Accommodation:
3★ Hotels in Paro, Thimphu & Punakha.
Homestays in Gasa & Laya for authentic highland experience.
Royal Highland Festival – 8 Days, Bhutan
Overview
The Royal Highland Festival is Bhutan’s unique celebration of its highland nomadic culture, held every October in the remote village of Laya at 3,800m. This vibrant two-day festival showcases yak and horse racing, traditional songs, dances, epic poetry, and highland crafts while promoting environmental preservation in fragile alpine areas. Visitors immerse in the resilience and hospitality of Bhutan’s highland communities while exploring Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gasa, and the legendary hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery. This 8-day journey combines breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, sacred sites, and the cultural immersion of the Royal Highland Festival.
Duration: 7 Nights / 8 Days
Festival: Royal Highland Festival
Best Time: October
Destinations: Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gasa, Laya
Difficulty: Moderate – Cultural Tour with Highland Hike
Day 1 – Paro Arrival
Arrive at Paro International Airport, meet your guide, and transfer to hotel. Visit Paro Dzong and explore Paro town & Kaja Throm market.
Day 2 – Tiger’s Nest Hike
Hike to the sacred Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery, perched on a cliff at 3,120m. Return to Paro for rest and overnight stay.
Day 3 – Paro to Gasa
Drive via Thimphu and Punakha to reach Gasa, known for its rugged Himalayan terrain and Layap culture. Overnight in a local homestay.
Day 4 – Gasa to Laya
Drive to Taktsimakha army checkpoint, then hike 2 hours uphill to reach Laya Village (3.5 km). Explore the village and acclimatize.
Day 5 – Royal Highland Festival
Attend the Royal Highland Festival in Laya. Witness yak and horse racing, Tibetan mastiff parades, songs, dances, and poetry recitations at 4,000m elevation.
Day 6 – Laya to Punakha
Descend to Taktsimakha, visit Gasa hot springs, and continue to Punakha. Enjoy natural healing waters and the scenic Punakha Valley.
Day 7 – Punakha to Paro
Visit Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple). Stop at Buddha Dordenma and Jungshi Paper Factory in Thimphu before driving back to Paro.
Day 8 – Departure
Transfer to Paro International Airport for departure with lasting memories of Bhutan’s highlands and culture.
Normal Package
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included as per itinerary.
Transport & Guide:
Private vehicle with driver.
Licensed English-speaking guide.
Luxury Package
Accommodation:
4★–5★ Hotels & Resorts in Paro, Thimphu & Punakha.
Premium farmhouse or curated homestay experience in Laya.
Meals:
All meals with options for fine dining experiences.
Transport & Guide:
Luxury vehicle with professional driver.
Dedicated cultural expert guide.
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