Festivals of the Thunder Dragon
Bhutan, land of the Thunder Dragon, is a medieval kingdom hidden in the eastern Himalaya. Its breathtaking natural beauty of sacred mountains, holy lakes, isolated valleys and lush forests is reason enough to visit. Add to this mix the Buddhist culture that has tenaciously remained largely untouched by the outside world and it's easy to understand why Bhutan is considered one of the most exclusive destinations on earth. The Bhutanese people constitute one of the most interesting and least disturbed cultures – it's a unique honor to travel in their homeland. Throughout our journey we immerse ourselves in both the beauty and the culture of Bhutan. Each departure is timed to take advantage of a local "tshechu" or religious festival. These are colorful celebrations dominated by ancient "mask dances" with brilliant costumes, clashing cymbals and lively social interchange. On our west to east crossing of Bhutan's central valleys we enjoy day hikes offering superb views of the distant Himalaya range, visits to remote villages known for their artistry, bustling bazaars and ornate temples clinging to cliff sides (such as the famed Tiger's Nest). Each evening we will relax in comfortable lodging and soak up the purity of this place. Regardless of which timeframe you travel, you enjoy exceptional Bhutanese guides who open the window onto a truly magical country.
Tshechu Festivals
These large, local festivals (tshechu) typically have a series of dances performed by monks and lay people in honor of Guru Rinpoche. The dancers take on the aspects of deities, heroes, demons and animals. The dances, known as cham, bring blessings upon the onlookers, instruct them in the dharma (Buddhist teachings), protect them from misfortune, and exorcise evil influences. Through the power and benediction of the deities, misfortunes may be annihilated, luck increased and wishes realized. This is a social gathering with locals attending in their finest clothing and jewelry and partaking in the fun.
Important Notice: Day 1 is the day you should plan to arrive at the meeting point for the trip. This may require departing your hometown one or more days in advance and traveling on an overnight flight.
Please follow each day’s itinerary based on the festival associated with your specific departure.
Festivals of the Thunder Dragon Itinerary:
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Day 1 (All festivals)
Your trip begins today with an early morning flight from Bangkok, Thailand to Paro, Bhutan. REI Adventures will be making the roundtrip flight reservations (Bangkok- Paro) for you at the time of your registration. The flight from Bangkok to Paro on Druk Air is a beautiful and befitting introduction to the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan. On arrival in Paro you are met by your Bhutanese leader who is typical of the hospitable and charming Bhutanese people. You transfer immediately to Thimphu (2 hour drive), the capital of Bhutan and home of the revered Bhutanese Royal Family. Overnight in Thimphu. Dinner included.
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Day 2
(Paro, Tamshing, Jambay, Ngang)
After breakfast we visit the Thimphu weekend market – a lively scene of vendors throughout the region selling their fresh produce and indigenous crafts such as religious objects, baskets and fabrics. Continue your sightseeing to Zangdopelri temple, the Changlimithang where you can witness young Bhutanese practicing their favorite game - archery. Return to hotel for lunch and rest of day free to explore on your own. Overnight in Thimphu. All meals included.
(Ura)
After breakfast we begin a day of exploring Thimphu with a visit to the Medicine Institute where traditional medicines are prepared according to ancient practices. Next we stop at the Painting School where the traditional art of painting Thangkhas (sacred Buddhist religious scrolls) is mastered. We also visit the National Library and the Textile Museum. A very full day before returning to our hotel for the evening! Overnight in Thimphu. All meals included. -
Day 3 (All festivals)
After an early breakfast we start our drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass. The road climbs steeply through a forest of pine and cedar and, if the weather is with us, the panoramic view of the Himalayas from the pass (10,460') is absolutely spectacular. Then it's all downhill on a series of hairpin bends to the fertile valley of Punakha (4,162 feet). We take time to hike up to the Chimi Lhakhang temple. Both ancient and infamous, this monastery was built in 1499 by one of Bhutan's favorite Buddhist saints, Lama Drukpa Kunley, often called the "Divine Madman" for his outrageous teachings. After lunch we will proceed to Punakha town to view the majestic Dzong (fortress), situated between the two rivers Pho Chu and Mo Chu (father and mother river). This fortress is now used as the winter seat of the Je Khenpo (the Spiritual head of Bhutan). In the past this Dzong was the capital seat of the Kingdom. Overnight in Punakha. All meals included.
Hiking: 1 hour -
Day 4 (All festivals)
Our drive today to Trongsa is a long and beautiful one (6-7 hours) with some great hiking along the way. Leaving Punakha we wind our way through the fertile, central valleys to Wangdue Phodrang where we take the opportunity to visit the majestic fortress of Wangdue Dzong. We then climb steadily to Pele la Pass (10,824') which is traditionally considered the boundary between West and East Bhutan. Enjoy good views of the big mountains, especially Mount Chomolhari (24,355'). Close to the pass we begin our hike downhill through a forest of dwarf bamboo to Rukubji Village (2 hours) where we have a late lunch. We continue our drive into Trongsa Valley glimpsing our first views of the impressive Trongsa Dzong. Overnight at a lovely resort that offers fantastic views of the Dzong and surrounding countryside. All meals included.
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Day 5 (All festivals)
After breakfast we visit the huge Trongsa Dzong. Built in 1647, this Dzong is a masterpiece of architecture, and its strategic location gave it great power over this part of the country. We meander from the Dzong to the local bazaar before resuming our drive east to Bumthang. We cross over the Yotongla Pass (11,154') and into the first of four valleys of Bumthang known as Chumey. Here we visit the Domkar Palace, summer palace to King Jigme Wangchuk. Next, we're onto the village of Tsungney to observe weavers creating the famous Bumthnag fabric known as "yathra" before arriving in the Chokhor Valley for the evening. All meals included.
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Day 6
(Paro)
Bumthang is the general name given to a complex of four valleys - Chumey, Choekhor, Tang and Ura. Choekhor and Chumey are agricultural valleys while Tang and Ura depend mostly on animal husbandry. Today we drive to Ura village situated at 10,000 feet above sea level. From Serthangla Pass we hike downhill to reach the Ura Temple and continue our walk through the clustered village of Ura making frequent stops to converse with the villagers. Our lunch will be served at a village house. Return to Chamkhar (Jakar) for overnight. All meals included.
(Ura, Jambay, Ngang) Festival day!
After breakfast we drive to Ura village (Jambay Lhakhang village for Jambay Festival; Zhabjeythang village for Ngang Festival) to witness the ongoing festival. During the festival various spiritual mask dances are performed and local villagers participate by wearing their finest dress – this is the annual event at which to be seen. Evening return to hotel at Chamkhar (Jakar). All meals included. -
Day 7 (All Festivals)
We begin our hike this morning around the valley through scattered and clustered villages of Jakar to the Jambay Lhakhang temple. A Tibetan King, Songtsen Gonpo, built this temple in the 7th century. We continue hiking to Chakar Lhakhang, which was built in the 8th century. This house was a castle of the King Sindhu Raja who used to rule the Bumthang Valley. Continuing on we go to Kurjey monastery. It is here that the great tantric saint Padmasambhava had meditated and subdued a local deity known as Shelging Karpo. Hiking north, we cross the Chamkhar River over a suspension bridge to arrive at Tamshing Lhakhang. Finally, we reach Konchogsum Lhakhang, built in 7th century. All meals included.
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Day 8 (All festivals)
This morning we begin our drive to Trongsa (2 ½ hours). After lunch we will continue south to Kungarabten. This small village had once played a very important role in the history of Bhutan. This place was the winter retreat of the Royal families. We will visit the small winter palace, and then start walking towards the Monastery of Nuns that is located above. This monastery is the home to over 100 nuns, who study and meditate here. We will visit the shrine, hostel, and maybe join for a short prayer with the nuns before returning to the hotel. All meals included.
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Day 9 (All festivals)
We begin our drive back towards the west with a detour at Pele Pass into glacial valley of Phobjikha. This is, hands-down, one of the most beautiful spots in all of Bhutan. It is also the designated winter home for the endangered black-necked cranes that migrate here from the Tibetan plateaus. We enjoy a truly wonderful hike (primarily downhill with views of the valley) from the Phobjikha Pass to Gangtey Monastery. If lucky, we may even encounter the precious Red Panda. Overnight in Phobjikha Valley. All meals included.
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Day 10 (All festivals)
This morning we continue west to Thimphu making several stops en-route for photos and leg stretches. Dining at the Dochu La cafeteria, we have terrific views of the northern snowcapped mountains (weather permitting). Our afternoon in Thimphu is free for shopping and exploration. All meals included.
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Day 11
(Ura, Jambay, Ngang)
After breakfast, we begin our hike up hill to Phajoding Monastery which takes about 2-3 hours. Phajoding Temple is situated at around 12,000 feet and is a large monastic complex with 10 shrine rooms and 15 monastic residences, many of them used for extended meditation retreat. This Monastery was founded in 13th century by Togden Phajo Drugom Shigpo, a saint from Tibet. The view of the whole valley and the capital city is fantastic. Overnight in Thimphu. All meals included.
(Paro)
After breakfast we begin a day of exploring Thimphu with a visit to the Medicine Institute where traditional medicines are prepared according to ancient practices. Next we stop at the Painting School where the traditional art of painting Thangkhas (sacred Buddhist religious scrolls) is mastered. We also visit the National Library and the Textile Museum. This evening we drive to Paro to be ready for the festival tomorrow (2 hours). All meals included. -
Day 12
(Paro) Festival Day!
After breakfast we visit one of Bhutan's most popular festivals at Paro Rinpung Dzong. During the festival various spiritual mask dances are performed and local villagers participate by wearing their finest dress – this is the annual event not to be missed. All meals included.
(Ura, Jambay, Ngang)
We depart for Paro this morning for a day of sightseeing including a visit to Drugyel Dzong from which, on a clear day, there is a magnificent view of the Mount Chomolhari (23,995'). Hiking around the fortress is a leisurely and beautiful walk. Drugyel Dzong was built in the 17th century by Shabdrung Nawang Namgyel, the spiritual leader of Bhutan. It is believed that through the meticulous power of Shabdrung the Bhutanese were able to defeat the Tibetans seven times. The name Drugyel Dzong means "victorious fortress." We visit the National Museum of Bhutan as well as Paro Rinpung Dzong, one of Bhutan's most impressive and well-known fortresses. Overnight in Paro. All meals included. -
Day 13 (All festivals)
After breakfast we take a short drive from Paro to the trailhead at the base of Bhutan's most famous monastery, Taktsang (also called the Tiger's Nest). Built in the 1600's, this incredible monastery clings to the edge of a sheer rock cliff that plunges 2,700' into the valley below. It is said that Guru Rinpoche flew on the back of a tigress from Singye Dzong in Lhuntse to meditate in a cave where Taktsang monastery now stands. Our two to three hour steep hike through the forest brings us up to the famed viewpoint overlooking the monastery. Return to Paro for a farewell dinner and overnight. All meals included.
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Day 14 (All festivals)
We say our good-byes to Bhutan today and board a flight for Bangkok. Any hotel stay in Bangkok is not included; please make advance reservations if needed. Breakfast included.
Although we do our very best to adhere to the schedule above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control including weather and terrain conditions. Depending upon the specific departure date you choose to travel, the itinerary may vary slightly from the other departures. All departures follow the same general routing, typically visiting the same primary sites. Please read each day's itinerary carefully as it pertains to your specific departure date (denoted by the "festival" associated with that date).
If you are traveling alone and specifically request single accommodations, you will be asked to pay the full single supplement noted above. If you wish to share accommodations, we will assign a roommate if one is available. If a roommate cannot be found, you will be asked to pay a reduced single fee, which is one-half of the full single supplement. Please be advised that there are a limited number of single rooms available.
Accommodations in Bhutan; meals as noted in the daily itinerary, private transport as per the itinerary, monument entrance fees and government taxes, visa, services of a bi-lingual guide throughout, tips to your driver and any support staff encountered on the trip.
Air transportation to/from Bangkok, Bangkok hotel or meal costs, cost of obtaining a passport, insurance, medical immunizations, optional gratuities to your guide(s), monastery donations, items of a personal nature such as beverages, alcohol, laundry, international phone calls and internet use.
In addition to the $400 deposit required to reserve your space (fully refundable up to 91 days prior to departure) the cost of your flight on Druk Air from Bangkok to Paro (mandatory add-on cost and subject to change) is also due at the time of registration. This payment is due in full and is non-refundable unless REI Adventures cancels your departure for any reason. Upon your registration, we purchase your air tickets immediately as seats into Bhutan are very limited. If you needed to cancel your trip for a reason covered by travel insurance, this flight cost would be reimbursable by that plan.
This trip is rated Easy Active [2]. Many days have short walks and trail hikes at altitudes between 4,000' and 10,000'. Day hikes generally take 2-3 hours. Except for the high altitude and the very remote location, this is not a particularly strenuous trip nor is it a trekking itinerary. However, this is a trip for active people in good health who are strong walkers and/or hikers.
Bhutan's weather varies with the altitude and can change greatly within a 24-hour period. Paro, Thimphu, Trongsa, Bumthang and Phobjikha are at altitudes of 8,000' - 9,000'. Daytime temperatures generally range from mid-50s to upper 60s. Evenings are 40s-upper 50s. When the sun is shining the temperatures can be much warmer (70s – low 80s). The central valleys of Punakha and Wangdue Phodrang enjoy a semi-tropical climate due to their lower altitude and as a result will be warmer in temperature. Rain and thunderstorms are a possibility at any time of year as is occasional snowfall at higher elevations.
This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A full gear list and pre-departure information is sent upon sign-up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased at the time of your initial reservation, the 'Pre-existing Conditions Exclusion' is waived (certain exclusions apply).
We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited, reserve your adventure today.
Festivals of the Thunder Dragon
The key to staying comfortable on an active trip is layering. To get maximum comfort with minimum weight, you need versatile layers that mix and match to create the right amount of insulation, ventilation and weather protection. This gear list was created to help you choose your clothing and gear for this trip. Try to bring only what is necessary, as this will help you and the field staff.
Weather
Bhutan's weather varies with the altitude and can change greatly within a 24-hour period. Paro, Thimphu, Trongsa, Bumthang and Phobjikha are at altitudes of 8,000' - 9,000'. Daytime temperatures generally range from mid-50s to upper 60s. Evenings are 40s-upper 50s. When the sun is shining the temperatures can be much warmer (70s – low 80s). The central valleys of Punakha and Wangdue Phodrang enjoy a semi-tropical climate due to their lower elevation and as a result will be warmer in temperature. Rain and thunderstorms are a possibility at any time of year as is occasional snowfall at higher elevations.
Luggage Weight Restrictions
There is a 44 pound (20 Kg) weight limit for checked luggage on the Druk Air flight. There is an 11 pound weight limit for carry-on luggage. Carry-on bags are restricted to one piece; the size not exceeding 17” x 13” x 8”.
Gear Checklist
- Valid passport
- Copy of first page of passport
- Airline tickets
- Visa form for Bhutan (bring with you)
- Duffel bag or soft-sided luggage
- Daypack to carry your camera, water bottles, rain gear
- Luggage tags and locks
- Bring a few lightweight, easily washable items for travel & city wear
- Waterproof rain jacket
- Waterproof rain pants
- Midweight fleece or wool sweater or jacket (evenings are cool)
- Hiking boots, sturdy, water resistant, broken in
- Comfortable walking shoes for travel and town wear
- Hiking pants, lightweight (Capri length is okay for women)
- Skirt (recommended for women)
- Hiking shorts (men only - longer to the knee)
- Long-sleeve synthetic shirts
- T-shirts, synthetic are best
- Light or mid-weight thermal underwear tops and bottom, synthetic or wool
- Hiking socks / liners
- Sun hat
- Warm hat
- Bandana
- Lightweight gloves or mittens
- Two 1-quart water bottles or hydration system of equal capacity
- Flashlight / headlamp and extra batteries
- Ear plugs
- Small quantity of favorite energy snacks
- Sunblock and lip balm with high SPF
- Sunglasses
- Toiletry kit (small travel-size items)
- Personal first aid kit
- Toilet kit: ditty bag containing 2 rolls toilet tissue, Ziploc bags, and hand sanitizer gel or wet wipes
- Trekking poles (highly recommended)
- Camera, memory cards and spare batteries
- Electronics/battery charger, if applicable
- Plug adaptors / converters as needed
- Small, collapsible umbrella
- Spare contact lenses or glasses
- Reading and writing materials
- Passport pouch or money pouch
- Motion sickness remedies (winding roads)
Things to Consider
- Please remember to always pack essential items such as your passport, money, eyewear, a change of clothing, hiking boots and medications in your carry-on baggage in case your luggage is delayed.
- Bhutan enforces a dress code at festivals. Collared shirts (short or long sleeve), long pants and/or long skirts and shoes are required. The following items are prohibited: flip flops, slippers, tank tops, jeans, hats, umbrellas, shorts, and short skirts.
- Culturally sensitive dressing tips: For women, pants (or Capri length pants) and/or a skirt (mid-calf or longer; A-line style is best for hiking) is recommended. Tights, hiking shorts and sports tops are not advised unless worn under other clothing. For men, pants are best. Men may wear hiking shorts, but they should be longer, near the knees. Men should never go shirtless.
- Cotton is wonderful in warm weather. However, once it becomes wet it will drain your body heat. Bring at least a couple of synthetics such as Capilene, MTS and Thermax.
- Always test your layers before a trip. Your outer layer should fit easily over the inside ones without binding and bunching up.
- Make sure boots are broken-in. Bring moleskin for foot treatment. Thin liner socks worn under regular hiking socks may minimize the risk of blisters. The liner sock should be synthetic, not cotton. Test your sock combination before you go on the trip.
- Accommodation in Bhutan is not centrally heated. Portable electric heaters are generally provided in rooms. However, you may consider bringing an additional set of long underwear to sleep in for extra warmth. Plenty of blankets are provided.
- For day hikes and sightseeing, bring a "toilet kit," a small ditty bag that includes a Ziploc bag of clean toilet tissue, a spare Ziploc to dispose of soiled tissue, and a small bottle of hand sanitizer. Note that toilet tissue must be discarded in a waste basket and not along a trail or in the toilet, as Bhutan's plumbing cannot accommodate it.
- There are no reliable feminine health supplies available in Bhutan – women are advised to bring these from home.
- Gifts: Please don't bring extra gifts as these are a burden to you and the staff while touring and hiking. The best gift is a conversation or tips where appropriate with staff.
Feel free to give us a call at (800) 622-2236 should you have any questions regarding the gear list. The staff at our stores and REI’s Direct Sales (800-426-4840) will also be happy to help you with gear questions. Or visit REI’s website at www.rei.com. The “Expert Advice” section has great information to help you prepare for your trip.
