Expedition to the Kingdom of Happiness: to the Tiger's Nest and to the Buddhist Tsechu festival
BHUTAN
April 6 - 12, 2025
Tour Bhutan
Tour to Bhutan, Kingdom of Happiness, Buddhist festival Tsechu, Thimphu, Himalaya
!Welcome to Bhutan, the Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon, as the Bhutanese call their country!
During our short but eventful expedition, we will be participants in a vibrant festival in Thimphu, ascend to the majestic Tiger's Nest, and admire the green valleys and traditional architecture of this mountainous kingdom.
We will also share a traditional meal with monks in a monastery and learn about the unique teachings of the local Divine Madman.
All this, and much more, awaits us in the Kingdom of Happiness – Bhutan!
During our short but eventful expedition, we will be participants in a vibrant festival in Thimphu, ascend to the majestic Tiger's Nest, and admire the green valleys and traditional architecture of this mountainous kingdom.
We will also share a traditional meal with monks in a monastery and learn about the unique teachings of the local Divine Madman.
All this, and much more, awaits us in the Kingdom of Happiness – Bhutan!
Welcome to Bhutan, the Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon, as the Bhutanese call their country. During our short but eventful expedition, we will be participants in a vibrant festival in Thimphu, ascend to the majestic Tiger's Nest, and admire the green valleys and traditional architecture of this mountainous kingdom. Additionally, we will share a traditional meal with monks in a monastery and learn about the unique teachings of the local Divine Madman. All of this, and much more, awaits us in the Kingdom of Happiness – Bhutan!
SCHEDULE & COST:
Dates: April 6 - 12, 2025
Duration: 7 days / 6 nights
Number of participants: 6 – 12
Cost per person:
- USD 2 850 subject to 12 participants or
- USD 2 990 subject to 10 – 11 participants or
- USD 3 190 subject to 8 – 9 participants or
- USD 3 450 subject to 6 – 7 participants
Early booking discount: 10% (valid until December 5, 2025)
Everything is included (including Bhutanese visa and three meals a day) except for:
Approximate cost of Moscow – Paro – Moscow flight: 1400 – 1500 USD (usually purchased independently, we will provide guidance).
Approximate cost of Dubai – Paro – Dubai flight: 1000 – 1200 USD (usually purchased independently, we will provide guidance).
Single supplement: 330 USD
TRAVEL PROGRAM: Bhutan Tour
Day 1. April 6, 2025 (Sunday). Paro – Thimphu (50 km, 1.5 hours)
We begin our exploration of Bhutan with a visit to the National Museum in Paro, which is housed in a former watchtower situated directly above Paro Dzong.
After that, we will head to Thimphu, stopping along the way at Tachog Lhakhang to see a traditional bridge built using ancient iron chains.
We will also visit the National Memorial Stupa, from where you can catch a view of the monumental Tashichho Dzong.
Next, we’ll explore the famous new National Textile Museum and the Takin Reserve, where you can see the takin, Bhutan’s national animal, along with other residents of the Bhutanese forests.
To end our day, we’ll head to the Golden Buddha, offering a stunning view of the valley.
Meals included: Dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Seven Suites Thimphu or similar
*Recommended Flights:
Note: Only a local airline operates flights to Bhutan, making it impossible to reach Bhutan directly from major international hubs. The most convenient flights depart from Delhi, India. Flights are also available from Kathmandu (Nepal) or Kolkata (India).
IMPORTANT: A transit visa is required for India if you plan to change flights there.
*Recommended flight from Delhi (India) to Bhutan:
Day 2. April 7, 2025 (Monday). Thimphu
After breakfast, we will take a gentle hike to Dodheydrak Monastery in the Thimphu valley. The 2.5-hour hike along an ancient hidden path offers breathtaking views of colorful rhododendrons that brighten the chir pine forest in spring, while the pine-covered trail allows for sightings of numerous birds and butterflies. As we ascend, we’ll enjoy stunning views of the Tashichho Dzong, Wangdi Tse, Dechen Phodrang, and the city of Thimphu.
After this, we’ll visit the Zorig Chusum – Bhutan’s Institute of 13 Arts and Crafts, a handmade paper factory, and a local market where visitors can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and a variety of colorful local goods such as yak-tail brooms, Tibetan tea cups, turquoise from Tibet, musical instruments, and more. In the evening, we’ll visit the majestic Tashichho Dzong.
We will also stop by the archery grounds. In Bhutan, archery is enjoyed by people of all ages, both men and women, and companies organize friendly matches. It’s quite different from what we’re used to, and today, we’ll see it in action.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Seven Suites Thimphu or similar
Day 3. April 8, 2025 (Tuesday). Thimphu – Punakha (70 km, 2 hours)
After breakfast, we’ll head to the Punakha Valley, crossing the Dochula Pass, where we’ll stop to admire the 108 stupas built by the former queen as a memorial for those who died during the conflict in late 2002, when Bhutan expelled Indian insurgents camped in the border jungles. On a clear day, you’ll witness breathtaking views of the Eastern Himalayas.
Upon arrival in Punakha, we will visit the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang, a Buddhist nunnery. This two-story structure showcases Bhutanese architecture at its finest and is a must-visit in the Punakha Valley. We will stroll through the monastery’s serene gardens and see the small village of Talo, home to the four sisters who were queens of the fourth king.
A short walk will then take us to Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to the 15th-century saint Drukpa Kunley, known as the “Divine Madman,” who taught Buddhism through singing, drinking, and provocative behavior. The path to the temple is lined with houses adorned with phallic symbols in memory of the saint’s antics. The temple is also famous as a fertility shrine, attracting childless couples from Bhutan and beyond.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Zhingkham Resort or similar
Day 4. April 9, 2025 (Wednesday). Punakha – Paro (110 km, 3 hours)
After breakfast, we’ll enjoy an exhilarating walk through green fields and tiny villages to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten. This chorten, consecrated in 1999, was built to protect the former Crown Prince, now the reigning King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.
Next, we will visit the Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge, which spans 160 meters and is the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan, offering breathtaking views of the Punakha Dzong and the Pho Chhu Valley.
A gentle trek through the valley will take us to the Ningpo Chorten Monastery, where we can join young novice monks for a traditional monastic lunch. After lunch, we’ll have the opportunity to interact with them and the chief abbot to learn more about their daily lives.
Then, we’ll embark on a fun adventure—a gentle rafting trip down the picturesque river to the Punakha Dzong, which once served as the formal residence of the government and remains the winter residence of the Central Monastic Body. It is one of Bhutan’s most impressive dzongs and an excellent example of how a medieval fortress has adapted to modern times.
In the evening, we will transfer to Paro.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Paro Grand or similar
Day 5. April 10, 2025 (Thursday). Paro Tsechu Festival
After breakfast, we’ll head to Paro Dzong, also known as Rinpung Dzong, to join the festival. Tsechu is a religious festival meaning “tenth day,” held annually in various temples, monasteries, and dzongs throughout the country. Tsechu is celebrated on the tenth day of a month of the lunar calendar, corresponding to the birthday of Guru Rinpoche (Guru Padmasambhava). The exact month varies from place to place.
Tsechu is a grand event where entire communities gather to witness sacred mask dances, receive blessings, and socialize. In addition to mask dances, Tsechu features vibrant Bhutanese dances and other forms of entertainment.
It is believed that everyone should attend a Tsechu at least once in their lifetime to witness the mask dances, receive blessings, and wash away their sins. Each dance performed during the Tsechu has a special significance or story, many of which date back to the 8th century when Guru Padmasambhava lived.
In monasteries, monks perform the mask dances, while in remote villages, both monks and village men participate.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Paro Grand or similar
Day 6. April 11, 2025 (Friday). Hike to Tiger's Nest
After an early breakfast, we’ll embark on a pilgrimage hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest). This is one of the most revered monasteries in Bhutan, and all Bhutanese Buddhists aspire to make a pilgrimage to Taktsang at least once in their lives. Buddhists believe that each step taken towards the monastery earns merit for the future. The Tiger’s Nest clings spectacularly to a cliff over 1,000 meters above the valley, where Guru Rinpoche flew on the back of a tigress to subdue local demons before meditating in a cave for three months, which now forms part of the monastery.
In 1998, the monastery was severely damaged by fire but has since been meticulously restored to its original state and was reconsecrated by the Fourth King in 2005.
Taktsang Gompa (Tiger’s Nest) is the absolute highlight of our expedition! While the climb may seem challenging, it is truly rewarding. If you prefer not to hike, you can spend time in a café with stunning views of the temple.
We will also visit the National Museum in Ta Dzong, a watchtower that once protected Paro Dzong from enemies. From here, we will descend to Rinpung Dzong, the “Fortress of the Heap of Jewels,” which houses local government offices and a monastery. Scenes from the famous film “Little Buddha” were filmed here.
We will walk down to the old traditional bridge below Paro Dzong, where we will have the chance to try on traditional Bhutanese attire and take beautiful photos against the backdrop of the fortress! It’s also a great spot to watch planes land and take off. Paro’s airstrip is known as one of the most challenging international airports in the world. If time permits, we will visit Bondi Zangto Pelri Lhakhang village and its enchanting new temple with magnificent decorations.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Paro Grand or similar
Day 7. April 12, 2025 (Saturday). Departure from Paro
On our final day in Bhutan, we will transfer to the airport for departure.
*Recommended flight:
*Recommended flights from Bhutan to Bangladesh:
Meals included: Breakfast
Duration: 7 days / 6 nights
Number of participants: 6 – 12
Cost per person:
- USD 2 850 subject to 12 participants or
- USD 2 990 subject to 10 – 11 participants or
- USD 3 190 subject to 8 – 9 participants or
- USD 3 450 subject to 6 – 7 participants
Early booking discount: 10% (valid until December 5, 2025)
Everything is included (including Bhutanese visa and three meals a day) except for:
- International flights to Paro and back,
- International medical insurance,
- Transit visa for India (Indian visa is obtained upon arrival in Delhi by applying for a pre-visa through the website, for 60 USD, conditions may change)
Approximate cost of Moscow – Paro – Moscow flight: 1400 – 1500 USD (usually purchased independently, we will provide guidance).
Approximate cost of Dubai – Paro – Dubai flight: 1000 – 1200 USD (usually purchased independently, we will provide guidance).
Single supplement: 330 USD
TRAVEL PROGRAM: Bhutan Tour
Day 1. April 6, 2025 (Sunday). Paro – Thimphu (50 km, 1.5 hours)
We begin our exploration of Bhutan with a visit to the National Museum in Paro, which is housed in a former watchtower situated directly above Paro Dzong.
After that, we will head to Thimphu, stopping along the way at Tachog Lhakhang to see a traditional bridge built using ancient iron chains.
We will also visit the National Memorial Stupa, from where you can catch a view of the monumental Tashichho Dzong.
Next, we’ll explore the famous new National Textile Museum and the Takin Reserve, where you can see the takin, Bhutan’s national animal, along with other residents of the Bhutanese forests.
To end our day, we’ll head to the Golden Buddha, offering a stunning view of the valley.
Meals included: Dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Seven Suites Thimphu or similar
*Recommended Flights:
Note: Only a local airline operates flights to Bhutan, making it impossible to reach Bhutan directly from major international hubs. The most convenient flights depart from Delhi, India. Flights are also available from Kathmandu (Nepal) or Kolkata (India).
IMPORTANT: A transit visa is required for India if you plan to change flights there.
*Recommended flight from Delhi (India) to Bhutan:
- Drukair Royal Bhutan Airlines, flight KB201. Departure from Delhi (DEL) on April 6 at 6:00 AM, arrival in Paro (PBH) at 8:00 AM.
- IndiGo, flight 6E‑1464 from Dubai, departing Dubai on April 5 at 8:45 PM, arriving in Delhi at 1:50 AM on April 6.
- Any other flight arriving in Delhi no later than 1:50 AM on April 6.
Day 2. April 7, 2025 (Monday). Thimphu
After breakfast, we will take a gentle hike to Dodheydrak Monastery in the Thimphu valley. The 2.5-hour hike along an ancient hidden path offers breathtaking views of colorful rhododendrons that brighten the chir pine forest in spring, while the pine-covered trail allows for sightings of numerous birds and butterflies. As we ascend, we’ll enjoy stunning views of the Tashichho Dzong, Wangdi Tse, Dechen Phodrang, and the city of Thimphu.
After this, we’ll visit the Zorig Chusum – Bhutan’s Institute of 13 Arts and Crafts, a handmade paper factory, and a local market where visitors can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and a variety of colorful local goods such as yak-tail brooms, Tibetan tea cups, turquoise from Tibet, musical instruments, and more. In the evening, we’ll visit the majestic Tashichho Dzong.
We will also stop by the archery grounds. In Bhutan, archery is enjoyed by people of all ages, both men and women, and companies organize friendly matches. It’s quite different from what we’re used to, and today, we’ll see it in action.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Seven Suites Thimphu or similar
Day 3. April 8, 2025 (Tuesday). Thimphu – Punakha (70 km, 2 hours)
After breakfast, we’ll head to the Punakha Valley, crossing the Dochula Pass, where we’ll stop to admire the 108 stupas built by the former queen as a memorial for those who died during the conflict in late 2002, when Bhutan expelled Indian insurgents camped in the border jungles. On a clear day, you’ll witness breathtaking views of the Eastern Himalayas.
Upon arrival in Punakha, we will visit the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang, a Buddhist nunnery. This two-story structure showcases Bhutanese architecture at its finest and is a must-visit in the Punakha Valley. We will stroll through the monastery’s serene gardens and see the small village of Talo, home to the four sisters who were queens of the fourth king.
A short walk will then take us to Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to the 15th-century saint Drukpa Kunley, known as the “Divine Madman,” who taught Buddhism through singing, drinking, and provocative behavior. The path to the temple is lined with houses adorned with phallic symbols in memory of the saint’s antics. The temple is also famous as a fertility shrine, attracting childless couples from Bhutan and beyond.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Zhingkham Resort or similar
Day 4. April 9, 2025 (Wednesday). Punakha – Paro (110 km, 3 hours)
After breakfast, we’ll enjoy an exhilarating walk through green fields and tiny villages to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten. This chorten, consecrated in 1999, was built to protect the former Crown Prince, now the reigning King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.
Next, we will visit the Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge, which spans 160 meters and is the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan, offering breathtaking views of the Punakha Dzong and the Pho Chhu Valley.
A gentle trek through the valley will take us to the Ningpo Chorten Monastery, where we can join young novice monks for a traditional monastic lunch. After lunch, we’ll have the opportunity to interact with them and the chief abbot to learn more about their daily lives.
Then, we’ll embark on a fun adventure—a gentle rafting trip down the picturesque river to the Punakha Dzong, which once served as the formal residence of the government and remains the winter residence of the Central Monastic Body. It is one of Bhutan’s most impressive dzongs and an excellent example of how a medieval fortress has adapted to modern times.
In the evening, we will transfer to Paro.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Paro Grand or similar
Day 5. April 10, 2025 (Thursday). Paro Tsechu Festival
After breakfast, we’ll head to Paro Dzong, also known as Rinpung Dzong, to join the festival. Tsechu is a religious festival meaning “tenth day,” held annually in various temples, monasteries, and dzongs throughout the country. Tsechu is celebrated on the tenth day of a month of the lunar calendar, corresponding to the birthday of Guru Rinpoche (Guru Padmasambhava). The exact month varies from place to place.
Tsechu is a grand event where entire communities gather to witness sacred mask dances, receive blessings, and socialize. In addition to mask dances, Tsechu features vibrant Bhutanese dances and other forms of entertainment.
It is believed that everyone should attend a Tsechu at least once in their lifetime to witness the mask dances, receive blessings, and wash away their sins. Each dance performed during the Tsechu has a special significance or story, many of which date back to the 8th century when Guru Padmasambhava lived.
In monasteries, monks perform the mask dances, while in remote villages, both monks and village men participate.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Paro Grand or similar
Day 6. April 11, 2025 (Friday). Hike to Tiger's Nest
After an early breakfast, we’ll embark on a pilgrimage hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest). This is one of the most revered monasteries in Bhutan, and all Bhutanese Buddhists aspire to make a pilgrimage to Taktsang at least once in their lives. Buddhists believe that each step taken towards the monastery earns merit for the future. The Tiger’s Nest clings spectacularly to a cliff over 1,000 meters above the valley, where Guru Rinpoche flew on the back of a tigress to subdue local demons before meditating in a cave for three months, which now forms part of the monastery.
In 1998, the monastery was severely damaged by fire but has since been meticulously restored to its original state and was reconsecrated by the Fourth King in 2005.
Taktsang Gompa (Tiger’s Nest) is the absolute highlight of our expedition! While the climb may seem challenging, it is truly rewarding. If you prefer not to hike, you can spend time in a café with stunning views of the temple.
We will also visit the National Museum in Ta Dzong, a watchtower that once protected Paro Dzong from enemies. From here, we will descend to Rinpung Dzong, the “Fortress of the Heap of Jewels,” which houses local government offices and a monastery. Scenes from the famous film “Little Buddha” were filmed here.
We will walk down to the old traditional bridge below Paro Dzong, where we will have the chance to try on traditional Bhutanese attire and take beautiful photos against the backdrop of the fortress! It’s also a great spot to watch planes land and take off. Paro’s airstrip is known as one of the most challenging international airports in the world. If time permits, we will visit Bondi Zangto Pelri Lhakhang village and its enchanting new temple with magnificent decorations.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Paro Grand or similar
Day 7. April 12, 2025 (Saturday). Departure from Paro
On our final day in Bhutan, we will transfer to the airport for departure.
*Recommended flight:
- Drukair Royal Bhutan Airlines, flight KB200. Departure from Paro (PBH) at 11:55 AM, arrival in Delhi (DEL) at 1:45 PM.
- Any other flight departing from Paro anytime on April 12.
*Recommended flights from Bhutan to Bangladesh:
- Bhutan Airlines, flight B3 700 to Kolkata, departure from Paro at 10:35 AM, arrival in Kolkata at 11:15 AM. Connecting with IndiGo Airlines flight 6E 1105, departing Kolkata at 2:50 PM, arriving in Dhaka at 4:15 PM.
- Bhutan Airlines, flight B3 773 to Delhi, departure from Paro at 10:50 AM, arrival in Delhi at 1:40 PM. Connecting with Air India flight AI 237, departing Delhi at 5:00 PM, arriving in Dhaka at 8:00 PM.
Meals included: Breakfast
Cost includes:
Costs excludes (additionally paid):
To take with:
- Bhutan visa
- Tourist tax of $100 per person per day
- Good quality accommodation in hotels throughout the itinerary, double TWIN or DBL for couples
- Three meals a day throughout the itinerary
- Drinking water throughout the itinerary
- All ground transportation as per the program: Toyota Hiace or Coaster microbus along the route, with working air conditioners and experienced drivers
- All airport transfers
- Entrance fee to festival events
- All necessary permits and documents
- All activities and excursions as per the program
- Professional English-speaking guide (regional specialist) throughout the journey
- Russian- and English-speaking team leader throughout the trip
Costs excludes (additionally paid):
- International airfare to and from Paro
- International medical insurance
- India transit visa (Indian visa obtained on arrival in Delhi with pre-visa application through the website, $60 USD, conditions may change)
- Single accommodation
- Refreshing and alcoholic beverages, and personal expenses
- Tips/gifts for the local population
To take with:
- 3 sets of clothing (trousers, long-sleeved shirt, T-shirt, underwear, socks)
- Sun hat
- Light trekking jacket
- Warm jacket with a windstopper for mountainous areas
- Lightweight gloves and a light hat (it may be cool in the mountains)
- Comfortable trekking shoes, lightweight shoes (sneakers)
- Raincoat
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and cream
- Various repellents for skin and clothing
- Personal first aid kit (analgesics, antiseptics, antibiotics, antivirals, multivitamins, rehydration solution, intestinal medications, medications personally required for you)
- Personal hygiene items (including towels, wet wipes, soap)
- Headlamp
- Trekking poles (optional)
- Backpack for luggage (either a duffel bag or a small suitcase)
- Small backpack for personal items
- Photo and video equipment
- Additional set of batteries and a power bank for photo and video equipment
- Waterproof case for photographic equipment (optional)
- No specific COVID requirements (requirements may change)
Why with MZUNGU EXPEDITIONS?
- 1UNIQUENESS
We find the most astonishing places on Earth and speed up to reach them. Our motto is to go ahead of road roller, touch the unique and unknown, before it disappears. - 2ADVENTURISM
Wherever we go, we look for challenging activities and adventures, filling the journey with absolutely different spirit and emotions. That is why people join us over and over again. - 3SAFETY
In our trips we pay special attention to safety. All our travels are based on personal experience, equipped with the best gear, involving proved providers and experienced local guides who perfectly know local features. - 4EXPERIENCE
We have a unique experience of the most offbeat expeditions and ascents, deep knowledge of countries and peoples, and are ready to share it with you. All the expeditions and climbings are guided by Mzungu himself, guaranteeing exciting traveling and your comfort. - 5LOW PRICE
All our trips are reach in adventures, with high quality accommodation, transportation and meals included. We do not save on it. Thanks to solid contacts with reliable providers we offer really good prices and high quality.
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