Punakha Tshechu

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Trip Facts

  • Destination:Bhutan
  • Trip Grade:Easy
  • Total Duration:9 Days
  • Best Time:February
  • Group Size:1-40 People

Trip Highlights

The Punakha Drubchen is a unique festival because it hosts a dramatic recreation of the scene from the 17th century battle with Tibetan army. The ‘pazaps’ or local militia men, dress in traditional battle gear and reenact the ancient battle scene. This reenactment harkens back to the time when in the absence of a standing army, men from the eight Tshogchens or great village blocks of Thimphu came forward and managed to expel the invading forces from the country. Their victory ushered in a period of new-found internal peace and stability.

Trip Overview

Punakha is located in the western part of Bhutan is the winter home of the Je Khenpo, the Chief Abbot of Bhutan. Punakha has been of critical importance since the time of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in 17th century. Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal is known as the unifier of Bhutan as a nation state and he was the one who gave Bhutan and its people the distinct cultural identity that identified Bhutan from the rest of the world.During 17th century Bhutan was invaded several times by Tibetan forces seeking to seize a very precious relic, the Ranjung Kharsapani. Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal led the Bhutanese to victory over the Tibetans and to commemorate the triumph he introduced the Punakha Drubchen. Since then Punakha Drubchen (also known as Puna Drubchen) became the annual festival of Punakha Dzongkhag.

The Punakha Drubchen is a unique festival because it hosts a dramatic recreation of the scene from the 17th century battle with Tibetan army. The ‘pazaps’ or local militia men, dress in traditional battle gear and reenact the ancient battle scene. This reenactment harkens back to the time when in the absence of a standing army, men from the eight Tshogchens or great village blocks of Thimphu came forward and managed to expel the invading forces from the country. Their victory ushered in a period of new-found internal peace and stability.

In 2005 another festival known as Punakha Tshechu was introduced by the 70th Je Khenpo Trulku Jigme Choedra and the then Home Minister His Excellency Lyonpo Jigme Yoedzer Thinley. The Tshechu was introduced in response to the requests made by Punakha District Administration and local people to host a Tshechu in order to better preserve Buddhist teachings and keep alive the noble deeds of Zhabdrung Rimpoche.

These two festivals not only play an important role in preserving Bhutan’s rich culture and traditions but also provide devout Buddhists with an opportunity for prayer and pilgrimage. They reflect the richness of the Bhutanese cultural heritage and are very special in the eyes and hearts of both Bhutanese and tourists who visit Bhutan.

Detail Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Paro
Day 2: Paro
Day 3: Paro – Punakha
Day 4: Punakha
Day 5: Punakha – Gangtey/Phobjikha
Day 6: Gangtey / Phobjikha – Thimphu
Day 7: Thimphu
Day 8: Thimphu – Paro
Day 9: Depart Paro

Cost Includes

  • Airport pickup and drop.
  • It is private tour, will be accompanied by your personal guide and your driver with vehicle.
  • Camping Equipment and Haulage for Trekking Tours
  • Bottled mineral Water throughout your tour.
  • Accommodation in twin Sharing in 3 Star Hotel.(4 & 5 star may require an additional premium).
  • All meals (buffet system /include evening tea/snacks per pax each day).
  • All hotel tax & service charges.
  • Bhutan visa processing fee.
  • All inland travel permits.
  • Royal Government of Bhutan (RGoB) Royalties and taxes.
  • Inland transfers by private car: SUV Vehicles (Toyota Prado / Hyundai Tucson / Hyundai Santa Fe / Toyota Sedans), Toyota Hiace, Toyota Coaster, Hyundai H1 – based on group strength.
  • Local sightseeing with entrance fees where applicable.
  • Services of an English speaking local guide.

Cost Excludes

  • Druk air flights [Please note that the cost of any domestic airfare for the guide must be paid by the clients/agents].
  • Travel insurance
  • Refreshment, any alcoholic/nonalcoholic beverages and any other personal expenses
  • Gratuities to guide, driver, trekking staff, etc
  • Other expenses of personal nature

Majestic Himalayas, magnificent fortress and vibrant biodiversity greeted me the very moment i landed on the Bhutanese soil. My trip to Bhutan is a casket of memories that i will cherish in my life. My tour of Bhutan was supplemented with utmost hospitality and case by my agent.they took intensive care to arrange my lodging and my guide made sure to make me comfortable and worthwhile in an alien world.
Although Bhutan is progressing in her developmental tasks,the kind of love for their environment and culture was what took me aback.I visited different places like Thimphu, Paro and Punakha and everywhere I went, I was entertained by the beauty of the nature;green trees and tall mountains are always there by one's side to reassure that love of mother nature is always there for us.And one can feel that love,every time one breathes in,I could feel it.
There was something totally different in the air,I don't know how to describe it but it was rejuvenating. I was also enthralled to see the unique tradition and culture of Bhutan and I really liked their arts and crafts.I never knew there were so many subtle meanings behind every piece of art. To the eyes that are accustomed in seeing sky scrapers and metros.A visit to this country will make one realize what one is missing amidst head on civilization.
I will always be grateful to my agent,World Tour Plan and my guide for making my trip more than just a mere visit but a rich experience to cherish forever.It is a gift that I want to present my family with a next visit to this land of happiness.

Ethan,
Singapore

The tour has included most of the important landmarks to know about Bhutan and its culture in short period of time. I enjoyed my solo trip in Bhutan. My tour guide Chencho has excellent knowledge about Buddhism, the monasteries and the history of Bhutan. He was also very accommodating and responsible guide. The driver, Benzay kept the car clean and was also very pleasant and funny.

Aaron,
United States of America

Fantastic tour and exceptional guide and driver. Very knowledgeable and friendly. Both went out of their way to ensure our happiness and safety. When we got snowed in at Bumthang they did everything in the power to ensure we got back to Paro to meet our international connections.

Ronan,
Canada

I was planning a week trip to Bhutan and it was indeed blessing in disguise to come across this travel company "World Tour Plan". Upon reaching there i was received by the guide Chencho . The driver was helpful and his driving skills was smooth. i appreciate the knowledge,communication skills and insights of the guide,Chencho. the tour was well planned and the hospitality of the the people there was so wonderful and welcoming.
The scenic beauty of the country is immeasurably breathtaking. My trip to Bhutan planned by this company was a great start of the year.I would highly recommend World Tour Plan .Do avail their tour services you wont be disappointment !

Diego,
United Kingdom

Excellent tour with World Tour Plan! I had a fruitful holidays (11 days 10 nights). for the agency, the application procedure was really smooth with prompt replies. they are willing to discuss the itinerary to suit your needs for the tour guide named Chencho, he is responsible, knowledgeable and experienced, always put safety the first priority. After the tour, I could know more about Bhutan in different ways cultural and religious aspects - the Last Shangri La, and had a memorable time of course. this tour is highly recommended, particularly the tour guide Chencho.

Marco,
United States
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