Trip Overview
Jambay Lhakhang Drup Festival Tour - October 2026
About the Festival
The Jambay Lhakhang Drup is one of Bhutan’s most mystical and sacred festivals, held at the 7th-century Jambay Lhakhang temple in Bumthang. This festival is famous for its unique Fire Blessing ceremony and the naked Treasure Dance.
What Makes This Festival Special?
The Mewang Fire Blessing On the second day, a sacred fire blessing ceremony takes place where devotees pass through a burning gate to purify their sins and receive blessings. The fire is believed to have protective powers.
The Ter Cham (Treasure Dance) On the final night, naked dancers perform the sacred Ter Cham dance at midnight. This ancient dance was revealed as a treasure (ter) by the famous treasure discoverer Pema Lingpa.
Sacred Night Dances Unlike other festivals, Jambay Lhakhang Drup features many night-time ceremonies and dances, creating an especially mystical atmosphere.
Why Choose Our Fixed Departure?
- Guaranteed to run (minimum 6 guests required)
- Expert guide familiar with Bumthang’s sacred sites
- Small group size (maximum 14 guests)
- Complete Bumthang experience - Bhutan’s spiritual heartland
- Includes night ceremonies - rare opportunity
Festival Dates 2026
| Date | Activity |
|---|---|
| October 22, 2026 | Arrival in Paro |
| October 23-25, 2026 | Paro & Thimphu sightseeing |
| October 26, 2026 | Drive to Bumthang via Punakha |
| October 27, 2026 | Jambay Lhakhang Drup Day 1 |
| October 28, 2026 | Jambay Lhakhang Drup Day 2 - Fire Ceremony |
| October 29, 2026 | Jambay Lhakhang Drup Day 3 - Treasure Dance |
| October 30 - November 1, 2026 | Return to Thimphu/Paro |
| November 2, 2026 | Departure |
Booking Status
Current Bookings: 2 guests confirmed Minimum to Guarantee: 6 guests Spots Available: 12 spots Status: Limited (4 more guests needed to guarantee)
Deposit Information
- Deposit: 30% ($1,260 per person)
- Due: Within 7 days of booking
- Balance: Due 30 days before departure
Book your spot now for this mystical spiritual journey!
Jambay Lhakhang Drup
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 hotel. Evening stroll through Paro town.
Day 2: Paro Valley Exploration
Visit Ta Dzong (National Museum), Kyichu Lhakhang (one of Bhutan's oldest temples), and Rinpung Dzong.
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: Drive to Thimphu via Dochula Pass
Scenic drive over Dochula Pass (3,150m) with 108 chortens. Visit Thimphu city highlights.
Day 5: Thimphu to Punakha
Drive to Punakha over Dochula Pass. Visit Chimi Lhakhang (Divine Madman's temple) and Punakha Dzong.
Day 6: Punakha to Bumthang
Scenic drive through Wangdue and Trongsa. Visit Trongsa Dzong and the Ta Dzong museum tower.
Day 7: Bumthang Valley Exploration
Visit Jambay Lhakhang (7th century temple), Kurje Lhakhang (meditation cave of Guru Rinpoche), and Tamshing Lhakhang.
Day 8: Jambay Lhakhang Drup - Day 1
First day of the festival! Witness the opening ceremonies and traditional cham dances at the sacred Jambay Lhakhang temple.
Day 9: Jambay Lhakhang Drup - Day 2 - Fire Ceremony
Main festival day with the famous Mewang (Fire Blessing) ceremony where devotees pass through a sacred flaming gate.
Day 10: Jambay Lhakhang Drup - Day 3 - Treasure Dance
Final day with the mystical Ter Cham (Treasure Dance) performed by naked dancers at midnight. A truly unique Bhutanese experience.
Day 11: Return to Thimphu
Scenic drive back to Thimphu. Evening at leisure for shopping and exploration.
Day 12: Departure
Final breakfast and transfer to Paro International Airport for your flight home. Tashi delek (safe journey)!
What's Included & Not
Included
- 11 nights accommodation in premium 3-4 star hotels
- All meals as specified (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
- Experienced English-speaking Buddhist guide
- Private vehicle with professional driver
- Festival seating at Jambay Lhakhang courtyard
- All entrance fees and permits
- Bhutan Tourism Visa Fee ($100 per day)
- Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee ($100 per day)
- Unlimited bottled water
- Festival souvenir package
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
- Domestic flight (if opted)
