Punakha Tsechu – 9 Days

Trip Overview

• Country: Bhutan
• Duration: 9 Days
• Trip Level: Easy
• Max Altitude: 3,050 m/10,004 ft
• Activity: Festival Tours (Cultural & Festival Tour)
• Meals: Included (8 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches & 8 Dinners during trip days)
• Accomodation: 3- Star Hotel ()

• Best Season: Jan-Jun, Sep-Dec

Trip Highlights

• Immerse in the unique culture of Bhutan’s iconic destinations: Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro
• Hike to Bhutan’s most sacred and iconic cliffside monastery, Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)
• Explore the historic ruins of the Drukgyel Dzong (Victory Fortress)
• Experience the rich culture in the colorful festival celebrations
• A short hike and scenic village exploration in Gangtey (Phobjikha Valley)
• Witness sacred mask dances and vibrant costumes reflecting Bhutan’s timeless spiritual heritage.
• Soak in the breathtaking Himalayan vistas and serene alpine valleys from scenic viewpoints
• Wander through local markets showcasing traditional handcrafted Bhutanese arts and crafts

Trip Description

The key highlight of this unforgettable journey is the awe-inspiring Punakha Tshechu Festival, a vibrant and sacred celebration introduced by the 70th Je Khenpo Trulku Jigme Choedra.

The main purpose of the Tshechu is to preserve and promote Buddhist teachings and to honor the noble legacy of Zhabdrung Rinpoche.

Hosted annually in Punakha, this immersive festival brings Bhutanese spirituality to life through colorful masked dances, ceremonial rituals, and symbolic performances by both monks and laypeople.

The Punakha Tshechu spans several days, with each day offering unique religious enactments and dance forms that recount the life and spiritual achievements of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) and other holy saints.

These sacred performances, rich in color and tradition, are not only a visual spectacle but also a profound expression of devotion and cultural identity.

In synchronizing with the Tshechu, the Punakha Drubchen is also celebrated as an eight-day festival dedicated to Mahakala, Bhutan’s protective deity.

Moreover, this immersive journey also offers a rich contrast to Bhutan’s diverse landscapes and high elevations.

Starting in Paro (2,250 m/ 7,382 ft), you’ll explore historical and cultural treasures such as Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), Paro Rinpung Dzong, the National Museum (Ta Dzong), monasteries, and local temples.

Descending to the lower-altitude valley of Punakha (1,200 m/3,937 ft), you arrive in the former winter capital, nestled between the confluence of two rivers.

Immerse yourself in sacred festivals, ancient fortresses, breathtaking landscapes, spiritual dances, and charming villages while enriching your understanding of Bhutan’s timeless natural heritage and spiritual odyssey.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01 – February 25 - Arrival at Paro Airport

Max. Altitude: Paro (2250 m/7,382 ft)

You’ll fly into Paro International Airport, Bhutan’s only international gateway, with direct flights from cities like Kathmandu, Bangkok, New Delhi, and Dhaka.

For the smoothest and most scenic experience, we recommend flying Kathmandu–Paro–Kathmandu.

It not only makes logistics easier but also allows us to personally greet you with gratitude and offer some thoughtful travel gear or souvenirs, including a duffle bag, sun hat, and neck gaiter, which are yours to keep as part of the journey.

As you soar through the Himalayas, you’ll witness jaw-dropping views of snow-capped giants, including Mount Everest, before landing in the stunning Paro Valley at 2,250 m (7,382 ft).

This fertile region is known for its golden rice fields, apple orchards, and fresh organic produce. Once you land, our airport representative will be there to welcome you with a traditional silk khada, a Bhutanese gesture of good luck and warm hospitality.

After completing arrival formalities, our representatives will transfer to your hotel.

• Overnight at a 3-star Hotel
• Lunch and Dinner

Day 02 – February 26 - Sightseeing around Paro then scenic drive to Thimphu

Max. Altitude: Thimphu (2,330 m/7,644 ft)

Duration: 1-2 hrs drive

After an early breakfast, we embark on a scenic 1–2 hour drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s serene capital nestled in a picturesque valley.

Upon arrival, we begin our cultural journey at the National Library, home to a precious collection of ancient Buddhist manuscripts and religious texts.

Then we continue to the Institute for Zorig Chusum commonly known as the Painting School offering a firsthand look into the country’s artistic legacy.

Next, we gain insight into Bhutanese traditions at the Textile Museum, showcasing exquisite handwoven fabrics, and the Folk Heritage Museum, which provides a glimpse into rural life and Bhutan’s age-old customs.

Afterward, we immerse at the National Memorial Chorten, a sacred stupa built in honor of the Third King and dedicated to world peace, where locals gather daily in prayer and reflection.

At the grand Trashichho Dzong, you’ll admire the imposing fortress-monastery that houses the throne room and key government offices, as well as monastic quarters.

You then round off your cultural immersion with a visit to the handicrafts market, filled with beautifully woven textiles, handmade crafts, and traditional Bhutanese souvenirs.

In the evening, you can take a leisurely stroll through the bustling Thimphu Bazaar, where local life unfolds amid boutique shops, cafes, and vibrant street scenes.

• Overnight at a 3-star Hotel
• Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 03 – February 27 - Drive to Punakha from Thimpu

Max. Altitude: Punakha (1,200 m/3,937 ft)

Duration: 2-3 hrs drive

After a warm breakfast, we leave Thimphu behind and set off together on a scenic 3-hour drive toward the lush Punakha Valley.

As our journey begins, the road gently traverses through enchanting pine and cedar forests, their branches adorned with delicate strands of hanging lichen.

We gradually ascend to the magnificent Dochula Pass, nestled at 3,050 meters (10,006 ft). If the skies are clear, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks.

As we wind through this serene landscape, you’ll also notice vibrant rhododendrons, blooming magnolias, and evergreen junipers lining the route, while the songs of Bhutan’s rare Himalayan bird species echo through the forest.

After we descend into the fertile Lobesa Valley where we take a short and refreshing walk together through terraced rice paddies to reach Chimi Lhakhang, the iconic Temple of Fertility.

Set atop a small hill, this cherished site was built in honor of the legendary 14th-century saint Drukpa Kuenley, affectionately known as the Divine Madman for his unconventional spiritual teachings.

Many locals and travelers alike visit this temple to seek blessings for fertility, making it a meaningful stop on our Punakha Tshechu journey.

• Overnight at a 3-star Hotel
• Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 04 -05 – February 28 to March 01 - Full-day exploration of Punakha festival.

Max. Altitude: Punakha (1,200 m/3,937 ft)

The Punakha Tshechu is a deeply immersive festival that brings Bhutanese spirituality, history, and devotion vividly to life.

With its vibrant masked dances, sacred rituals, and dramatic performances by both monks and lay practitioners, this multi-day celebration serves as a living expression of Bhutan’s profound Buddhist traditions.

The performers or dancers wear unique traditional costumes made of yellow silk decorated with ornaments of carved bone.

Each day of the Tshechu presents unique religious reenactments and spiritually charged dance forms. These sacred performances recount the life, teachings, and mystical feats of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) as well as tales of other revered saints.

Coinciding with the Tshechu is the Punakha Drubchen, an eight-day festival dedicated to Mahakala, Bhutan’s fierce protective deity or protective deities of Drukpas.

At its core, the Punakha Tshechu is more than a celebration, it is a spiritual offering intended to preserve and promote Buddhist teachings, and to honor the noble legacy of Zhabdrung Rinpoche.

It is a rare opportunity for you to witness Bhutanese faith, culture, and identity merging in an atmosphere of joy, reverence, and engaging community.

• Overnight at a 3-star Hotel
• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 06 – March 02 – Morning Drive to Gangtey from Punakha then same-day short hike & village exploration and afternoon drive to Paro

Max. Altitude: Lawa La Pass (3,300 m/10,824 ft) & Gangtey/Phobjikha (2,900 m/9,514 ft)

Duration: 2-3 hrs drive (Gangtey) & 4-5 hrs drive (Paro)

Today, we embark on a picturesque drive of approximately 206 kilometers, venturing deep into the mystical Black Mountains, one of Bhutan’s most dramatic and remote regions then to the scenic valley of Gangtey then Paro.

As we make our way through this panoramic landscape, the road gently ascends through dense alpine forests and winding mountain paths.

The ascent rewards us with a pause at Lawa La Pass (3,300 m/10,824 ft), a spectacular viewpoint that offers panoramic vistas of sweeping valleys and rugged ridgelines.

From here, we descend into the serene Gangtey (Phobjikha) Valley, a glacial basin known for its vast open pastures, rustic charm, and as the seasonal home of the endangered black-necked cranes.

After enjoying the tranquility of Phobjikha, we begin our return journey to Paro, retracing our route through forested hills and verdant alpine meadows.

The road climbs once more to the scenic Dochula Pass (3,050 m), where on clear days, we’re rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the snowcapped Eastern Himalayas.

As we descend from the pass, the journey follows the dramatic contours of the Wang Chhu and Paro Chhu river valleys.

By early evening, we arrive back in Paro, completing an unforgettable circuit through some of Bhutan’s most captivating natural and cultural landscapes.

• Overnight at a 3-star Hotel
• Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 07 – March 03 - Full-day exploration at Paro festival

Max. Altitude: Paro (2,250 m/7,382 ft)

After a leisurely breakfast, we set out to explore the remaining fortress, dzongs, scenic natural landscapes, and lesser-visited treasures of Paro.

Your day begins with a serene visit to Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, believed to have been built in the 7th century.

Next, we take a short countryside drive followed by a gentle walk through traditional villages, where you’ll witness rural life in its purest form such as farmers tending fields, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and traditional Bhutanese homes adorned with wood carvings.

In the afternoon, for those seeking a bit more activity, there’s an option to try traditional archery which is Bhutan’s national sport, or unwind with a hot stone bath.

As the day winds down, we return for some relaxed time to browse through Paro’s artisan shops, where you may find handcrafted textiles, thangka paintings, or Bhutanese crafts for souvenirs.

• Overnight at a 3-star Hotel
• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 08 – March 04 - Full-day excursion to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)

Max. Altitude: Tiger’s Nest (3,120 m/10,232 ft)

Duration: 20 minutes drive, 5-6 hrs hike

After an early breakfast, you’ll set off on one of the most iconic adventures in Bhutan, an immersive 5 to 6-hour hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) nestled at 900 meters above the Paro Valley floor.

Perched dramatically on a sheer cliffside, Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang) stands as one of Bhutan’s most sacred and iconic spiritual landmarks.

According to legend, Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) flew to this very site on the back of a tigress and meditated in a cave, giving the monastery its name.

Though the site was partially damaged by a fire in 1998, it has since been meticulously restored to its former glory and still remains a major pilgrimage site for Bhutanese and a must-visit highlight for travelers touring Bhutan.

Along the way, you’ll stop for lunch and refreshments at the hillside cafeteria, which offers stunning views of the monastery and the valley nestled below.

After returning from the Tiger’s Nest the rest of the day is yours to explore. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the charming streets of Paro, where you can browse local markets or simply relax at your hotel accommodation.

• Overnight at a 3-star Hotel
• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 09 – March 05 - Transfer to the international airport for your final departure

After an early breakfast at your hotel, your unforgettable Bhutan journey comes to a close as we transfer you to Paro International Airport for your onward flight.

Our friendly representative will assist you with all departure formalities and ensure a smooth check-in process before bidding you with traditional Bhutanese farewell.

Breakfast included

Price Includes

Accommodation

• Standard government-approved 3-star accommodation (in twin-sharing rooms) for the duration of the tour.

Meals and Drinking Water

• Full-board meals – 8 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 8 dinners, and tea & snacks – for the duration of your stay.
• Unlimited supply of packaged drinking water for the duration of the tour.

Transportation

• All (international and domestic) airport transfers on a tourist vehicle
• Private transportation and a designated driver within Bhutan. SUV vehicles for solo/pairs, Hiace vans for small groups, and Coaster buses for larger groups.

Guide and Staff

• Licensed English-speaking and first-aid experienced Bhutanese tour guides. Additional or assistant guides are provided for groups over 11 or when special support is needed, such as for senior travelers.
• Guided city tour in Paro by private tourist vehicle.
• The required number of local staff and porters to carry your luggage during the trip.
• Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, insurance, and medications for all staff

Permits and Fees

• Bhutan visa fees and processing assistance.
• All route access and monument entry permits and fees.
• Monument and museum entrance fees for all sightseeing locations are detailed in the itinerary.
• Government-mandated Sustainable Development Fee of US$100 per person per night.

Benefits and Takeaways

• Country presentation and tour Briefing on the evening of Day 1 with welcome drinks.
• Cultural afternoon/evening sessions with traditional masks and folk dances (with beverages). [Only for group tours.]
• 1 Ace the Himalaya’s duffel/kit bag, sun hat, and Buff (Neck Gaiter) if your flight originates from Kathmandu, Nepal.

Administrative

• All government taxes, official expenses, and tourist service charges.

Price Excludes

Excludes

• All international airfare, including Druk Air flights and airport departure tax
• Travel insurance, along with high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage.
• Alcoholic drinks and beverages.
• Tips for tour guides, porters, drivers, hotel lobby, and restaurants. (Tipping is expected).
• All items of a personal nature like laundry, gear, shopping, etc.
• Any expenses other than the Price Include section.

Gears and Equipment

All you need to bring for this Punakha Tshechu Tour is simply some comfortable clothes; there is no requirement for special equipment on the tour.

However, for your ease, the following gives you a general idea about the personal items you need to manage for the trip. The personal items referred to here are optional and depend upon your choice.

The most important factor to be considered while choosing the types of equipment and your Bag-pack is the time of the year you are traveling.

In a tour, the vehicle transfers all the heavy items and equipment. But the Personal belongings of the clients which are required at any moment like money, water bottle, camera, sunscreen, and toilet paper, etc. should be carried by yourself.

It is therefore advisable that you pack your personal belongings into your daypack.

If you’re flying from Kathmandu, we’ll provide you with a complimentary, windproof duffel bag for the trip. This bag will be carried by porters or mountain transportation like mules, and horses in high-altitude regions and is yours to keep after the trip.

List of Recommended Equipment

• Duffel or Rucksack bag or suitcase (We will provide one complimentary ACE duffel bag for you to keep.)
• Daypack
• Warm wool or synthetic hat that covers your ears (only if you are travelling in the cold season i.e January, February, and December)
• Goggles or sunglasses for sunbeams, dust, and wind.
• A neck warmer is another piece of gear for extra warmth if you feel you will need it and is for cold season i.e January, February and December. (optional)
• 1 pair warm gloves (This is required if you are travelling in cold season i.e January, February and December).
• T-shirts (2).
• Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket (preferable if you are travelling in rainy season from June to September.)
• 1 pair cotton pants (loose jeans/khakis), 1 pair shorts.
• 2 pairs lightweight long underwear/thermals (if you are traveling in winter January, February, and December).
• 2 pairs of liner socks, synthetic or capilene.
• 1 pair light camping shoes or sneakers.
• 1 pair sandal (Optional).

Medicines and First Aid Kits

(Please note our guide will also carry the first aid kit bag during the trek. However we still recommend you to bring your personal first aid kit as well)

• Extra Strength Excedrin for altitude related headaches.
• Ibuprofen for general aches and pains.
• Immodium or Pepto bismol capsules for upset stomach or diarrhea.
• Diamox (commonly prescribed as Acetazolamide) 125 or 250mg tablets for altitude sickness. Please discuss with us before starting to take this medicine.
• 1 small personal sized first-aid kit with blister treatments such as mole skin, band-aids, some waterproof tape, anti-infection ointments, etc. Your guides will have more extensive medical gear, but you should have the basics for general use.

Other Essentials

• Passport and extra passport photos (4 copies).
• Airline ticket (Please make a copy and leave on at our office in KTM just in case if you need to change the date of your).
• Durable wallet / pouch for travel documents, money & passport.
• Lip balm. At least SPF 20, 2 sticks. A string taped to the stick is helpful, to hang around your neck and some are now being sold with a cord already attached. Handy as it avoids you from having to stop and look for it.
• Sunscreen. SPF 40 is recommended and should be relatively new since it loses its’ effectiveness over time.
• Pocket knife or small Swiss Army type.
• Water purification Iodine tablets or Polar-pure crystals.
• Toiletry kit. Be sure to include toilet paper stored in a plastic bag, hand wipes, and liquid hand sanitizer, towel, soap, etc.
• 2 bandanas.

Optional

• 1 pair adjustable trekking poles. Although these are listed as optional, these can be of great assistance to people who may think of themselves and generally clumsy or with bad knees, ankles, etc, especially when going downhill (Optional).
• Favorite snack foods, no more than 2 pounds (Optional).
• Paperback books, cards, mp3 player (there are a couple of stops where you could recharge. Avoid players with moving hardware as it may not function. Remember, keep these items light weight (Optional).
• Binoculars (Optional).
• 1 light weight point & shoot camera or 1 large SLR. Digital cameras are ok, but you must keep the batteries warm when not in use (Optional).
• Hydration bladder with drinking tube and tube insulator (Optional).
• A pee bottle for men and pee funnel for woman, some swear by them to avoid that chilly late night trip (Optional).
• 1 small stainless steel thermos (Optional).

This list is only a guide. While you are required to bring everything on this list, there are numerous options, brands, and versions of each piece of equipment. Use your experience and the listed features to find the best gear for you.

FAQs for Punakha Tsechu

General

Is this a guaranteed departure for dates listed on the website?

Yes, this trip offers guaranteed departures on the specified dates. You can view and select available departure dates directly from the booking calendar on our website. Each listed date is confirmed to operate. Furthermore, Bhutan trips must be booked at least one month in advance due to travel regulations and logistics.

Additionally, we provide group discounts based on the size of your group. The larger your group, the more substantial the discount, enhancing your travel experience.

Are Bhutan trips available as group departures or only as private journeys?

Normally, most of the Bhutan trips are private departures, meaning they are organized based on preferred dates, an excellent option for families or friends traveling together.

However, if you’re interested in an open-group departure for Bhutan, please inquire with us at the time of booking.

Why travel with Ace the Himalaya?

Ace has a reputation for successfully leading treks with knowledgeable leaders and staff taking care of all your travel needs. We are a certified sustainable travel company that also endorses the idea of giving back to the community by participating in various philanthropic activities. Here are 17 reasons to hike with Ace the Himalaya.

What essential documents do I need to bring with me on tours?

Here are some documents that you will need to carry with you:

• Valid Passport – must be valid for up to 6 months after you return from your tour (Keep a separate photocopy)
• Travel insurance (Keep a separate photocopy)
• Cash and Traveller’s Cheques (Keep numbers and proof of purchase separately)
• Flight tickets
• Emergency contact numbers for T/C’s, banks, insurance, family contacts

Weather and Temperature

What is the best season for this tour?

The best time for Bhutan tours is between February to June and between September and December.

What is the weather and temperature like on the tour?

It depends on the season you’re traveling. During winter (December to February), it is colder at night and relatively warmer during the day, with the temperature ranging from 4°C at night to 22°C. Between March and May, the weather stays perfect as the temperature averages 25°C during the day.

From September to December, following the monsoon, the temperature gets cooler and allows for a great time to travel. The average temperature during this season is 20°C. The vehicles and the hotels during the trip will be air-conditioned making your travel very comfortable.

Arrival and Visas

Do I need to obtain VISA for Bhutan?

We will handle the visa procedures for you. The Govt. will sanction the VISA only after the receipt of full payment in advance. The visa fee is included with our tour price. Actual Bhutan VISA will be stamped in your passport on arrival on Paro airport. Without visa clearance number, tourists cannot board the flight or enter the country.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs forwards a copy of this visa clearance to the concerned Druk Air stations and other entry points; we also fax a copy of the visa clearance document to our clients for their reference. While the actual visa is stamped on arrival, the initial visa clearance is also required at the time of issuing Druk Air Tickets.

All you need is to carry 2 copies of original passport-sized photographs, which are required on arrival in the country. Please e-mail us the clear color copy of the passport for the visa procedures.

Will somebody come to pick me up at the airport upon my arrival?

Yes, our airport representative will be there to greet you at the airport. S/he will be displaying a signboard with your name on it outside the airport terminal. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel by our tourist vehicle.

Payments and extra costs

How much additional money do I need per day?

It depends on your personal spending habits. In general, all meals, accommodation, and hot drinks are included in the trip price.

You may want to budget around USD 10 to USD 20 per day for additional beverages such as soft drinks, chocolates, or occasional treats.

For personal expenses such as laundry, shopping, bar bills, and tips the amount will vary depending on individual preferences and consumption. These costs are not included in the package and should be planned based on your experience and spending habits.

Can I use credit cards in the places visited in tour?

There are just a few ATM’s in Bhutan for credit cards (Master card / Maestro) & only a few establishments in Bhutan accept credit card payments hence US Dollars (cash or Amex traveler’s cheques) or Euros Cash is suggested and convenient to cover any personal expenses (eg. beverages, laundry, phone bills, tipping, shopping, etc) that the Pax may make in the Kingdom.

1US$ is equivalent to Nu. 84.33 & 1 Euro is equivalent to Nu.95.54 as of today (the day we are writing this text). NU= Ngultrum, the Bhutanese currency.

Who Can Participate?

How fit do I have to be and is this tour for me?

This culture and festive tour is suitable for any kind of travelers ranging from all age groups, no previous experience is required. It’s designed to be accessible and enjoyable for anyone with a general level of health and mobility.

That said, engaging in light physical activity such as aerobics or walking in the weeks can help you feel more comfortable and enhance your overall experience, especially during short hikes or walks included in the itinerary.

Accommodation

What sort of accommodation can I expect in tour?

Accommodation includes a combination of comfortable hotel stays. In cities like Thimphu, Paro, or other regions, you are accommodated in a minimum of 3-star deluxe hotels.

Upgrades to 4-star semi-luxury or 5-star luxury hotels can be arranged upon request, with applicable supplement charges.

What sort of food can I expect in tour?

Most restaurants in Bhutan offer an eclectic mix of Bhutanese, Nepalese, Indian, Chinese, Western, and Continental cuisine, ensuring there’s always plenty to choose from. Local Bhutanese dishes tend to be spicy, similar to Indian cuisine, and provide a rich cultural culinary experience.

Is the water available drinkable? Do I need to bring purifying tablets/filter?

The trip price included the drinking water for the all Bhutan trip. You don’t need to bring any bring purifying tablets/filter or pay for the water.

Will it be possible to get any clothes washed/Laundry ?

Laundry service is easily available at your hotel. Please note that laundry service is not included in the package price.

Can I charge my digital camera or other equipments on my trip?

These facilities will be available in most of the places in your hotel. Remember to bring travel adapters!

Health and Safety

Is Ace the Himalaya's staff insured?

Our company insures all our trekking staff members, including guides, cooks, Sherpa, and porters. Please browse through our legal docment page to view insurance details.

What immunizations will I need?

Practical Matters

What is your cancellation policy?

Notice should be provided 20 days before the trip start date in case of cancellation. The trip can be canceled for justifiable reasons. Once the trip is canceled, a fee of 30% of the trip cost is retained for administrative costs.

However, the trip amount is entirely non-refundable if the cancellation is not made before the 20 days as per our terms and conditions. For submitting a claim to your insurance company after the cancellation, we can assist with documentation such as a receipt of monies paid. Refund will not be provided for unused accommodation in case of trip cancellation caused by personal reasons/sickness/weather.

More information about our cancellation policy can be found here in Terms and Conditions page.

Do I need to tip my guide and porters? How much would that be?

This is a difficult thing to gauge. We have seen everything from USD 20 to USD 1000 per person for guides and porters. Tipping is not required, but a small gesture of thanks to your guides and local porters thanking and appreciating their help. The level of the tip should reflect the level of satisfaction from and personal involvement with your guide.

When do you provide an assistant guide for group tours?

An additional guide is provided for groups of 12 or more participants. However, we may also assign an assistant guide depending on the age group of the participants (e.g., for senior citizens) or if special assistance is required.

Is the government-mandated Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of US$100 per person per night still applicable?

All SDF charges are included in your package, so you do not need to pay anything extra.

The government-mandated SDF is US$100 per person per night. Children under 12 years old are eligible for a reduced rate of US$50 per child per night, and there is no SDF charged for children under 5 years of age.

Are there any communication facilities during the trip?

Telephones and Internet and international calls are readily available in most of the town for this trip.

Are there any photography restrictions?

You will have many photo opportunities during the trip. Please ask for permission before taking a person’s photo. Photography in, monasteries, shrine rooms of Dzongs, and religious institutions is generally not permitted, but outdoor photography is.

To be sure when visiting such places, you may consult with your guide just to make sure. Carry plenty of films and batteries. Photo shops in Bhutan do not sell equipment or accessories.

Can I add extra days to my trip?

No, because we can’t change your Druk air flight once it is booked.

Is there a minimum and a maximum number for your groups?

We cater to all group sizes, while maintaining the field staff ratio to give you the best quality and experience.

Transportation and flights

Do we book our international flights and Druk air flights?

Yes, you will need to book your international flights (to/from Asia, Europe, or other continents) independently. We are a local agent, and booking international flights through us could result in higher costs.

However, Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines are the only two airlines that operate flights to and from Bhutan (Paro International Airport).

We can assist you with booking Druk Air flights to and from Bhutan and will email you the e-tickets once booked.

Please note:

• Druk Air flights are not included in the trip price.
• Flight fares vary depending on route, season, and forex rates.

We recommend flying from Kathmandu, Nepal, for a seamless transfer and smooth operations. This route also allows us to provide you with convenient service and necessary takeaways such as a duffle bag, sun hat, and neck gaiter which are yours to keep after the trip.

Approximate Druk Air Roundtrip Fares (Economy/Business Class):

• Kathmandu – Paro – Kathmandu: US$500 / US$770
• Bangkok – Paro – Kathmandu: US$850 / US$1,275
• Bangkok – Paro – Bangkok: US$1,000 / US$1,470
• New Delhi – Paro – New Delhi: US$650 / US$1,070
• Kolkata – Paro – Kolkata: US$500 / US$700
• Bangkok – Paro – New Delhi: US$1,050 / US$1,500
• Dubai – Paro – Dubai: US$1,550 / US$2,650

Note: Please note that the airfares fluctuate slightly every day in accordance with the forex rates

How often does Druk Air operate flights, and what is the schedule like for major routes?

Druk Air operates regular flights on several international routes, with daily flights between Kathmandu–Paro–Kathmandu and Bangkok–Paro–Bangkok.

The frequency of flights in other sectors such as Bangkok–Paro–Kathmandu, New Delhi–Paro–New Delhi, Kolkata–Paro–Kolkata, and Dubai–Paro–Dubai varies depending on the season, airport slot availability, and flight clearance at respective international airports.

It’s best to check the updated flight schedule closer to your travel date for accurate availability.

That’s why we recommend flying from Kathmandu, Nepal, for a seamless transfer and smooth operations, as this route offers the most consistent and convenient service for travelers heading to Bhutan.

What mode of transportation do you use?

At Ace the Himalaya, we prioritize comfort, safety, and an authentic local experience. All transportation used on our tours is private and exclusive to our guests, we do not use public transport.

For solo travelers and pairs, we provide private vehicles to ensure a personalized and comfortable journey. Smaller groups typically travel in well-maintained Toyota Hiace or Hyundai minibuses, while larger groups are accommodated in spacious Toyota Coaster buses.

During sightseeing, city tours, and airport transfers, we use reliable tourist vehicles. For more rugged routes and remote Himalayan regions, we deploy sturdy 4WD SUVs as support vehicles to enhance safety and comfort.

This variety of transportation ensures a smooth and enjoyable travel experience across diverse terrains.

Are there any weight restrictions on Druk air flights?

Yes, Druk Air has luggage weight restrictions based on your class of travel. Passengers in Economy Class are allowed up to 30 kg, while those in Business Class can carry up to 40 kg of checked baggage.

If your luggage exceeds the permitted limit, excess baggage charges apply at a rate of USD 5 per kilogram. It’s advisable to pack accordingly to avoid additional costs at the airport.

I want to extend my holiday, any recommendations?

Yes, you can extend your holiday. Ace the Himalaya offers many options and alternatives for your holiday extension. For more information, you can visit our Day trips pages.

Contact Us

Head Office

Trip Map