Punakha Drubchen

A unique festival because it hosts a dramatic recreation of the scene from the 17th century battle with Tibetan army. The ‘pazaps’ or local militiamen, dress in traditional battle gear and reenact the ancient battle scene.
  • Duration:02 Days
  • Trip Grade:Classic / Easy
  • Max Elevation:1200 m.
  • Start Point:Thimphu
  • End Point:Thimphu
  • Max Group Size:1
  • Best Time:February

Trip Overview

Punakha located in the western part of Bhutan is the winter home of the Je Khenpo, the Chief Abbot of Bhutan. Punakha has been of critical importance since the time of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in the 17th century.

Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal is known as the unifier of Bhutan as a nation-state and he was the one who gave Bhutan and its people the distinct cultural identity that identified Bhutan from the rest of the world.

During the 17th century, Bhutan was invaded several times by Tibetan forces seeking to seize a very precious relic, the Ranjung Kharsapani. Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal led the Bhutanese to victory over the Tibetans and to commemorate the triumph he introduced the Punakha Drubchen. Since then Punakha Drubchen (also known as Puna Drubchen) became the annual festival of Punakha Dzongkhag.

The Punakha Drubchen is a unique festival because it hosts a dramatic recreation of the scene from the 17th century battle with the Tibetan army. The ‘pazaps’ or local militiamen, dress in traditional battle gear and reenact the ancient battle scene. This reenactment harkens back to the time when in the absence of a standing army, men from the eight Tshogchens or great village blocks of Thimphu came forward and managed to expel the invading forces from the country. Their victory ushered in a period of newfound internal peace and stability.

Day 01: Thimphu to Punakha; 3 hours drive
Day 02: Punakha Festival
Day 03: Punakha Festival
Day 04: Trip to next destination ....

  • All Meals (as per mention in the itinerary)
  • Accommodation in twin Sharing
  • All private transportation (Japanese car/Jeep/Van/Mini bus) within the country including airport transfers
  • Royalty & Govt. Taxes
  • Tour Entrance fees
  • Visa Fee
  • Airport tax
  • Tourism Development fund
  • English speaking Guide
  • Sightseeing
  • Druk Airfares.
  • your insurance
  • The cost incurred due to mishaps, strikes, political unrest, etc.
  • Personal expenses in items such as laundry, soft drinks, Camera Charges, Bottle water
  • Tips
  • Any other expenses that are not specified above

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Detailed Itinerary

Drive through Dochula pass at 3010m. and when the weather permits one can enjoy a spectacular view of the highest mountains of Bhutan at a site that stretches almost 180 degrees. After a short stop continue to sub tropical Punakha. Afternoon we will hike to Chimi Lhakhang, temple of fertility which is associated with religious arts of phallus.Overnight at Punakha

We will spend whole day in the festival which will accompany with various mask dances and folk dancers along with jokers actions in the crowd. Overnight at Punakha

Whole day in the interesting Punakha festival or in the afternoon we can proceed for other sightseeing like visiting Khamsum Yulay Temple or Wangdue excursion visit Rinchingang. Overnight in Punakha

Client's Reviews

Nepal is a nation between India and Tibet known for its temples and Himalayan mountains, which include Mt. Everest. Kathmandu, the capital, has a mazelike old quarter filled with Hindu and Buddhist shrines.

Patrik E,
Sydney, Australia

From Kathmandu to Pokhara alone, trekking team was very organized and professional! advice to anyone who wants to move to contact the agency, Hari and his brothers will realize your dreams! The landscape was simply extraordinary and people are very hospitable!!

Leonardo,
United Kingdom

I have been from Kathmandu to Pokhara alone, trekking team was very organized and professional! advice to anyone who wants to move to contact the agency, Hari and his brothers will realize your dreams! The landscape was simply extraordinary and people are very hospitable!!

Allessandra L,
United Kingdom

We did the 12-day itinerary trekking to Everest Base Camp. We booked it all from England and communicated with the owner Hari via email. Such a nice family that owns and runs this business. Very friendly and welcoming. We had loads of cups of tea with them in their shop in Thamel before and after our trek.

Patrik E,
Sydney, Australia
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