Paro Tshechu Festival 2026
Join our guaranteed departure for Bhutan's most famous festival. The Paro Tshechu commemorates Guru Rinpoche's arrival in Bhutan with colorful mask dances and the unveiling of a giant Thongdrel.
Trip Overview
Paro Tshechu Festival Tour - March 2026
About the Festival
The Paro Tshechu is Bhutan’s most sacred and famous festival, held annually at Paro Dzong. This vibrant celebration commemorates Guru Rinpoche’s (Padmasambhava) arrival in Bhutan in the 8th century. The festival draws thousands of devotees and visitors from around the world.
What Makes This Festival Special?
The Thongdrel Unfurling At dawn on the final day, a giant Thongdrel (sacred appliqué scroll) is unfurled inside the dzong. This massive thangka depicts Guru Rinpoche in his eight manifestations and is considered so sacred that simply seeing it brings liberation from samsara.
Sacred Cham Dances Monks and laypeople perform elaborate cham dances wearing ornate masks and costumes. Each dance has deep spiritual significance:
- Rinenchedung Cham: Dance of the three types of Guru Rinpoche
- Guru Tshengyed: Depicts the eight manifestations of Guru Rinpoche
- Drametse Ngacham: Dance of the drums from Drametse monastery
Why Choose Our Fixed Departure?
- Guaranteed to run (minimum 6 guests required)
- VIP seating at Paro Dzong for best festival viewing
- Expert Buddhist guide to explain all ceremonies
- Small group size (maximum 16 guests)
- Flexible booking with 30% deposit option
Festival Dates 2026
| Date | Activity |
|---|---|
| March 29, 2026 | Arrival in Paro |
| March 30, 2026 | Paro Valley exploration |
| March 31, 2026 | Paro Tshechu Day 1 |
| April 1, 2026 | Paro Tshechu Day 2 - Main Festival |
| April 2, 2026 | Paro Tshechu Day 3 |
| April 3-6, 2026 | Thimphu & Punakha sightseeing |
| April 7, 2026 | Departure |
Booking Status
Current Bookings: 4 guests confirmed Minimum to Guarantee: 6 guests Spots Available: 12 spots Status: Limited (4 more guests needed to guarantee)
Deposit Information
- Deposit: 30% ($1,140 per person)
- Due: Within 7 days of booking
- Balance: Due 30 days before departure
Book your spot now for this once-in-a-lifetime spiritual journey!
Paro Tshechu
2026-03-29
Experience one of Bhutan's most sacred festivals. Witness mask dances, receive blessings, and immerse yourself in centuries-old Buddhist traditions.
Daily Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Paro
Arrive at Paro International Airport. Your guide will greet you with a traditional khata scarf. Transfer to your hotel. Evening stroll through Paro town to acclimatize.
Day 2: Paro Valley Exploration
Visit Ta Dzong (National Museum), Kyichu Lhakhang (one of Bhutan's oldest temples), and local archery demonstration. Evening briefing about the festival.
Day 3: Tiger's Nest Trek
Hike to the iconic Taktsang Palphug (Tiger's Nest) monastery clinging to a cliff. Visit the sacred cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated.
Day 4: Paro Tshechu - Day 1
First day of the festival! Witness the Rinenchedung Cham dance performed by monks in elaborate masks. Your guide explains the spiritual significance of each dance.
Day 5: Paro Tshechu - Day 2
Main festival day with the unveiling of the giant Thongdrel (sacred appliqué scroll) at dawn. Attend the Guru Tshengyed dance depicting the eight manifestations of Guru Rinpoche.
Day 6: Paro Tshechu - Day 3
Final day of the festival with the Drametse Ngacham dance and special ceremonies. Evening cultural show with traditional performances.
Day 7: Transfer to Thimphu
Short drive to Bhutan's capital. Visit Memorial Chorten, Buddha Point, and Takin Reserve. Explore the Weekend Market and Handicraft Emporium.
Day 8: Thimphu Cultural Experience
Visit Traditional Medicine Institute, Folk Heritage Museum, and School of Thangka Painting. Private audience with a Buddhist lama (subject to availability).
Day 9: Transfer to Punakha
Scenic drive over Dochula Pass. Visit Chimi Lhakhang (Divine Madman's temple) and Punakha Dzong. Evening at your hotel overlooking the Mo Chhu river.
Day 10: Departure
Final breakfast and transfer to Paro International Airport for your flight home. Tashi delek (safe journey)!
✓ What's Included
- 9 nights accommodation in premium 3-4 star hotels (Boutique/Luxury upgrade available)
- All meals as specified (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
- Experienced English-speaking Buddhist guide
- Private vehicle with professional driver
- VIP festival seating at Paro Dzong
- All entrance fees and permits
- Bhutan Tourism Visa Fee ($100 per day)
- Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee
- Unlimited bottled water
- Festival souvenir package
✕ What's Not Included
- International airfare to/from Bhutan
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Personal expenses and tips
- Alcoholic beverages
- Optional activities not mentioned
- Visa fees for countries requiring Bhutan visa
Secure Your Spot
6 guests needed to guarantee
30% deposit required
Free cancellation up to 30 days
Trip Details
- Duration
- 10 days
- Departure
- Paro
- Group Size
- 6-16 people
- Difficulty
- Easy
Ready for Your Journey?
Spaces are limited. Secure your spot on this departure today.