Punakha Dromchoe will be held at Punakha Dzong from February 24 to February 26, 2026. This unique festival is known for its dramatic reenactment of the 17th-century Tibetan invasion, a performance that highlights Bhutan’s military history and spiritual resilience.

Punakha Tshechu will take place at the same venue from February 27 to February 28, 2026 (and possibly extending to March 1, 2026). The Tshechu features sacred mask dances, vibrant cultural displays, and religious rituals, drawing both locals and visitors who gather to receive blessings and to celebrate Bhutan’s living heritage within the grand setting of Punakha Dzong.

Punakha Domchoe (Drubchen)

Preceding the Tshechu is the Punakha Domchoe, also known as the Drubchen, a unique festival that commemorates Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan forces in 1649. Unlike the Tshechu’s spiritual focus, the Domchoe is a theatrical re-enactment of history, dramatizing the martial defense of the Punakha Dzong under the leadership of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. For three days, the normally serene Dzong and its surrounding grounds are transformed into a stage where villagers dressed as traditional militia — known as pazaps — revive the memory of Bhutan’s struggle for sovereignty.

The Domchoe begins after fifteen days of continuous prayers and mask dances known as the Goenwang Drubchen, dedicated to Bhutan’s guardian deities such as Mahakala. Once these rituals conclude, the pazaps take over the courtyards and riverbanks, performing sword dances, war songs, and mock battles. Eight communities historically tied to Zhabdrung’s cause send their representatives, who don helmets, boots, and weapons provided by the state, re-enacting the defense of Punakha Dzong. The highlight of the Domchoe is the ritual known as “dumping the jewel,” when monks in a colorful procession symbolically cast sacred substances into the Mochu River, recalling the moment when Zhabdrung outwitted Tibetan invaders by pretending to discard the holy relic Rangjung Kharsapani.

As a performance of both devotion and statehood, the Domchoe is more than a local pageant — it is a political ritual. By re-enacting the 17th-century battle, the festival perpetuates the collective memory of Bhutan’s founding and reinforces the centrality of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in the nation’s historical consciousness. Today, while the Bhutanese monarchy presides over the modern state, the Domchoe remains the only annual festival that theatrically reaffirms Bhutan’s martial past. Together with the Tshechu that follows, it forms a complete cycle: a celebration of both the protection of the Dharma and the defense of the Bhutanese nation.

Punakha Tshechu

The Punakha Tshechu is one of Bhutan’s most celebrated religious festivals, held annually in the grand courtyards of Punakha Dzong. Introduced in the 17th century by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it was established to honor Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), the tantric master credited with bringing Buddhism to Bhutan. Coming directly after the martial drama of the Punakha Domchoe, the Tshechu turns the focus toward spiritual blessings, weaving dance, ritual, and devotion into a powerful expression of Bhutanese Buddhist life.

The heart of the Tshechu lies in the sacred cham mask dances, performed by monks and lay dancers in richly colored brocades. These dances retell episodes from Guru Rinpoche’s life, including his subjugation of demonic forces and the safeguarding of the Dharma. The highlight is the unfurling of the giant Thongdrol, a monumental silk scroll depicting Guru Rinpoche, revealed at dawn on the final day. It is believed that a single glimpse of this sacred image can cleanse an individual of lifetimes of negative karma and bestow blessings of liberation.

For the Bhutanese public, the Tshechu is as much a social occasion as it is a religious one. Families gather in their finest traditional attire, elders explain the meaning of the cham to the young, and the Dzong becomes a meeting ground of devotion and festivity. For travelers, it offers an immersive encounter with living Buddhism, a blend of spectacle, faith, and communal joy against the dramatic backdrop of Punakha Dzong.

Punakha Festival Tour

The Punakha Festival Tour is one of the most enriching journeys a traveler can take in Bhutan, combining vibrant celebrations with the exploration of the country’s spiritual heartlands. Centered on the Punakha Domchoe and Tshechu, this tour immerses visitors in the living traditions of Punakha Dzong, where history and devotion meet in dramatic fashion. Travelers witness the Domchoe’s theatrical re-enactment of Bhutan’s 17th-century defense against Tibetan forces, followed by the Tshechu’s sacred mask dances dedicated to Guru Rinpoche. Together, these festivals offer a rare insight into how Bhutan remembers its past and renews its Buddhist faith through ritual, dance, and storytelling.

For tourists, the celebrations are a feast of color and spectacle. Villagers gather in their finest traditional dress, monks perform elaborate cham dances, and the courtyards of Punakha Dzong fill with music, laughter, and prayer. The highlight of the Punakha Festival Tour is the unfurling of the immense Thongdrol, a sacred scroll painting of Guru Rinpoche that is believed to cleanse all sins upon sight. Visitors can watch martial sword dances, join the crowds lining the riverbanks for the symbolic “dumping of the jewel,” and witness the unique blend of theatre, devotion, and community life that defines Bhutanese festivals. It is an atmosphere that is both joyous and reverent, making participation a deeply moving experience.

The Punakha Festival Tour does not stop in Punakha alone. Travelers are also taken to Paro, where Bhutan’s iconic Tiger’s Nest monastery clings to a cliffside; to Thimphu, the bustling capital blending tradition and modernity; and to the remote Haa Valley, known for its pristine landscapes and unspoiled villages. Together, these destinations provide a wider canvas for understanding Bhutan’s culture, history, and way of life. By weaving together sacred festivals and journeys through Bhutan’s valleys and dzongs, the Punakha Festival Tour offers more than sightseeing — it offers an immersion into the living spirit of Bhutan.

The Punakha Festival Tour can be experienced in February or March, when the Punakha Tsechu takes place. This annual festival is held on specific dates according to the Bhutanese lunar calendar, usually around these months. The festival offers a rare opportunity to witness Bhutanese culture in its most vibrant form, with spectacular dances, rituals, and the chance to interact with locals. For those looking to combine the festival with a deeper exploration of Bhutan’s natural beauty, this period also offers pleasant weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Private Vehicles

Throughout the trip, private vehicles will be used for transfers and sightseeing. These include comfortable cars or SUVs, which are good for navigating both urban and rural areas. These vehicles are chosen for their comfort and reliability, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey between destinations. They are equipped to handle various road conditions and provide a high level of convenience for travelers.

Minivans or Buses

For group travel of more than 8 people Buses will be used and for a smaller group with more than 3 people, Minivans will be used.  These vehicles are suitable for accommodating larger groups and offer ample space for passengers and luggage. Equipped with air conditioning and comfortable seating, these vehicles are designed to enhance travel comfort over longer distances. They also offer better stability and space for scenic drives and excursions.

Hotels in Bhutan are classified by the government into grades A, B, and C, roughly equivalent to 3-4 star hotels internationally. We aim to provide A-grade accommodations in Paro and Thimphu, which are equivalent to international 3 star accommodations. In the rural regions, we will provide you with smaller hotels or guesthouses run by families, ensuring a blend of traditional Bhutanese charm and modern comfort. There is also availability of 4-star luxury boutique hotels in Paro, Thimphu and Punakha which can be included upon advanced request.

Bhutanese cuisine, available in restaurants and hotels alike, revolves around rice as a staple, complemented by an array of flavorful side dishes that include lentils, meat, and vegetables. The culinary experience in Bhutan caters to all preferences, whether you follow a vegetarian diet or enjoy non-vegetarian fare. You can expect a diverse selection of dishes, each crafted to highlight the unique spices and ingredients of Bhutan, ensuring a rich and satisfying meal for every palate.

Cultural Immersion: As part of this Bhutan Festival Tour, you will dive deep into Bhutan’s rich heritage through the vibrant Punakha Festival. Experience traditional Bhutanese dances, sacred rituals, and mesmerizing mask dances performed by monks and laymen in the striking Punakha Dzong. The colorful costumes and dramatic performances will leave you awestruck as you witness the blending of spirituality and cultural celebration.

Festive Atmosphere: Punakha Festival is a celebration that gathers locals from various regions, all coming together in their finest attire and jewelry to seek blessings. The festival’s atmosphere is filled with joy, unity, and devotion, offering you a unique chance to interact with the Bhutanese people, observe their traditions, and share in the excitement of this sacred event.

Breathtaking Scenery: Bhutan’s natural beauty is a highlight of this tour. From the lush valleys surrounding Punakha Dzong to the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, the landscape will leave you spellbound. You’ll explore areas like Gangtey, known for its stunning valley views, and Haa Valley, which remains one of Bhutan’s most pristine and scenic areas. Each destination offers a chance to capture the beauty of Bhutan’s untouched nature.

Historic and Spiritual Sites: Throughout your Bhutan Festival Tour, you’ll visit some of Bhutan’s most iconic historical and religious sites. The majestic Punakha Dzong, the ancient temples of Paro, and the monasteries in Gangtey will provide insight into Bhutan’s spiritual and cultural evolution. These sites offer more than just scenic views – they are living symbols of Bhutan’s rich religious traditions and architectural wonders.

Adventure and Hiking: The tour includes scenic hikes through dense forests, mountain trails, and remote villages, where you can enjoy the tranquility and beauty of Bhutan’s rural landscapes. The hike to Phajoding, in particular, offers panoramic views of the Thimphu Valley and surrounding peaks, giving you a sense of peace and connection with nature.

Local Interactions: Throughout the tour, you’ll have the chance to engage with the friendly Bhutanese locals, from the monks at the monasteries to the villagers in the rural areas. These interactions will deepen your understanding of Bhutanese life, culture, and spirituality, making this Bhutan Festival Tour a truly immersive and enriching experience.