Bhutan

Join us in Bhutan for a once in a lifetime experience
14 – 22 April, 2027

Tigers Nest Monastery, April 2008. Photo by Raym Richards
In Loving Memory
Chicchan 1954-2022

Dancers at the Ura Yakchoe festival, April 2008. Photo by Raym Richards

About the Ura Yakchoe festival. 

The Ura Yakchoe festival is one of the most culturally significant festivals in central Bhutan, held in the idyllic Ura Valley, yhis unique community-based festival in Bumthang dates back to the 16th century. Known for its intimate, village-based atmosphere, this festival stands apart from larger festivals by offering a closer, more personal connection to Bhutanese spirituality, tradition and rural life. At the centre of the festival lies a revered relic, believed to have been left behind by a mysterious lama centuries ago. It has been pssed on from generation to generations and is still owned by the descendants of the woman who found it today. 

Each year, this sacred artefact is displayed to the public, drawing pilgrims from all over the country who come seeking blessings, protection and purification. Ura Yakchoe is an exceptional opportunity to witness untouched cultural heritage in one of the most beautiful highland valleys of Bhutan.

The Ura Yakchoe Tshechu is filled with sacred masked dances traditional rituals and community celebrations. Monks and lay practitioners perform centuries-old cham dances, each one retelling stories of guardian deities, moral triumphs and spiritual cleansing. These dances are believed to ward off evil spirits and purify the environment.

Dancers at the Ura Yakchoe festival, April 2008. Photo by Raym Richards
Outline itinerary

14th April. Arrive Paro – Thimphu sightseeing 
Overnight in  City Heritage Hotel
15th April. Thimphu – Wangdue Phodrang – Gangtey
Overnight in Dewachen Hotel and Spa
16th April. Gangtey – Trongsa sightseeing – Bumthang (143 km.  4 hours drive)
Overnight Swiss Guest house
17th April. Bumthang sightseeing
Overnight in Swiss Guest house
18th April. Bumthang – Witness the Ura Yakchoe festival (51 km. 1 hour 50 minutes drive)
Overnight in Swiss Guest house
19th April. Bumthang – Punakha sightseeing (216 km. 6 hours drive)
Overnight in Meri Puensum Resort
20th April. Punakha sightseeing – Paro sightseeing (128 km. 3 hours 50 minutes drive)
Overnight in Tashi Namgay Resort
21st April. Paro sightseeing – Hike to the Tiger’s nest monastery (Taktsang):
Overnight in Tashi Namgay Resort
22nd April. Paro – Departure: After breakfast, drive to the Paro International airport and farewell

Detailed itinerary here


Your investment.
Pre-sale     $3,990Au   For a few very special people.
Early bird   $4,490Au  A limited number available.
Full Price   $4,990Au  Until sold out.

Ticket price includes:
* All meals [Breakfast and dinner in the respective hotels. Lunch in local tourist restaurants].
* Accommodation Rooms on twin/double sharing basis in government approved “clean & safe” 3 star hotels. 
* All transportation within the country including airport transfers
* Entry fees for museums / monuments & festival visits.
* Sustainable development fee (SDF) as mentioned above.
* Bhutan Visa Fee.
* English speaking local guide.
* Sightseeing.
Bottled water throughout the tour.
* 5 % GST (Goods and services tax).
NB Single rooms may be available for a supplimental fee. 

Fill out the form below to request further information…
Dancer at the Ura Yakchoe festival, April 2008. Photo by Raym Richards
Cheri monastery, April 2008. Photo by Raym Richards
Bhutan Welcomes you and awaits your visit! Photo by Raym Richards