Royal Highland Festival Tour (Seasonal)

08 Nights/09 Days

Places Covered :

Paro
Thimphu
Punakha
Gasa
Laya

Package Description

A 9-day luxury itinerary for the Royal Highland Festival Tour, designed to offer a unique blend of cultural immersion, luxury accommodations, and exploration of Bhutan’s remote regions.

This Royal Highland Festival Tour itinerary offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion, luxury, and adventure, tailored for discerning travelers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience.

Package Highlights

Highland Festival in Laya.
Highlights:
- Attend the vibrant festival showcasing Bhutanese culture, sports, and traditions.
- Stay in luxury lodges and camps.
- Explore remote regions like Laya and Gasa.
- Helicopter tours available for a scenic journey.
Best For: Cultural enthusiasts and photographers
Best time: Check for festival date

Optional Add-Ons:

Helicopter Tours: Enhance your journey with scenic helicopter transfers.
Extended Stays: Add more days for deeper exploration or relaxation.
Wellness Focus: Customize your itinerary with additional spa treatments or yoga sessions.

Daywise Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival in Paro Transfer to Thimphu

Morning:
- Arrive at Paro International Airport. Complete immigration and meet your guide.
- Drive to Thimphu (1.5 hours).
Afternoon:
- Check-in at a luxury hotel (e.g., Amankora Thimphu or COMO Uma Thimphu).
- Lunch at the hotel with Bhutanese and international cuisine.
Evening:
- Take a leisurely walk around Thimphu or relax at the hotel.
- Dinner at the hotel with a briefing on the itinerary.
Highlight: Warm hospitality and preparation for the journey ahead.

Day 2 - Thimphu Exploration

Morning:
- Visit the Buddha Dordenma Statue, Tashichho Dzong, and the Folk Heritage Museum.
Afternoon:
- Lunch at a local restaurant or the hotel.
- Stroll through the Centenary Farmers’ Market (if it’s a weekend).
Evening:
- Return to the hotel for a wellness session (spa treatment or yoga).
- Dinner at the hotel.
Highlight: Immerse in Bhutan’s capital city and its vibrant culture.

Day 3 - Thimphu to Punakha

Morning:
- Drive to Punakha (3 hours) via the Dochula Pass (stop to admire the 108 stupas and Himalayan views).
Afternoon:
- Check-in at a luxury lodge (e.g., Amankora Punakha or COMO Uma Punakha).
- Visit the Punakha Dzong and take a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang.
Evening:
- Relax at the lodge with a riverside dinner.
- Optional: Traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath.
Highlight: Stunning views of the Punakha Valley and the Mo Chhu River.

Day 4 - Punakha to Gasa

Morning:
- Drive to Gasa (4 hours) through picturesque landscapes.
Afternoon:
- Check-in at a luxury campsite near Gasa.
- Enjoy a gourmet lunch and relax.
Evening:
- Dinner at the campsite with a cultural performance (traditional songs and dances).
Highlight: Experience the remote beauty of Gasa.

Day 5 - Gasa to Laya Royal Highland Festival

Morning:
- Drive or take a helicopter to Laya (approx. 2 hours by road or 30 minutes by helicopter).
Afternoon:
- Check-in at a luxury campsite near Laya.
- Attend the Royal Highland Festival, showcasing Bhutanese culture, sports, and traditions.
Evening:
- Dinner at the campsite with a festive atmosphere.
Highlight: Immerse in the vibrant and unique Royal Highland Festival.

Day 6 - Laya Royal Highland Festival

Morning:
- Attend the festival’s cultural performances and traditional sports.
Afternoon:
- Enjoy a gourmet lunch at the campsite.
- Explore the local village and interact with the Layap people.
Evening:
- Dinner at the campsite with a cultural performance.
Highlight: Deepen your connection with Bhutan’s highland culture.

Day 7 - Laya to Punakha

Morning:
- Drive or take a helicopter back to Punakha.
Afternoon:
- Check-in at a luxury lodge.
- Relax with a wellness session (spa treatment or yoga).
Evening:
- Dinner at the lodge.
Highlight: Reflect on the festival experience in luxury.

Day 8 - Punakha to Paro

Morning:
- Drive to Paro (4 hours).
Afternoon:
- Check-in at a luxury hotel (e.g., Amankora Paro or COMO Uma Paro).
- Visit the National Museum and Paro Dzong.
Evening:
- Relax with a wellness session or enjoy a private dinner under the stars.
Highlight: Luxurious lodge setting with views of the Paro Valley.

Day 9 - Paro Departure

Morning:
- Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel.
- Transfer to Paro Airport for departure.
Highlight: Depart with unforgettable memories of Bhutan’s highland culture and luxury.