Thimphu Tshechu

8 Days / 7 Nights

About Thimphu Tshechu

Thimphu Tshechu is one of the most popular festivals in the country, which is held on the 10th Dayof the 8th Bhutanese Lunar Month for 3 day.

The festival was initiated in 1867 by Gyalse Tenzin Rabgay who was the 4th Desi. The festival is witnessed by thousands of people from all around the country. The festival is also seen as a break from the normal busy lives and an opportunity to catch up with friends and family, as they wear their finest cloths and join the festival. In the festival you will witness different types of masks dances, each with its own history. It is believed that the onlooker as blessed by these dances and it removes all the negative energies or misfortunes. The sacred Guru Thongdrel is displayed early in the morning on the last Dayof the festival; it is believed that ones who witness it are blessed with good merits in life. The festival is an opportunity for the visitors to all the visitors to experience and learn more about the country and its rich culture.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01Paro Day

As you arrive at the airport, your tour manager will receive you and drive you to your hotel. Once you are ready move to Ta Dzong, it was built as a watch tower and now it is established as the National Museum. Then descend to the Paro Rinpung Dzong, the fortress is located in a commanding location which offers a scenic view of the Paro valley.
During the evening you can explore Paro town.

Overnight at Paro (Altitude 2,280m).

Day 02Paro Day Tour

Day 03Paro – Thimphu

In the morning drive to Thimphu. Visit the Simply Bhutan Museum, National Library, Institute of Zorig Chusum and the Textile Museum, which will give you the insight of the culture and tradition of the country. In the afternoon go to the Buddha point, then visit Changangkha Lhakhang and later visit the Takin Preserve center.

Then drive to Sangaygang and walk through hundreds of prayer flags with a scenic view of the Thimphu valley.

Overnight at Thimphu (Altitude 2,320m).

Day 04Thimphu Day Tour (First Day of Thimphu Tshechu)

Today you will witness the Thimphu Tshechu. Walk with the locals to the Tendral Thang (the festival ground) next to the dzong and witness the festival with the crowd. You will take some time from the festival to visit the Thimphu Tashichhoe Dzong, which houses the office of the King.

Towards the afternoon you will go to witness a archery match and explore the local market. Towards the evening go to the Memorial Chorten and offer your prayers.

Overnight at Thimphu (Altitude 2,320m).

Day 05Thimphu - Gangtey

Post breakfast drive to Dochula pass (3088m), which offers the view of the highest peak in country Gangkarpuensum (7494m). You will also find 108 stupas and Druk Wangyal Lhakhang at Dochula. Then drive to Gangtey, which is considered one of the most beautiful valleys in the country. In the afternoon visit Gangtey Monastery and explore the fascinating Phobjikha valley.

Overnight at Gangtey (Altitude 3,000m).

Day 06Gangtey – Punakha

Day 07Punakha – Paro

Day 08Depart Paro

FAQs

What is Thimphu Tshechu, and why is it significant?

Thimphu Tshechu is Bhutan's most prominent festival, which takes place on the 10th day of the 8th Bhutanese lunar month. It was initiated by Gyalse Tenzin Rabgay in 1867. The festival runs for three days with mask dances and religious rituals, to include the sacred view of Guru Thongdrel. Thousands of visitors are seen attending this festival all dressed up, experiencing Bhutan's cultural wealth.

What are the main highlights of the Thimphu Tshechu tour?

The tour includes attending the Thimphu Tshechu festival, exploring Paro's iconic Tiger’s Nest and Rinpung Dzong, visiting Thimphu’s cultural sites like Simply Bhutan Museum and the National Library, and sightseeing at scenic spots like Dochula Pass and Gangtey Valley. A visit to Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang temple are other key highlights.

What is covered in the Thimphu Tshechu tour package?

The tour includes the three-day Thimphu Tshechu festival, a visit to the iconic Tiger's Nest and Rinpung Dzong of Paro, visits to all that is culturally relevant in Thimphu, including Bhutan Museum and National Library, sightseeing at Dochula Pass and Gangtey Valley. Included in the key highlights would be a visit to Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang temple.

What cultural experiences do I expect to occur from this tour?

The tourists will experience the Bhutanese cultural heritage by visiting the old monasteries, dzongs (fortresses), a mask dance performance, and traditional Bhutanese art at the Institute of Zorig Chusum. This Thimphu Tshechu festival, in itself, offers an authentic immersion in the Bhutanese traditions, beliefs, and festivities of the community.

What is the best time to visit Bhutan for Thimphu Tshechu?

The best months to enjoy the Thimphu Tshechu in Bhutan are during the lunar calendar of Bhutan from September to October. It is also the peak month for autumn in Bhutan, where the weather conditions can be very comfortable, with clear skies to offer an excellent view for traveling and cultural tours.