Black-Necked Crane Festival

The arrival of black-necked cranes in Phobjikha Valley is deeply spiritual for locals, who see the birds as reincarnations of valley deities. Their circular flight around Gangtey Goempa is viewed as a sacred tribute to the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha, marking the start of winter. To honor and protect these endangered birds, the Black-necked Crane Festival is held annually on November 11th, coinciding with the King’s birthday. Launched in 1998 by RSPN and PEMC, the festival raises awareness on conservation while celebrating Phobjikha’s cultural heritage.
  • 7 Days/6 Nights
  • Phobjikha Valley

Itinerary

  • Arrival in Paro: Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by your friendly Dheyma Travel representative. After completing immigration and customs procedures, you will proceed to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan.
  • Transfer to Thimphu: The scenic drive will take around 1.5 hours through lush green landscapes, offering you your first glimpses of Bhutan’s picturesque beauty.
  • Check-in at the hotel.
  • Post lunch visit Buddha Dordenma Statue: Visit one of the largest Buddha statues in the world. The Buddha Dordenma statue offers panoramic views of the Thimphu Valley.
  • National Memorial Chorten: A significant religious structure, this chorten is a place where locals gather for prayer and meditation.
  • Evening at Leisure: Check into your hotel and relax. In the evening, you can take a casual stroll around Thimphu’s vibrant streets or visit a local café for a taste of Bhutanese hospitality.

Overnight: Stay in Thimphu.

  • Breakfast at the hotel: Start your day with a delicious Bhutanese breakfast.
  • Hike to Wangditse, Difficulty level: Easy, Distance: Roughly 4km. Time taken: 2-3hrs.
  • Traditional Craft Bazaar: Explore Bhutanese handicrafts and textiles, perfect for souvenirs.
  • National Folk Heritage Museum: A deep dive into Bhutanese culture, where you will see traditional Bhutanese living arrangements and lifestyle.
  • Textile Museum: Discover Bhutan’s rich textile traditions and the intricate craftsmanship behind their famous handwoven fabrics.
  • Visit to Tashichho Dzong: Explore this iconic fortress-monastery that houses the throne room and offices of the King of Bhutan. The dzong is an architectural marvel and an important cultural symbol of the country.
  • Evening at Leisure: You can explore the Thimphu market for souvenirs or relax at your hotel.

Overnight: Stay in Thimphu.

  • Breakfast at the Hotel: Enjoy a hearty breakfast before embarking on your next adventure.
  • Drive to Punakha: Set out to Punakha, a scenic 3-4 hour drive, passing through the famous Dochula Pass at 3,140 meters (10,300 feet).
  • Dochula Pass: Stop at the pass for stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan mountains (weather permitting) and visit the 108 chortens (stupas) that dot the landscape.
  • Lunch at local farm house
  • Short hike to Chimi Lhakhang: Visit this famous temple, also known as the “Temple of Fertility.” It is located on a hilltop and is associated with the legendary Lama Drukpa Kuenley, who was known for his unconventional ways of teaching Buddhism.
  • Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten: A scenic 30-minute hike will take you to this beautiful chorten, offering magnificent views of the Punakha valley and the surrounding mountains.
  • Punakha Dzong: Visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, situated at the confluence of the Pho and Mo rivers. It is one of the most beautiful and historically significant dzongs in Bhutan, famous for its grand architecture and the stunning location.
  • Evening at Leisure: Relax and explore the peaceful surroundings of Punakha or enjoy a walk along the river.

Overnight: Stay in Punakha.

  • Breakfast at the Hotel: Enjoy a hearty breakfast before embarking on your next adventure.
  • Drive to Gangtey: Set out to Gangtey, a scenic 2–3 hour drive, known for its beautiful Phobjikha Valley and the Gangtey Monastery.
  • Visit the Gangtey Monastery, an important monastery of the Nyingma school of Buddhism, and learn about the culture and history of the region.
  • Visit Black-Necked Crane information centre, educates visitors on the endangered cranes and their conservation. It offers exhibits, a viewing room, and supports community-based environmental efforts.
  • Check-in & Lunch at homestay
  • Embark on a 360 panoramic hike: A moderate 30 minutes to1 hour hike that offers stunning views of the Phobjikha Valley, the monastery, and surrounding mountains. This circular hike provides exceptional views and an immersive experience of the valley’s beauty.
  • Evening at Leisure: Relax and explore the peaceful surroundings of Gangtey or enjoy a walk along the valley

Overnight: Stay in Gangtey.

  • Breakfast at homestay: Enjoy a hearty breakfast
  • Witness the crane festival all day: Phobjikha Valley is renowned as the winter habitat of the Black-necked Crane (Grus nigricollis). Around six hundred of these graceful and elusive birds migrate to Bhutan each year from the Tibetan Plateau, with Phobjikha being one of their preferred wintering grounds. They can typically be seen in the valley from early November until the end of March. Overlooking this serene landscape is Gangtey Goempa, a historic monastery that dates back to the 17th century.
  • Post lunch drive to Paro
  • Post lunch, visit Paro Rinpung Dzong: a fortress-monastery that stands as a symbol of Bhutan’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. The dzong offers stunning views of the surrounding valley and houses important religious institutions.

Overnight: Stay in Paro.

  • Early Breakfast at the Hotel: Start early as you prepare for a memorable adventure.
  • Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery: Embark on a challenging but rewarding hike to the famous Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery, perched 900 meters above the Paro Valley. The hike takes about 4-5 hours (round trip) but offers incredible views of the monastery from different vantage points.
    • Lunch at the Cafeteria: Enjoy a delicious meal at the halfway cafeteria with a view of the monastery.
    • Explore the Monastery: After reaching the monastery, explore this sacred site and learn about its spiritual significance in Bhutanese Buddhism.
  • Return to Paro: After the hike, return to Paro
  • Evening at Leisure: You can explore the Paro market for souvenirs or relax at your hotel

Overnight: stay in Paro.

  • Breakfast at the hotel: Enjoy a final breakfast in Bhutan.
  • Transfer to Paro Airport: Depending on your flight schedule, your Dheyma Travel representative will assist you with your transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure.

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  • Double room on twin sharing basis in government approved 3 star hotels
  • Single room supplement is additional of USD 45 per night per room
  • All three meals (does not cover water and other beverages ordered in hotels/restaurants)
  • Bottled mineral water for the entire trip (except water ordered in the hotels and restaurants)
  • Afternoon tea and snacks
    English speaking and knowledgeable guide
  • Comfortable SUV and a reliable driver
  • Museum entrance fees
  • Visa fee and processing charges
  • Tourism Development Fund
  • Government taxes
  • All administrative cost
  • Full service & assistance before, during and after your Bhutan trip
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  • Airfare to and from Bhutan (we can arrange you tickets for you if you wish)
  • Any other beverages (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) including water ordered in restaurants and hotels
  • Travel or health insurance
  • Wire transfer
  • Laundry
  • Gratuity/Tip for guides and drivers