Black Necked Crane Festival - Bhutan Omkara Tours and Travels

Experience one of the world’s most breathtaking mountain flights as you journey to Paro, where stunning vistas of some of the highest peaks on Earth unfold before your eyes. Upon arrival, a representative from Bhutan Omkara Tours & Travels will warmly welcome you at the airport after you complete customs formalities.

Following a delightful lunch, embark on an afternoon of exploration in Paro. Your first stop will be the Ta Dzong Museum, which showcases an impressive collection of religious relics, artistic works, and handicrafts, providing insight into Bhutan’s rich historical and cultural heritage. Next, visit the Rimpong Dzong, where you can admire the famous painting of Milarepa, a revered figure in Bhutanese meditation and spirituality, believed to have attained enlightenment within a single lifetime. These dzongs, once strategic forts, now serve as significant monasteries and district administrative centers.

After your visits, enjoy a scenic drive along the Pachu River to the capital city, Thimphu, which takes approximately 1.5 hours. Before dinner at your hotel, your guide will provide an informative orientation on Bhutanese etiquette to enhance your cultural experience. Overnight accommodations will be at your hotel in Thimphu.

Once a quaint village nestled in a broad, fertile river valley, Thimphu has evolved into Bhutan’s vibrant capital city. Spend a full day exploring its cultural and historical treasures, beginning with a visit to the National Memorial Chorten. This impressive stupa was commissioned by the Royal Queen Mother in memory of the Third King, who passed away in 1972.

Next, continue your journey to the 12th-century Changangkha Temple and the serene Zilukha Nunnery, both of which showcase Bhutan’s rich spiritual heritage.

If time permits, visit the nursing pen for the Takin, Bhutan’s national animal, and explore Tashichhodzong, known as “the fortress of the glorious religion.” This magnificent dzong houses several government ministries, His Majesty’s secretariat, and the central monk body.

Your day concludes with an overnight stay at your hotel in Thimphu, providing a comfortable retreat after a day of exploration.

Embark on a scenic drive over the Dochu-La Pass (3,100 meters), where, on clear days, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. The journey, taking approximately three hours, descends into the warm and inviting Punakha Valley, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals in this remote Himalayan kingdom. As you traverse the Dochu-La area, you’ll encounter vast rhododendron forests that bloom into stunning displays of color in late April and early May, transforming the mountains into a vibrant spectacle.

Upon arrival in Punakha, visit the Punakha Dzong, known as the “Palace of Great Happiness.” Constructed in 1637 by the Shabdrung, the Unifier of Bhutan, this magnificent dzong is located at the confluence of the Mo Chu and Pho Chu rivers (Mother and Father Rivers) and serves as the winter headquarters for the Je Khenpo and hundreds of monks who relocate from Thimphu to this milder region. The main temple, with its three-story structure, is a stunning example of traditional architecture, featuring four intricately embossed entrance pillars made from cypress and adorned with gold and silver. Notably, it was here in 1907 that Bhutan’s first king was crowned.

After lunch, take a leisurely walk to Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of Drukpa Kuenly, famously known as the Divine Madman. Revered for his unconventional teachings that emphasized inner spirituality over ordained practices, he is also considered a symbol of fertility, attracting many childless couples seeking blessings.

Conclude your day with an overnight stay at your hotel in Punakha or Wangduephodrang, where you can unwind and reflect on the day’s experiences.

This morning, begin your exploration of Wangduephodrang, a lively market town, and visit the historic Wangduephodrang Dzong. Constructed in 1639, this strategically positioned dzong is perched on a spur at the confluence of two rivers, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Following your visit, embark on a drive along a winding mountain road that meanders through lush oak and rhododendron forests. As you ascend over a high pass, you’ll descend into the expansive and picturesque Phobjikha Valley.

Phobjikha is one of Bhutan’s few glacial valleys and serves as the winter haven for black-necked cranes (November – March) migrating from the Tibetan plateau. This valley is renowned for its natural beauty and tranquility. Visit Gangtey Goempa, the only Nyingmapa monastery in western Bhutan, and take the time to explore the Phobjikha Valley. Here, you can observe the majestic black-necked cranes, affectionately known as Trung Trung in Bhutan. These magnificent birds feed in the marshy lowlands of the valley, and there are approximately 1,600 of them worldwide, with about 400-500 migrating to Bhutan each November and staying until March.

The beauty and grace of these cranes have inspired numerous myths, legends, folktales, and songs in Bhutanese culture.

Conclude your day with an overnight stay at your hotel in Phobjikha, where you can unwind and immerse yourself in the serene environment.

Today, immerse yourself in the vibrant celebrations of the Black-Necked Crane Festival. This event showcases a variety of cultural programs organized by the local community, highlighting Bhutan’s rich heritage. You can enjoy performances by students, including the captivating crane dance, which pays tribute to these majestic birds.

As you explore, you’ll find small stalls offering a colorful array of local items for sale, such as yak tail dusters, butter tea cups, turquoise jewelry, and various traditional Bhutanese handicrafts.

This festival also provides ample opportunities to observe the black-necked cranes in their natural habitat. Take the time to visit the Information Centre to learn more about these fascinating birds and their conservation. Additionally, you can explore some of the many nature trails that wind through the picturesque Phobjikha Valley, offering stunning views and a chance to connect with the area’s natural beauty.

Conclude your day with an overnight stay at your hotel in Phobjikha, where you can reflect on the cultural richness and natural wonders you’ve experienced.

Embark on a scenic drive to Trongsa, traversing the picturesque Pele La Pass (3,420m) within the Black Mountain range, which offers breathtaking views along the way. Stop to visit the Chendebji Chorten, a unique structure built in the 18th century by a Tibetan lama. Notably, this chorten features painted eyes facing the four cardinal directions and was constructed to cover the remains of a subdued evil spirit.

As you approach Trongsa, the imposing Trongsa Dzong can be seen across a deep canyon, signaling your entry into this historic town, which is the ancestral home of Bhutan’s ruling dynasty. After a delightful lunch, tour Trongsa Dzong, an architectural masterpiece and the largest dzong in Bhutan. This magnificent structure, with its foundations laid in the 16th century, houses 22 temples and serves as a crucial site where the institution of monarchy in Bhutan was established. The views from the dzong are stunning, providing a panorama of the impressive landscape for miles.

Next, visit the Ta Dzong museum, which boasts an incredible collection of historical artifacts related to the Royal Family, including traditional armor.

Continue your journey towards Bumthang, one of Bhutan’s most spectacular valleys, known as the spiritual and historical heartland of the country. The road winds steeply up to Yo Yutung La Pass (3,400m) before descending through dense coniferous forests into Chummey Valley.

Make a stop at the Chummey weavers’ workshop, located at the beginning of Bhutan’s only straight road. Here, you can witness the craftsmanship of Bumthang’s renowned textiles, including Mathra, a fine wool plaid in deep wine and dark green hues, which are now transformed into colorful scarves, bags, blankets, and sweaters.

Bumthang is rich in history, home to some of Bhutan’s oldest palaces, temples, and monasteries. The valley is characterized by barley fields, apple orchards, and meadows set against the backdrop of towering hills that ascend toward the Himalayan mountain range, which separates Bhutan from Tibet. The unique architecture of large farmhouses and temples adds to the valley’s charm, with significant associations to Guru Rimpoche (Padmasambhava) and Terton Pemalingpa.

Spend the night at your cozy lodge in Bumthang, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Spend the day discovering the remarkable sites of Bumthang, starting with Jakar Dzong, also known as the Dzong of the White Bird. This historic fortress offers stunning views and insight into the region’s rich heritage. Next, visit Tamshing Lhakhang, founded in 1501 by Terton Pemalingpa, the founder of the Nyingmapa sect. Here, you can admire ancient Buddhist wall paintings and see Pemalingpa’s heavy coat of nails, which visitors are invited to try on. It is believed that if one can walk around the inner sanctuary three times while wearing the coat, some of their sins will be forgiven.

Continue your exploration with a visit to Kurjey Lhakhang, one of the most sacred sites in Bhutan. This temple is renowned for its association with Bhutan’s patron saint, Guru Rimpoche, who meditated here. Lastly, head to Jambay Lhakhang, a temple erected by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century. This temple holds significant historical importance, dating back to the origins of Buddhism in Bhutan and is considered one of the oldest temples in the kingdom.

After a day filled with cultural and spiritual discoveries, return to your lodge in Bumthang for a restful overnight stay.

After breakfast, embark on your journey to Punakha, crossing the scenic Kiki La Pass and Yo-Tong La Pass. After a brief stop in Trongsa, continue your drive to Punakha, making an en-route stop at Chendibji Chorten for lunch. Following your meal, drive across the picturesque Pele La Pass, taking in the stunning mountain views along the way. Upon arrival in Punakha, check in to your hotel for an overnight stay.

In the morning, drive to Yabesa village and embark on a hike through scenic rice fields to Khamsum Yueley Namgyal Chorten, a stunning structure built by Her Majesty the Queen Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuk. Perched on a hill overlooking the river, the Chorten features beautiful paintings from the Nyingmapa tradition.

Afterward, enjoy a delightful picnic lunch by the riverside before exploring Wangduephodrang Dzong, strategically situated on a spur at the confluence of two rivers.

Following your visit, drive back to Thimphu, where you’ll have the opportunity to browse local handicraft and souvenir shops. Afterwards, continue your journey to Paro, where you will spend the night at your hotel.

After breakfast, embark on a hike to Taktsang Monastery, a journey that takes approximately two hours uphill along a well-maintained trail. This path ascends nearly a kilometer above the Paro valley floor, offering breathtaking views along the way. For those unable to hike, we can arrange for a horse to transfer you to the viewing point. Taktsang Monastery, perched on a sheer cliff face 900 meters above the valley, is a stunning sight and holds significant spiritual importance for Buddhists. According to legend, the great Guru Rimpoche flew here on the back of a tigress to introduce the teachings of Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th century, meditating for three months in a cave before the monastery was constructed. A nearby teahouse provides a perfect spot for refreshments.

In the afternoon, drive to the nearly reconstructed Drukgyel Dzong. Originally built by Shabdrung in 1644 to commemorate his victory over invading Tibetans, the Dzong was destroyed by fire in 1951. On clear days, the sacred Mount Jomolhari (7,314 meters) serves as a magnificent backdrop. During your return drive to Paro, you will have the opportunity to visit other notable sights in the Paro valley. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.

After breakfast at the hotel, you will drive to the airport for your flight to your onward destination. Tashi Delek! Safe travels, and we hope to welcome you back to Bhutan in the future!