters in Western Bhutan. We ascend steadily through semi-tropical vegetation, reaching the alpine environment of rhododendrons and dwarf bamboo at Pelela Pass (3,300 m), which marks the boundary between West and East Bhutan. On clear days, the Himalayan range, including the peak of Chomulhari (7,314 m), is visible to the west. We also stop at the Chendebji Chorten, built centuries ago to suppress a demon. In Trongsa, we visit the impressive Trongsa Dzong, the ancestral home of the ruling dynasty. This dzong once controlled the crucial passage between East and West Bhutan. We continue our journey to Bumthang valley, often described as one of the most beautiful spots in the Himalayas, crossing over the Yotongla pass (3,400 m).

In the morning, we hike to explore Tamshing Monastery, one of the oldest monastic schools founded by Terton Pema Lingpa, as well as Kurjey Lhakhang, where Guru Rinpoche subdued a local demon and left an imprint of his body on a rock. We also visit Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in the 7th century, and Jakar Dzong, the seat of district administration. In the afternoon, we drive eastward through Bumthang Valley to visit Membar Tsho, the “burning lake,” where Pema Lingpa discovered sacred Dharma. Finally, we stop at the Swiss Cheese Farm, where you can taste locally made cheese, along with cider and wines produced in the area.

After breakfast, we drive to the sacred Ura Valley, a peaceful highland settlement known for its vibrant traditions.

Today, we attend the Ura Yakchoe Festival, a unique spiritual celebration where locals gather in colorful attire to witness sacred mask dances and receive blessings.

The atmosphere is filled with excitement as dancers, in elaborate costumes, perform thunderbolt steps that depict deities and protectors. It’s a lively and deeply spiritual experience.

We spend the day interacting with locals, soaking in the culture and joy that radiates throughout the valley during this once-a-year celebration.

In the morning, we revisit the festival grounds and meet the Head Lama of Ura, an important spiritual figure who blesses the gathering.

You’ll see the Atsara, the traditional masked clown, keeping the crowd entertained with playful gestures and humorous antics.

The rhythmic dances, cymbals, and chants continue to fill the air as the festival invokes blessings and removes misfortunes.

Later in the afternoon, we leave Ura and make our way back to Bumthang for a relaxing evening.

After breakfast, we begin our journey westward to Wangdue, passing through forested valleys and picturesque mountain passes.

On the way, we stop at Trongsa, the historic heart of Bhutan, where you might catch a glimpse of a traditional archery match, the nation’s favorite sport.

As the drive continues, the landscape unfolds with terraced hillsides, rushing rivers, and peaceful villages.

We reach Wangdue by evening and settle into our hotel to rest after the day’s scenic drive.

Today’s journey takes us to Gangtey, a hidden gem nestled in the Black Mountains.

Along the way, we visit Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, beautifully perched above the river. From here, we continue toward the glacial valley of Phobjikha.

Upon arrival, we explore the historic Gangtey Monastery and take a nature walk through the wide valley, known for being the winter home of the rare Black-Necked Cranes.

We also stop at the Black-Necked Crane Information Centre for insights into these endangered birds.

After breakfast, we begin our drive back to Paro with a stop in the capital, Thimphu, for lunch and exploration.

With its peaceful charm, Thimphu is the only capital city in the world without traffic lights. You may visit a market or witness an archery match before continuing on to Paro.

By late afternoon, we arrive in Paro for a restful evening.

Today is a highlight of your Bhutan journey as we hike to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest.

The trail winds through pine forests, prayer flags, and occasional viewpoints. Midway, we rest at a café offering stunning views of the monastery.

Clinging to a cliff 900 meters above the valley floor, Taktsang is one of Bhutan’s most sacred sites, said to be blessed by Guru Rinpoche.

After the hike, we visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples. Later, enjoy some leisure time in Paro town.

After an early breakfast, we drive you to Paro International Airport for your onward flight.

Our representative will assist you with check-in and see you off with warm Bhutanese wishes.