Bhutan Textile and Culture Tour
09 Nights / 10 Days
Overview
In Bhutan, textiles are revered as one of the highest forms of art and spiritual expression. The knowledge and skills needed to create these intricate fabrics have been passed down through generations. Using primarily the simple backstrap loom, the Thunder Dragon People have developed one of the most advanced and sophisticated weaving cultures in history.With this Bhutan travel package, you have the opportunity to explore and experience various types of textile weaving and dyeing. You’ll also get to see magnificent dzongs, temples, monasteries, and stupas, and immerse yourself in authentic Buddhist culture and philosophy. Visit villages to experience rural life and get to know Bhutan’s friendly and ever-smiling people, their traditions, and way of life. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Bhutan as you walk between rolling hills and virgin forests filled with wildflowers and fragrances.You can also plan your journey to coincide with one of the vibrant religious festivals of eastern Bhutan, a region famous for its textile weaving.
Highlights
- Hike to TaktshangLakhang
- Hoisting of Prayer flags
- Dinner with local Bhutanese family to get a taste of the local food
- Cooking session of authentic Bhutanese cuisine
- Imposing Punakha Dzong
- Visit of local Handloom weaving house and meet a Weavers family
- Archery Session
- Interactive Session with monks
- Personal Astrology reading
- Local Dress wearing Session
- Traditional Cultural Program with Mask Dance
Tour Route
Detailed Itinerary
Arrive Paro – Thimphu (By Private Vehicle 55 Kms 1 ½ Hrs Drive)
Upon arrival at Paro Airport, our representative will greet you and transfer you to Thimphu, the modern capital of Bhutan.
Once in Thimphu, check into your pre-booked hotel. Thimphu, the heart of Bhutan’s government, religion, and commerce, is a unique city where modern development blends seamlessly with ancient traditions. With a population of around 90,000, it remains one of the few capital cities in the world without a traffic light.
In the evening, take a leisurely walk to the local craft bazaar, recently established with the support of the Department of Cottage & Small Industry, the Department of Culture, the Tourism Council, and the Department of Agriculture Marketing and Cooperatives. This market showcases genuine Bhutanese arts and crafts, contributing to the promotion, protection, and preservation of traditional arts.
Later, enjoy an exploratory walk around Thimphu’s main street and market area.
Overnight stay at your hotel in Thimphu.
Thimphu
Breakfast at the Hotel
After breakfast, we’ll take a short drive to the Buddha Dordenma, a majestic statue perched atop a hill in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park. Overlooking the southern entrance to Thimphu Valley, this statue is believed to fulfill an ancient prophecy from the 8th century, discovered by Terton Pema Lingpa, a revered treasure discoverer. The statue, made of bronze and gilded in gold, stands 51.5 meters tall, making it one of the largest in Bhutan. Inside, there are 125,000 smaller Buddha statues, each also cast in bronze and gilded in gold. At Buddha Point, you have the opportunity to meditate in a designated area, absorbing the serene atmosphere.
Next, we’ll drive to Pangri Zampa, a beautiful complex founded in the early 16th century. This site is now a college for traditional astrology. Interacting with the monks and having a personal astrological reading is a unique and enriching experience.
Post-Lunch Activities
After lunch, we’ll visit the King’s Memorial Chorten, a landmark continuously circled by locals murmuring mantras and spinning prayer wheels. This chorten was envisioned by Bhutan’s third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, as a monument to world peace and prosperity. Completed in 1974, it serves as both a memorial to the Late King and a symbol of peace.
We’ll then conclude our tour with a visit to Trashichhoedzong, an impressive fortress and monastery. This site houses the Secretariat building, the throne room of His Majesty the King, and various government offices. It also serves as the summer residence of the Chief Abbot and the central monk body.
Dinner and Overnight Stay
We’ll end the day with a special dinner with a local family. This offers a wonderful opportunity to gain insight into Bhutanese culture, traditions, and daily life.
After dinner, we’ll return to the hotel for an overnight stay in Thimphu.
Thimphu
Breakfast at the Hotel
After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we start our day with a visit to the Institute of Zorig Chusum, also known as the Arts & Crafts School. Here, students learn 13 traditional crafts, including weaving, embroidery, painting, carpentry, carving, sculpture, casting, blacksmithing, bamboo work, gold and silversmithing, masonry, leather work, and paper work. This institute plays a crucial role in preserving Bhutan’s rich heritage while equipping future generations with the skills to keep these traditions alive.
We will also visit a handmade paper factory and the National Library, which houses a vast collection of ancient Buddhist texts and manuscripts.
Afternoon Visits
In the afternoon, we’ll explore the Textile Museum, which showcases six major themes: warp pattern weaves, weft pattern weaves, the role of textiles in religion, achievements in textile arts, textiles from indigenous fibers, and the royal collection. The museum features the crowns of Bhutan’s Kings, traditional dresses (namzas), the first version of the Royal Crown, and other accessories used by the Royal family. We’ll also have a brief and engaging talk on Bhutanese textile weaving.
Next, we’ll visit the Folk Heritage Museum and the Institute of Traditional Medicine, where ancient healing arts such as acupuncture and herbalism are practiced.
Evening Activities
In the evening, you can enjoy strolling through the government-run Handicrafts Emporium and local crafts bazaar. Here, you’ll find examples of Bhutan’s fine traditional arts, including hand-woven textiles, thangkha paintings, masks, ceramics, slate and wood carvings, jewelry, and other interesting items made from local materials.
Scenic Drive and Overnight Stay
Later, we will proceed on a dramatic drive over the high mountain pass of Dochu La (3,080m) to Gangtey (Phobjikha), passing through dense forests of oak and rhododendron trees.
We’ll end the day with an overnight stay at the hotel in Thimphu.
Thimphu – Punakha (BY Private Vehicle 75 Kms 3 Hrs Drive)
Breakfast at the Hotel
Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel to start your day.
Drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass
After breakfast, we will drive to Punakha, crossing the Dochula Pass at 3,080 meters. In Bhutan, passes are marked by large Bhutanese chortens and prayer flags. On a clear day, Dochula Pass offers breathtaking views of the high peaks of the eastern Himalayas.
At the pass, we will see the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens, built by Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk, the eldest Queen Mother. These chortens are arranged in three layers: the first layer has forty-five chortens, the second has thirty-six, and the top layer has twenty-seven, all built around the main chorten.
Prayer Flag Hoisting at Dochula Pass
Prayer flags are a significant part of Bhutanese culture and landscape. They can be found in and around monasteries, chortens, dzongs, lhakhangs, homes, and along bridges and mountain roads. The flags come in red, blue, green, yellow, and white, adding vibrant colors to the rugged landscape. Bhutanese people believe that each flutter of a prayer flag releases the prayer printed on it into the air, carrying it to the heavens. The more the flag flaps, the greater its divine value, which is why they are placed in windy locations.
Drive to Punakha and Visit Chimi Lhakhang
We will continue our drive to Punakha, stopping en route to visit Chimi Lhakhang. The drive takes about 15 minutes to the motorable road, followed by a 1.5-hour walk through paddy fields and villages. Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Temple of Fertility, is situated on a hillock in the center of the valley. It is believed that couples who pray here for children are usually blessed with one soon after. The walk through the village near the temple offers a glimpse into the daily life of the locals.
Visit Punakha Dzong
In the afternoon, we will visit Punakha Dzong, also known as the Palace of Great Happiness. Built at the confluence of the Phochu and Mochu rivers in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, this majestic dzong once served as Bhutan’s religious and administrative center. The dzong measures about 600 by 240 feet and has a six-story, gold-domed tower. Inside, you will find courtyards and religious statues that reflect Bhutan’s rich history and spiritual traditions. Your guide will provide insights into this fascinating culture.
Cooking Session and Dinner
In the evening, we will have a special cooking session at a hotel or restaurant. A team of chefs will demonstrate how to prepare local Bhutanese delicacies, and you can even try your hand at cooking. Bhutanese cuisine is known for its use of red chilies and can be quite spicy. You will learn to make dishes like the national dish, “Emma Datshi,” made with chilies and local Bhutanese cheese. This session is a fun and interactive way to experience Bhutanese culture.
Overnight stay
We will end the day with an overnight stay at the hotel in Punakha.
Punakha – Trongsa (By Private Vehicle 137 Kms 5 Hrs Drive)
Breakfast at the Hotel and Check-Out
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel before checking out.
Drive to Trongsa via Pele-la Pass
After breakfast, we’ll drive to Trongsa, crossing the Pele-la Pass at an elevation of 3,300 meters (10,830 feet). This pass marks the traditional boundary between eastern and western Bhutan. The landscape changes dramatically here, with mountain forests giving way to high-altitude dwarf bamboo. The pass is marked by a large white chorten and adorned with prayer flags.
Stop at Chendbji Chorten
En route, we’ll stop at Chendbji Chorten, a stupa modeled after Kathmandu’s Swayambhunath Stupa, complete with eyes painted at the four cardinal points. Built in the 18th century by Lama Shida from Tibet, this chorten was constructed to cover the remains of an evil spirit subdued at this spot.
Visit Trongsa Dzong
In the afternoon, we’ll visit Trongsa Dzong, which dominates the Trongsa skyline with its impressive architecture. Built in 1648, this dzong served as the seat of power over central and eastern Bhutan. Both the first and second kings of Bhutan ruled the country from this ancient seat. Protected by an impenetrable valley, Trongsa Dzong stands as an impregnable fortress, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Bhutan’s rich history.
Overnight Stay in Trongsa
After exploring the dzong, we’ll check in at the hotel in Trongsa for an overnight stay, allowing you to relax and reflect on the day’s journey.
Trongsa – Bumthang (By Private Vehicle 68 Kms 3 Hrs Drive)
Breakfast at the Hotel and Check-Out
Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel before checking out and starting your day.
Visit Ta Dzong in Trongsa
After breakfast, we’ll visit the Ta Dzong in Trongsa. This watchtower museum offers fascinating insights into Bhutanese history and culture, with its exhibits on the monarchs and their legacy.
Drive to Bumthang via Yutong-La Pass
Following the visit, we’ll continue our journey to Bumthang, which is 68 km from Trongsa, approximately a 3-hour drive. We’ll cross the Yutong-La Pass at an elevation of 3,400 meters (11,155 feet). The road winds steeply up to the pass, offering scenic views, and then descends through coniferous forests into the wide, open Chumey Valley.
Visit Yathra Weaving Centre in Chumey Valley
In the Chumey Valley, we’ll stop at the Yathra Weaving Centre. ‘Yathra’ is a traditional hand-woven fabric made from yak and sheep wool, known for its vibrant colors and unique patterns. Bumthang is famous for its Yathra weaving, producing woolen clothes, bags, scarves, and more. The visit will provide a fascinating look at this traditional craft and an opportunity to see the weavers at work.
Arrival in Bumthang and Check-In
Upon arrival in Bumthang, we’ll check in at your pre-booked hotel. Take some time to relax and unwind after the day’s journey.
Overnight Stay in Bumthang
Enjoy a peaceful overnight stay at the hotel in Bumthang, preparing for the adventures ahead.
Bumthang
Breakfast at the Hotel
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel.
Explore Bumthang’s Four Valleys
Bumthang, known for its four stunning valleys—Chumey, Choekhor, Tang, and Ura—has altitudes ranging from 2,600m to 4,000m (8,520 to 13,125 ft). Today, we’ll explore some of its most sacred and historical sites.
Morning Visits
Kurje Lhakhang
Our first stop will be Kurje Lhakhang, one of the most sacred sites in Bhutan. It is here that Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), Bhutan’s “patron saint,” meditated. This revered place is central to Bhutanese spiritual life.
Tangbi Monastery
Next, we’ll take a half-hour walk north of Kurje Lhakhang to Tangbi Monastery, founded in 1470 by Shamar Rinpoche of the Kagyupa religious school. The monastery features two sanctuaries and a temple of terrifying deities.
Jambey Lhakhang
From Kurje Monastery, we’ll drive along the river to Jambey Lhakhang. This temple, built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, is one of Bhutan’s oldest, alongside Kyichu Lhakhang in Paro.
Afternoon Visits
Tamshing Lhakhang
In the afternoon, we’ll visit Tamshing Lhakhang, founded in 1501 by Pema Lingpa. This temple contains fascinating ancient Buddhist wall paintings that provide insight into Bhutanese spiritual and artistic heritage.
Jakar Dzong
Our next stop is Jakar Dzong, known as “the dzong of the white bird.” This impressive fortress offers stunning views and a deep sense of history.
Evening Activity
Visit a Local Handloom Weaving House
In the evening, we’ll visit a local handloom weaving house where you can meet a weaver’s family. This visit will give you a closer look at traditional weaving techniques and the cultural significance of handloom weaving in Bhutan.
Overnight Stay
We will conclude the day with an overnight stay at the hotel in Bumthang. Enjoy a restful night, surrounded by the tranquility of this beautiful valley.
Bumthang – Paro (By Flight)
Breakfast at the Hotel
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel.
Transfer to the Airport and Flight to Paro
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Paro. Upon arrival in Paro, you will be greeted and transferred to your pre-booked hotel.
Visit Ta Dzong and Rinpung Dzong
Ta Dzong
In the afternoon, we’ll visit Ta Dzong, originally built as a watchtower. Today, it houses the National Museum, which boasts an extensive collection of antique thangkha paintings, textiles, weapons and armor, household objects, and a rich assortment of natural and historical artifacts.
Rinpung Dzong
Next, we’ll walk down the trail to visit Rinpung Dzong, meaning “fortress of the heap of jewels.” This dzong has a long and fascinating history. Along the wooden galleries lining the inner courtyard, you’ll find fine wall paintings illustrating Buddhist lore, including scenes such as the four friends, the old man of long life, the wheel of life, the life of Milarepa, Mount Sumeru, and other cosmic mandalas.
Evening at Leisure
Enjoy a leisurely evening to explore Paro at your own pace or relax at your hotel.
Overnight Stay
End the day with an overnight stay at the hotel in Paro, ready for more adventures tomorrow.
Paro
Breakfast at the Hotel
Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel to fuel up for an exciting day ahead.
Excursion to Taktshang Monastery (5-Hour Hike)
After breakfast, we’ll embark on an excursion to Taktshang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest. This iconic monastery is perched on the side of a cliff, 900 meters above the Paro valley floor. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery, giving it the name Tiger’s Nest. Recognized as one of the most sacred sites in Bhutan, it was visited by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646 and is a pilgrimage destination for all Bhutanese, who aim to visit it at least once in their lifetime. Though a fire in 1998 severely damaged the main structure, it has been beautifully restored to its original splendor.
Archery Session
In the afternoon, we’ll have an archery session. Archery is Bhutan’s national sport, and every village has its own archery range. Traditionally, bamboo bows are used, although modern compound bows are now common in cities. Teams of archers shoot at targets only 30 centimeters in diameter from a distance of 120 meters. Archery competitions are vibrant and colorful events, integral to all Bhutanese festivities. A professional archer will demonstrate, and you can also try your hand at this sport. The session usually lasts about an hour.
Evening Activities: Local Dress Wearing and Cultural Program
In the evening, back at the hotel, you’ll have the chance to try on traditional Bhutanese clothing. The national dress is a distinctive and visible aspect of Bhutan’s unique culture. Men wear a gho, a long robe similar to a Tibetan chhuba, raised to the knee, folded backward, and tied around the waist with a kera (belt). Women wear an ankle-length robe called a kira. Bhutanese textiles are made from fine, hand-woven, or milled fabric with colorful and distinctive patterns.
Following this, there will be a cultural program featuring a mask dance, a vibrant and traditional performance showcasing Bhutanese culture and heritage.
Enjoy a restful overnight stay at the hotel in Paro.
Leave Paro
Breakfast at the Hotel and Checkout
After breakfast, our guest relations executive will assist you with the checkout process and transfer you to Paro Airport for your onward journey. Safe travels!
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Pricing*
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Price will Included
- Accommodation on Twin/Double Sharing basis
- Daily Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Private Transfers
- City Sightseeing
- Private Car with Driver
- Accompanying English Speaking Guide
- Entrances to Monuments
- Bhutan Development Fees
- Bhutan Visa Fee
- Domestic Flight as per Program
Price will Not Included
- International Flight
- Insurance
- Expenses of Personal nature
- Camera and Video charges
- Tips
Hotels Included
* Terms and Conditions Apply
- Prices applicable for standard hotels, luxury accommodations available on request.
- Christmas and New Year supplement applicable extra.
- Local taxes apply.
