Paro Tshechu – 8 Nights 9 Days
Share This Trip:
Paro Tshechu stands as one of Bhutan’s most revered and vibrant festivals, steeped in religious significance and cultural spectacle. Held annually at Paro Rinpung Dzong, this festival spans several days, typically in spring, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike to witness its grandeur. The highlight of Paro Tshechu is the series of masked dances (cham) performed by monks and laymen, donning elaborate costumes and masks symbolizing deities, demons, and animals. These dances are believed to bless the onlookers and cleanse them of sins. Another significant aspect is the unfurling of the sacred thangka (religious scroll painting), a ritual that occurs early in the morning on the final day, believed to confer blessings upon all who gaze upon it.
Paro Tshechu not only celebrates Bhutanese Buddhism but also showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage through folk songs, traditional music performances, and stalls selling local handicrafts and delicacies. It is a time when families come together, dressed in their finest attire, including the traditional Bhutanese dress known as kira for women and gho for men. The festival’s spiritual ambiance, set against the backdrop of Paro’s stunning valley and the ancient fortress of Rinpung Dzong, creates an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Bhutan Tropical Tours and Travel offers curated packages during Paro Tshechu, providing opportunities for travelers to immerse themselves fully in the festival’s rituals and traditions. Their expertly guided tours ensure a deep understanding of the cultural significance behind each dance and ceremony, coupled with comfortable accommodations and seamless logistics.
Highlights of Paro Tshechu
- Masked Dances (Cham): Experience traditional Bhutanese masked dances performed by monks and laymen, each with symbolic meanings and religious significance.
- Unveiling of the Thangka: Witness the early morning unveiling of the sacred thangka (religious scroll painting) at Paro Rinpung Dzong, believed to bestow blessings upon the spectators.
- Cultural Performances: Enjoy folk songs, music, and vibrant cultural performances showcasing Bhutanese traditions and rituals.
- Local Crafts and Cuisine: Explore stalls selling local handicrafts, textiles, and Bhutanese delicacies, providing insights into the country’s artisanal skills and culinary heritage.
- Spiritual Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of Paro Tshechu, surrounded by the ancient walls of Paro Rinpung Dzong and the serene Paro Valley.
- Traditional Attire: Observe locals dressed in their finest traditional attire, adding to the festival’s colorful and festive atmosphere.
- Community Gathering: Experience the sense of community as families and friends come together to celebrate and receive blessings.
- Historical Significance: Learn about the historical background and cultural significance of Paro Tshechu from knowledgeable local guides.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning moments of cultural performances, elaborate costumes, and the scenic backdrop of Paro Valley.
- Bhutanese Hospitality: Engage with locals and monks, gaining insights into their daily lives, traditions, and religious practices.
Day 1: Arrival in Paro
- Arrival at Paro Airport: Upon arrival at Paro Airport, you will be warmly greeted by a representative from Bhutan Tropical Tours and Travel who will assist with immigration formalities and luggage.
- Transfer to Hotel: Enjoy a scenic drive to your hotel in Paro, passing through picturesque landscapes of rice fields, rivers, and traditional Bhutanese villages.
- Welcome Dinner: In the evening, savor a welcome dinner featuring authentic Bhutanese dishes such as ema datshi (chili and cheese stew) or phaksha paa (pork with red chilies), served with red rice.
- Orientation: Get briefed on the upcoming festival schedule, cultural etiquette, and other practical information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
- Evening Stroll: Take a leisurely walk around Paro town, visiting local handicraft shops and perhaps trying some Bhutanese snacks like momos (dumplings) or suja (butter tea).
- Rest and Relaxation: Return to your hotel for a restful night, acclimatizing to the altitude and preparing for the festival ahead.
- Cultural Insights: Engage in discussions with your guide about Bhutanese culture, traditions, and the significance of the Paro Festival.
- Accommodation: Overnight stay at a comfortable hotel in Paro, offering modern amenities with a touch of Bhutanese hospitality.
- Preparation: Pack essentials for the festival days ahead, including comfortable walking shoes, layers for varying temperatures, and a daypack for daily excursions.
- Tour Briefing: Receive a detailed briefing on the festival itinerary, including highlights such as mask dances, religious rituals, and cultural performances.
Day 2: Paro Exploration and Festival Eve
- Visit to Paro Rinpung Dzong: Begin your day with a guided tour of Paro Rinpung Dzong, a fortress-monastery known for its stunning architecture and historical significance in Bhutan.
- National Museum Visit: Explore the National Museum of Bhutan housed in the Ta Dzong (watchtower), featuring exhibits on Bhutanese art, history, and cultural artifacts.
- Lunch in Paro: Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese lunch at a local restaurant, offering a variety of dishes showcasing the country’s culinary diversity.
- Free Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at leisure, either relaxing at your hotel or exploring more of Paro town independently.
- Festival Preparation: Attend a pre-festival briefing to understand the cultural and religious significance of Paro Tshechu, setting the stage for the upcoming days.
- Traditional Dress Fitting: Optionally, try on traditional Bhutanese attire (kira for women, gho for men) with assistance from your guide, perfecting your festival look.
- Evening Cultural Show: Attend a cultural show featuring traditional Bhutanese dances, music, and theatrical performances, providing insights into the country’s rich cultural heritage.
- Dinner: Indulge in dinner at a local restaurant, tasting more Bhutanese delicacies and discussing the day’s explorations with fellow travelers.
- Rest and Relaxation: Retire early to your hotel, preparing for an early start the following day filled with festival activities.
- Accommodation: Overnight stay at your well-appointed hotel in Paro, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing evening after a day of exploration.
Day 3: Paro Tshechu 1st day
- Festival Inauguration: Join the locals and visitors at Paro Rinpung Dzong for the opening ceremony of Paro Tshechu, marked by prayers and the lighting of butter lamps.
- Masked Dance Performances: Witness the vibrant masked dances (cham) performed by monks and laymen, each dance depicting religious stories and myths.
- Thangka Viewing: Participate in the early morning ritual of unveiling the sacred thangka, believed to bestow blessings upon all who witness it.
- Cultural Performances: Throughout the day, enjoy cultural performances including traditional music, chanting, and theatrical acts showcasing Bhutanese folklore.
- Market Exploration: Browse through festival stalls offering local handicrafts, textiles, and Bhutanese snacks like yak cheese and dried fruits.
- Lunch: Sample festival specialties such as dumplings (momos) and noodle soup (thukpa) at a food stall within the festival grounds.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture the intricate details of costumes, masks, and the festive atmosphere, ensuring memorable snapshots of the day.
- Tea Break: Take a break with a cup of Bhutanese tea (suja), traditionally prepared with butter and salt, while mingling with locals and fellow festival-goers.
- Evening Prayers: Attend evening prayers at Paro Rinpung Dzong, immersed in the serene and spiritual ambiance of the festival.
- Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, discussing the day’s highlights and cultural experiences with your guide and travel companions.
- Accommodation: Return to your hotel in Paro for a well-deserved rest, reflecting on the enriching experiences of the first day of Paro Tshechu.
Day 4: Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)
- Early Morning Start: Begin your day early with a scenic drive to the trailhead of Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest).
- Trek to Tiger’s Nest: Embark on a memorable hike through pine forests and along a steep trail to reach Taktsang Monastery, perched on a cliff 900 meters above the Paro Valley.
- Legendary Site: Explore the monastery complex, including its sacred temples and meditation caves, while learning about the legends surrounding Guru Rinpoche’s visit to this sacred site.
- Guided Tour: Receive insights from your guide into the spiritual significance of Taktsang Monastery and its role in Bhutanese Buddhism.
- Picnic Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch with panoramic views of the Paro Valley, savoring the tranquility and natural beauty surrounding you.
- Descent: Descend back to the trailhead, appreciating different perspectives of Tiger’s Nest along the way.
- Rest and Relaxation: Return to your hotel in Paro for relaxation and refreshment after the exhilarating hike.
- Optional Activities: Spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps exploring more of Paro town or indulging in a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath for relaxation.
- Dinner: Have dinner at a local restaurant, sampling Bhutanese dishes like phaksha paa (pork with red chilies) or shamu datshi (mushrooms with cheese sauce).
- Accommodation: Overnight stay at your hotel in Paro, enjoying the peaceful ambiance after a day of adventure.
Day 5: Paro Festival 2nd Day
- Morning Rituals: Participate in morning prayers and rituals at Paro Rinpung Dzong, observing monks and devotees gathering for religious ceremonies.
- Masked Dance Performances: Attend various masked dance performances by different dance troupes, each representing unique stories and religious teachings.
- Community Engagement: Interact with locals and monks, gaining deeper insights into their cultural practices and traditions.
- Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese lunch at a festival food stall, tasting specialties such as phurkha (fried rice) or hoentay (Bhutanese dumplings).
- Cultural Workshops: Participate in workshops on Bhutanese arts and crafts, learning techniques such as thagzo (weaving) or lha-zhey (traditional painting).
- Festival Games: Join in traditional games and activities organized during the festival, fostering camaraderie with locals and fellow travelers.
- Tea Ceremony: Experience a traditional Bhutanese tea ceremony, where tea is served with butter and salt, symbolizing hospitality and friendship.
- Evening Celebration: Embrace the festive atmosphere as the day concludes with illuminated butter lamps and chants at Paro Rinpung Dzong.
- Dinner: Dine at a local restaurant, sharing stories and impressions of the festival with your guide and fellow participants.
- Accommodation: Return to your hotel in Paro for a peaceful night’s rest, recalling the day’s cultural immersion and vibrant festivities.
Day 6: Day Trip to Chele La Pass and Haa Valley
- Chele La Pass Excursion: Embark on a scenic drive to Chele La Pass, the highest motorable pass in Bhutan, offering panoramic views of snow-capped mountains and alpine landscapes.
- Photography Stop: Capture breathtaking vistas of Mount Jomolhari and other peaks of the Himalayan range, ensuring memorable photographs.
- Hiking Options: Choose to hike to Kila Nunnery, perched on a cliffside, or explore the surrounding alpine flora and fauna with your guide.
- Picnic Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the serene mountain scenery, appreciating the tranquility and natural beauty of Chele La Pass.
- Haa Valley Exploration: Descend into Haa Valley, a picturesque region known for its pristine environment and cultural heritage.
- Local Villages: Visit traditional villages in Haa Valley, interacting with local communities and gaining insights into their daily lives and customs.
- Cultural Insights: Learn about the unique culture and traditions of Haa Valley, influenced by its isolation and Tibetan roots.
- Return to Paro: Drive back to Paro town in the late afternoon, enjoying the scenic landscapes and rural scenery along the way.
- Dinner: Indulge in dinner at a local restaurant in Paro, relishing Bhutanese flavors and discussing the day’s experiences with fellow travelers.
- Accommodation: Overnight stay at your hotel in Paro, reflecting on the day’s exploration of natural beauty and cultural diversity.
Day 7: Paro Festival 3rd day
- Final Festival Day: Embrace the final day of Paro Tshechu with renewed enthusiasm and appreciation for Bhutanese culture.
- Morning Rituals: Attend morning prayers and rituals at Paro Rinpung Dzong, observing monks conducting sacred ceremonies.
- Masked Dance Performances: Enjoy the last day of vibrant masked dance performances, showcasing intricate costumes and elaborate masks.
- Closing Ceremony: Participate in the closing ceremony of Paro Tshechu, marked by prayers, blessings, and the ceremonial burning of a large thorma (butter sculpture).
- Farewell Lunch: Share a farewell lunch with locals and fellow travelers, reminiscing about the festival’s highlights and cultural exchanges.
- Cultural Exchange: Reflect on your experiences and interactions during the festival, gaining deeper insights into Bhutanese traditions and spirituality.
- Free Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at leisure, exploring more of Paro town independently or indulging in relaxation at your hotel.
- Souvenir Shopping: Visit local shops and markets to purchase souvenirs such as traditional handicrafts, textiles, and Bhutanese artifacts.
- Farewell Dinner: Enjoy a special farewell dinner at a local restaurant, celebrating the conclusion of your Paro Festival experience.
- Accommodation: Overnight stay at your hotel in Paro, cherishing the memories of the vibrant festival atmosphere.
Day 8: Cultural Exploration
- Morning Leisure: Relax and enjoy a leisurely morning at your hotel in Paro, reflecting on your journey and experiences during the Paro Festival.
- Shopping: Take some time to explore Paro town for last-minute shopping. Browse local markets for souvenirs such as Bhutanese handicrafts, textiles, and traditional items.
- Visit Kyichu Lhakhang: Embark on a visit to Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most revered temples. Learn about its historical significance and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
- Historical Insights: Gain deeper insights into Bhutanese Buddhism and the cultural heritage of Kyichu Lhakhang from your knowledgeable guide.
- Lunch: Enjoy a farewell lunch at a local restaurant, savoring Bhutanese cuisine one last time.
- Afternoon Relaxation: Return to your hotel for some relaxation or leisure time. Pack and prepare for your departure the following day.
- Farewell Dinner: Gather for a farewell dinner organized by Bhutan Tropical Tours and Travel, celebrating the end of your journey in Bhutan.
- Cultural Evening: Attend a cultural performance or traditional dance show in Paro, experiencing the vibrant arts of Bhutan.
- Evening Reflection: Reflect on your experiences of the Paro Festival and Bhutanese culture during your stay.
- Accommodation: Overnight at your hotel in Paro, preparing for departure the next day.
Day 9: Departure from Paro
- Leisure Morning: Enjoy a relaxed morning at your hotel, perhaps taking a stroll or indulging in a last-minute activity in Paro.
- Final Souvenir Shopping: If there’s any remaining shopping or last-minute souvenirs you wish to purchase, visit local shops or markets in Paro.
- Airport Transfer: Transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure flight. Bid farewell to your guide and Bhutan Tropical Tours and Travel team.
- Flight Check-in: Check in for your return flight, ensuring all travel documents are in order.
- Departure: Board your flight back home, carrying with you fond memories and experiences from the Paro Festival and Bhutan.
- Safe Journey: Receive best wishes from Bhutan Tropical Tours and Travel for a safe and pleasant journey back home.
- Conclusion: End of the 9-day Paro Festival itinerary, concluding your cultural immersion in Bhutanese traditions and hospitality.
This itinerary ensures a seamless and enjoyable departure from Paro, with distinct activities on each day to maximize your experience of the Paro Festival and your overall journey in Bhutan.
If want to know more about the kinds of accommodations we provide, please visit our Accommodations page. Also, for more information about the exact accommodations you will be living in for this particular trip, you can send us an enquiry.
For tour costs, please enquire directly with us.
Due to recent changes in tourism policy, we are in the process of updating all tour costs on our website. We will be happy to provide you with specific tour costs upon request.
For approximate per night charges, please refer to our Terms & Conditions page.
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.
Best Time to Visit
Season: Paro Tshechu is typically held during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November), aligning with Bhutan’s most favorable weather periods.
Best Time to Visit: For Paro Tshechu, the best time to visit is during spring, specifically in March-April. During this time, the valleys around Paro are adorned with blooming flowers, creating a colorful backdrop for the festival’s celebrations. The weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for witnessing the masked dances, religious rituals, and cultural performances that characterize the festival. Autumn (September-October) also offers clear skies and comfortable temperatures, providing another opportunity to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Paro Tshechu amidst the scenic beauty of Bhutan’s landscape.
Preparations to Make for the Festival
Specific Etiquette: Paro Tshechu is one of Bhutan’s most revered festivals, held in the Paro Dzong. Visitors should maintain silence and observe respectful behavior during religious ceremonies and rituals.
Attire: Traditional Bhutanese attire is encouraged for both men and women attending Paro Tshechu. Women typically wear a kira, a traditional ankle-length dress, while men wear a gho, a knee-length robe tied at the waist with a belt.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Bhutanese festivals are deeply rooted in religious and cultural traditions. Visitors should respect local customs, dress modestly, and behave respectfully during ceremonies. It’s important to understand and adhere to etiquette, such as refraining from pointing at religious objects, removing hats when entering temples, and seeking permission before photographing individuals, especially monks. Showing public displays of affection is also discouraged.
- Travel Documents: Ensure passports are valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay. Travelers must obtain a Bhutanese visa through a licensed tour operator, as independent travel is restricted in Bhutan. It’s advisable to secure all necessary permits well in advance, including special permits for certain areas or activities. Travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and trip cancellations is highly recommended.
- Health Precautions: Consult with a healthcare provider for recommended vaccinations and medications, particularly if traveling to high-altitude areas. Visitors should be prepared for varying climatic conditions and altitude effects, such as mild symptoms of altitude sickness. Carrying basic medications for common ailments is recommended. Drinking bottled or boiled water and avoiding raw vegetables can help prevent gastrointestinal issues.
- Photography Etiquette: Respect photography restrictions at religious sites and during ceremonies. Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially monks and locals. It’s important to follow local guidelines regarding photography in sensitive cultural and religious contexts.
- Currency and Banking: The official currency of Bhutan is the Ngultrum (BTN), which is pegged to the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit and debit cards are accepted in major hotels and some shops in urban areas, but it’s advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases and in remote areas where card acceptance may be limited. ATMs are available in major towns but may not always function reliably, so it’s wise to withdraw cash in advance.
Foods to Enjoy During the Festival
Traditional Cuisine: Bhutanese festivals offer an opportunity to indulge in traditional Bhutanese cuisine, characterized by spicy flavors and hearty dishes made from locally sourced ingredients such as red rice, buckwheat, and dairy products.
Local Delicacies: Sample traditional dishes such as Ema Datshi (chili and cheese stew), Phaksha Paa (pork cooked with spicy red chilies), and Momos (dumplings filled with meat or vegetables). These dishes reflect Bhutan’s culinary diversity and cultural heritage.
Vegetarian Options: Bhutanese cuisine includes a variety of vegetarian dishes, such as Kewa Datshi (potatoes with cheese), Shakam Paa (dried beef with radish), and Jasha Maroo (spicy chicken stew). Vegetarian visitors can enjoy flavorful meals without compromising on taste.
Food Stalls and Vendors: During festivals, food stalls and vendors offer a wide range of snacks and refreshments. Explore local specialties like Suja (butter tea), Zow (traditional rice porridge), and various types of Bhutanese breads and pastries.
Community Dining: Some festivals may feature communal dining experiences where locals and visitors gather to share meals. This provides an opportunity to interact with locals and immerse oneself in Bhutanese hospitality and culture.
Seasonal Ingredients: Depending on the festival’s timing, dishes may highlight seasonal ingredients such as fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs. Taste dishes prepared with locally harvested produce, enhancing the authenticity of the culinary experience.
Local Offerings: During Paro Tshechu, try traditional dishes served at local stalls and eateries near Paro Dzong. Sample dishes like Hoentoe (buckwheat dumplings stuffed with turnip greens) and Khur-le (pan-fried buckwheat pancakes).
Clothing and Gear to Pack for the Festival
Attending the Festival in Bhutan requires thoughtful packing to ensure you are comfortable, respectful of local customs, and prepared for the varying weather conditions. Here’s a guide on what to pack:
Layered Clothing: Bhutan’s weather can vary significantly between day and night, so pack layers that can be easily added or removed. Include long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and a lightweight jacket or fleece for cooler evenings.
Comfortable Footwear: Choose sturdy, comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain and standing for extended periods. Sneakers or hiking shoes with good grip are recommended for exploring festival grounds and nearby attractions.
Sun Protection: Pack sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses with UV protection, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield yourself from Bhutan’s strong sunlight, especially during outdoor festival events.
Rain Gear: Be prepared for sporadic rain showers by packing a compact, waterproof jacket or poncho. It’s essential to stay dry during festival activities, especially if you plan to attend outdoor events.
Respectful Attire: Respect local customs and traditions by dressing modestly and appropriately, particularly when visiting religious sites and participating in festival rituals. Consider renting or purchasing traditional Bhutanese attire (gho for men and kira for women) to immerse yourself fully in the cultural experience.
Daypack or Bag: Carry a small daypack or bag to hold essentials such as water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, and any souvenirs or items purchased during the festival.
Specific Considerations for Paro Tshechu
- Seasonal Clothing: Paro experiences cool mornings and evenings during the festival season. Pack warm layers such as sweaters and a jacket or shawl.
- Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes are essential for navigating the gravel paths around Paro Dzong and standing during festival events.
- Attire: Wear traditional Bhutanese attire such as a gho (for men) or kira (for women) to participate respectfully in Paro Tshechu’s religious rituals and cultural traditions.
Transportation During the Festival
- Local Transport: Bhutan’s festivals often involve traveling between different dzongs (fortresses) and cultural sites. Local buses and taxis are available for short distances, but for flexibility and convenience, consider hiring a private vehicle or joining a guided tour.
- Road Conditions: Roads in Bhutan can be narrow and winding, especially in mountainous regions. Travelers should expect some rough patches and occasional delays due to road maintenance or traffic, particularly during peak festival times.
- Travel Time: Plan your travel itinerary considering the festival schedule and travel distances between festival venues. It’s advisable to allow extra time for unexpected delays and to enjoy the journey at a leisurely pace.
- Parking: Parking near festival venues, especially popular ones like Paro and Thimphu, can be limited. Arrive early to secure parking or consider alternative transport options like walking or using shuttle services if available.
- Guided Tours: Joining a guided tour organized by reputable agencies like Bhutan Tropical Tours and Travel can simplify transportation logistics, providing comfortable vehicles, knowledgeable guides, and prearranged access to festival events.
Specific Considerations for Paro Tshechu
- Local Transport: In Paro, taxis and private cars are readily available for short trips between your accommodation and Paro Dzong. It’s advisable to arrange transportation in advance during peak festival days.
- Road Conditions: The road to Paro Dzong may be congested during Paro Tshechu. Consider walking from nearby parking areas to avoid traffic jams.
- Travel Time: Allow extra time for traffic delays, especially when traveling to and from Paro Dzong during festival days.
Currencies Accepted During the Festival
Local Currency: The official currency of Bhutan is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN). It is advisable to carry Ngultrum for transactions during festivals, as it is widely accepted at local shops, restaurants, and festival venues.
INR and Foreign Currencies: Indian Rupees (INR) are accepted in certain border towns and shops catering to Indian tourists. However, for festival transactions and purchases within Bhutan, it’s recommended to use Bhutanese Ngultrum. Some larger hotels and businesses in urban areas may accept major foreign currencies such as US Dollars or Euros, but these are less commonly used for everyday transactions.
ATMs and Currency Exchange: ATMs are available in major towns such as Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha, where you can withdraw Ngultrum using international credit or debit cards. Currency exchange services are also available at banks and authorized money changers in these towns.
Credit Cards: While some hotels and larger shops in urban areas may accept major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard), smaller vendors and rural areas may prefer cash transactions in Ngultrum.
Specific Considerations for Paro Tshechu
- Currency: During Paro Tshechu, Ngultrum (BTN) is the preferred currency for transactions at festival stalls, food vendors, and souvenir shops around Paro Dzong.
- ATM Access: ATMs dispensing Ngultrum are available in Paro town. It’s recommended to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to festival events to avoid long queues or limited availability.
Clothing and Gear
When packing for a 2 Nights 3 Days Bhutan Tour, selecting the right clothing and gear is crucial for comfort and convenience, given Bhutan’s varied terrain and weather conditions. Here’s a guide to help you prepare effectively:
Essential Clothing
- Layered Clothing: Weather in Bhutan can change rapidly, especially in the mountains. Pack lightweight, breathable layers that you can easily add or remove. Include a mix of short-sleeved shirts, long-sleeved tops, and sweaters or fleece jackets.
- Waterproof Jacket: Regardless of the season, a waterproof and windproof jacket is essential for sudden rain showers and windy conditions, especially in higher altitudes.
- Comfortable Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are recommended for treks, such as the hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. For city tours and lighter walks, comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are suitable.
- Warm Accessories: For early mornings and evenings, pack warm accessories like a hat, gloves, and a scarf, particularly if you’re traveling in the cooler months or higher altitudes.
Gear and Accessories
- Daypack: A comfortable, lightweight daypack is essential for carrying personal items, water, snacks, and a camera during day trips and hikes.
- Sunglasses and Sunscreen: High UV protection sunglasses and broad-spectrum sunscreen are crucial to protect against the strong sun, especially at higher elevations.
- Water Bottle: Stay hydrated by carrying a reusable water bottle. You’ll find places to refill it, which also helps minimize plastic waste.
- Personal Medications: Besides your prescription medications, consider bringing a small first-aid kit with essentials like band-aids, pain relievers, and altitude sickness pills.
- Camera and Batteries: Don’t forget your camera to capture Bhutan’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. Extra batteries or a power bank are useful, as charging opportunities may be limited in remote areas.
- Flashlight or Headlamp: A compact flashlight or headlamp can be handy for early morning or late evening activities, or in the event of power outages in remote locations.
Packing the right clothing and gear for your 2 Nights 3 Days Bhutan Tour is about balancing comfort, practicality, and respect for local customs. By preparing for varied weather conditions and activities, you ensure a comfortable and respectful visit to this majestic Himalayan kingdom. Remember, every item you pack should serve a purpose, helping you to fully enjoy the beauty and spirituality of Bhutan without the worry of being unprepared.
Currencies Accepted During the 2 Nights 3 Days Bhutan Tour
Embarking on a 2 Nights 3 Days Bhutan Tour promises an immersive experience in the kingdom’s rich culture and stunning landscapes. To ensure smooth transactions during your journey, it’s essential to understand the currencies accepted in Bhutan. Here’s a concise overview:
- Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN): As the official currency, the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) is widely accepted throughout the country for most transactions.
- Indian Rupee (INR): Due to Bhutan’s close relationship with India, the Indian Rupee (INR) is commonly accepted, particularly in border areas and towns near India.
- US Dollar (USD): While less prevalent, some establishments in tourist areas like Paro and Thimphu may accept US Dollars, alongside the local currency.
- Credit Cards: Major credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are accepted in larger establishments in urban areas. However, it’s advisable to carry cash for transactions in smaller towns and rural regions.
- ATMs: ATMs are available in major cities, dispensing Bhutanese Ngultrum. It’s recommended to carry sufficient cash, as ATM access may be limited in remote areas.
- Currency Exchange: Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, hotels, and authorized exchange counters. Rates may vary, so it’s wise to compare before exchanging.
- Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Bhutan, but a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated.
Understanding the currencies accepted in Bhutan ensures you’re prepared for a seamless and enjoyable journey through this enchanting kingdom.
Q: Do I need a visa to travel to Bhutan? A: Yes, all foreign visitors must obtain a visa to enter Bhutan. Visa applications must be processed through an authorized Bhutanese tour operator, such as Bhutan Tropical Tours and Travel.
Q: How can I book a tour with Bhutan Tropical Tours and Travel? A: You can book directly through our website or contact us via email at bhutantropical@gmail.com and phone (WhatsApp) at +975 77200511. Our friendly staff will assist you with all your booking inquiries.
Q: When is the best time to visit Bhutan? A: The best times to visit Bhutan are during the spring months (March to May) and autumn months (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities and cultural festivals.
Q: Can tourists travel independently in Bhutan? A: No, Bhutan requires tourists to book their travel through authorized tour operators. Independent travel is not permitted in Bhutan to maintain the country’s policy of sustainable tourism and preservation of its cultural and natural heritage.
Q: Are there limits on the number of tourists allowed in Bhutan? A: Yes, Bhutan regulates tourism through a “High Value, Low Impact” policy, which includes a daily tariff per person to ensure sustainable tourism practices and environmental conservation.
Q: What sets Bhutan Tropical Tours and Travel apart from other tour operators? A: Bhutan Tropical Tours and Travel stands out for its personalized service, experienced guides fluent in English and Hindi, and comprehensive packages that include transportation, accommodation, and entrance fees to parks and museums. We prioritize customer satisfaction and ensure a memorable and enriching experience in Bhutan.
Book Your Trip
More Festival Packages
Thimphu Tshechu
7 Days
Punakha Tshechu
8 Days
Ura Yakchoe Tshechu
8 Days
Black Necked Crane Tshechu
8 Days
