From
$2,000 /pax (~$400/day)
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
See all reviews on Google“Highly recommended. I book 2 nights & 3 days tour with Arise Bhutan. I had Kuenzang Wangchuk as my guide & Ugyen Wangdi as my driver. I had an enjoyable & fun tour with both gentlemen. Highlights of the tour; flexibility...Wangchuk & Ogyen are very well versed on the attractions in Paro and even suggested better ones along the way. 10 km total hike to Taktsang or the famous Tiger's Nest...memorable & very picturesque all the way up. Restaurants selection were all neat & delicious with a restaurant that has my own local dish being recommended. I told them that i want to experience how local lives and their culture, so they took me to have high tea in one of his friend's house coinciding with first rice harvest in the village..plus the archery & town tour...awesome. More importantly, both gentlemen were a lovely, kind, attentive & have a great sense of humour. Bhutan is already a beautiful country, and adding Arise, Wangchuk & Ugyen to it, making my trip near perfection...”
Budi Nasron
“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
Ready to Book?
Build your itinerary and we'll send you a personalised quote — no commitment needed.
No payment required at this stage
Quick Facts
Need Help Choosing?
Our Bhutan specialists can help you pick the perfect tour or create a custom itinerary.
Talk to a Specialist