Accommodation:
3★ Hotels in Paro, Thimphu, Punakha & Gangtey.
Homestay in Ura for cultural immersion.
Ura Yakchoe Festival – 9 Days, Bhutan
Overview
The Ura Yakchoe is a five-day annual festival held in the picturesque Ura Valley of Bumthang. This sacred event commemorates Guru Padmasambhava’s arrival to dispel a plague, with the display of a holy Vajrapani relic, masked dances, folk songs, and blessings for the community. Locals gather in their finest attire, creating a vibrant atmosphere that reflects Bhutan’s Buddhist heritage and rural traditions. This 9-day journey takes you across Paro, Gangtey, Bumthang, Punakha, and Thimphu, with highlights including Dzongs, sacred lhakhangs, Dochula Pass, and the legendary Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) hike. It is an unforgettable cultural immersion into Bhutan’s spiritual heartland.
Duration: 8 Nights / 9 Days
Festival: Ura Yakchoe Festival
Best Time: May
Destinations: Paro, Gangtey, Bumthang, Punakha, Thimphu
Difficulty: Easy – Cultural Tour with Festival
Day 1 – Paro Arrival
Arrive at Paro International Airport, complete visa formalities, and transfer to hotel. Visit Paro Dzong and stroll through Paro town and Kaja Throm market.
Day 2 – Paro to Gangtey
Drive to Gangtey via Dochula Pass with its 108 memorial chortens and Himalayan views. Visit Punakha Dzong and Gangtey Monastery in Phobjikha Valley. Overnight in Gangtey.
Day 3 – Gangtey to Bumthang (Ura)
Cross Pele-la Pass, visit Trongsa Dzong and the Royal Heritage Museum (Ta Dzong). Continue to Ura village in Bumthang. Overnight in a homestay.
Day 4 – Ura Yakchoe Festival
Attend the Ura Yakchoe Festival. Witness the sacred relic procession, Cham dances, folk songs, and blessings while mingling with the local community in their festive attire.
Day 5 – Bumthang to Punakha
Visit sacred sites including Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake), Jambay Lhakhang, and Kurjey Lhakhang. Drive to Punakha and overnight stay.
Day 6 – Punakha to Paro
Visit Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten and Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple). Stop at Buddha Dordenma and Jungshi Paper Factory in Thimphu before returning to Paro.
Day 7 – Tiger’s Nest Hike
Hike to the legendary Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery perched on a cliff. Return to Paro for leisure and overnight stay.
Day 8 – Paro Leisure
Optional day to relax, explore Paro further, shop for handicrafts, or revisit local sites with your guide. Overnight in Paro.
Day 9 – Departure
Transfer to Paro International Airport for your flight. Farewell prayers and best wishes from Bhutan.
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 in Ura.
Meals:
All meals with fine dining options where available.
Transport & Guide:
Luxury vehicle with professional driver.
Dedicated cultural expert guide.
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