Overview:
Bhutan Black-Necked Crane Festival is one of the country’s most meaningful seasonal experiences, set in the peaceful Phobjikha Valley. This special journey centres around the arrival of the rare black-necked cranes—birds deeply respected by locals and believed to bring blessings to the valley. Timed with the annual festival on 11 November, the tour offers a blend of nature, culture, and tradition, set against the backdrop of a stunning glacial valley and the sacred Gangtey Goempa monastery.
What to expect:
- Witness the graceful arrival of black-necked cranes in their natural habitat
- Attend the vibrant Black-Necked Crane Festival at Gangtey Goempa
- Enjoy cultural performances including folk songs, dances, and masked rituals
- Experience the quiet beauty and local life of the Phobjikha Valley
Itinerary
Day 1
Paro/Thimphu
Arrive in Paro and meet your guide and driver. Enjoy a scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, following the river valley. The day is kept light to help you acclimatise, with time to relax and explore the city at an easy pace.
Accomodation
boutique hotel
Day 2
Thimphu/Punakha
Drive to Punakha via the scenic Dochula Pass, known for its 108 chortens and Himalayan views on clear days. Continue to the warmer Punakha Valley and visit Chimi Lhakhang, a charming hilltop monastery reached by a short walk through rice fields.
Accomodation
boutique hotel
Day 3
Punakha
Spend the day exploring Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan. Visit the impressive Punakha Dzong, beautifully set at the meeting of two rivers. Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten for panoramic valley views and visit a peaceful nunnery overlooking the valley.
Accomodation
boutique hotel
Day 4
Punakha/Gangtey
Travel to the beautiful Phobjikha Valley, a wide glacial valley and winter home of the rare black-necked cranes. Enjoy the scenic drive and, visit the crane information centre to learn about their migration.
Accomodation
boutique hotel
Day 5
Black-Necked Crane Festival
Visit Gangtey Monastery and witness the vibrant Bhutan Black-Necked Crane Festival, a unique cultural celebration honouring the endangered cranes that migrate to the valley each winter. Enjoy traditional masked dances, music, and local festivities set against the stunning backdrop of Phobjikha Valley.
After the festival, take a gentle walk along the scenic Phobjikha Nature Trail through open landscapes and peaceful villages.
Accomodation
boutique hotel
Day 6
Gangtey to Thimphu
Drive back to Thimphu and visit the towering Buddha Dordenma statue overlooking the city. Explore the Arts & Crafts School to see traditional skills in practice and gain insight into Bhutan’s unique Gross National Happiness philosophy.
Accomodation
boutique hotel
Day 7
Thimphu to Paro
Visit the National Memorial Chorten, an important spiritual site for locals. Enjoy a scenic hike to Kila Nunnery set on a cliffside, then continue to Paro and visit the ancient Kyichu Lhakhang temple.
Accomodation
boutique hotel
Day 8
Tiger’s Nest Hike
Hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Bhutan’s most famous landmark, dramatically perched on a cliffside. Enjoy breathtaking views along the trail and explore the monastery and its surrounding temples. Later, drive to Rinpung Dzong, a magnificent 17th-century fortress overlooking the Paro Valley.
The next morning, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey.
Inclusions
What's Included
- Bhutan visa assistance
- Government fee, royalty, taxes & surcharges
- All attraction entry fees
- All Accommodation
- All meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Transportation provided on trip
- Professional Tour Guide and Tour Driver
- Daily activities and excursions
What's Not Included
- Airfare to and from destination
- Travel Insurance
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tips/Gratuities
Dates & Prices
Date
Double Occupancy
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Date
Double Occupancy
Book Now
All trip prices are per person, based on double or single occupancy, unless otherwise stated. Prices are subject to change without notice and do not include airfare. Optional activities are available at an additional cost. All prices and fares are quoted in US dollars.
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