Jambay Lhakhang Festival

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro
Welcome to Bhutan! Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you'll be greeted by your guide. After check-in at your hotel, visit Paro Rinpung Dzong, a stunning fortress-monastery overlooking the valley. Take a leisurely walk across the traditional wooden cantilever bridge. In the evening, explore Paro town and prepare for your journey ahead. O/N at Hotel in Paro.

Day 2: Paro - Taktsang Monastery Hike
Today's highlight is the iconic hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest), clinging dramatically to a cliff 900 meters above the valley. This sacred pilgrimage site is where Guru Rinpoche meditated in the 8th century. The 4-5 hour round-trip hike offers breathtaking views and a profound spiritual experience. Horses can be arranged for part of the ascent. In the afternoon, visit the National Museum at Ta-Dzong and the ancient Kyichu Lhakhang temple. O/N at Hotel in Paro.

Day 3: Paro to Thimphu
Drive to Thimphu (1.5 hours), Bhutan's capital city nestled in a scenic valley. Visit the massive Buddha Dordenma statue (51.5 meters) for panoramic valley views. Explore the Memorial Chorten, where locals continuously circumambulate while spinning prayer wheels. Visit the Folk Heritage Museum and, if time permits, the National Textile Museum showcasing Bhutan's rich weaving tradition. O/N at Hotel in Thimphu.

Day 4: Thimphu Sightseeing
Spend a full day exploring Thimphu. Visit Tashichho Dzong, the impressive fortress housing government offices and the throne room. Explore the National Institute for Zorig Chusum where students learn Bhutan's 13 traditional arts and crafts. Visit Simply Bhutan Museum for interactive cultural insights. If visiting on a weekend, experience the vibrant farmers' market. End at Changangkha Lhakhang, offering stunning views and a glimpse of local devotion. O/N at Hotel in Thimphu.

Day 5: Thimphu to Punakha
Journey to Punakha (3 hours), crossing the scenic Dochula Pass (3,100m) adorned with 108 memorial chortens. On clear days, enjoy magnificent Himalayan views. Visit Punakha Dzong, Bhutan's most beautiful fortress at the confluence of two rivers. In the afternoon, walk through rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple dedicated to the Divine Madman, Drukpa Kunley. O/N at Hotel in Punakha.

Day 6: Punakha to Bumthang
Today's journey takes you deep into central Bhutan (approximately 6-7 hours). Cross Pele La pass (3,300m) and stop at the imposing Trongsa Dzong, an architectural marvel built in 1648. Continue through Yotong La pass (3,425m) to reach Bumthang, Bhutan's spiritual heartland. This region comprises four beautiful valleys at around 2,600m elevation. O/N at Hotel in Bumthang.

Day 7: Jambay Lhakhang Festival - Day 1
Full day at Jambay Lhakhang Drup Festival. Watch spectacular masked dances performed by monks, depicting Buddhist teachings and historical events. The dances include the Black Hat Dance, Dance of the Stags, and various other sacred performances. Explore the monastery complex, one of Bhutan's oldest dating from the 7th century. Soak in the festive atmosphere as locals dressed in their finest traditional attire gather for this sacred event. O/N at Hotel in Bumthang.

Day 8: Jambay Lhakhang Festival - Day 2 & Midnight Fire Ceremony
Continue experiencing the festival's sacred dances during the day. Visit nearby Kurje Lhakhang and Tamshing Lhakhang. In the evening, return to Jambay Lhakhang for the extraordinary midnight fire ceremony (Mewang). Under the stars, witness naked dancers performing a purification ritual around a massive bonfire, one of Bhutan's most unique spiritual ceremonies. This ancient ritual is believed to cleanse sins and bestow blessings. O/N at Hotel in Bumthang.

Day 9: Bumthang to Paro
After a relaxed morning, begin the long but scenic drive back to Paro (approximately 8-9 hours with stops). Enjoy the changing landscapes as you cross mountain passes and descend through valleys. Stop at viewpoints for photos and tea breaks. Arrive in Paro by late afternoon and relax at your hotel. O/N at Hotel in Paro.

Day 10: Departure from Paro
After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey. Your guide will assist with departure formalities, bidding you farewell with memories of Bhutan's sacred festival and warm hospitality.

Note: The exact dates of Jambay Lhakhang Drup festival vary each year according to the Bhutanese lunar calendar, typically falling in late October or early November. Please check with us for specific dates.