Explore Haa Summer Festivals
The peaceful Haa Valley is transformed into a place of revelry when summer arrives. Villages are bedecked with colourful prayer flags, the hillsides blossom with bright flowers, and locals begin a season of celebration. When you visit the Haa Valley in summer, you’ll want to attend one of Bhutan’s famous festivals, or tsechus.
The Haa Summer Festival is perhaps the most popular—and for good reason. This is a multi-day affair celebrating nomadic culture, with plenty of local food and drink, elaborate dancing, religious rituals, and sporting events.
Homestays
Here’s your chance to really get acquainted with the local way of life in the Haa Valley. This part of Bhutan is inhabited mostly by shepherds and farmers who are still practicing a traditional way of life. You can visit a homestead or farm to observe daily customs, work routines, and the simple satisfaction that comes from a life well lived.
There are numerous farmhouses scattered throughout the valley where we can arrange a homestay experience for you. By staying overnight with locals and helping out with chores around the farm, you’ll get a valuable insight into rural Bhutan that few tourists can boast.
Hiking Exploration
In Haa there’s no better way to explore the surrounding hills besides Hiking. To showcase the unblemished beauty and pristine environment of the pastoral Haa Valley, the “Haa Panorama Hiking Trail” was recently developed. Commencing from Yangthang Monastery (2990m), this trail offers panoramic vistas of the Haa Valley, the sacred Meri Puensum, and distant peaks, all while weaving through untouched pine forests.
The scenic route gently ascends to 3150m, guiding hikers through pine forests, pastures, an unspoiled environment, and past the monasteries of Yanthang (2990m), Katsho (3030m), and Juneydrak (2950m) gompa. The trail then descends into Wangtsa village (2700m). Covering a distance of 11 kilometres, this enchanting trail typically takes about 5 hours to complete at a leisurely pace.
Trekkers delight in Haa valley
If you have time to thoroughly explore the Haa Valley, consider a more challenging trek, the Nub Tshonapata Trek or an easier 3-day trek known as Saga La Trek. This route follows a traditional rice trading path and takes two or three days to complete. You’ll trek through deep forests, across wide meadows, and past a number of interesting temples.
As you ascend, your efforts will also be rewarded with good views of Jomolhari and Jichu Drake, two of Bhutan’s most prominent peaks. From the pass of Saga La itself, you can even catch a glimpse of the Tiger’s Nest monastery in the far distance. Reaching a maximum altitude of only 4,000 meters. The trek is easy and suitable for most travellers.
Biking
Steep trails cut across the green hills of the Haa Valley, winding through tiny villages and past quiet monasteries. It’s no wonder that cyclists are particularly fond of this region of rural Bhutan. There are a number of rewarding routes for mountain bikers who want to explore the valley on two wheels. The 35-kilometer trail connecting the main valley with the village of Haatoe makes for an excellent day trip. It’s even possible to bike from the mountain pass of Chele La all the way down into the Haa Valley!
Getting to Haa
The Haa Valley is not currently accessible by plane, and you’ll have to travel in by road. But this only adds to the valley’s remote charm, and there are a number of scenic points of interest on the drive from Paro. One can get to Haa from Paro across Chelela pass which is about 2.5 hours drive and directly from Thimphu via Chuzom road which is about 3 hours drive.
Punakha, the valley of great Happiness.
Punakha the historical capital of Bhutan,before the country’s administration was moved to Thimphu, the government operated directly from Punakha for nearly 300 years. The seed of this rich history can be traced to Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, a lama who came from Tibet in the 17th century to lay the foundation for a unified Bhutan in Punakha.
Over the years, the district has stood witness to a number of momentous historical occasions. In 1907, Ugyen Wangchuck was crowned the first Druk Gyalpo, or King of Bhutan, in the Punakha Dzong. To this day the coronation of the hereditary kings of Bhutan has been taking place in Punakha Dzong only. More recently, King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck was wed to his bride Queen Jetsun Pema in 2011—at the very same dzong. A visit to Punakha is your chance to revel in these layers of history to see what makes the region so special.
The subtropical district of Punakha is also a favorite winter destination for travelers looking to escape the cold. Thrillseekers will be especially excited about the year-round opportunities here for whitewater rafting, mountain biking, and hiking. You can also enjoy winter trekking and in Punakha when it is too cold in Paro and Thimphu.
Elevation: 1,242 m
Attractions
Punakha Dzong
This beautiful riverside fortress is more than just a backdrop for coronations and royal weddings. It’s also an important religious centre and a shining example of Bhutanese architecture. The dzong’s whitewashed walls make an elegant contrast against the vivid green hills of Punakha; in springtime, this pleasant aesthetic is further enhanced by the gentle bloom of purple jacarandas trees specially in the month of May.
Inside the fortress walls, you’ll discover three courtyards and a number of important Buddhist religious relics. When you’re done exploring, head outside to discover the country’s longest suspension bridge, spanning the Po Chhu river just behind the dzong itself.
Chimi Lhakhang
This fascinating temple in Pana Village is closely associated with Drukpa Kunley, the 16th-century lama popularly known as the “Divine Madman.” This unorthodox figure gained notoriety across Bhutan for his sexually uninhibited practices, using phallic symbols to protect against evil spirits.
Today, visitors come to Chimi Lhakhang to receive a fertility blessing in his honor: the resident monk at the lhakhang taps the heads of the faithful with a silver-encrusted phallus. Further evidence of the lama’s influence can be found in the form of images depicting flying phalluses, which are painted onto homestead walls popularly throughout Punakha and other parts of Bhutan.
Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
Seven kilometers, northeast of the Punakha dzong, the pinnacle chorten stands 30-meters (100-feet) tall, it’s three stories covered with painted pageant of characters from Vajrayana Buddhism - including one protector deity pictured riding a shaggy brown migoi or yeti.
WangdiPhodrang
WangduePhodrangis the name given to the lower part of Phochu and Mochu valley. This is also the name of the dzong which dominates the place. The name is said to have been given by the ShabdrungNgawang Namgyal who was searching for the best location for a dzong. The Dzong was burned down by fire in 2012 but was restored to its formal glory immediately, now that it remains one of the wonders of Bhutan.
Punakha Festival
Visit Punakha Dzong in early spring to catch the annual festival celebrating a historical Bhutanese victory over the much larger Tibetan army in the 17th century. Festival attendees are treated to a lively reenactment of the dzong’s construction, including a dance performance representing the epic battle between the invading Tibetans and the defending Bhutanese.
As befits Punakha’s most important cultural event, visitors will also get to enjoy the traditional masked dances and folk music which characterize every tsechu in Bhutan. If you’d like to see this spectacle for yourself, get in touch with us today—we’ll time your arrival in Bhutan to coincide with this must-see festival.
Talo Festival
Perched high above Punakha Valley and nestled amidst alpine stands of conifer, you’ll find Talo Gompa and the undisturbed settlement of Talo village. As the snow starts melting on the distant hills of Gasa to herald the arrival of spring, the village and monastery prepare to host the annual celebration known as Talo Tsechu.
This festival holds immense cultural significance, especially for its unique Zhungdra, a recital performed by the women of the village. They practice for months each year before finally donning their spectacular traditional robes on the day of their performance. They are perhaps best known for the recital of three songs, known as the Mani Sum. According to the locals, these songs are part of Talo’s rich oral tradition, and no outsider can duplicate them.
The monks and laymen celebrate with scintillating chaam dances, and the whole village resonates with the sounds of drums and horns for three full days.
Hiking Trails and Trekking routes
One scenic footpath starts near Yambesa Village and ascends to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Temple, a multi-tiered structure built to commemorate the coronation of Bhutan’s fifth king. The temple is known for its colorful murals, and it commands incredible views of the valley below.
On a clear day, you can enjoy even better views from one of the hiking paths starting at the mountain pass of Dochu La. These routes bring you to the temples called Lungchutse Gompa and Trashigang Gompa, and if you’re trekking in springtime, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful rhododendron blooms. Lesser-known but equally pleasant trails in the region crisscross the hills surrounding villages like Talo and Norbugang.
Kabji Hokatsho, located in the Punakha Valley of Bhutan, is a serene and picturesque lake renowned for its crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings. The distance to the lake is around 4.5 km, and the elevation of the lake is 1,978m above sea level. This hike offers visitors a peaceful retreat with activities such as hiking, bird watching, and photography. Beyond its natural beauty, the lake holds significant cultural value. Nearby villages provide a fascinating glimpse into traditional Bhutanese life, enriching the visitor’s experience. Best visited during early spring (March and April), late Autumn (November) and winter (December, January and February) for its pleasant weather and vibrant scenery, Kabji Hokatsho is protected as part of Bhutan’s commitment to environmental preservation, ensuring its pristine beauty for future generations. It’s also an excellent place for overnight camping.
Another beautiful hike around Punakha is Jeligang hike which can be an extension of Khamsum Namgyal chorten hike. The hiking trail leads to jeligangGoenpa and finally finishing near Punakha Dzong.
Sinchula trek in Punakha is done during during winter as punakha is a subtropical region
Whitewater Rafting
Get your crew together and take to the water! Punakha is Bhutan’s premier destination for whitewater rafting, with two rivers offering very different experiences. Launch your raft into the Pho Chhu river if you like the sound of an epic 16-kilometer course stuffed with Class 2-4 rapids. If you prefer a gentler experience, consider the Mo Chhu river instead.
This is a shorter route, stretching for about 10 kilometers and taking you through a series of Class 2-2+ rapids. No previous experience is required to enjoy this exciting river adventure; we’ll set you up with an expert guide and all of the necessary equipment. Just be prepared to get wet!
Getting to Punakha
There are no airports in Punakha or Wangdue Phodrang, so you’ll need to enter this fascinating region by road from Thimphu which takes about 2.5 hours.
Phobjekha valley
When you’ve first arrived in the remote Phobjikha Valley after a scenic three-hour drive from Punakha, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve stepped back in time. This secluded central region of Bhutan is characterized by sweeping views of green hills, fertile fields, and picturesque villages.
The tranquil environment here really sets the stage for a scene untouched by modernization—and nowhere are Phobjikha’s timeless qualities more evident than in the seasonal movements of its wildlife. The valley is best known as the winter roosting grounds of the black-necked crane. These large birds travel all the way from Tibet each year, and locals here celebrate their migration with extravagant annual festivals. If you’re a nature lover, there’s no better spectacle in Bhutan.
But don’t make the mistake of thinking that black-necked cranes are all that the Phobjikha Valley has to offer. Adventure enthusiasts will also have their hands full here; the region is home to some of the best hiking and cycling trails in Bhutan. And the cultural highlights of Gangtey are second to none.
There are a bevy of interesting lhakhangs and monasteries in the region; chief amongst them is Gangtey Gompa. It’s here that you’ll learn about the historical Buddhist saint Pema Lingpa, who prophesied the monastery’s construction, and it’s here that you’ll enjoy the very best views of the valley.
Elevation: 3000 m.
Black-Necked Crane Information Centre
Don’t miss your chance to visit the star attraction of the Phobjikha Valley. The rare and endangered black-necked crane migrates from Tibet each year. The centre promotes conservation and awareness of this important bird species by providing guests with up-to-date informational displays.
You’ll get to learn about the inherent fragility of the valley’s ecosystem and the efforts currently underway to protect it. And if you’re visiting during the winter, you’ll even have the opportunity to use the centre’s spotting scopes to see the black-necked cranes for yourself.
Gangtey Gompa
Gangtey Gompa is the religious and cultural focal point of the Phobjikha Valley. Monks are always bustling through its courtyard, visitors can be found touring its vast assembly hall, and locals turn out for each of the many festivals which are held here throughout the year. The monastery also has a fascinating history of its own.
Legend holds that Pema Lingpa, one of Bhutan’s most important Buddhist figures, prophesied that the gompa would be constructed here to spread Nyingma Buddhism throughout the country. While there are several other monasteries and lhakhangs scattered throughout the valley, visiting Gangtey Gompa should be one of your highest priorities.
Gangtey Festival
The premier tsechu of the Phobjikha Valley is held annually in September or October at Gangtey Gompa. This is your opportunity to get a firsthand look at one of Bhutan’s famously exuberant festivals. The three-day event honours Guru Rinpoche, who is credited with bringing Buddhism to the country in the eighth century.
Gangtey Festival features lively masked dances and folk singing—you’ll be blown away by the sheer variety of colorful costumes on display during this celebratory extravaganza. At the end of the festival, a special blessing called the Nguedup Langwa is conferred upon participants.
Black-Necked Crane Festival
The black-necked cranes of the Phobjikha Valley are considered to be a good omen of longevity, bringing fertility and health to the region each year. So perhaps it’s no surprise that the people of Phobjikha pay tribute to these birds with a festival of their own each on 11thNovember at Gangtey Gompa coinciding with the birth anniversary of 4th king, Jigme Singye Wangchuk.
Though the tsechu lasts only a single day, locals and visitors alike turn out in their hundreds to watch the monastery’s monks perform spinning chaam dances. And because the tsechu is held during the winter migration season of the black-necked cranes themselves, there’s a good chance you’ll spot the bird of honour during the festivities.
Hiking and Exploration
The Phobjikha Valley is one of the best places in Bhutan to go for a day hike. There are a multitude of scenic trails winding between the monasteries and lhakhangs in the region, affording amazing hilltop views of the valley’s rolling pastoral scenery. The Gangtey Nature Trail, Longtey Rhododendron Hike, Shashi la Nomad Trail, and Kilkorthang Trail are just a few of the finest options. If you’ve got a touch of wanderlust to satisfy, these remote pathways will be a dream come true.
You’ll pass through verdant rhododendron forests, small shepherds’ villages, and fields where potatoes are sown and harvested. There’s no better way to get a firsthand glimpse at the rural Bhutanese countryside.
Biking
You can explore Gangtey on foot —but you can see even more of it on two wheels. The Phobjikha Valley has become increasingly popular with cyclists, thanks to its wide variety of both gentle and challenging trails. Mountain bike rentals are affordable, and the unpaved paths in the region will bring you through shaded forests of pine, across grassy meadows, and through little villages.
You can also approach Gangtey’s most significant points of interest from these trails, including Gangtey Gompa and the Black-Necked Crane Information Centre. For real adventurers, it’s even possible to bike into the Phobjikha Valley all the way from Punakha!
Getting to Phobjekha/Gangtey
Since there are no airports in the Phobjikha Valley, visitors must come and go by road. Phobjekha can be reached from Paro and Thimphu directly taking about 4 to 5 hours but normally you will be arriving from Punakha as per your planed itinerary.
Bumthang, Switzerland of East
Bumthang valley - Home to four beautiful mountain valleys and an array of ancient monasteries and temples, Bumthang takes its place as the most historic of all districts in Bhutan. Considered to be the spiritual center of the Himalayan Kingdom, Bumthang is a beautiful place to visit if one has a keen interest in religion, spirituality and history.When in Bumthang, there is a lot to be accomplished. Apart from visiting the major sightseeing spots like the Kurjey and Tamshing Lhakhang; one must go trekking up the mountainside or taste the beer, cheese and buckwheat delicacies the region has to offer. If not, you can check out the palace museum or head to the burning lake of Bhutan. Bumthang hosts the Bhutanese nomad festival every year in February.
Elevation 2800 m
Attractions
Jambay Lhakhang
Immerse yourself in an intimate exploration of Bhutan’s unique culture and religion at Jambay Lhakhang. This seventh-century temple is the oldest in Bhutan, and local legend holds that it was established to subdue an unruly demoness. Within the grounds of this Lhakhang, you’ll discover a statue of JowoJampa, the Future Buddha, colourful murals, softly glowing butter lamps, and rows upon rows of prayer wheels.
If you visit Bumthang in October or November, your arrival might coincide with the annual Jambay Lhakhang Drup. This five-day festival is an extravaganza of ritualized dances, fire blessings, and celebration.
Kurje Lhakhang
Indulge your curiosity at one of the temples most closely associated with Guru Rinpoche, arguably Bhutan’s most important Buddhist figure. It’s here that this eighth-century Buddhist saint fought and overcame a demon named ShelgingKharpo, leaving an imprint of his own body within an inner cave.
The cave’s entrance is now marked by a giant statue of Guru Rinpoche himself. Ask your guide to point out the chapel dedicated to ShelgingKharpo—after being defeated, the demon agreed to become a protective deity of Buddhism and is now honoured as such.
Jakar Dzong
The red-and-white walls of Jakar Dzong occupy a prime hilltop location with some of the best views in all of Bumthang. This is one of the largest fortresses in the country, and there’s an incredibly fascinating story of its foundation. Locals hold that the dzong was established only after a white bird landed here in the 1500s: an auspicious signal that a monastery and fortress should be built on the spot.
Today, it’s impossible to ignore a palpable sense of history permeating the walls of this ancient stronghold; its four-story central tower, or utse, is particularly interesting from an architectural standpoint.
Ura Valley
While many visitors restrict their time in Bumthang to the Chokhor Valley, you will want to experience the spiritual and scenic attractions of the Ura Valley. This is the highest of Bumthang’s four main valleys, so it’s no surprise that you’ll get great views of Gangkhar Puensum here.
The pine-clad hills of the Ura Valley often invite comparisons to Switzerland’s alpine scenery. Villagers in the Ura Valley have historically enjoyed a livelihood based on sheep and yak herding; you’re likely to encounter semi-nomadic herders while exploring the highland pastures of this region.
The valley is also notable for the village of Ura itself, where you’ll find unusual cobblestone-paved streets linking traditional whitewashed homes.
Tang Valley
In the heart of Bumthang, the picturesque Tang Valley offers a serene and enchanting escape into the lesser-known yet richly cultural region of Bhutan. The remote Tang Valley in central Bhutan is closely connected to the great saint and tertön, or treasure finder, known as Pema Lingpa.
This idyllic valley, often referred to as the “Valley of Hidden Treasures,” is surrounded by lush forests, verdant meadows, and traditional Bhutanese villages that seem untouched by time. Visitors can explore the sacred OgyenCholing Palace Museum, a treasure trove of Bhutan’s aristocratic past, or go on scenic hikes to discover hidden monasteries and ancient temples.
Additionally, you’ll find the OgyenCholing Heritage House here, where they have rooms for guests to spend a night to get an authentic glimpse into how Bhutan’s religious nobility once lived in this former palace.
MebarTsho
Take a side trip to the Tang Valley to visit one of Bhutan’s most important religious sites. According to Buddhist doctrine, Guru Rinpoche once secreted away religious treasures and teachings, called terma, to be discovered by future disciples. This mysterious alpine lake is believed to be one such hiding place.
Legend tells us that Pema Lingpa, one of Bhutan’s greatest saints and tertöns, or treasure finders, retrieved some of Guru Rinpoche’s treasures from the depths of this lake. Visiting the lake is now an important pilgrimage for believers; with its fast-moving waters, hanging prayer flags, and devotional sculptures, it’s also a fascinating point of interest for many tourists.
Activities
Hiking and Exploration
Ready to stretch your legs and see the marvels of Bumthang firsthand? A multitude of picturesque hiking trails wind through the beautiful villages dotted throughout the valley. The region’s rolling hills and lush, green vistas make it the ideal place to enjoy an invigorating day hike.
You’ll trek through shaded pine forests, pass antiquated monasteries, and wend your way through fragrant orchards and gardens. If you’ve ever wanted to get a taste of Bhutan’s pristine natural environment in conjunction with authentic cultural engagement, Bumthang is the place to be.
Longer Treks
If you’ve got some time to spare, there are a few longer routes you can explore which will bring you even closer to the wonders of this incredible part of Bhutan. The Bumthang Owl Trek is one great option; this three-day hike takes you through forests of blue pine, bamboo, and juniper and rewards you with views of Gangkhar Puensum.
At 7,570 meters, this unclimbed mountain is the highest peak in Bhutan. Another excellent hiking choice is the three-day Bumthang Cultural Trek. Clear rivers, green valleys, and small villages filled with friendly locals are the hallmarks of this little-known trekking itinerary.
Accommodation
Just because you’re exploring some of Bhutan’s wildest and most rugged landscapes doesn’t mean you have to rough it. Luxury accommodation is increasingly popular in Bumthang, and you’ll be able to enjoy high-end facilities with relaxing spa treatments at many hotels throughout the region.
When you book your trip with Lonely Bhutan Tours and Treks, all of your accommodation will be included. We’ll make sure to provide you with comprehensive hotel information; just let us know what you’re looking for, and we’ll make sure your lodging is nothing short of superb.
Getting to Bumthang
While many travelers choose to take the scenic drive to Bumthang, it’s also possible to fly there from Paro. Choosing this domestic flight has the advantage of saving time, which is especially valuable for travelers who are on a strict schedule. From here, you can also fly to Trashigang and Gelephu.
If you’d like to explore these options, let us know—we would be happy to make all of the necessary arrangements.
Interested to visit Bumthang?
Eastern Bhutan
Bhutan’s road-less-traveled is eastern Bhutan. The simplicity of eastern Bhutanese people, rugged terrains, unexplored festivals and trek routes make eastern Bhutan the most sought-after destination in Bhutan. Semi-nomadic twin villages of Merak and Sakten, rich textile weaving cultures of Lhuntse, raw silk in Radhi villages, world’s biggest Guru Rinpoche statue in Takila and wood works of Trashiyangtse makes the east worth exploring.
