Highlander Festival Tour with Yantra Odyssey
Experience the unique Highlander Festival, celebrated in the picturesque village of Laya in Bhutan. This festival showcases the vibrant culture, traditions, and lifestyle of the highland communities, offering a truly immersive cultural experience.
- Tour Duration: 9 Days
- Highlights of the Tour:
- Cultural Immersion: Visit ancient dzongs, monasteries, and temples.
- Scenic Landscapes: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas and lush valleys.
- Local Experiences: Interact with locals, explore vibrant markets, and experience traditional Bhutanese hospitality.
- Unique Activities: Participate in traditional arts and crafts, enjoy a hot stone bath, and hike to iconic sites.
- Customization Options: At Yantra Odyssey, we understand that each journey is personal. We offer fully customizable itineraries to suit your interests and preferences. Whether you want to focus on cultural exploration, adventure, or relaxation, we will tailor your trip to ensure a memorable experience.
Itinerary
Welcome to Bhutan: Arrive at Paro International Airport, where you’ll be greeted by our representative and transferred to Thimphu, the capital city.
Scenic Drive: Enjoy the beautiful drive along the Thimphu River valley to Thimphu.
Sightseeing: Visit the Buddha Dordenma statue, Memorial Chorten, Pangri Zampa Astrological College, Textile Museum, and Takin Zoo.
Overnight: Stay overnight at a hotel in Thimphu.
Dochula Pass: Stop at Dochula Pass to enjoy spectacular views of the eastern Himalayas and the 108 stupas.
Punakha Dzong: Visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, situated at the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers.
Drive to Gasa: Continue your journey through the villages of Shari, Tashithang, and Damji to Gasa Village.
Evening: Experience the hot springs (Tsa Chu) in Gasa.
Overnight: Stay overnight at a homestay in Gasa.
Start Trek: Drive to Koina and begin your trek. Encounter beautiful waterfalls, caves, forests, and rivers along the way.
Taksemakha Army Post: Show your trekking permit at the army post before continuing to Laya.
Evening: Arrive in Laya and settle into your homestay.
Overnight: Stay overnight at a homestay in Laya.
Festival Days: Attend the Highlander Festival. Witness traditional offerings, cultural performances, and competitions involving highland animals such as yaks, horses, and mastiffs.
Cultural Programs: Enjoy traditional songs, dances, and other cultural displays by the Layaps.
Explore Laya: Take time to explore the village and interact with the local community.
Overnight: Stay overnight at a homestay in Laya.
Return Trek: Start your trek back to Koina and then drive to Thimphu.
Evening: Relax and unwind after your journey.
Overnight: Stay overnight at a hotel in Thimphu.
Sightseeing: Visit the Sorig Museum, Traditional Medicine Centre, National Museum (Ta Dzong), and Zhabdrung Lhakhang.
Textile Museum: Explore the beautiful display of Bhutanese traditional dress and textiles.
Drive to Paro: Travel to Paro and check into your hotel.
Overnight: Stay overnight at a hotel in Paro.
Early Morning Hike: Initiate on a hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang).
Scenic Views: Enjoy the hike through lush forests and breathtaking views.
Explore Monastery: Visit the sacred temples and meditation caves.
Kyichu Lhakhang: End your tour with a visit to one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Bhutan.
Overnight: Stay overnight at a hotel in Paro.
Farewell: After breakfast, check out from your hotel. Transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure flight. Bid farewell to Bhutan as you board your flight, carrying cherished memories of the Highlander Festival and your experiences in the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
This 9-day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Bhutan’s rich cultural legacy, from ancient fortresses and monasteries to vibrant markets and scenic landscapes. Let Yantra Odyssey be your guide as you uncover the cultural treasures of the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
