Bhutan’s Punakha Festival is a captivating cultural event that draws visitors from around the world. This 7-day tour immerses participants in the heart of the festivities, where they’ll witness vibrant Tshechu dances, explore stunning landscapes, and engage with the local community. With an English-speaking expert guide, travelers can discover iconic sites like the Paro Taktsang Monastery. While the tour includes accommodations, meals, and transportation, there’s more to uncover about this immersive cultural experience.
Good To Know
- The tour includes a visit to the vibrant Punakha Festival, a cultural highlight of the 7-day itinerary.
- Participants will experience Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes during the tour.
- The tour is priced at $1,250 per person and includes accommodation, meals, transportation, and fees.
- Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is offered.
- Restrictions apply for wheelchair users and individuals over 95 years old, and drone use is prohibited during the tour.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Punakha Festival Tour is priced at $1,250.00 per person and lasts for 7 days.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
It’s a private group tour with an English-speaking live guide.
The tour covers various highlights in Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro, including the Punakha Festival, Taktsang Monastery hike, and traditional Bhutanese experiences.
Accommodation, meals, transportation, and fees are included, but personal expenses, drinks, and flights are excluded.
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those over 95 years old, and drones are prohibited.
Visitors must confirm their flights to Paro, as the airport has limited flights.
Itinerary Highlights
On the Punakha Festival Tour, visitors can expect an immersive itinerary that showcases the cultural highlights of Bhutan.
The tour begins with sightseeing in Thimphu, visiting landmarks like the National Memorial Chorten and Tashichho Dzong.
The next day, travelers explore more of Thimphu, including the Kuensel Phodrang and Motithang Takin Preserve.
The journey then continues to Punakha, where the highlight is attending the vibrant Punakha Festival.
Afterwards, the tour includes a hike to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten and a visit to the iconic Paro Taktsang Monastery.
Throughout the tour, visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes.
Key Attractions and Activities
Visitors to the Punakha Festival Tour can witness the vibrant Tshechu dances performed by skilled monks and locals.
The tour also offers a chance to hike to the iconic Paro Taktsang, also known as the Tiger’s Nest, providing stunning views of the Himalayan peaks.
Exploring Paro town and enjoying nature walks are additional highlights.
The tour includes a visit to Chimi Lhakhang, renowned as the Temple of Fertility.
Traversing the scenic Dochu-La Pass offers breathtaking panoramas.
Travelers can also enjoy traditional Bhutanese cuisine and experience the restorative hot stone baths.
Inclusions
The Punakha Festival Tour package includes a range of amenities and services to ensure a comfortable and immersive experience. Accommodation is provided in minimum 3-star hotels, with meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Bottled water is supplied during transport, and a licensed Bhutanese tour guide accompanies guests throughout the tour. All transportation, including transfers and sightseeing, is included, as are monument and museum fees, the Sustainable Development Fee, and the visa fee.
| Inclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | Minimum 3-star hotels, double/twin sharing |
| Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
| Transportation | All transfers and sightseeing |
| Guide | Licensed Bhutanese tour guide |
| Fees | Monument/museum fees, Sustainable Development Fee, Visa fee |
Exclusions
While the Punakha Festival Tour package includes a comprehensive set of amenities, there are some exclusions guests should be aware of.
The tour doesn’t cover personal expenses such as laundry, tips, and any drinks or beverages outside of the provided meals.
Plus, the cost of air transport or flights to and from Paro International Airport isn’t included in the tour price.
Lastly, guests should note that the Sustainable Development Fee of $100 per person per night and the Visa Fee of $40 per person must be paid separately.
Important Information
Certain restrictions apply to the Punakha Festival Tour. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 95 years old.
Drones aren’t allowed. Travelers must pay the Sustainable Development Fee of $100 per person per night and the Visa Fee of $40 per person separately.
It’s crucial to confirm flight bookings first, as flights to Paro are limited. The tour guide will be waiting outside Paro airport to receive participants upon arrival.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Customers can cancel their Punakha Festival Tour reservations up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible cancellation policy allows travelers to book with confidence, knowing they can make changes if needed.
The tour also offers a "Reserve now & pay later" option, where customers can secure their spot without paying upfront. Additionally:
- The full tour price is $1,250 per person.
- A Sustainable Development Fee of $100 per person per night and a Visa Fee of $40 per person must be paid separately.
- Flights to Paro are limited, so customers should confirm their bookings first before making any other arrangements.
How to Book
To book the Punakha Festival Tour, prospective travelers can visit the tour operator’s website or contact their team directly.
The tour is priced at $1,250 per person for the 7-day experience. Booking is flexible, with a "reserve now, pay later" option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour includes private transportation, accommodations, meals, a licensed Bhutanese guide, and all necessary fees.
Travelers should confirm their flight bookings, as flights to Paro are limited.
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 95 years old, and drone use is prohibited.
The Sum Up
The Punakha Festival Tour offers a comprehensive 7-day culture in Bhutan. Travelers can expect to witness vibrant traditional dances, explore stunning landscapes, and partake in local festivities. With all accommodations, meals, and transportation included, this tour provides an unforgettable adventure, showcasing the rich heritage of the region. It’s an excellent opportunity for those seeking an authentic Bhutanese experience.
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