Day 1 – Arrival in Paro keyboard_arrow_down
Arrive in Paro and enjoy your first introduction to Bhutan’s peaceful pace of life. Visit Paro Rinpung Dzong and the National Museum. Overnight in Paro.
Delve into the spiritual heart of Bhutan through the valleys of Bumthang — the country’s cultural cradle. The Jakar Tshechu is a vibrant festival that transforms the fortress of Jakar Dzong into a living theatre of sacred mask dances, blessings, and devotion. Alongside the festivities, explore monasteries like Kurje Lhakhang and Tamzhing, which preserve Bhutan’s ancient spiritual lineage, and wander through the serene countryside where time seems to have stood still.
Arrive in Paro and enjoy your first introduction to Bhutan’s peaceful pace of life. Visit Paro Rinpung Dzong and the National Museum. Overnight in Paro.
Drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. Visit the Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma, and the School of Traditional Arts. Stroll through the weekend market before overnight stay in Thimphu.
Begin the scenic drive across the Dochula and Pelela Passes to Trongsa, the ancient seat of Bhutan’s monarchy. Visit Trongsa Dzong, one of Bhutan’s largest and most impressive fortresses. Overnight in Trongsa.
Drive deeper into the heart of Bhutan, arriving at the lush Bumthang Valley. Explore Jakar Dzong and take an evening stroll through the quiet town of Chamkhar. Overnight in Bumthang.
Immerse yourself in the celebrations of the Jakar Tshechu. Witness monks performing sacred cham dances in elaborate masks, receive blessings from high lamas, and join locals in a day of colour, prayer, and festivity. Overnight in Bumthang.
Visit the revered Kurje Lhakhang (where Guru Rinpoche left his body imprint) and Tamzhing Monastery, known for its 16th-century frescoes. Optional visit to a local farmhouse to experience traditional hospitality. Overnight in Bumthang.
Retrace your route westward, with photo stops and lunch in Trongsa. Arrive in Paro by evening and rest after the long drive. Overnight in Paro.
After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward flight, filled with memories of Bhutan’s heartland and its timeless festivals.
The Jakar Tshechu offers a rare window into Bhutan’s ancient spiritual traditions, where sacred dance meets heartfelt community devotion. Enjoy the stunning landscapes of Bumthang — Bhutan’s cultural heart — and visit centuries-old monasteries that still pulse with living faith. Ideal for travellers seeking authenticity, history, and calm immersion.
The Jakar Tshechu usually takes place in October or November, depending on the lunar calendar. Flights are to Paro, with a scenic drive to Bumthang taking approximately 8–9 hours. Light jackets are advised as Bumthang sits at higher altitude (2,600 m). Festival photography is allowed but always remain respectful of ritual boundaries and monks in ceremony.