Punakha Drubchen & Tshechu Festival Tour

The Punakha Drubchen is unlike any other festival in Bhutan: it features a dramatic re-enactment of the 17th-century battle in which Bhutanese militia repelled a Tibetan invasion, with hundreds of men in traditional warrior dress filling the courtyard of the spectacular Punakha Dzong. This historic spectacle flows directly into the Punakha Tshechu, with its sacred mask dances and the unfurling of a great Thongdrel. Set at the beautiful riverside dzong at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu, and timed for the mild late-winter weather of the Punakha valley, this tour offers a richer and more intimate festival experience than the larger Paro and Thimphu Tshechus — while still covering the essential highlights of western Bhutan.

Please note: festival dates are tentative and set by the lunar calendar; final dates are confirmed by the Department of Tourism closer to the event.

Daywise Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrive Paro, transfer to Thimphu

Arrive at Paro, meet your guide, and drive to Thimphu. Afternoon visit to the Buddha Dordenma and Memorial Chorten. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 2 : Thimphu sightseeing

Visit Tashichho Dzong, the Institute for Zorig Chusum, the Folk Heritage Museum, and the Takin Preserve. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 3 : Thimphu to Punakha via Dochula Pass

Drive over the scenic Dochula Pass (3,100 m) with its 108 chortens and, on clear days, sweeping Himalayan views. Descend into the warmer Punakha valley. Visit Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple, via a gentle walk through rice fields. Overnight in Punakha.

Day 4 : Punakha Drubchen (battle re-enactment)

Attend the Punakha Drubchen at Punakha Dzong, witnessing the vivid historical re-enactment of the 17th-century battle — one of Bhutan’s most unique festival spectacles. Overnight in Punakha.

Day 5 : Punakha Tshechu (mask dances)

Spend the day at the Tshechu enjoying sacred cham mask dances and the vibrant gathering of local communities in the dzong courtyard. Optional visit to the Punakha suspension bridge. Overnight in Punakha.

Day 6 : Punakha to Paro

Drive back to Paro, stopping again at Dochula. In the afternoon, hike to (or view) Paro Taktsang, the Tiger’s Nest, depending on time and energy. Overnight in Paro.

Day 7 : Departure

Transfer to Paro airport for your onward flight. Trip concludes.

Package Inclusions & Exclusions

Inclusions

Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) as mandated by the Royal Government of Bhutan.
Accommodation in certified 3★ / 4★ / 5★ hotels (as per package selection).
Daily meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner).
Licensed English-speaking Bhutanese tour guide.
Private transportation with experienced driver throughout the trip.
Airport transfers (arrival & departure).
All internal travel permits and route permits.
Entrance fees to monuments, museums, and cultural sites.
Bottled drinking water during sightseeing.
Government taxes and service charges.
Basic travel assistance and on-ground support.
No Hidden Fees/Costs.

Exclusions

International airfare to and from Bhutan.
Visa fee for Bhutan (if applicable).
Travel insurance (highly recommended).
Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, shopping, etc.).
Alcoholic beverages and bar bills.
Tips and gratuities for guide and driver.
Optional activities (e.g., spa treatments, hot stone bath, special cultural shows).
Single room supplement (if not specified in the package).
Charges for camera/video permits at certain sites.
Any expenses arising due to flight delays, cancellations, weather conditions, or unforeseen circumstances.
Emergency evacuation and medical expenses.