Punakha Drubchen & Tshechu
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Punakha Drubchen & Tshechu

Bhutan's Most Dramatic Winter Festival

From

$2,000 /pax (~$400/day)

5 Days / 4 Nights 2–12 pax Paro · Thimphu · Punakha February / March

Tour Overview

The Punakha Drubchen is unique among all of Bhutan's festivals — a dramatic re-enactment of a 17th-century military victory over Tibetan invaders. Warriors dressed in ancient armour, helmets, and wielding traditional weapons charge across Punakha Dzong's courtyard in a spectacle unlike anything else in Asia.

Held in February/March, it coincides with the stunning bloom of purple jacaranda trees around the dzong — making this one of the most photographed festivals in all of Bhutan. Immediately following the Drubchen, the sacred Tshechu festival begins.

Highlights

  • Punakha Drubchen — unique dramatic battle re-enactment festival
  • Warriors in ancient armour and helmets charging through the dzong courtyard
  • Punakha Tshechu sacred Cham mask dances
  • Punakha Dzong at its most photogenic — purple jacaranda trees in bloom
  • Dochu La pass on clear winter days — full Himalayan panorama
  • Warm subtropical Punakha Valley in February/March

Places You'll Visit

🏔️

Paro

Gateway to Bhutan at 2,200m. Home to Tiger's Nest Monastery, Rinpung Dzong, and picturesque rice-paddy valleys lined with traditional farmhouses. Paro International Airport is one of the world's most dramatic landings.

🏛️

Thimphu

Bhutan's vibrant capital — a city without a single traffic light. Home to the 169-ft gilded Buddha Dordenma statue, Tashichho Dzong (the Royal seat of government), and the country's finest cultural museums.

🌸

Punakha

Bhutan's warm subtropical former capital. The spectacular 6-storey Punakha Dzong stands at the confluence of two sacred rivers and was the site of the 2011 Royal Wedding. Purple jacaranda trees bloom here in February.

Photo Gallery

What Our Guests Say

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Best tour guide in whole bhutan and he will arrange for your all needs taxis hotels and guide all will be taken care of

Being Indian · 🇮🇳 India

Just want to say missing Bhutan and missing our guide Kuenzang wangchuk. Must must visit bhutan

Divyesh Patel · 🇮🇳 India

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Quick Facts

Duration5 Days / 4 Nights
Group Size2–12 pax
DifficultyEasy
Best SeasonFebruary / March
LocationsParo, Thimphu, Punakha

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