Gasa Tshechu (11 days)
Takin Festival (10 days)
Gasa Tshechu (11 days)

Gasa Tshechu

11 days

The Gasa Tshechu is the biggest festival in the small district of Gasa in northwest Bhutan. Gasa is the home to highlander communities. While Highland district just recently connected by road. It’s famous for it’s hot springs which are attracting huge numbers of local people. The district castle, the Gasa Dzong is also worth of visiting.

Laya is subregion of Gasa district just on the border of Tibet. It’s inhabited by distinctive ethnic group called Layaps whose ladies are easily recognizable due to their typical antenna hats. The main villages of the  are Laya and Lungu. So far you can only get here by trekking from Gasa but road is under construction. Laya is important stop on the all variants of Snowman and Masagang Base camp treks.

Most remote area of Bhutan, not connected by road and blocked by snow form the rest of the country for third of the year. I takes several days walk to reach here from road head in Gasa. The famous Snowman Trek goes through here.

While during tshechu many mask dances are performed, the local folk dances performed are very unique and district adding to the festival mood of the celebration.

Itinerary Summery

Day: 11 days – Night: 10 nights  
Outline Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro to Thimphu

Your journey by flight to Kingdom of Bhutan offers remarkable views of the world highest mountains including Mount Everest. On arrival in Paro international airport, serene Paro at 7,500ft is one of Bhutan’s most fertile and most beautiful valley, our representative will meet/greet /receive you and transfer to Thimphu, around an hour drive. Upon arrival in Thimphu we will check into the hotel, after the lunch we will visit many monuments and attractions of Thimphu, including Tashicho Dzong, the farmers market, Gaint Buddha Statue, Memorial Chorten, Traditional Art School where 13 different arts are practiced and learnt, Indigenous Hospital, Textile museum, Handicraft workshops and more. Thimphu offers the best opportunity to do your own thing in the evening. It’s relaxed, friendly and pretty informal, and is most rewarding if you can be the same. Overnight in Thimphu. Atltitude 2,400m.

Day 2; Thimphu hike to Tango and Cheri Monastery.

After our leisurely breakfast hike to:

Tango Goemba: This monastery was founded by Lama Gyalwa Lhanangpa in the 12th century and the present building was built in the 15th century by the “Divine Madman”, Lama Drukpa Kunley. In 1616 Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal visited Tango and meditated in a cave near the monastery. His meditation helped ensure the defeat of an invading Tibetan army. The head Lama, a descendent of Lama Drukpa Kunley presented the goemba to Shabdrung, who carved a sandalwood statue of Chenrezig which he installed in the monastery. The picturesque three-storey tower and several surrounding buildings were built in the 18th century by the eighth Desi, Druk Rabgye and Shabdrung Jigme Chhogyel added the golden roof in the 19th century.
Situated north of Thimphu, one way it takes about 30 minutes’ drive and one hour walk through shaded rhododendron forests to reach the monastery.
Cheri Goemba: This monastery was built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1620. A silver chorten inside the monastery holds the ashes of Shabdrung’s father. The goemba is situated about half an hour walk from Dodena (alt. 2,600m).
The trail commences by crossing a traditional wooden bridge that spans the Thimphu Chhu, then climbs steeply to the monastery. Being the place where the Shabdrung spent many years in meditation, Cheri today has numerous hermitages and small temples located on its slopes, commanding spectacular views. The one way walk to the monastery is approx 4.5 km, taking about 2 hours.
Changangkha Lhakhang;It is a fortress like temple and monastic school perched on a ridge above Thimphu, south of Motithang. The temple was established in 12th century on a site chosen by Lama Phajo Drugom Shigpo, who came from Tibet. The central statue here is Chenrezig in a manifestation with 11 heads. From temple courtyard, there is fascinating view of Thimphu valley. 

Tandin Nye; This sacred Lhakhang is about 1km from main town, built on a clif just like the Tiger’s Nest in Paro. This visit to the temple provides an opportunity to feel and see the great work of ancient Buddhist ledends.

Craft Bazzar: On Tuesday and Wednestday in centenary market Framer’s market, under support of Department of cottage & small industry and in collaboration with the department of culture, tourism council and the Department of agriculture, this market offers Bhutanese arts & crafts thus contributing in promotion, protection and preservation of traditional arts. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 3; Thimphu to Punakha

Proceed to Phunakha across spectacular Dochula pass. On a clear day, you will see panoramic views of snowcapped peaks of eastern Himalayan range, including Bhutan’s highest peaks. Punakha was the capital of Bhutan until the 1950s. Today, the central monk body moves to Punakha in the winter when it gets too cold in Thimphu. With a climate almost tropical in the summer, the valley is blessed with an abundance of fruits and rice. Punakha and Wangdue towns are located close to each other in one valley. Punakha was the former winter capital of Bhutan and was established in this location, in part because Punakha is a warmer at a relatively low altitude of 4,100 feet (1300m). The climate allows for the production of two rice crops each year, along with growth of subtropical fruits such as oranges, mangos, and bananas and more. Overnight in Punkha.

Day 4: Punakha sightseeing

After our breakfast we will visit the impressive Punakha Dzong fortress located at the confluence of Pho and Mo Chu Rivers, Chimi lhakgahng, temple of fertility which is associated with religious arts of phallus. We’ll take an easy walk in the valley, visit some of its monasteries, villages, take short drives and enjoy this idyllic countryside dotted with farm houses and terraced hillsides. Further drive us to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Stands majestically ridge above Punakha valley, built over a period of 9 years by Bhutanese craftsman including carpenters, painters and sculptors consulted Holy Scriptures rather than engineering manuals to construct these four stored temple. It is a splendid example of Bhutan’s fine architectural and artist traditions and the only one of its kind in the world built by her majesty the queen mother dedicated for the wellbeing of the kingdom and the benefit of all sentient beings. Overnight in Punakha. Altitude 1,350m.

Day 5: Punakha to Gasa

After breakfast proceed to Gasa the small district of Gasa in northwest Bhutan. Gasa is the home to highlander communities. While Highland district just recently connected by road. After arrival in Gasa you can also enjoy the mineral Hot Spring Baths, one of the most popular in the country for the locals as well as tourists. Taking baths in Hot spring will cure your physical, mental and spiritual sin and illness. Further, you can also enjoy with local handicrafts like Yak wool products of highlanders, yak hair woven tents, local exotic meals, bamboo items, leather goods, yak butter and cheese.

Day 6: Gasa Festival

After breakfast proceed to festival site and witness the festival for whole day. Festivals are preformed to honor Buddhist saint Guru Rimpoche who brought Buddhism in the country in 7th century. Tse meaning date and chu meaning tenth, is performed annually in all the districts coinciding with tenth day of the Bhutanese calendar. Interesting and colorful mask dances are shown publicly in a open ground specially in the courtyard of the fortress, “The Dzong”, where all people gather to witness the dances. Witnessing the Tsechu is believed to accumulate the good deeds and help us to ride of the sins committed in the past. This is also wonderful opportunity to click the Bhutanese in best outfit with most expensive garments and jewelries. Don’t miss to witness this unique festivals of Bhutan. Overnight in Gasa.

Day 7: Gasa to Phobjikha-Gangtey valley

Checkout from hotel and drive us to Phobjikha or Gangtey, valley of black necked crane. Phobjikha or Gangtey, is a wide glacial valley with a central stream meandering through the open grassland and thickets of dwarf bamboo. Farmlands occupy the peripheral slopes where potatoes and turnips are grown. The central area is a marsh land protected as habitat for wildlife. At 2900m, this is the highest night halt on your journey. The valley is a protected (Conservation) area and is both scenically and culturally worthwhile. Visit Gangtey Gonpa, walk around the feeder road of Phobjikha valley meeting local and students and more. Overnight in Phobjikha. Altitude 2,900m.

Day 8: Phobjikha-Gangtey valley sightseeing

After the leisurely breakfast drive us to Phobjikha or Gangtey, valley of black necked crane. Phobjikha or Gangtey, is a wide glacial valley with a central stream meandering through the open grassland and thickets of dwarf bamboo. Farmlands occupy the peripheral slopes where potatoes and turnips are grown. The central area is a marsh land protected as habitat for wildlife. At 2900m, this is the highest night halt on your journey. The valley is a protected (Conservation) area and is both scenically and culturally worthwhile. Visit Gangtey Gonpa, walk around the feeder road of Phobjikha valley meeting local and students and more. Overnight in Phobjikha. Altitude 2,900m.

Day 9: Phobjikha to Paro

After a breakfast drive us to Paro across spectacular Dochula pass. On a clear day, you will see panoramic views of snowcapped peaks of eastern Himalayan range, including Bhutan’s highest peaks and follow our way back up to bright green Paro Valley at 7,500ft, is one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and most fertile valley. Numerous shrines, fortresses and farm houses dot the landscape and graceful willow trees grow along the edge of Pachhu River, which passes through paddy fields and farmlands. In evening ex[lore into the Paro Tow. Overnight in Paro.

Day 10: Paro sightseeing (Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery)

Check out from the hotel and follow our way back up to bright green Paro Valley at 7,500ft, is one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and most fertile valley. Numerous shrines, fortresses and farm houses dot the landscape and graceful willow trees grow along the edge of Pachhu River, which passes through paddy fields and farmlands. During our time here, visit the ruins of Drugyal Dzong, a fortress which protected the valley against invaders from north. Visit beautiful 7th century Kichu Lhakhang temple, see many beautiful Buddhist wall paintings and iconography inside Dungtse Lhakhang, built in 1421. Among others you will also visit Bhutan National museum, housed in an ancient watchtower and visit Paro Rinphung Dzong, one of the most beautiful fortress /monastery in Bhutan. We also dedicate a full day for excursion to vigorous hike up to the Taktsang to the iconic Taktsang (Tiger’s nest) monastery, a quintessential Bhutan travel experience. We also dedicate a full day for excursion to vigorous hike up to the Taktsang to the iconic Taktsang (Tiger’s nest) monastery, a quintessential Bhutan travel experience

Day 11: End of your tour in Gross National Happiness Country, Bhutan.
After breakfast you will drop to Paro airport for departure.

Takin Festival (10 days)

Takin Festival

10 days

As mysterious as the Himalayan Kingdom, is its national animal, the Takin (Budorcas taxi color). It is believed that the hermit saint, Drukpa Kunley ( 1455 – 1529), popularly known for his eccentricity and lascivious disposition, who was visiting village of Samtengang in Sha, Wangduephodrang was served a dish, which was literally a goats head and beef carcass. The villagers had known about the visit and were expecting him to perform a miracle.

Drukpa Kunley ate the whole of what was served, and put the skull and skeleton figure to rise and gaze in the mountain. The villagers craving for a miracle was situated and a new animal, with a goat’s head and cows body was brought to life.

Takin Festival in Damji, Gasa. The Takin festival in Damji, Gas celebrates this mythical creature, found only in Himalayas and zoos in countries like USA and UK. It is a rare and endangered species and in Bhutan an inhabitant of the Jigme Dorji Wangchuk National park. There are about 164 recorded Takins in the National preserve, the second largest in the country, which is is a thriving population. The first known information about Takin in Bhutan dates back to 1905 when Britsih political officer, John Claude White took a photograph of a baby Takin. Until than, west considered the Takin as a creature from Greek mythology.

Takin, scientifically ia associated with the sheep family, but in Bhutan it is still a creature from a legend, and so the Takin festival also celebrates the power of Drukpa Kunley. One of the highlights of the festival is the reenactment of the miracle Drukpa Kunely performed for the villagers of Samtengang.

Besides meeting the Takin, the preserve also offers dramatic and spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains and other natural wonders, which are all a products of Bhutan’s strict conservation rules, values and farsighted leadership.

It is also opportunity to meet highlanders from Laya and Lunan who walk down to witness the festival.

You can also enjoy the mineral Hot Spring Baths, one of the most popular in the country for the locals as well as tourists. Taking baths in Hot spring will cure your physical, mental and spiritual sin and illness. Further, you can also enjoy with local handicrafts like Yak wool products of highlanders, yak hair woven tents, local exotic meals, bamboo items, leather goods, yak butter and cheese.

Gas fall under the second largest reserved area of the Bhutan and is the least populated districts, thus the Takin freely roam on these land. Further Gasa is known as the Organic districts of the Bhutan and is rich in medicinal plants.

This festival is to create awareness that the Takin is an endangered species, and yet because Bhutan protects these animals and have protected parks for them. It’s a rare and exciting opportunity to be close to these animals during festival.

Itinerary Summery

Day: 10 days – Night: 9 nights  
Outline Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro to Thimphu

Your journey by flight to Kingdom of Bhutan offers remarkable views of the world highest mountains including Mount Everest. On arrival in Paro international airport, serene Paro at 7,500ft is one of Bhutan’s most fertile and most beautiful valley, our representative will meet/greet /receive you and transfer to Thimphu, around an hour drive. Upon arrival in Thimphu we will check into the hotel, after the lunch we will visit many monuments and attractions of Thimphu, including Tashicho Dzong, the farmers market, Gaint Buddha Statue, Memorial Chorten, Traditional Art School where 13 different arts are practiced and learnt, Indigenous Hospital, Textile museum, Handicraft workshops and more. Thimphu offers the best opportunity to do your own thing in the evening. It’s relaxed, friendly and pretty informal, and is most rewarding if you can be the same. Overnight in Thimphu. Atltitude 2,400m.

Day 2; Thimphu Hike to Tango and Cheri Monastery.

After our leisurely breakfast hike to:

Tango Goemba: This monastery was founded by Lama Gyalwa Lhanangpa in the 12th century and the present building was built in the 15th century by the “Divine Madman”, Lama Drukpa Kunley. In 1616 Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal visited Tango and meditated in a cave near the monastery. His meditation helped ensure the defeat of an invading Tibetan army. The head Lama, a descendent of Lama Drukpa Kunley presented the goemba to Shabdrung, who carved a sandalwood statue of Chenrezig which he installed in the monastery. The picturesque three-storey tower and several surrounding buildings were built in the 18th century by the eighth Desi, Druk Rabgye and Shabdrung Jigme Chhogyel added the golden roof in the 19th century.
Situated north of Thimphu, one way it takes about 30 minutes’ drive and one hour walk through shaded rhododendron forests to reach the monastery.
Cheri Goemba: This monastery was built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1620. A silver chorten inside the monastery holds the ashes of Shabdrung’s father. The goemba is situated about half an hour walk from Dodena (alt. 2,600m).
The trail commences by crossing a traditional wooden bridge that spans the Thimphu Chhu, then climbs steeply to the monastery. Being the place where the Shabdrung spent many years in meditation, Cheri today has numerous hermitages and small temples located on its slopes, commanding spectacular views. The one way walk to the monastery is approx 4.5 km, taking about 2 hours.
Changangkha Lhakhang: It is a fortress like temple and monastic school perched on a ridge above Thimphu, south of Motithang. The temple was established in 12th century on a site chosen by Lama Phajo Drugom Shigpo, who came from Tibet. The central statue here is Chenrezig in a manifestation with 11 heads. From temple courtyard, there is fascinating view of Thimphu valley. 

Tandin Nye: This sacred Lhakhang is about 1km from main town, built on a clif just like the Tiger’s Nest in Paro. This visit to the temple provides an opportunity to feel and see the great work of ancient Buddhist ledends.

Craft Bazzar: On Tuesday and Wednestday in centenary market Framer’s market, under support of Department of cottage & small industry and in collaboration with the department of culture, tourism council and the Department of agriculture, this market offers Bhutanese arts & crafts thus contributing in promotion, protection and preservation of traditional arts. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha

Proceed to Phunakha across spectacular Dochula pass. On a clear day, you will see panoramic views of snowcapped peaks of eastern Himalayan range, including Bhutan’s highest peaks. Punakha was the capital of Bhutan until the 1950s. Today, the central monk body moves to Punakha in the winter when it gets too cold in Thimphu. With a climate almost tropical in the summer, the valley is blessed with an abundance of fruits and rice. Punakha and Wangdue towns are located close to each other in one valley. Punakha was the former winter capital of Bhutan and was established in this location, in part because Punakha is a warmer at a relatively low altitude of 4,100 feet (1300m). The climate allows for the production of two rice crops each year, along with growth of subtropical fruits such as oranges, mangos, and bananas and more. Overnight in Punkha.

Day 4: Punakha sightseeing

After our breakfast we will visit the impressive Punakha Dzong fortress located at the confluence of Pho and Mo Chu Rivers, Chimi lhakgahng, temple of fertility which is associated with religious arts of phallus. We’ll take an easy walk in the valley, visit some of its monasteries, villages, take short drives and enjoy this idyllic countryside dotted with farm houses and terraced hillsides. Further drive us to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Stands majestically ridge above Punakha valley, built over a period of 9 years by Bhutanese craftsman including carpenters, painters and sculptors consulted Holy Scriptures rather than engineering manuals to construct these four stored temple. It is a splendid example of Bhutan’s fine architectural and artist traditions and the only one of its kind in the world built by her majesty the queen mother dedicated for the wellbeing of the kingdom and the benefit of all sentient beings. Overnight in Punakha. Altitude 1,350m.

Day 5: Takin Festival, Damji, Gasa

After breakfast proceed to Takin Festival site and witness and experience the festival whole day.

The Takin festival in Damji, Gas celebrates this mythical creature, found only in Himalayas and zoos in countries like USA and UK. It is a rare and endangered species and in Bhutan an inhabitant of the Jigme Dorji Wangchuk National park. There are about 164 recorded Takins in the National preserve, the second largest in the country, which is is a thriving population. The first known information about Takin in Bhutan dates back to 1905 when Britsih political officer, John Claude White took a photograph of a baby Takin. Until than, west considered the Takin as a creature from Greek mythology.

Takin, scientifically ia associated with the sheep family, but in Bhutan it is still a creature from a legend, and so the Takin festival also celebrates the power of Drukpa Kunley. One of the highlights of the festival is the reenactment of the miracle Drukpa Kunely performed for the villagers of Samtengang.

Besides meeting the Takin, the preserve also offers dramatic and spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains and other natural wonders, which are all a products of Bhutan’s strict conservation rules, values and farsighted leadership.

It is also opportunity to meet highlanders from Laya and Lunan who walk down to witness the festival.

You can also enjoy the mineral Hot Spring Baths, one of the most popular in the country for the locals as well as tourists. Taking baths in Hot spring will cure your physical, mental and spiritual sin and illness. Further, you can also enjoy with local handicrafts like Yak wool products of highlanders, yak hair woven tents, local exotic meals, bamboo items, leather goods, yak butter and cheese.

Gas fall under the second largest reserved area of the Bhutan and is the least populated districts, thus the Takin freely roam on these land. Further Gasa is known as the Organic districts of the Bhutan and is rich in medicinal plants.

This festival is to create awareness that the Takin is an endangered species, and yet because Bhutan protects these animals and have protected parks for them. It’s a rare and exciting opportunity to be close to these animals during festival.  Overnight in Punakha.

Day 6: Punakha to Phobjikha –Gangtey valley

Checkout from hotel and drive us to Phobjikha or Gangtey, valley of black necked crane. Phobjikha or Gangtey, is a wide glacial valley with a central stream meandering through the open grassland and thickets of dwarf bamboo. Farmlands occupy the peripheral slopes where potatoes and turnips are grown. The central area is a marsh land protected as habitat for wildlife. At 2900m, this is the highest night halt on your journey. The valley is a protected (Conservation) area and is both scenically and culturally worthwhile. Visit Gangtey Gonpa, walk around the feeder road of Phobjikha valley meeting local and students and more. Overnight in Phobjikha. Altitude 2,900m.

Day 7: Phobjikha-Gangtey valley sightseeing

After the leisurely breakfast drive us to Phobjikha or Gangtey, valley of black necked crane. Phobjikha or Gangtey, is a wide glacial valley with a central stream meandering through the open grassland and thickets of dwarf bamboo. Farmlands occupy the peripheral slopes where potatoes and turnips are grown. The central area is a marsh land protected as habitat for wildlife. At 2900m, this is the highest night halt on your journey. The valley is a protected (Conservation) area and is both scenically and culturally worthwhile. Visit Gangtey Gonpa, walk around the feeder road of Phobjikha valley meeting local and students and more. Overnight in Phobjikha. Altitude 2,900m.

Day 8: Phobjikha to Paro

After a breakfast drive us to Paro across spectacular Dochula pass. On a clear day, you will see panoramic views of snowcapped peaks of eastern Himalayan range, including Bhutan’s highest peaks and follow our way back up to bright green Paro Valley at 7,500ft, is one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and most fertile valley. Numerous shrines, fortresses and farm houses dot the landscape and graceful willow trees grow along the edge of Pachhu River, which passes through paddy fields and farmlands. In evening ex[lore into the Paro Tow. Overnight in Paro.

Day 9: Paro sightseeing (Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery)

Check out from the hotel and follow our way back up to bright green Paro Valley at 7,500ft, is one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and most fertile valley. Numerous shrines, fortresses and farm houses dot the landscape and graceful willow trees grow along the edge of Pachhu River, which passes through paddy fields and farmlands. During our time here, visit the ruins of Drugyal Dzong, a fortress which protected the valley against invaders from north. Visit beautiful 7th century Kichu Lhakhang temple, see many beautiful Buddhist wall paintings and iconography inside Dungtse Lhakhang, built in 1421. Among others you will also visit Bhutan National museum, housed in an ancient watchtower and visit Paro Rinphung Dzong, one of the most beautiful fortress /monastery in Bhutan. We also dedicate a full day for excursion to vigorous hike up to the Taktsang to the iconic Taktsang (Tiger’s nest) monastery, a quintessential Bhutan travel experience. We also dedicate a full day for excursion to vigorous hike up to the Taktsang to the iconic Taktsang (Tiger’s nest) monastery, a quintessential Bhutan travel experience.

Day 10: End of your tour in Gross National Happiness country, Bhutan. 
After breakfast drive you to Paro airport for departure.