Journey into the remote and picturesque Ura Valley, where one of Bhutan's most authentic village festivals comes to life. The Ura Yakchoe Festival is celebrated in the traditional farming community of Ura in Bumthang, bringing together monks, villagers and pilgrims to honour a sacred relic that has been treasured for generations.
According to local legend, a mysterious lama once visited an elderly woman asking only for water. When she returned, he had disappeared, leaving behind a sacred relic that is still displayed during the festival today. Visitors can witness colourful mask dances, traditional music, religious rituals and the unveiling of this revered object, offering a rare glimpse into Bhutan's deeply rooted spiritual heritage.
Beyond the festival, this journey explores western and central Bhutan, taking you through mountain passes, historic dzongs, peaceful valleys and the legendary Tiger's Nest Monastery.
USD 2,750
per person - SDF INCLUDED Plan This Journey →✓ WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Private licensed guide
- Bhutan visa assistance
- Airport transfers
- 3-star hotel accommodation
- Daily meals as per itinerary
- Private vehicle with driver
- Monument entrance fees
- Tour planning support
10 Days Ura Yakchoe Festival Itinerary
1
Arrival in Paro • Transfer to Thimphu
Arrival in Paro • Transfer to Thimphu
Arrive at Paro International Airport, where your private guide will warmly welcome you to Bhutan.
Travel through scenic river valleys to Thimphu, the country's charming capital. After checking into your hotel, visit Buddha Dordenma and enjoy panoramic views across the valley before experiencing your first Bhutanese dinner.
Highlights- Airport welcome
- Scenic drive to Thimphu
- Buddha Dordenma
- National Memorial Chorten
- Traditional Bhutanese dinner
2
Thimphu to Punakha via Dochula Pass
Thimphu to Punakha via Dochula Pass
Travel east across the spectacular Dochula Pass, famous for its 108 memorial chortens and sweeping Himalayan views.
Descend into the fertile Punakha Valley and visit Chimi Lhakhang, a peaceful temple reached by a pleasant walk through rice fields and traditional villages. Continue to the magnificent Punakha Dzong at the meeting point of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.
Highlights- Dochula Pass
- 108 memorial chortens
- Himalayan panorama
- Chimi Lhakhang
- Punakha Dzong
3
Punakha to Trongsa
Punakha to Trongsa
Continue your journey into central Bhutan through changing mountain landscapes and forested valleys.
Stop at Chendebji Chorten before arriving in the historic town of Trongsa. Visit the impressive Trongsa Dzong, one of Bhutan's largest fortress-monasteries and an important seat of the Bhutanese monarchy.
Highlights- Wangdue countryside
- Chendebji Chorten
- Scenic mountain drive
- Trongsa Dzong
- Historic royal town
4
Discover Bumthang's Sacred Heritage
Discover Bumthang's Sacred Heritage
Arrive in Bumthang, often called Bhutan's spiritual heartland.
Spend the day exploring its most important religious landmarks, including Jambay Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang, Tamshing Monastery and Jakar Dzong. Continue to Thangbi Valley to experience traditional rural life and beautiful alpine scenery.
Highlights- Jambay Lhakhang
- Kurjey Lhakhang
- Tamshing Monastery
- Jakar Dzong
- Thangbi Valley
5
Ura Yakchoe Festival
Ura Yakchoe Festival
Travel to the picturesque village of Ura, surrounded by rolling meadows, barley fields and traditional stone houses.
Join villagers and pilgrims at the Ura Yakchoe Festival, where sacred Cham dances, ritual ceremonies and traditional music celebrate centuries-old Buddhist traditions. The highlight of the festival is the public display of the sacred relic connected to the legend of the mysterious lama, an event that draws devotees from across Bhutan.
Your guide will explain the symbolism behind the dances and the importance of this treasured annual celebration.
Highlights- Ura Yakchoe Festival
- Sacred Cham dances
- Display of the sacred relic
- Traditional village culture
- Cultural photography
6
Bumthang to Phobjikha Valley
Bumthang to Phobjikha Valley
Leave Bumthang and travel through forests and mountain passes toward the beautiful glacial valley of Phobjikha.
Visit Gangtey Monastery overlooking the valley before taking a gentle walk through traditional villages and peaceful countryside. Depending on the season, you may also visit the Black-Necked Crane Information Centre.
Highlights- Scenic mountain drive
- Gangtey Monastery
- Gangtey Nature Trail
- Phobjikha Valley
- Traditional villages
7
Return to Paro
Return to Paro
Journey back across western Bhutan to Paro.
Upon arrival, explore the impressive Rinpung Dzong before visiting the National Museum, housed within the historic Ta Dzong. Finish the afternoon with a leisurely stroll through Paro town.
Highlights- Rinpung Dzong
- National Museum
- Traditional architecture
- Paro town
- Local handicraft shopping
8
Chele La Pass and Haa Valley
Chele La Pass and Haa Valley
Travel over Chele La Pass, one of Bhutan's highest motorable roads, offering magnificent views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks on clear days.
Descend into the peaceful Haa Valley to visit traditional villages and centuries-old temples before returning to Paro in the evening.
Highlights- Chele La Pass
- Prayer flag viewpoints
- Haa Valley
- Traditional villages
- Katsho Lhakhang
9
Tiger's Nest Monastery
Tiger's Nest Monastery
Today's adventure takes you to Bhutan's most iconic landmark.
Follow the forest trail to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest), dramatically perched on a sheer cliff high above Paro Valley. Learn about Guru Rinpoche's legendary meditation retreat before descending to the valley.
Later, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest temples, or relax with an optional traditional hot stone bath.
Highlights- Tiger's Nest Monastery
- Guided mountain hike
- Kyichu Lhakhang
- Paro Valley views
- Optional hot stone bath
- Farewell dinner
10
Departure from Paro
Departure from Paro
Enjoy breakfast before your private transfer to Paro International Airport.
Depart Bhutan with unforgettable memories of sacred festivals, welcoming mountain villages, breathtaking Himalayan scenery and the timeless traditions of Ura Valley.
× WHAT'S EXCLUDED
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guide and driver
✓ Why You'll Love This Retreat
The 10 Days Ura Yakchoe Festival Journey combines the tranquillity of Bhutan's remote mountain villages with one of its most treasured cultural celebrations. From the vibrant atmosphere of the Ura Yakchoe Festival and the sacred monasteries of Bumthang to the peaceful landscapes of Phobjikha, the panoramic views from Chele La Pass and the unforgettable hike to Tiger's Nest, this journey offers an authentic and deeply rewarding exploration of Bhutan's living heritage.
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