Trongsa Festival Tour

(11 days)

Trongsa, the holy and temporal heart of the country is a two day journey from Thimphu. It is located in central Bhutan, it was once the seat of power over central and eastern regions. Both the first and second king of the Bhutan ruled the country from this ancient seat and it is customary for the crown prince to serve the Trongsa Penlop, governor prior to ascending the throne.

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, additionally, landing in the heart of Himalaya is like nowhere in the world. On arrival in Paro international airport PDT representative will receive you and transfer to Thimphu, Capital City around an hour drive. Upon arrival in Thimphu we will check into the hotel, after check in 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 sightseeing

After our leisure breakfast 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, Tango and Cheri Geonpa,( The Tango Monastery is a Buddhist monastery located 14 km to north of Capital city of Thimphu, near Cheri Geonpa. Changangkha Lhakhang, Traditional Paper making center, National Library (Collection of Buddhist Scriptures), Takin Zoo, weaving center, craft bazaar/craft shop, craft show room 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 3:  Thimphu to Punakha

We will checkout from the hotel and drive to Punakha, three hour drive from Thimphu to Wangdue Phodorang – Punakha valley is 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 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. During our stay here, 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. Overnight in Punakha. Altitude 1,350m.

 Day 4: Punakha to Trongsa

 After a breakfast, we will hike to Chimi lhakgahng, temple of fertility which is associated with religious arts of phallus. After that drive take us to Pelela pass.   Continuing on across Pelela pass, arrive at Trongsa, a small town, perched above a gorge, high above the Mangdechu river with a most spectacularly sited Dzong.  Normally a 5hr journey, the current road condition is likely to take more, and hence it is also a necessary stop.

Day 5: Trongsa Festival

After the leisurely breakfast, we will proceed to festival site and witness the most interesting annual Paro Tshechu 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 an 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 suit with most luxurious garments and jewelries. Don’t miss to witness the unique festivals of Bhutan. Overnight in Trongsa.

Day 6:  Trongsa to Jakar

 After our breakfast, we will check out from hotel and visit watch town, Trongsa Museum. En-rout we will stop at weaving center, and in evening we will explore into Bumthang,Jakar the spiritual and cultural heartland of the Kingdom. Overnight in Jakar. Altitude 2,650m.

Day: 7:  Jakar Sightseeing 
After leisurely breakfast visit:

Swiss farm: located near domestic airport, Bathpalathang, Jakar  

Jambay Lhakhang: This monastery was built in the 7th century by Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo. It is one of the 108 monasteries built by him to subdue evil spirits n the Himalayan region. Its present architectural appearance dates from the early 20th century. 

Kurje Lhakhang : Situated before Jambay Lhakhang, Kurje Lhakhang consists of three temples. The one on the right was built in 1652 on the rack face where Guru meditated in the 8th century. Second temple is built on the site of a cave containing a rock with the imprint of Guru’s body and is therefore considered the most holy. The third temple was built in 1990s by Ashi Kesang, the Queen Mother. These three temples are surrounded by a 108 chorten wall. 

Tamshing Lhakhang: Located across the river from Kurje Lhakhang, this temple was founded in 1501 by Terton Pema Lingpa, the re-incarnation of Guru Padsambhava. The monastery has very ancient religious paintings like 1,000 Buddhas and 21 Taras (female form of Buddhistava). The temple was restored at the end of the 19th century. 

Pelseling Goempa Pelseling Goempa is a sacred monastery with rich historic values. Situated on a steep mountain, it is a half day trek (3-4 hours) from the area of Jakar. The trek starts off at a mild pace but later gains momentum. Along the trek route, travelers are gifted with breathtaking views of the valley and large species of flora and fauna. About two thirds of the way, there is a beautiful meadow which is the perfect picnic spot. The last part of the hike requires more uphill trek until eventually the destination is on sight.

Kunzangdrak Goemba is two hours walk above Chel Tang Valley. It is one of the most important sites related to Pemalingpa the great treasure discoverer in Bhutan, who also constructed the Goemba in 1488. Most of his sacred relics are kept here including the gilded stone bearing his footprint.

Tang Rimochen Lhakhang in the valley is a sacred place of Guru Rimpoche. A rock in front of temple bears a body print of the Guru and two khandroms (female celestial being). The site is named after the tiger stripe markings on the cliff. Footprints of the Guru and his consorts Mandarava and Yeshe Chhogyal are found below the lhakhang. Two large boulders nearby are said to be male and female jachungs (garudas

Ugyenchholing Palace in Tang valley is another attraction. Restored in 19th century, it is now housing the Family Museum, a place that will transport visitors to another world and time. The visitors will view permanent exhibits recreated to capture the ambience of the lifestyle of the Trongsa Penelop (Governor) Tshokey Dorji and his household. It also serves as retreat for those engaged in religious history. Bhutan’s history truly unfolds here.

Membartsho (The Burning Lake) in Tang valley is a wide spot on the Tang Chhu (chhu – water / river) and is considered to be one of the greatest pilgrimage sites of Bhutan. Pema Linga found several of Guru Rinpoche’s hidden treasures here. The importance of this site is indicated by the extensive array of prayer flags and the small clay offerings called ‘Tse Tsa’ in rock niches.

Tang Valley: Terton (treasure discoverer) Pema Lingpa, the famous saint, was born in the Tang valley of Bumthang. The people of this valley raise sheep and at higher elevation, yaks as the soil in this region is not so rich for agricultural activities. From Bumthang central, it is a short drive past the Dechenpelrithang sheep farm to an unpaved road that leads to the north. Just under a kilometer ahead, there is a rough track on the left and another kilometer ahead, there is junction where vehicle can be parked. From parking, it is a short walk down to the river. The path is lined with prayer flags and ends up above a gorge where the river forms a pool before it rushes on. Images of Pema Lingpa and his two sons are carved on a rock here.

Ura Valley: Jakar to Ura is 48 km, about one and a half hour drive. To reach here, the road climbs toJakar valley Bhutan amazingly open countryside, only occasionally running into forest. Large sheep pastures line the road up to 20 km behind the southern tip of the Tang valley. The route crosses Ura la pass (3,600m) with a magnificent view of Mount. Gangkhar Puensum. Villages in Ura have clustered houses, which is quite unusual in Bhutan. Above Ura village (3,100m) is a new temple dedicated to Guru Rinpoche. Inaugurated in 1986, it contains a huge statue of the master and remarkable paintings of the cycle of his teachings. Since last 25 years Ura has been transformed from a marginal community to prosperous valley.

Ngang Lhakhang: A few hours walk from the Tangbi Goemba is the small region of Ngang Yul (Swan Land) and this temple here is 100 m above the valley floor. The site was visited by Guru Rinpoche and present temple was built in the 15th century by Lama Namkha Samdup, a contemporary of Pema Lingpa. A three days festival is held here each winter with masked dances in honor of the founder of the temple.

Tangbi Goemba: A walk of half an hour north of Kurje Lhahang leads to this monastery, founded in 1470 by Shamar Rinpoche of the Kagyupa religious school. The temple has two sanctuaries and a temple of terrifying deities. The sanctuary on the ground floor contains statues of past, present and future Buddha and three clay statues probably dating end of the 15th century. On the upper floor, the vestibule contains two remarkable paintings of Guru Rinpoche’s heaven and the Buddha Amitabh’s heaven.

Buli Lhakhang: Located on a hilltop towards left side while driving from Yutonlga pass to Chumey valley, Buli Lhakhang was founded in 15th century by Choeying, the ‘heart son’ of great religious figure Dorji Linga and later extended in 20th century. The complex consists of three temples; The Jokhang downstairs has beautiful pillars, paintings and statues dating back to its construction while the two temples upstairs were restored in early 20th century and have respectively, the Buddha of Three Times and Three longevity deities as their main statues. Buli Lhakhang plays an important role for this region of Chumey valley and holds an important festival, the Buli Mani, every two years on the 16th day of the first month of Bhutanese calendar.

Tharpaling Monastery: Tharpaling Monastery situated at 3600m is composed of series of buildings overlooking the Chumey valley. A feeder road starting from Gyetsa village of Chumey valley leads to the monastery in half an hour but it is often cut in monsoon season. Since its establishment by Lorepa (1187-1250), Tharpaling has been restored several times but most notably by Bhutan’s First King at the beginning of the 20th century. The monastery later prospered and remained an active centre for Nyingmapa teaching.

The Tharpaling main building houses two temples; the temple on the ground floor called the Tshogkhang, is adorned with statues of Longchen Rabjam, Guru Rinpoche, Trisong Detsen, Shantarikshita (Shiwatso), the Indian monk first invited to build Samye monastery in Tibet, as well as the great 18th century master Jigme Lingpa. The small temple on the upper floor was restored at the time of the First King, Sir Ugyen Wangchuck and it contains beautiful paintings of the paradise of Amitabha; also of Longchen Rabjam, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, and Guru Dewa, a rarely-seen form of Guru Rinpoche. The assembly hall of the monastic school with beautiful painting of the sixteen arts and the Lineage of Longchen Rabjam, is well worth seeing.

Tharpaling monastery is an important landmark of Bhutan, a monastic school where an ancient specific monastic tradition is taught, and holds an annual prayer, a monlam, in the first lunar month.

Lhodrak Kharchhu Monastery:
Located above the main town, about 3 km from Chamkhar town, the monastery was founded by Namkhai Nyingpo Rinpoche in 1984 who was recognized at a very young age by H.H. the 14th Dalai Lama and H.H. 16th Karmapa as the reincarnation of a Tibetan lama whose spiritual lineage dates back to the nearest disciples of the great 9th century master. Since then the monastery has developed considerably with increase in number of monks to almost four hundred. The monastey has become part of an extensive effort to preserve and revitalize Tibetan culture. The monks regular curriculum include reading, memorizing the daily prayers, learning dharma dances, drawing mandalas, learning the melodies of sacred rituals, learning the use of ceremonial instruments and the art of making sacrificial objects, grammer, poerty, karika along with the basics of contemplation and instruction on the different stages of tantra.

Chankhar Lhakhang : Beyond Jambay Lhakhang is Changkhar Lhakhang, the site of the palace of the Indian King Sindhu Raja. Because of its simplicity it looks like an ordinary village house. The original palace was built of iron and this is why it was named Chankhar, meaning iron castle. It was rebuilt in the 14th century by a Saint called- Dorji Lingpa.

Konchogsum Lhakhang: It was built in the 6th century but was renovated in 1995, which accounts for its fresh look. It contained a large bell and it is said that when this bell was rung it could be heard all the way in Lhasa in Tibet. During the 17th century a Tibetan Army tried to steal this bell but was too heavy and they dropped it and cracked it. It is now displayed at the National Museum in Paro.

Jakar Dzong : Founded by great grand-father of the first Shabdrung, the Dzong was initially built as a monastery in 1549. It was upgraded after the Shabdrung had firmly established his power in 1646. The Dzong is now used as administrative centre for Bumthang valley, and houses the regional monk body. Further, we will stroll to Jakar town and more. Overnight in Jakar.

Day 8: Chumey & Trongsa
A short drive takes us over to Chumey valley. Continuing on across Youtongla pass, arrive at Trongsa, a small town, perched above a gorge, high above the Mangdechu river with a most spectacularly sited Dzong.  Normally a 3hr journey, the current road condition is likely to take more, and hence it is also a necessary stop.

Day 9: Trongsa to Gangtey, Phobjikha 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 10:  Phobjikha to Paro

Checkout from hotel and retrace our drive back to Paro via, Wangdue, Dochula and Thimphu. On arrival in Paro, hike to iconic Taktsang (tiger’s nest) monastery, the most famous site in Bhutan. Drive short distance to Paro and begin this famous hike. During our stay here we will visit 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 the iconic Taktsang (Tiger’s nest) monastery, a quintessential Bhutan travel experience. For this hike, you can also hire a riding horse to take you part of the way. Overnight in Paro. Altitude 2,200m.

Day 11: End of your tour in Gross National Happiness country, Bhutan.
After breakfast our team will drive you to Paro airport for departure.

11 days

Although there seems to be no specific text about the origin of the Nabji Drup, according to Lam Chimi Rigzin and Lam Tenzinla, both from Nabji, it is believed that this festival was introduced by Dorji Lingpa (1346–1405) in the 14th century. Dorji Lingpa came from Tibet and discovered many treasures in Bhutan. In particular, he revealed the text of rDzogs pa chen po gsal ba’i me long (“mirror which clears the great perfection”) from Jampa Lhakhang in Bumthang. Dorji Lingpa also reconstructed the Chakhar temple, naming it Dechen Phodrang, and then initiated the Jampa Lhakhang Drup in Bumthang. He later went to Nabji and started the Nabji Drup as per the text’s prophecy. According to Lam Tenzinla, the Drup performed at Nabji – including the tercham (naked dance) – was thus modelled after Jampa Lhakhang Drup.

Nabji experienced many outbreaks of disease, with the village almost being wiped out at one point. In the 16th century, Pema Lingpa (1450-1521) and Trulku Chogden Gonpo (1497–1530) went to Nabji and performed rituals to stop the illnesses and resolve conflicts among several villages. Thereafter, the people of Nabji became devotees of Trulku Chogden Gonpo, who was believed to be the second reincarnation of Dorji Lingpa and a close disciple of Pema Lingpa.

With the villagers’ assistance, Chogden Gonpo restarted Nabji Drup, and later it was either the Chakhar Lam from Bumthang (believed to be a reincarnation of Trulku Chogden Gonpo) or Lam Ugyen Zangpo who took care of the festival. Lam Ugyen Zangpo subdued spirits in Bumthang that were harming people, and the locals came to regard him as their lam (spiritual teacher), so he came to be known as Chakhar Lam. Lam Ugyen Zangpo’s descendants from Chakhar have since had the responsibility of holding Nabji Drup. Presently, Lam Chimi Rigzin is the abbot of the temple and festival.

Lay practitioners (gomchen) perform the ritual and celebrate the Drup from the 15th– 20th days of the 11th month of the Bhutanese calendar. Through this ritual, villagers believe that by the grace of the local deities there will be no disasters or epidemics in the village, nor indeed in all of Bhutan. At the same time, the village will be blessed with abundant wealth and bountiful crops, and peace and harmony will reign in Bhutan.

On the 13th and 14th days of the 11th month, the temple caretaker collects the following items from the 46 villager households for the facility of the Drup:

• 1 measure (sang) of butter; 1 piece of cheese; 2 eggs; 2 (750 ml) bottles of local wine; 1 bje of maize powder; 3 bje of red or white rice; 2 bje of zow (puffed rice); 1 bje of zhimtsi (perilla frutescens plant grains); and 4 bje of unhulled rice from all the households (A bje is a bre in Choekey. The quantity is not standardized, but instead varies according to the area, valley, etc. 1 bje is roughly equal to ½ kg.)
• 3½ bundles (dom) of firewood

There are no differences in expectations of the rich and the poor. Everyone must contribute the above goods, but no money is collected for the ritual. The caretaker organizes the preparation of the religious cakes (torma) using the maize powder and makes the required arrangements in the temple for the Drup.

The village is divided into two parts, Upper Nabji and Lower Nabji, with the selection of the hosts for the Drup done by turns. If Upper Nabji is the host one year, then Lower Nabji will host the following year. This year (January 2015), it was Upper Nabji’s turn. Every day, four households from Upper Nabji prepared breakfast and donated butter for the afternoon tea, while another four households prepared dinner. This occurs in rotation, so every household will work once during the festival.A few elders and young students, guided by the elderly, perform the dance in the temple courtyard.

Nabji Drup Festival

 Day; 1

Every year the caretaker assigns a sponsor for the festival, and in case if there is more than one declared sponsor, the caretaker gives out the responsibility of the festival on a first come first served basis. This year the sponsors were Ap Trashi Penjor and Aum Phurpamo. Dorji Sey Trulku, who currently resides at Dorji Sey in Tang, was asked by the villagers and abbot to come out and head the festival.

The caretaker prepares the main relics, and at 10 am, with a simple ceremony, these relics are taken to the sponsor’s residence and placed in the well decorated inner altar room.

The Trulku is then escorted in a chipdrel (procession) ceremony. He enters the sponsor’s residence and takes a seat in the inner altar room. Important villagers sit beside him, while others are seated in the outer room of the altar. The dancers enter the altar room, and a small offering (marchang) ceremony begins. After this ceremony, the lady of the house enters the altar room with local wine and offers it to the Trulku, after which it is served to the guests. The dancers then put on a performance.

The main relics are then carried back to the temple, but this time, the chipdrel is long and elaborate. The relics are carried in front of the procession, and then the Trulku and lamas bless the villagers who wait beside the path to receive blessings. When the chipdrel reaches the temple, a group of people who are near the entrance blow trumpets, and everyone circumambulates once around the temple before entering. Inside the temple’s inner chapel, the Trulku, lamas, and others prostrate several times, chanting prayers and offering mandala. Then the Trulku offers money and a scarf to the main inner chapel and the Guru statue, which is said to have been sculpted by Trulku Chogden Gonpo. The devotees then prostrate to the Trulku and lamas.

After these rituals, the ceremony of Zhudrel Phunsum Tshogpa begins, and at the end of the marchang people shout while a woman sings. Dancers, cooks, the caretaker, and all other participants in the festival are called in, and the Lama gives a command to them about their responsibilities. When this is over, participants are given holy water, which signifies purity and abiding of the command; this holy water works whether people drink it or not.

Ritual of Setting Boundary

At 1 pm, the Trulku and lamas chant and insert tormas into boxes, which are placed in each of the four directions of the temple. They begin with the white box, which signifies the eastern king; then the yellow box, which is the south; followed by the red box, the west; and finally the blue box for the north. They circumambulate the temple while doing this.

After this ceremony, the Trulku and Lama stand on the temple’s steps and perform the ritual of clearing obstacles. Below the steps, there is a hole into which all the evil spirits will be locked. This hole is covered with a slate, on which the Trulku makes a cross sign with the dagger (phurpa). Fire, signifying anger or troubles, is placed on the slate, and water, symbol of peace, is poured over it. Peace brings down troubles, just as water does to a fire.

While this is happening, four masked dancers representing the Kings of Four Directions perform for the Trulku and Lama. Beside the dancers stands a man dressed like a hero holding a victory banner, and when the ritual is complete, he raised his sword and dances, performing a part called bae, signifying a hero expressing his abilities. Later, another man, who is dressed in the same way, takes the banner, holds a sword, and also performs the dance of the hero.

After this performance, another group of dancers appears, and then comes the dance of the ging, comprised of four performers. After the religious dance (cham) is over, most of the villagers disperse to go home, while inside the temple a blessing ceremony (Jinlab Thrikhar Koedni) is performed.

Later in the evening, the Trulku exits the temple dressed as a black hat tantrist (Zhana) and takes his seat in front of the temple. The dance of Pezang (alternately called Gapoi Chham) begins, which narrates the ancestors’ descent to earth and to Nabji village. Pezang is the son of the god Lhajagin Wangpo; he is considered the one who started the Nabji village festival. He is also the main jester of the festival. In the dance, Pezang begins to narrate about himself, after which four dancers representing the Kings of Four Directions perform in the courtyard.

The dancers then raise sticks holding a cloth on which an effigy of an evil spirit is drawn. They raise this just above the fire that burns in the middle of the courtyard. Then six Zhana arrive and dance. Meanwhile, Pezang goes around entertaining the audience.

Two new performers arrive at the courtyard holding a sword in their right hands and a scarf in their left. The Trulku steps near the fire, and the Kings of Four Direction dancers bring the cloth down close to the fire. The Trulku pours oil in the fire, which burns the cloth, and the four dancers leave the courtyard. The six Zhana performers continue performing, and then one by one they too leave the courtyard.

A monk with a scarf tied around his neck appears holding a white substance in both hands. He circulates the fire several times performing a dance, and then he leaves. A man then prostrates to the Trulku and receives a blessing from him. After that, the four performers come back to the courtyard with a bundle of sticks with fire for the Gektor ritual, which is meant to avoid obstacles.

The Trulku rises from his seat, and the ritual begins when a torma is placed in front of him. The Trulku holds a drilbu (small bell) and dorje (thunderbolt) and performs a ritual using fireworks. Then the Trulku and lamas walk toward the paddy field for the fire blessing (mewang) and stand above the gate made out of tree leaves and straws. The gate is set on fire, and the participants pass through it several times while the Trulku and lamas recite prayers. It is said that the more times people go through the gate, the more blessings they will receive and the more obstacles will be cleared.

Following this ritual, the Trulku, Lama and Pezang visit each household to remove obstacles, after which the Lama returns to the temple. He is later joined by the Trulku and Pezang, along with some dancers. The Trulku and Pezang are seated in the altar room, and, while the dancers perform, the lady of the house receives blessings, first from Pezang and then from the Trulku. The Trulku is offered two plates of rice and one bottle of wine, while half a bottle of wine is offered to Pezang. Later, dancers dance in each household, where they are also served wine.

The Trulku takes his wine (trashi chang), but his rice (trashi sumkoed) is kept in the house; it will be presented as an offering during the last day of the festival and will bring good luck to the family.

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, additionally, landing in the heart of Himalaya is like nowhere in the world. On arrival in Paro international airport PDT representative will receive you and transfer to Thimphu, Capital City around an hour drive. Upon arrival in Thimphu we will check into the hotel, after check in 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 to Punakha

We will checkout from the hotel and drive to Punakha, three hour drive from Thimphu to Wangdue Phodorang – Punakha valley is 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 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. During our stay here, 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. Overnight in Punakha. Altitude 1,350m.

Day 3: Punakha to Trongsa

After breakfast drive us to Trongsa by crossing Pelela pass. After crossing Pelela will en-route to Trongsa, literally “New Town” in the Dzongkha language, is where the current monarchy had its origin in Bhutan. Each King in the line of succession has held the post of Trongsa Penlop or Governor before donning the Raven Crown. There visist Trongsa Dzong – The foundations of Trongsa Dzong were laid in the 16th century by by Pema Lingpa. The Dzong flourished during the 17th century under Shabdrung Ngwang Namgyal. With its massive structure, its wall looming high above the winding Mangde Chu Valley, the Dzong commands the east-west road.  Further we will visit Taa Dzong – Built as a watch tower the Taa Dzong has since been turned into a Heritage Museum. A book on this prominent Dzong is written by Christian Schicklgruber entitled The Tower of Trongsa, Religion and Power in Bhutan.

Day 4: Trongsa to Nabji

After leisurely breakfast drive us to Nabji village following road of Zhemgang districts, before an hour to arrive Zhemgang districts there is a junction point and from this junction point drive right turn, the way towards Nabji valliage. An hour drive from junction point you will arrive in Nabji village. After arriving here visit to spiritual site followed by visiting Nabji Lhakhang and in evening explore into the Nabji Village. Overnight in Nabji, Homestay.

Day: 5 & 6: Nabji Drup Festival

Day:2

After serving the morning  porridge is served in the temple to the Lama and lay monks. They begin to chant the Lama Kadue, a Dorji Lingpa ritual, while in the dressing room masked dancers prepare for their performance.

The Trulku arrives at the temple, and a simplified chibdrel begins, with a drummer, a boy with a bell, some men and women singers, and others escorting the Trulku. After a while, the Trulku and other lamas are seated in front of the temple where the arrangement is made for the long life blessings (tshekhuk). People start prostrating to the Trulku and lamas. A carpet is now placed in front of them, and the recipient for the marchang is placed on the carpet while a woman sings.

During this ritual, there will be two offerings of marchang. The first is called Soeldeb Marchang, and another large pot full of tshechang (long life alcohol) is placed in the middle of the recipients. While the marchang is conducted, Zhenchey Pem, a dance similar to a hero dance, is performed by four men in the courtyard.

Pezang then arrives holding a tshedar, a long life flag that he uses to bless the audience. After that, other jesters join him in the courtyard. The Trulku, Lama, and a girl dressed as a dakini (khandro) holding a skull filled with alcohol face the temple. They perform some prayers and then offer the alcohol in the four directions – beginning from the east – to the Triple Gems, local deities, and dakinis.

They then stand near the cypress tree in front of the temple entrance, where people begin to receive the tshechang blessings from the Trulku and Pezang. At the end of the blessing, young men lift the villagers – regardless of their age or gender – and spin them around. The elderly say that this will dissolve the tshechang into their entire bodies. This ritual is repeated for the next two days.

Arround  11:00 am, masked dances begin with the Gektor, which involves a ritual cake offered to spirits and negative forces who may obstruct the festival. The masked dances are as follows:

• Salang Chham Shinjay Pho Mo: Always performed as an introduction to other masked dances that will be performed during the festival.
•  Zharling Chham: A half-naked man known as Hom comes out holding a stick in his hands; he is believed to be an evil spirit but considers himself to be superior.
• Jug-Ging Chham: Can vary from 8 to 12 performers who wear animal masks, hold a stick, and are considered to be the manifestations of Guru Rinpoche. (In January 2015 there were 12 dancers.) This performance is said to be a ritual to clear away obstacles provoked by the Hom.
• Drol-Ging Chham: The dancers, varying from 8 to 12 performers, wear wrathful and peaceful masks, and are considered to be the manifestations of Guru Rinpoche. (In January 2015 there were 12 dancers.) A ritual cake called drawo (དགྲ་བོ), symbolizing the enemy, is placed in the middle of the courtyard, and the dancers perform around it. The chief dancer subdues the drawo, whose blood is then offered to the deities. The peaceful deities do a peaceful offering, while the wrathful deities offer a wrathful one. The ritual cakes are then kept in the inner chapel and will be discarded the following day. The dance ends with the expulsion of enemies, dokpa, in the four directions.
• Nga-Ging Chham: Eight performers carry a drum in the left hand and a drumstick in the right.
• Jachung Baychung: Two performers wear a Garuda (jachung) mask, and one who is half naked wears a white skeleton mask. He is known as Zhaoli, the son of Pezang.

Morning near the courtyard, the dance of liberating the evil spirit’s soul is performed, followed by the sacred naked Tercham.

 Day;3

The rising bell is rung early morning porridge is served in the temple to the Lama and lay monks. They begin to perform the ritual of Lama Guru Drakpo, headed by the Trulku and the abbot. A man then plays the cymbals, drum, and bell to call the villagers, and then they all gather in the courtyard.

This day begins like the second. The Trulku and lamas come to the courtyard to perform the long life ritual, and a pot for marchang is placed in front the Trulku and Lamas. The first marchang is the Soeldep Marchang, in which Zhenchey Pem is performed, and Pezang arrives with a long life flag. The pot for the marchang is then removed, and religious tea (choja) is served to the Trulku and lamas.

The caretaker then arrives with the second marchang, which is the tshechang; this ritual follows the same order as on the previous day with the long-life blessing. Later, Pezang enters the courtyard with a sword hung on his belly to prepare himself to fight with Pholay during the Pholay Molay dance.

From around 11 am, the following masked dances are performed:

• Shazam Cham: Stag Dance with four dancers
• Shana Nga Cham: Black Hat Dance with five dancers
• Ging Tsholing Cham: Dance of the Wrathful Deities and the Ging
• Pholay Molay: Dance of Noble Men and Charming Ladies; Pezang’s grandmother also appears during this dance; she is considered the cause of the jealousy conflict between Pezang and Pholay about Molay.

This marks the end of the masked dances.

In evening inside the temple, the ritual of Guru Drakpoi TorDok is performed to prevent obstacles and disasters in the village and the country; this ritual is for the wellbeing of all sentient beings. Arround 6:00 pm, the tormas, which are all painted red, are brought outside and placed on a table near the exit. Then two Jachung, two Shana, and the Kings of Four Directions perform the dance called Bey. The Trulku arrives in Zhana costume. A huge heap of straw is gathered in a paddy field below the temple where the tormas will the thrown and burned, and fireworks and small bombs are set off. After some time the tormas are taken to the straw pile, and the Trulku and abbot throw them into the fire. The abbot is the final person to return to the temple so that obstacles will not dare to affect the villagers.

In morning just as on the previous day, the Dance of Liberating the Evil’s Soul is performed near the courtyard, followed by the sacred naked Tercham.

 Day : 4

After serving  porridge is served in the temple to the Lama and lay monks. With the Trulku and abbot presiding, they begin to perform the ritual called Lama Tshepamed, followed by the same order of rituals as on the second and third days, up to the long-life blessing and the Gektor.

At 11 am the following masked dances are performed:

• Chung Cham: Dance of Garuda; during the three-day festival, this marks the end of the masked dances.
• Raksha Go Cham: Deer Head Dance
• Nyel Cham or Mang Cham: Public Dance; there are nine episodes in this dance, between which people can offer scarves to the dancers to show their devotion.
• Shinjay Cham: Shinjay (Lord of Death) is invited to the courtyard, after which the villagers receive blessings from him.

At 9 pm near the courtyard, the Dance of liberating the evil’s soul is performed, followed by the sacred naked Tercham.

 Day:5

After serving porridge is served in the temple to the Lama and lay monks, after which they begin to chant the Lama Kadue, a Dorji Lingpa ritual.

A banner (thongdrel: a banner that liberates upon sight) of Guru Rinpoche and his two consorts – as well as of Zhabdrung; Dorji Lingpa; Trulku Chogden Gonpo; and protective deities – is displayed for the blessings near the temple. Upon completion, the thongdrel is returned to the temple.

At day time, the following tercham of Dorji Lingpa are performed:

• Dri Cham: Sword Dance
• Pa Cham: Dance of Heroes
• DorLing Nga Cham: Drum Dance of Dorji Lingpa

After these dances are over, the main relics of the temple (statues of Dorji Lingpa; Chana Dorji/Vjrapani; Buddha; and a phallus-shaped stone) are brought out to the participants for blessings. The villagers then offer scarves and money to the dancers, after which they watch the farewell performance of Pezang returning to heaven. The mask of Pezang is then placed in the inner chapel and will not be taken out again until next year’s festival.

The villagers offer the auspicious prayer of Trashi Monlam along with the rice that was offered to the Trulku and lamas on the first day.

The day’s rituals end with the Dance of Good Parting (Trashi Labey).

 Day; 6. Final day

Early morning on the final day a ritual of cleansing (Lhabsang Thrusel) is performed inside the temple. Singers and dancers sing a song (zheymo) called Choe Ki Tsawa Mitsuk, composed by Dorji Lingpa.

The ritual that day is a confession ritual, which means confessing all misdeeds, failures, and other negative actions committed from the first day until the evening of the sixth day.

Arround 11:00 am, a jinsek (fire offering) is performed, followed by the dismantling of the boundary. Then the Trulku and Lama visit the host’s house carrying only the relics brought from Chakhar in Bumthang and not those from the temple.

Further, many ritual site can visited by you in and around the Nabji Village whereby you can pray and pay a homage for wellbeing of all sentient beings and for yours. Nabji village is the one of the preciuose spiritual site in the country, although it is located in the far-flung area

Day 7: Nabji village 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 to Thimphu

After a breakfast drive us to Thimphu 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. Thimphu established as the capital of Bhutan in 1961. Its population in under hundred thousand. It has a youthful exuberance that constantly challenges the country’s conservatism and proud tradition. The ever-present juxtaposition of old and new is just one of its appealing qualities. Crimson-robed monks, Indian labourers, gho- and kira-clad professionals and camera-wielding tourists all strolling on; and nobody, it seems, is in a hurry. Thimphu is the world’s only capital without traffic lights. In evening you will en-rout into the Thimphu town, craft bazzar in and around town and more. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 9: Hike to Phajoding monastery

The hike to Phajoding Monastery is around 3 hours trek up and around 2 hours trek down. But if there is more time then you can trek all the way up to Thuje Dra till you can see the skull mountain. The view from Phajoding Monastery and Thuje Dra of Thimphu is simply breath taking. From the top of Thuje Dra, you can see the Rhododendron bushes stretching all the way. This hike is part of the Druk Path Trek. In late noon we head back to Thimphu.

The World Monument Fund (WMF) has listed Phajoding monastery as one of the 5 endangered cultural monuments that need most help in the world. Phajoding monastery was founded in 1224 by Phajo Drugom Zhipo (Buddhist saint) who spread the Drukpa Kagyupa sect of Buddhism in Bhutan. After hike visit include;

 Simtokha Dzong: This dzong, built in 1627 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, stands on a low ridge 8 km down the valley from Thimphu. The Institute for Language and Cultural Studies is located here. The most noteworthy artistic feature of this dzong is the series of over 300 finely worked slate carvings behind the prayer wheels in the courtyard. :

Zilukha Nunnery: On the edge  point, overlooking attractive Trashichhoedzong and Golf course, it is the only nunnery in capital once belong to the Drubthop Thangthong Gyalpo often referred to as King of the open field in the early 15^th century. You may interact gere with nuns who have devoted their life to spiritual and Buddhism. In evening at leisure in hotel.

Handicrafts Shops; A wide assortment of colorful, hand woven textiles and other craft products is available for purchase at the government-run Handicrafts Emporium and many smaller crafts shops around the town.

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 10: Thimphu to Paro

After leisurely breakfast 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 your stay 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 the iconic Taktsang (Tiger’s nest) monastery, a quintessential Bhutan travel experience. In the eveining at leisure.For this hike, you can also hire a riding horse to take you part of the way. Overnight in Paro. Altitude 2,200m.

Day 11; End of your tour in Gross National Happiness country,Bhutan.
After breakfast our representative will drive you to Paro airport for departure.