9 Day Black-Necked Crane Festival Tour
Tour Highlights
Tour fact
Duration:10 days,9 nights
Grade: Moderate
Season: 11 November
Places:Paro,Thimphu,
Gangtey,Punakha
Accommodation
Plan:3 star hotel
Options: 4 or 5 star hotel
Day 1 : Arrival in Paro - Thimphu
Upon your arrival at Paro International Airport, a warm welcome awaits you, graciously extended by our guide. Following the warm greeting, we proceed to Thimphu city, the vibrant capital of Bhutan. This marks the beginning of your journey, where you'll be introduced to the enchanting landscapes and rich cultural tapestry that Bhutan has to offer. We'll leisurely explore the city's hotspots, allowing you to gradually acclimate to the elevation.
Day 2: Thimphu-Punakha
In the morning, we ascend to Punakha, traversing the iconic Dochula Pass, renowned for its scenic beauty. Along the journey, we make a brief stop at Dochula Pass, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range. This pause allows you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery, providing ample opportunities to capture the natural beauty through photography.
Following the descent into Punakha valley, we arrive at the majestic Punakha Dzong, strategically positioned between the rivers Pho Chu and Mo Chu. This architectural marvel showcases stunning Bhutanese craftsmanship. Delve into the rich tradition as we explore the interior of the dzong, providing a profound glimpse into Bhutan's cultural and historical heritage.
In the afternoon, our journey continues as we proceed to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a masterpiece built by the Queen Mother of Bhutan. This unique architectural marvel is adorned with intricate designs, showcasing the artistry of Bhutanese craftsmanship. Inside the stupa, you'll find a host of statues and shrines. Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance, taking in the serene atmosphere that surrounds this sacred site.
Day 3: Punakha - Gangtey
In the morning, our journey leads us to Gangtey Valley to partake in the Black-Necked Crane Festival. En route, we make a stop at Chimi Lhakhang, immersing ourselves in its sacred ambiance. Following this, we embark on a joyful drive through nature's forest, anticipating the unique and vibrant experiences that the Black-Necked Crane Festival and Gangtey Valley have to offer.
In the afternoon, we set out to explore the beautiful Gangtey Valley, where we indulge in a nature walk along the Gangtey walking trails. This leisurely stroll not only allows us to stretch our legs but also provides an immersive experience in the tranquil and picturesque surroundings of nature. It's an opportunity to appreciate the peaceful ambiance and the natural beauty that graces Gangtey Valley.
As evening descends, our guide provides a brief yet insightful overview of the main event scheduled for the next day—the Black-Necked Crane Festival. This briefing ensures you are well-prepared and can fully enjoy the festivities. Following the briefing, you have leisure time to relax, allowing you to unwind and anticipate the cultural richness awaiting you at the festival.
Day 4: Gangtey Black-necked Crane Festival
Today is dedicated to attending the main event—the Black-Necked Crane Festival hosted by Gangtey Monastery. This vibrant celebration unfolds with captivating mask dances, traditional dances, and soul-stirring songs. The festival is a spectacle of vibrant culture, where participants don colorful national dresses, creating a visually stunning display.
The festival serves as a remarkable community reunion, bringing together individuals from monks to common residents. They unite in celebration, fostering a sense of togetherness and shared joy. The festival is named after the endangered species, the Black-Necked Crane, which finds winter refuge in the Gangtey Valley after migration—a poignant tribute to the harmonious coexistence between nature and Bhutanese culture.
In the afternoon, our exploration continues with a visit to the Black-Necked Crane Centre. Here, you'll gain valuable insights and information about these majestic birds—the Black-Necked Cranes. Learn about their behavior, habitat, and the conservation efforts aimed at preserving this endangered species. It's a chance to deepen your understanding of the significance of these magnificent creatures in the local ecosystem and Bhutanese culture.
Day 5: Gangtey - Thimphu
In the morning, our journey takes us back to Thimphu, and along the way, we make a stop to visit the newly rebuilt Wangdi Phodrang Dzong, which was unfortunately destroyed by fire. Witness the resilience of Bhutanese craftsmanship in the reconstruction of this significant cultural site.
Lunch will be served on the way, offering a moment to refresh and refuel. Additionally, we take advantage of the picturesque Dochula Pass, where we embark on a short nature walk. This allows you to stretch your legs and immerse yourself in the serene natural beauty of Dochula Pass.we conclude with an overnight stay in Thimphu.
Day 6: Thimphu Exploration
Today's exploration of Thimphu begins with a visit to the Giant Buddha Statue, which stands majestically overlooking the Thimphu Valley. This impressive statue offers not only a visual spectacle but also a symbol of Bhutanese spirituality. Following this, we join the local people at the National Memorial Stupa for circumambulation—a spiritual practice of walking around the stupa. This experience provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local customs and spirituality, as you join in this sacred and meditative act alongside the Bhutanese community.
In the afternoon, our exploration of Thimphu continues with a visit to the Folk Heritage Museum, offering a glimpse into the traditional Bhutanese way of life. Next, we proceed to the National Museum, where you can delve into Bhutan's history through a collection of artifacts and exhibits. The journey continues to the Zorig Chusum School, also known as the 13 Arts and Crafts School, where traditional Bhutanese arts and crafts are preserved and passed down through generations. Continuing our cultural exploration, we visit the Textile Museum, where you can witness the intricate art of weaving the national dress and other traditional textiles. This museum offers insights into Bhutan's rich textile traditions, showcasing the craftsmanship and skills involved in creating these beautiful pieces. Following the museum visit, we browse through the handicrafts markets, providing an opportunity to explore and perhaps acquire unique handcrafted items.
Day 7: Thimphu - Paro
In the morning, our journey takes us back to Paro, and along the way, we make a stop at Tagcho Lhakhang, providing an opportunity to stretch our legs and explore this sacred site.Upon arrival in Paro, our exploration continues with a visit to the majestic Paro Dzong, strategically located near the river, offering a stunning backdrop. We then delve into the rich cultural heritage of Bhutan at the National Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of historical artifacts and exhibits.
Day 8: Hike to Taktsang Monastery(Tiger Nest)
In the evening, we take a leisurely stroll to Paro Town, providing an opportunity for shopping and exploring the local market. The day concludes with a farewell dinner back at the hotel, offering a warm and memorable conclusion of Black Necked Crane Festival in Bhutan. Reflect on the experiences shared, savor the Bhutanese feast, and bid farewell to this enchanting Himalayan kingdom.
Day 9: Departure
Bhutan Gallery
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