Festivals Of Bhutan

10 Days - from $2727

Magnificent mountains, spectacular scenery and colourful festivals

Protected by the mighty Himalaya, the isolated kingdom of Bhutan is an unforgettable place to visit. The landscape is stunning, with steep forested hills and misty mountains rising from fast flowing rivers. However it's the fascinating culture that makes this country unique, boasting several colourful annual festivals. At these festivals hundreds gather to see the monks, dressed in brightly coloured robes, perform ritual dances. For several days there are masked dances and prayer meetings, and a general carnival atmosphere prevails. On the spring departure we will visit the Paro Festival, which culminates with the unfurling of a giant Thanka, whilst in June we visit the lesser known Nimalung and Kurjey festivals. We also see all the main sights in and around Paro and Thimpu, as well as the superb Dzongs (fortresses) that dot the valleys and hilltops. Itineraries can be slightly different due to the various festivals; please see Trip Notes for further details.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Start Kathmandu. 2 Spectacular mountain flight to Paro; drive to Thimpu, capital of Bhutan. 3 Full day sightseeing including Memorial Chorten and Simtokha Dzong (fort). 4 To Wangdi Phodrang, visiting Punakha for superb mountain views en route. 5 Drive to Paro. 6-7 Two full days sightseeing and enjoying the Paro festival and its unique atmosphere. 8 Fly to Kathmandu. 9 Morning sightseeing tour; afternoon free. 10 End Kathmandu.

Mode of travel: Travel is by private bus and 2 internal flights.
Group size: Min. 4, max. 16, plus local Bhutanese guide, drivers and appropriate local staff.
Accommodation: 9 nights tourist class hotels.
Food: All breakfasts, 6 lunches and 6 dinners included.
Optional Single Supplement: from $76.55
Trip Reference: AIB
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an 'R' in the dates and prices table below.