Delve into Bhutan’s rich history and cultural heritage as Punakha Dzong stands tall, guarding the sacred relic ‘Rangjung Kharsapani’ and commemorating the victorious defense led by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel against Tibetan forces. Join the annual Punakha Drubchen and Tshechu celebrations, where vibrant reenactments and Buddhist rituals unfold amidst the serene landscapes of Gangtey Valley, offering visitors an immersive experience in Bhutan’s spiritual and historical tapestry.
Punakha Dzong houses Bhutan’s most sacred relic ‘Rangjung Kharsapani’ a self-created image of the Bodhisattva of compassion. As per the historical accounts, Tibetan forces invaded the valley to seize the relic but Bhutanese “pazaps” (local militia men) led by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel successfully defended the relic and emerged victorious.
To commemorate the victory, Zhabdrung introduced the Punakha Drubchen. The Drubchen is celebrated as an annual festival. Visitors from the Gasa and Laya join the locals in Punakha to celebrate the festival.
The highlight of the Drubchen features a reenactment of the 17th century battle scene to honor Zhabdrung and the great men. Subsequently Punakha Tshechu was also introduced to preserve and promote Buddhism.
Tour Highlights Punakha Drubchen Idyllic Gangtey Valley Hike to Paro Taktsang The Tallest Sitting Buddha on a mountain top Tashichodzong – 17th century Fort
Drive from Paro Airport to Thimphu (1 hour) and sightseeing in Thimphu . The only capital city in the world without streetlights and an airport of its own, this small city is home to some 100,000 local residents including the Royal Family of the Kingdom of Bhutan. Like any other capital city, it is the political and economic center for the country.
The city has a 17th century fortress that houses the Office of His Majesty the King and The House of Parliament stands on the eastern bank of the Thimphu River opposite to the fortress.
Places and attractions: Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenama, Centenary Farmers Market, Post office , Tashi Chhodzong , Craft Market.
Drive from Thimphu to Dochula (1 hour)
Hike to Lungchutse from Dochula (2 ways and 1 hour at the spot- 4 hours). Lungchutse hike is one of the most rejuvenating and picturesque hike. The trail will take you through a diverse forest until you reach the ridge. From the Lungchutse temple you can enjoy a 360 degree view of the Himalayas and the valley below.
Lunch at Dochula Cafeteria and Drive to Punakha (1 and half hour) and Cultural Sightseeing at Punakha
Travelling to Punakha is like getting in a time machine and going back to the 17th century. Punakha offers tourists a unique medieval experience. The region still holds many traditional houses built decades ago with people leading a simple farming lifestyle.
The valley is especially beautiful during spring and autumn adorned by the produce in the paddy fields. Punakha was a former capital of Bhutan. Much of Bhutan’s significant history from fighting against the Tibetan invasion to the institution of first monarch to the signing of the treaty of Punakha with the British Indian Empire which shaped Bhutan’s future significantly were all witnessed in this region.
Places and attractions:
Punakha Fortress, Chimi Lhakhang, Zomlingthang riverside view, Punakaha suspension bridge, Dochola Pass, Lungchutse Hike
Visit to Punakha Drubchen
Punakha Dzong houses Bhutan’s most sacred relic Rangjung Kharsapani “a self-created image of the Bodhisattva of compassion. As per the historical accounts, Tibetan forces invaded the valley to seize the relic but Bhutanese “pazaps” (local militia men) led by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel successfully defended the relic and emerged victorious. To commemorate the victory, Zhabdrung introduced the Punakha Drubchen.
The Drubchen is celebrated as an annual festival. Visitors from the Gasa and Laya join the locals in Punakha to celebrate the festival.
The highlight of the Drubchen features a reenactment of the 17th century battle scene to honor Zhabdrung and the great men. Subsequently Punakha Tsechu was also introduced to preserve and promote Buddhism.
Places and attractions: Punakha Dzong : The palace of great bliss.
Early Drive from Punakha to Phobjikha (3 and half hours)
Phobjikha is one of the most idyllic places in Bhutan. The valley is part of an important wildlife reserve; the valley is home to the endangered black-necked cranes. These birds migrate south to the valley from Tibet every winter before flying back early spring. Aside from enjoying the tranquility, the valley also has multiple hiking trails leading through the small community in the valley.
Overnight at a Farm Stay
Places and attractions: Phobjikha, Black Necked Crane Information Center, Gangtey Monastery, Gangtey Nature Trail, Hot stone bath.
Not so early drive from Phobjikha to Paro (6-7 hrs).
Overnight at a hotel in Paro
Places and attractions: Paro Town.
Hike to Taktsang
Taktsang that translate to The Tiger’s Nest is a Buddhist monastery in Paro valley. According to the legend, Buddhist saint Guru Rinpoche flew to the current monastery site riding atop a tigress in the 7th century. Today it has become the most visited site by tourists.
Approached by a two hours hike through the pine forest, the majestic architecture perched on a cliff 900 meters above Paro valley greets the hikers. Once at the top, tourists can enjoy the panoramic view of the valley below.
Places and attractions: Tigers Nest Hike, Taksang Cafeteria.
Depart From Paro.
End of Trip
Explore Bhutan's victorious history at Punakha Dzong, where the sacred relic 'Rangjung Kharsapani' stands witness to Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel's defense against Tibetan forces. Immerse yourself in vibrant celebrations like Punakha Drubchen and Tshechu, weaving together reenactments and Buddhist rituals amidst the serene Gangtey Valley.
Embark on an exhilarating journey with our Trekking Tour, where breathtaking landscapes and thrilling adventures await. Traverse rugged terrains, conquer majestic peaks, and witness nature's grandeur up close. Our experienced guides ensure a seamless blend of challenge and awe-inspiring beauty, making every step a testament to your spirit of exploration.
Air to Bhutan is a travel company based in Thimphu Bhutan. Although it’s a new company, we work towards catering friendly and exclusive services to our guests. Bhutan is often regarded as an exclusive travel destination, the kingdom enjoys a reputation for authenticity, serenity and a well-preserved cultural heritage and protected natural environment.
Our firm is also driven by the concept of ‘responsible tourism’. Our policies and practices ensure that all our tours are undertaken in a way that is socially & culturally acceptable and environmentally friendly. We are firmly committed to a principle wherein the environment and culture are not sacrificed at the altar of tourism. While reaping the benefits from tourism, we are also giving back to our community by part taking social corporate responsibility.