Bhutan His Majesty the King advised the graduates

His Majesty the King advised the graduates who were attending the annual graduate’s orientation programme not be complacent.

Speaking at the closing ceremony yesterday, His Majesty said “there are so many graduates. I know that most of you will know the importance of working hard. So to the few of you, who might feel that being graduates, everything will happen for you, I must warn you. You will be left behind.”

His Majesty also spoke about the importance of preserving the age old traditions.

“Fundamental to the strength and beauty of our nation is our cultural heritage – our traditions and customs – the bond between children and their parents, teachers and elders. The trust and faith among friends, neighbours and the community,” His Majesty said.

“You must also know the difference between good and evil, between right and wrong, between compassion and self-interest.”

His Majesty said the Kingdom’s age old traditions will ensure that the graduates, as they pursue their individual goals and ambitions, will do so in harmony with others. It will ensure that individual successes will build a strong, united and harmonious nation.

His Majesty was accompanied by the Queen-to-be, Jetsun Pema.

Bhutan His Majesty the King advised the graduates

His Majesty the King advised the graduates who were attending the annual graduate’s orientation programme not be complacent.

Speaking at the closing ceremony yesterday, His Majesty said “there are so many graduates. I know that most of you will know the importance of working hard. So to the few of you, who might feel that being graduates, everything will happen for you, I must warn you. You will be left behind.”

His Majesty also spoke about the importance of preserving the age old traditions.

“Fundamental to the strength and beauty of our nation is our cultural heritage – our traditions and customs – the bond between children and their parents, teachers and elders. The trust and faith among friends, neighbours and the community,” His Majesty said.

“You must also know the difference between good and evil, between right and wrong, between compassion and self-interest.”

His Majesty said the Kingdom’s age old traditions will ensure that the graduates, as they pursue their individual goals and ambitions, will do so in harmony with others. It will ensure that individual successes will build a strong, united and harmonious nation.

His Majesty was accompanied by the Queen-to-be, Jetsun Pema.

Bhutan royal wedding book of congratulations

The Bhutan Media Foundation has come up with a royal wedding book of congratulations which will be presented to the royal couple soon after the royal wedding.

The book will be a collection of art, poems, and simple heartfelt messages dedicated to the royal couple. More than 1,500 messages have been received so far. Every day, a few people are coming forward to pen their thoughts and express their good wishes.

On the day BBS visited the office of the Bhutan Media Foundation, 32-year-old Dhendup Tshering who works in a travel agency had come to submit a poem for the royal couple.

Tashi Pelyang Lhendup, a Dratshang Lhengtshog employee, had come to “express my appreciation to His Majesty for what he is doing for us and the country at large. I am not much of a talker so I wanted to express my regards in writing.”

For Dechen Choki, a house wife, the occasion is an “opportunity to express my gratitude for the royal wedding and wish the royal couple the very best.”

The Bhutan Media Foundation came up with the book to provide a platform for the people to express their gratitude and best wishes.

Lily Wangchuk, the Executive Director Bhutan Media Foundation, said “we have received very good response from the people and I think most people have still not heard about it.”

Only a limited edition of the book will be published. The original copies of the messages will also be presented to His Majesty the King and the Queen.

People can send their messages till Friday.

Source: Kuenselonline

Bhutan national airline’s ATR 42-500 aircraft grounded of technical problems

Despite conducting a three-day rimdro or prayer ceremony for its aircraft last week, the national airline’s ATR aircraft is once again grounded as a result of technical problems.

The 48-seater twin turbo propellor ATR 42-500 aircraft has been grounded since Wednesday and is expected to remain grounded until Sunday. The airline’s officiating CEO, Rinzin Dorji said that the date for the aircraft’s reintroduction into scheduled services is “tentative”.

Drukair general manager, engineering section, Thrimchong Wangdi, explained that the de-icing boot on one of the aircraft’s wing was “ruptured” and non-functioning. The de-icing boot is a rubber device located on the front surface edge of the ATR’s wings to allow for mechanical de-icing. The front surface edge of an aircraft’s wing is one area most likely to accumulate ice during flight. Ice on an aircraft’s wing can cause disruptions in airflow, leading to loss of lift or control.

According to a source, the non-functioning de-icing boot was discovered mid-air while the aircraft was flying from Kathmandu to Paro.

Drukair management and engineering downplayed the risks of such an incident.

Thrimchong Wangdi pointed out that the ATR is equipped with “2-3” redundancy measures or back up systems, in case a de-icing boot fails. “From that perspective, it’s not a very serious concern.”

This is at least the fourth grounding of the ATR aircraft since it joined the Drukair fleet in June. The induction itself was delayed by about two weeks. Two groundings were required to prevent the aircraft’s only two pilots from exceeding the accepted number of flight hours in July. A damaged wheel bearing, which required the entire landing gear assembly to be shipped to and repaired in Singapore, grounded it early this month for about two weeks.

On why Drukair has hired only two pilots, Rinzin Dorji attributed costs.

“It’s very, very expensive,” he said, on hiring pilots from abroad. Two international pilots, and two engineers have been hired with the aircraft.

The captain’s salary is about USD 10,000/month, according to Rinzin Dorji, while the engineers are paid about USD 7000/month. He pointed out that Bhutanese pilots are in the “pipeline”.

The technical problems have caused some observers to raise safety concerns with regard to the aircraft’s age. The department of civil aviation only last week said it had no concerns regarding the safety of the ATR. Drukair officiating CEO also emphasised that the ATR is in “good condition” and that thorough examinations of the aircraft had carried out before leasing it.

The ATR, which has been leased for one year, with a purchase option at the end of the term, is nine years old. It was previously operated by the French Polynesian government as a VIP aircraft, and by a domestic airline, Air Tahiti.

During its service there, the aircraft did not experience any major technical issues, according to sources. The French Polynesian government sold the aircraft for financial purposes, not because of technical problems, according to the chief of staff at the French Polynesia vice-presidency, Moetai Brotherson. “It has gone through a thorough technical expertise,” he said in an email interview. A member of the Polynesian press confirmed this.

The French Polynesian government sold the ATR to an aircraft maintenance company, Mk Tek Europe for USD 8.6 M. Drukair then leased/purchased the ATR from this company for about USD 9.8M, according to Rinzin Dorji. He pointed out that this amount was an estimation as he did not have the figures immediately.

Meanwhile, spare parts for the ATR had to be ordered from Copenhagen, Denmark, and are due to arrive today.

Source: Kuenselonline

Private Bhutan Tour Itinerary for 8 Day Tour

Private Bhutan Tour Itinerary for 8 Day Tour.

Day 1: Arrival Paro International Airport and Drive to Thimphu.

During the journey to Paro, one will experience from the left hand side of the plane, breath taking view of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and other famous Himalayan peaks, including the sacred Chomolhari and Mount Jichu Drake in Bhutan. On the arrival at Paro International Airport, The representative of Bhutan Historic Travel, your tour guide will receive you and Drive to Thimphu, the drive will take roughly Two Hours. Thimphu is the capital city of Bhutan since from 1974. Punakha used to the capital city of Bhutan before that. For the first one hour you will follow the Pa-Chu (Paro River) and reach Chuzom where the Thimphu River meets the Paro River and forms Wang-Chu (Chu means Water, River or Stream). Chuzom is a four direction motor road junction where one road leads to Thimphu, one to Phuentsholing the border town to India, one to Haa valley and one where you drove from Paro. It will take another One hour from here to Capital city, Thimphu. Check in the Hotel.

Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu

Thimphu is the Capital City of Bhutan but for the Buddhist Monk body moves to Punakha in Winter and their Summer Capital District is Thimphu but Winter s Punakha because it is cold in Thimphu during winter and Punakha is just perfect at 1300mts

Day 2: Thimphu – Thimphu

After breakfast drive to the National Memorial Stupa, built in 1874 by Royal Queen Mother and dedicated to the father of Modern Bhutan, the Late His Majesty the Third King of Bhutan. Visit the Post Office with Money exchange as the bank is next door. BBS Tower to get the magnificent picture and view of Thimphu and you can also see our Queens Palaces. Visit to Thimphu Mini Zoo where you can see our National Animal “TAKIN” which has a head of a goat and body of a cow, believed to be made by great Devine Madman in the 16^th Century. Visit national Library, School of Thirteen Arts and Crafts, National institute of Traditional Medicines. Drive to Visit to Thimphu Tashi Cho Dzong, the office of the King and the Throne Room and also the Summer Capital of Monastic Body lead by His Holiness the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot) who spend six months here during summer and move to Punakha for winter for another six months.

Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu

Day 3: Thimphu – Punakha 142kms 5Hours

Visit the Simtokha Dzong (Dzong means Fortress). Simtokha Dzong is one of the oldest Dzongs in Bhutan. It was built in 1629 A.D. by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel the founder of Bhutan, and was the first Dzong to be built by him. After Lunch drive to Winter Capital for the Monastic Body, Punakha at 1300m.

One hour drive reach you to Dochula Pass at 3150mts where you can see and enjoy the Eastern Himalayas in a Panoramic View and best picture time for group of Bhutanese Style of Stupas, as there are 108 Stupas built by Her Majesty for the well being of the Nation and Love Live His Majesty. It descends to Punakha and Wangdue at 1300mts which will take another two hours.

Overnight: Hotel in Punakha

Day 4: Punakha - Punakha

Visit Historic and one of the most beautiful Punakha Dzong built in 1637 by Great Zhabdrung Rimpoche who unifided Bhutan in 17^th Century.

Hike to Khamsum Yueley Namgyal Monastery built by Her Majesty and dedicated to the well bring of the nation and love life of the Crwon Prince.

After Lunch visit Wangdue Dzong the third oldest Dzong built in 1638. On the way back to Punakha Hike to the legendary Chimi Lhakhang built in 15^th Century by a saint popularly known as Devine Mad Man “Drukpa Kuenley”. It is belived that the couple who are married for so long years and doesn’t result in pregnancy, they go there and pray and in next coming months the wife gets pregnant

Overnight: Hotel in Punakha

Day 5: Punakha – Thimphu

Drive to Thimphu check in Hotel and explore the town.

Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu.

Day 6: Thimphu – Paro

After breakfast drive to Paro. Check in Hotel and after a brief rest drive to National Museum (Ta-Dzong). This was actually the Watch Tower of Paro Rinpung Dzong. It was converted to the National Museum in 1968. Visit the Paro Rinpung Dzong. This massive fortress is located on a hill top above the Pachu (Paro River) of Paro Valley. You have to walk about 15 minutes by crossing an ancient wooden bridge built in typical Bhutanese architect. The Dzong houses the District Administration Office and the District Monk Body. It was built in 1645 A.D.

Visit the Bhutan’s oldest monastery the Kyichu Lhakhang, built in 659AD by Tibetan King Songtsen Goenpo in order to subdue the Orgress in Tiber, he built 108 Stupas in Twenty Hours of time of which two are here in Bhutan, the one built on Left Knee is the Kyichu Monastery and next built on Left Toe is in Bumthang and it is called Jambay Lhakhang. The main deity inside the Monastery is the Buddha Maiteria which is commonly known as Future Buddha or reffered as Jow Jamba the same in Jokhang in Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet.

Day 7: Paro – Paro.

Drive for 15kms and reach the base of Famous Tiger’s Nest “TAKTSANG” Monastery and hike up which would take Two Hours up and approximately One Hour down. Stop at Taktsang Tea House “Cafeteria” for refreshment of Tea & Coffee and on your return back from monastery you will have your Lunch here.

Taktsang is at 2900mts. Hike for another half an hour and you reach the Great and Magnificent Taktsang where you will be greets by the monks who live there and Special Bhutanese Butter Tea will be served with Snacks.

Visit the most important monastery were the Guru Rimpoche was flying on a Flamming Tigress from Singye Dzong in Eastern Bhutan to here and meditated for Three Months and flourishment of Buddhism in Paro started from 8^th Century.

Walk down to the Tea House for Vegetarian Lunch.

After Lunch walk down hill and drive Drugyal Dzong and on the way enjoys the view of the Taktsang Monastery, also known as “Tiger’s Nest temple”. Near the Drugyal Dzong, if the sky is clear we can see the Mt. Chomolhari on the background.

Drive to the Paro village town and explore the town. Altitude of Paro is 2260m.

Overnight: Hotel in Paro.

Day 8: Drive to Airport Depart Bhutan

Early morning drive Airport and board the flight for onward destination.

Wishing you safe journey and thanks for visiting Bhutan with us

Thank You very much for visiting Bhutan with us at Bhutan Historic Travel and we look forward in hearing and re-organizing same Pilgrimage Tour for you, your family members and Friends!!!

Private Bhutan Honeymoon Itinerary

Private Bhutan Honeymoon for Ollie X 2 Pax

Day - 1 Arrive Paro

During the journey to Paro, one will experience from the left hand side of the plane breath taking views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and other famous Himalayan peaks, including the sacred Mount Chomolhari and Jichu Drake in Bhutan. On arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be received by representatives of Bhutan Majestic Travel who will escort you to the hotel. Discuss and make necessary changes along with Tour Guide.

Overnight: Hotel in Paro

Day - 2 Paro – Thimphu : Distance 2 Hours

The drive to Thimphu (Capital) through the winding road along the Paro and Thimphu river takes about 2 hrs. The distance is 65kms. On the way, 6kms before reaching Thimphu visit the Simtokha Dzong (Dzong means Fortress). Simtokha Dzong is one of the oldest Dzongs in Bhutan. It was built in 1629 A.D. by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel the founder of Bhutan, and was the first Dzong to be built by him. Check in at the hotel. Lunch at the hotel. Afternoon: Visit the Memorial Chorten (a huge Stupa) built in memory of the third King of Bhutan who reigned the Kingdom from 1952-1972. Visit the Handicrafts Emporium where Bhutanese textiles and various other arts and crafts are displayed and can be purchased. Visit Tashichho Dzong the main secretariat building. This massive structure houses part of the Government Ministries, the office of the King and the Throne Room and the office and the living quarters of the Monk Body and its Chief Abbot.

Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu

Day - 3 Thimphu – Thimphu

Visit the National Library where a vast collection of ancient manuscripts are preserved. Visit the Painting and wood craft school where children are taught the traditional art of wood craft and painting. Lunch at the hotel. Afternoon: Pilgrimage and hour long meditation at Thimphu’s Nunnery centre the Zilukha Nunnery.

Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu

Day - 4 Thimphu - Punakha/Wangduephodrang : Distance 77kms

After an early breakfast, drive to Punakha and Wangdiphodrang. On the way, halt at Dochula Pass 3150mts. (26kms) for a hot cup of tea/coffee and to enjoy the most spectacular view of the Eastern Himalayan mountain ranges. (possible on a clear day). Punakha was the former capital of Bhutan. The Punakha Dzong lies between two rivers known as Phochu and Mochu which means “Male River and Female river “. It is one of the most important Dzongs in Bhutan and now houses the District Administration office of the Punakha district and the winter residence of the Monk Body and its Chief Abbot. It was built in 1637 A.D. Wangdiphodrang lies 13kms from Punakha. The Wangdiphodrang Dzong and its small town is perched on a hill between two rivers. This Dzong also houses the District Administration office of the Wangdi district and the office and the living quarters of the district monk body. The Dzong was built in 1638 A.D.

Overnight: Hotel in Wangdue/Punakha

Day – 5 Wangdue – Wangdue

After breakfast walk to the famous Devine Madman’s Monastery The Chhimi Lhakhang “No Dog Monastery” built in 1499. Today it is very popular because couples who are married for so many years and don’t have childrens but always desired go there and get blessed from the wodden Phallus and in another Nine months the wife gets pregnant. We will visit the monastery and meditate and picnic lunch will be served outside the monastery in a lush green ground. After Lunch drive to Punakha and visit the beautiful and legendary Khamsum Yuley Namgyal Monastery built by Her Majesty the Queen mother of our Crown Prince.

Overnight: Hotel in Wangdue/Punakha

Day - 6 Wangdue – Trongsa

After an early breakfast, drive to Trongsa (142kms). The journey takes about 6 hrs with lunch stop on the way. After crossing Pelela at 3340 mts. Decend down to Rukhubji and then to Chendibji where your lunch will be served and circumambulate the Nepalese Style Stupa built in 15th Century.

Day - 7 Trongsa – Bumthang

Morning visit the Trongsa Dzong and the Watch Tower.The Trongsa Dzong was the ancestral home of the ruling dynasty. It is also the district administration office of the Trongsa district. It was built in 1648 A.D. The landscape around Trongsa is spectacular, and for miles on end the Dzong seems to tease you so that you wonder if you will ever reach it. Backing on to the mountain and built on several levels, the Dzong fits narrowly on a spur that sticks out into the gorge of the Mangde River and overlooks the routes south and west. The view from the Dzong extends for many kilometers and in former times nothing could escape the vigilance of its watchmen. Furthermore, the Dzong is built in such a way that in the old days, no matter what direction a traveler came from, he was obliged to pass by the Dzong. This helped to augment its importance as it thus had complete control over all east-west traffic. The Ta-Dzong, an ancient Watch Tower of the Trongsa Dzong is located on top of a steep hill about 1 km beyond the Trongsa Dzong. The watch tower displays many interesting armors used by the Bhutanese soldiers during the olden days. Lunch at the hotel and leave for Bumthang. The Journey takes about 3 hrs (68kms.) and is over one of the most scenically beautiful routes in Bhutan. Check in at the Guest house. (Bumthang has only guest houses but they are very comfortable with good facilities.)

Day - 8 Bumthang –Bumthang

Visit the historical Jakar Dzong built by Minjur Tenpa, the third Druk Desi (Temporal ruler) in 1646 A.D. It was later repaired and expanded by Gyalse Tenzin Rabgay, the fourth Desi of Bhutan in 1683 A.D. It is probably one of the biggest Dzongs in Bhutan with the surrounding walls about 1 km in circumference. Visit several ancient and important monasteries such as, Jambay Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang, Kencho Sum Lhakhang, Tamshing and Pema Samba Lhakhangs. Also visit the Bumthang Swiss farm and the Member Tso ” The flaming Lake ” which is considered one of the most important pilgrimage spots.

Day – 9

Day excursion to remote and beautiful Ura Valley. Picnic lunch will be served. Overnight hotel in Bumthang.

Day - 10 Bumthang – Gangtey

After an early breakfast, drive to Gangtey. 174kms from Bumthang. Overnight in Gangtey. Gangtey is a beautiful place situated at an altitude of 3000m. From Gangtey, one can closely view the picturesque black mountain ranges as well as the beautiful Phobjikha valley which is one of the biggest and the most beautiful valleys in the country. During winters, we can also see the famous Black Necked Cranes there. Overnight in the guest house.

Day - 11 Gangtey – Thimphu

After breakfast drive to Thimphu (1250kms.) Lunch at Dochula Pass 3150m. Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu

Day - 12 Thimphu – Paro

Morning drive to Paro. After lunch visit National Museum and Paro Dzong. Overnight hotel in Paro

Day - 13 Paro

After an early breakfast, drive up to Satsam Chorten (10kms) for a short trek to Taktsang Monastery. The name Taktsang means “Tiger’s Nest.” The monastery is perched on a rocky ledge with a sheer drop of nearly 800m. and overlooks the Paro valley and the river. It is said that in the second half of the 8th century, Guru Padma Sambhava known as the second Buddha in Bhutan, meditated at the spot where the monastery is situated having alighted there on the back of a flying tigress. Picnic lunch at the Taktsang cafeteria. The round trip hike takes about 4 hrs.

Day – 14 Day excursion to beautiful and remote Haa Valley.

Day – 15 Depart Part

Drive to Paro International Airport and see off by your Guide and Driver.

Bhutan: Literary festival, Mountain Echoes

Like the recently held SAARC summit, the Bhutanese environment seems to be having quite an effect on visiting writers attending the ongoing literary festival, Mountain Echoes.

But perhaps because it involves writers, instead of politicians, sexual jokes, night hunting and gossip accompanied some of the topics during the second day of the literary festival being held here in Thimphu.

“I’ve heard most of the Indian writers before, but here they seemed more relaxed and better engaged with the audience,” said publisher and editor-in-chief of Penguin India, Ravi Singh, who has attended several other such literary festivals in India.

“I don’t want to sound condescending, but I’ve been impressed by every single Bhutanese speaker as well,” said the publishing company’s editor. So far, Bhutanese writers such as Kunzang Choden, Dasho Karma Ura, Dasho Kinley Dorji, parliament member Sonam Kinga, opposition leader Tshering Tobgay, and Siok Sian Pek Dorji have spoken at the festival.

Ravi Singh said he had observed that Bhutanese writers were trying to find their way in this new landscape, in reference to the first ever literary festival being held in Bhutan. “There’s no self indulgence,” he said, adding that the Bhutanese speakers have been thinking “outside the sphere” and in a “deep” and “honest” way.

By ‘deep’, Ravi Singh was probably referring to his afternoon session with Dasho Kinley Dorji, which touched upon Bhutan’s development, and its cultural identity and preservation approach. Dasho Kinley was subjected to a number of tough questions. For instance, Singh asked Dasho Kinley, whether there is a “worry when championing this (national identity or shared culture) through your writings or otherwise, that there is a danger of homogenising, because you’re talking about human beings?”

Dasho Kinley replied that, as a socially diverse country, the pluralism of society was accepted as part of the national consciousness.

During the question-answer session, an audience member observed that Dasho Kinley’s session showed a desire to “freeze” culture at a “particular point”, when it is actually a dynamic process. Dasho Kinley replied humorously that personally, “I’d like Bhutan to have remained hidden.” He said that Bhutanese society is also engaged in this debate, and that a middle ground or path has to be found.

Dasho Kinley’s session also included a joke, as narrated to him by a traditional storyteller, that involved infidelity and animals.

The honesty of Bhutanese writers, as described by Penguin editor, Ravi Singh, was perhaps most reflected by MP Sonam Kinga, who in response to a question on ‘night hunting’ provided a rather too detailed narrative description of the rural culture. “It’s a kind of dating or courtship,” said the MP, “which the coming of electricity has undermined.” The MP was actually speaking about katsoms or Bhutanese alphabetic poetry, and had briefly mentioned the practice during his presentation.

Another highlight of the second day of the literary festival was award winning author Patrick French’s quest for Younghusband. The author of Younghusband: The Last Great Imperial Adventurer, said that Bhutan would probably not be in the “strong position” it is today if not for the present monarchy being established in 1907. His Majesty the first Druk Gyalpo, Ugyen Wangchuck, accompanied British officer Younghusband as a mediator during the former’s invasion of Tibet at the beginning of the last century.

French said that the invasion was the “most remarkable but most pointless campaign by the British Raj.” He explained that, as a result of the campaign, “a trade mart was opened in Gyentse, and that was it.”

The historical author also added that he is currently working on a book, of which, Bhutan will be a major part.

The last session of the day focused on blogging and new media. Opposition leader Tshering Tobgay, who is a prolific blogger, and one of two politicians, who uses the internet to publicly interact, shared his online experience.

He pointed out that he uses his blog, which he referred to as his own private newspaper, to encourage people to discuss issues.

Although he acknowledged that his readership represents a minority, he said, the blog “forces me to think all the time, similar to a journalist.” He added that more politicians need to blog, and not just before elections but throughout their terms.

He also pointed out that his blog receives the most discussion from topics that deal with the law and the media.

Although the three-day literary festival ends today, some participants, despite appreciating the quality of presentations and interaction, pointed out a negative aspect.

“There’s so much to learn, I’m not going to be able to process it all, there’s so much information and that’s the only downside to it,” said visiting journalist Omair Ahmad, who added that there was certainly a difference from other literary festivals by having it in Bhutan. “I’m glad it’s going so well.”

Source: Kuenselonline

Paro Festival: Most popular festival in Bhutan

Under a warm spring sun, and dressed in their finest ghos and kiras, Parops, pilgrims, and an almost equal number of tourists, celebrated the first day of Paro tsechu, Nangcham, witnessing sacred dances performed in the cobble-stoned courtyard of the Rinpung dzong.

Events inside Rinpung dzong commenced with monks performing Shingje Yab Yum, the dance of the lord of death (Shingje) and his consort.

This was followed by Durdag, the dance of the lords of the cremation grounds, Shanag, dance of the black hats, Drametse Ngacham, dance of the drum from Drametse, De Gye Mang cham, dance of the eight kinds of spirits, and finally Chhoeshey, a religious song.

Intermingled within these sacred dances, were also zhungdra and boedra dances performed by the dzongkhag’s dancers.

Kuensel spoke to a few tourists, who witnessed the festival. All of them pointed out that the festival was uniquely different from similar festivals in other countries, in that it was not staged for tourists, but conducted for the local people.

“It wasn’t for travellers but for the people,” said Peter Hollingworth, a doctor from England, who witnessed the celebrations for the first time. “It was very natural, genuine.”

“People joked, laughed and interacted, it brought people together and it was very beautiful,” said Australian Peter Davissen, an electrician.

“You could feel the joy and fun, the happiness, and the peaceful atmosphere of the community,” said Christian Gruber, a German IT project manager with Shell.

“I feel privileged to have been able to attend such a magnificent festival,” said Felipe Chirinos from Peru. Paro tsechu continues for another four days.

Source: Kuenselonline

is Majesty the King graced the final day of the Talo Tsechu in Punakha, Bhutan

His Majesty the King graced the final day of the Talo Tsechu in Punakha this morning. His Majesty joined thousands of people from in and around Punakha and neighbouring Dzongkhags. His Majesty also granted audience to the Kidu beneficiaries.

The three-day Tsechu ended with the unfurling of Zhabdrung Phunsum Tshogpai Thongdrel.

His Majesty witnessed the mask dances and offered prayers and butter lamps.

His Majesty the King also interacted with the people who had gathered to witness the Tsechu.

Source: BBS

Bhutan Punakha Festival

Bhutan Punakha Festival Tour

The regional Dzong and remote village communities hold their distinct annual Tsechu festival, providing the local populace with a wonderful occasion to dress up, gather together, and enjoy, in a convivial light-hearted atmosphere. It is also an occasion to renew their faith and receive blessings by watching the sacred dances, or receiving 'empowerment' from a lama or Buddhist monk.

The dances, each aspect of which has a symbolic meaning, are performed by trained monks and laymen wearing ornate costumes, and, in some cases, impressive masks. At Paro, Wangdu, Mongar and Tashigang, among other places, a large 'thanka' scroll known as a Tongdrol is exhihited for a few hours, at day break of the final day of the festival, enabling the people to obtain its blessing, since such scrolls 'confer liberation by the mere sight of it' (tongdrol in Bhutanese).

Day 1: Arrival Paro International Airport.
During the journey to Paro, one will experience from the left hand side of the plane, breath taking view of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and other famous Himalayan peaks, including the sacred Chomolhari and Mount Jichu Drake in Bhutan. On the arrival at Paro International Airport, The representative, your tour guide will receive you and escort you to the hotel. After a brief rest at the hotel and tea/coffee. Drive to the National Museum (Ta-Dzong). This was actually the Watch Tower of Paro Rinpung Dzong. It was converted to the National Museum in 1968. Visit the Paro Rinpung Dzong. This massive fortress is located on a hill top above the Pachu (Paro River) of Paro Valley. You have to walk about 15 minutes by crossing an ancient wooden bridge built in typical Bhutanese architect. The Dzong houses the District Administration Office and the District Monk Body. It was built in 1645 A.D. Lunch at Hotel. After Lunch Visit Kyichu Lhakhang (Lhakhang means Monastery). Kyichu Lhakhang was built in 659 A.D. by King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet. It is considered one of the holiest places in Bhutan as it marks the advent of Buddhism in the country. It is one of the 108 such temples built by him for spreading Buddhism in this region. Drive to the Paro village town and explore the town. Altitude of Paro is 2260m.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro.

Day 2: Paro – Paro
Drive for 15kms and reach the base of Famous Tiger’s Nest “TAKTSANG” Monastery and hike up which would take Two Hours up and approximately One Hour down. Stop at Taktsang Tea House “Cafeteria” for refreshment of Tea & Coffee. Taktsang is at 2900mts. Hike for another half an hour and you reach the Great and Magnificent Taktsang where you will be greets by the monks who live there and Special Bhutanese Butter Tea will be served with Snacks. Visit the most important monastery were the Guru Rimpoche was flying on a Flamming Tigress from Singye Dzong in Eastern Bhutan to here and meditated for Three Months and flourishment of Buddhism in Paro started from 8th Century. Walk down hill and drive to Drugyal Dzong and on the way enjoys the view of the Taktsang Monastery, also known as “Tiger’s Nest temple”. Near the Drugyal Dzong, if the sky is clear we can see the Mt. Chomolhari on the background.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro.

Thimphu is the Capital City of Bhutan but for the Buddhist Monk body moves to Punakha in Winter and their Summer Capital District is Thimphu but Winter s Punakha because it is cold in Thimphu during winter and Punakha is just perfect at 1300mts

Day 3: Paro – Thimphu
The drive to Thimphu will take roughly Two Hours. Thimphu is the capital city of Bhutan since from 1974. Punakha used to the capital city of Bhutan before that.
For the first one hour you will follow the Pa-Chu (Paro River) and reach Chuzom where the Thimphu River meets the Paro River and forms Wang-Chu (Chu means Water, River or Stream). Chuzom is a four direction motor road junction where one road leads to Thimphu, one to Phuentsholing the border town to India, one to Haa valley and one where you drove from Paro. It will take another One hour from here to Capital city, Thimphu. Check in the Hotel and after short rest visit National Memorial Stupa, built in 1874 by Royal Queen Mother and dedicated to the father of Modern Bhutan, the Late His Majesty the Third King of Bhutan. The Memorial Stupa, built in 1974 by Royal Queen Mother and dedicated to the Father of Modern Bhutan, The Third King of Bhutan. This Tibetan & Bhutanese Architecture mixed Stupa has got three different sects of Buddhism such as Gongdu on the Top floor, Drukpa Kagyud on Middle with Second Buddha figure facing the Sun Rise and on the Ground Floor it is the Phurba.

Day 4: Thimphu - Thimphu
Visit the Post Office with Money exchange as the bank is next door. Lunch in Town, after lunch drive to BBS Tower to get the magnificent picture and view of Thimphu and you can also see our Queens Palaces. Visit to Thimphu Mini Zoo where you can see our National Animal “TAKIN” which has a head of a goat and body of a cow, believed to be made by great Devine Madman in the 16th Century. Visit national Library, School of Thirteen Arts and Crafts, National institute of Traditional Medicines. Visit to Thimphu Tashi Cho Dzong, the office of the King and the Throne Room and also the Summer Capital of Monastic Body lead by His Holiness the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot) who spend six months here during summer and move to Punakha for winter for another six months.
Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu.
Day 5: Thimphu – Punakha
After breakfast drive to Winter Capital for the Monastic Body, Punakha at 1300m.
One hour drive reach you to Dochula Pass at 3150mts where you can see and enjoy the Eastern Himalayas in a Panoramic View and best picture time for group of Bhutanese Style of Stupas, as there are 108 Stupas built by Her Majesty for the well being of the Nation and Love Live His Majesty. It descends to Punakha and Wangdue at 1300mts which will take another two hours. Visit Historic and one of the most beautiful Punakha Dzong built in 1637 by Great Zhabdrung Rimpoche who unified Bhutan in 17th Century.
Overnight: Hotel in Punakha

Day 6: Punakha - Punakha
After breakfast walk to the famous Devine Madman’s Monastery the Chhimi Lhakhang “No Dog Monastery” built in 1499. Today it is very popular because couples who are married for so many years and don’t have children’s but always desired go there and get blessed from the wooden Phallus and in another Nine months the wife gets pregnant. We will visit the monastery and meditate and picnic lunch will be served outside the monastery in a lush green ground. After Lunch drive to Punakha and visit the beautiful and legendary Khamsum Yuley Namgyal Monastery built by Her Majesty the Queen mother of our Crown Prince.
Overnight: Hotel in Punakha

Day 7: Punakha Festival
Full Day Punakha Festival
Overnight: Hotel in Punakha

Day 8: Punakha Festival
Full Day Punakha Festival
Overnight: Hotel in Punakha

Day 9: Punakha – Bumthang (210 Kms, 8 hours, 2500mts)
After breakfast drive to Bumthang via Wangdi village town. Have the pack lunch around the Pelela pass (3390 Mts) or you have the option to continue to Chendebji Stupa. Chendebji Stupa is a massive stupa built in Sherpa style. We have only two such stupas in Bhutan and the other one is in Tarshi Yangtse, eastern Bhutan. After lunch, drive onto Bumthang via Trongsa. At Trongsa, stop to visit the Trongsa Dzong which is one of the most magnificent Dzongs in Bhutan with many old and holy temples inside the Dzong, also visit the ancient WatchTower which has a temple dedicated to Ling Geyser (Alexandra the Great) and have your evening tea and continue to the Bumthang for the night.
Overnight: Hotel in Bumthang
Day 10: Bumthang – Ura - Bumthang
Day excursion to beautiful Ura Valley and visit to Burning Lake
Overnight: Hotel in Bumthang

Day 11: Bumthang - Bumthang
Visit the historical Jakar Dzong built by Minjur Tenpa, the third Druk Desi (Temporal ruler) in 1646 A.D. It was later repaired and expanded by Gyalse Tenzin Rabgay, the fourth Desi of Bhutan in 1683 A.D. It is probably one of the biggest Dzongs in Bhutan with the surrounding walls about 1 km in circumference. Visit several ancient and important monasteries such as, Jambay Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang, Kencho Sum Lhakhang, Tamshing and Pema Samba Lhakhangs. Also visit the Bumthang Swiss farm and the Member Tso” The flaming Lake” which is considered one of the most important pilgrimage spots.
Overnight: Hotel in Bumthang
Day 12: Bumthang – Gangtey
After an early breakfast, drive to Gangtey. 174kms from Bumthang. Overnight in Gangtey. Gangtey is a beautiful place situated at an altitude of 3000m. From Gangtey, one can closely view the picturesque black mountain ranges as well as the beautiful Phobjikha valley which is one of the biggest and the most beautiful valleys in the country. During winters, we can also see the famous Black Necked Cranes there. Overnight: Hotel in Gangtey
Day 13: Gangtey – Thimphu
After breakfast drive to Thimphu (1250kms.) Lunch at Dochula Pass 3150m.
Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu
Day 14: Thimphu - Paro
After breakfast drive to Paro. Check in Hotel and excursions to Chelela pass.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Day 15: Drive to Airport Depart Bhutan
Early morning drive to border gate and exit Bhutan for onward destination.
Wishing you safe journey and thanks for visiting Bhutan with us

TENTATIVE FESTIVAL DATES FOR 2010

FESTIVAL	PLACE	DATES
PUNAKHA DROMCHE	Punakha Dzong; PUNAKHA	20th- 23rd FEB (7th-9th first Bhutanese, 9th nobtsho)
PUNAKHA TSHECHU	Punakha Dzong; PUNAKHA	24th – 26th FEB (10th-12th of 1st Bhutanese month)
CHORTEN KORA	Chorten Kora; TRASHIYANGTSE	28th FEB & 15th MAR
THARPALING THONGDROL	Tharpaling Lhakhang, Chummi, BUMTHANG	28th FEB
TANGSIBI MANI (URA)	Tangsibi Lhakhang, Ura, BUMTHANG	27th FEB – 3rd MAR
BULLI MANI (CHUMMI)	Buli Lhakhang, Chummi, BUMTHANG	1st – 3rd MAR
GADEN CHODPA (URA)	Gaden Lhakhang, Ura, BUMTHANG	13th – 15th MAR
GOMKORA	Gom Kora Lhakhang; TRASHIGANG	23rd – 25th MAR
PARO TSHECHU	Rinpung Dzong; PARO	26th – 30th MAR
CHUKHA TSHECHU	CHUKHA	28th – 30th MAR
DOMKHAR TSHECHU	Domkhar, Chummi, BUMTHANG	23rd – 25th APR
URA YAKCHOE	Ura Lhakhang; BUMTHANG	24th – 28th APR
PADSEL-LING KUCHOD	Padsel-ling Gonpa, Choekhor, BUMTHANG	2nd – 3rd JUN
NIMALUNG TSHECHU	Nimalung Dratshang, Chummi, BUMTHANG	19th – 21st JUN
KURJEY TSHECHU	Kurjey Lhakhang, Choekhor, BUMTHANG	21st JUN
THIMPHU DRUBCHEN	Tashi Chhodzong, THIMPHU	12th – 16th SEPT
WANGDI TSHECHU	Wangdi Dzong, WANGDUE PHODRANG	15th – 17th SEPT
TAMSHINGPHALA CHOEPA	Tamshing Lhakhang, Choekhor, BUMTHANG	16th – 18th SEPT
THIMPHU TSHECHU	TaashiChhodzong, THIMPHU	17th -19th SEPT
TANGBI MANI	Tangbi Lhakhang, Choekhor, BUMTHANG	22nd – 24th SEPT
SHINGKHAR RABNEY (URA)	Shingkhar Lhakhang, Ura, BUMTHANG	13th – 17th OCT
JAKAR TSECHU	Jakar Dzong, Choekhor, BUMTHANG	15th – 18th OCT
JAMBAY LHAKHANG DRUP	Jambay Lhakhang, Choekhor, BUMTHANG	22nd – 26th OCT
PRAKHAR DUCHHOED	Prakar Lhakhang, Chummi, BUMTHANG	23rd – 25th OCT
SUMDRANG KANGSOL(URA)	Sumdrang Lhakhang, Ura, BUMTHANG	2nd – 6th NOV
CRANE FESTIVAL	PHOBJI KHA; WANGDUE PHODRANG	12th NOV
MONGAR TSHECHU	Mongar Dzong, MONGAR	13th – 16th NOV
PEMAGATSHEL TSHECHU	Pemagatshel Dzong, PEMAGATSHEL	13th – 16th NOV
TRASHIGANG TSHECHU	Trashigang Dzong, TRASHIGANG	14th – 17th NOV
TANG NAMKHA RABNEY (TANG)	Tang Namkha Lhakhang, BUMTHANG	15th – 16th NOV
JAMBAY LAHKHANG SINGYE CHAM	Jambay Lhakhang, Choekhor, BUMTHANG	21st NOV
NALAKHAR TSHECHU (Zhey)	Ngaa Lhakhang, Choekhor, BUMTHANG	21st – 23rd NOV
CHOJAM RABNEY (TANG)	Chojamrab Lhakhang, Tang, BUMTHANG	20th – 24th NOV
TRONGSA TSHECHU	Trongsa Dzong, TRONGSA	15th – 17th DEC
LHUNTSE TSHECHU	Lhuntse Dzong, LHUNTSE	15th – 17th DEC
SHINGKHAR METOCHODPA (URA)	Shingkhar Lhakhang, Ura, BUMTHANG	21st DEC
NABJI LHAKHANG DRUP	Nabji Lhakhang, Nabji, TRONGSA	21st – 25th DEC

Bhutan Jakar Festival Tour

Bhutan Jakar Festival Tour

The regional Dzong and remote village communities hold their distinct annual Tsechu festival, providing the local populace with a wonderful occasion to dress up, gather together, and enjoy, in a convivial light-heated atmosphere. It is also an occasion to renew their faith and receive blessings by watching the sacred dances, or receiving 'empowerment' from a lama or Buddhist monk.

The dances, each aspect of which has a symbolic meaning, are performed by trained monks and laymen wearing ornate costumes, and, in some cases, impressive masks. At Paro, Wangdu, Mongar and Tashigang, among other places, a large 'thanka' scroll known as a Tongdrol is exhihited for a few hours, at day break of the final day of the festival, enabling the people to obtain its blessing, since such scrolls 'confer liberation by the mere sight of it' (tongdrol in Bhutanese).

Day 1: Arrival Paro International Airport.
During the journey to Paro, one will experience from the left hand side of the plane, breath taking view of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and other famous Himalayan peaks, including the sacred Chomolhari and Mount Jichu Drake in Bhutan. On the arrival at Paro International Airport, The representative, your tour guide will receive you and escort you to the hotel. After a brief rest at the hotel and tea/coffee. Drive to the National Museum (Ta-Dzong). This was actually the Watch Tower of Paro Rinpung Dzong. It was converted to the National Museum in 1968. Visit the Paro Rinpung Dzong. This massive fortress is located on a hill top above the Pachu (Paro River) of Paro Valley. You have to walk about 15 minutes by crossing an ancient wooden bridge built in typical Bhutanese architect. The Dzong houses the District Administration Office and the District Monk Body. It was built in 1645 A.D. Lunch at Hotel. After Lunch Visit Kyichu Lhakhang (Lhakhang means Monastery). Kyichu Lhakhang was built in 659 A.D. by King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet. It is considered one of the holiest places in Bhutan as it marks the advent of Buddhism in the country. It is one of the 108 such temples built by him for spreading Buddhism in this region. Drive to the Paro village town and explore the town. Altitude of Paro is 2260m.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro.

Day 2: Paro – Paro
Drive for 15kms and reach the base of Famous Tiger’s Nest “TAKTSANG” Monastery and hike up which would take Two Hours up and approximately One Hour down. Stop at Taktsang Tea House “Cafeteria” for refreshment of Tea & Coffee. Taktsang is at 2900mts. Hike for another half an hour and you reach the Great and Magnificent Taktsang where you will be greets by the monks who live there and Special Bhutanese Butter Tea will be served with Snacks. Visit the most important monastery were the Guru Rimpoche was flying on a Flamming Tigress from Singye Dzong in Eastern Bhutan to here and meditated for Three Months and flourishment of Buddhism in Paro started from 8th Century. Walk down hill and drive to Drugyal Dzong and on the way enjoys the view of the Taktsang Monastery, also known as “Tiger’s Nest temple”. Near the Drugyal Dzong, if the sky is clear we can see the Mt. Chomolhari on the background.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro.

Thimphu is the Capital City of Bhutan but for the Buddhist Monk body moves to Punakha in Winter and their Summer Capital District is Thimphu but Winter s Punakha because it is cold in Thimphu during winter and Punakha is just perfect at 1300mts

Day 3: Paro – Thimphu
The drive to Thimphu will take roughly Two Hours. Thimphu is the capital city of Bhutan since from 1974. Punakha used to the capital city of Bhutan before that.
For the first one hour you will follow the Pa-Chu (Paro River) and reach Chuzom where the Thimphu River meets the Paro River and forms Wang-Chu (Chu means Water, River or Stream). Chuzom is a four direction motor road junction where one road leads to Thimphu, one to Phuentsholing the border town to India, one to Haa valley and one where you drove from Paro. It will take another One hour from here to Capital city, Thimphu. Check in the Hotel and after short rest visit National Memorial Stupa, built in 1874 by Royal Queen Mother and dedicated to the father of Modern Bhutan, the Late His Majesty the Third King of Bhutan. The Memorial Stupa, built in 1974 by Royal Queen Mother and dedicated to the Father of Modern Bhutan, The Third King of Bhutan. This Tibetan & Bhutanese Architecture mixed Stupa has got three different sects of Buddhism such as Gongdu on the Top floor, Drukpa Kagyud on Middle with Second Buddha figure facing the Sun Rise and on the Ground Floor it is the Phurba.

Day 4: Thimphu - Thimphu
Visit the Post Office with Money exchange as the bank is next door. Lunch in Town, after lunch drive to BBS Tower to get the magnificent picture and view of Thimphu and you can also see our Queens Palaces. Visit to Thimphu Mini Zoo where you can see our National Animal “TAKIN” which has a head of a goat and body of a cow, believed to be made by great Devine Madman in the 16th Century. Visit national Library, School of Thirteen Arts and Crafts, National institute of Traditional Medicines. Visit to Thimphu Tashi Cho Dzong, the office of the King and the Throne Room and also the Summer Capital of Monastic Body lead by His Holiness the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot) who spend six months here during summer and move to Punakha for winter for another six months.
Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu.

Day 5: Thimphu – Punakha
After breakfast drive to Winter Capital for the Monastic Body, Punakha at 1300m.
One hour drive reach you to Dochula Pass at 3150mts where you can see and enjoy the Eastern Himalayas in a Panoramic View and best picture time for group of Bhutanese Style of Stupas, as there are 108 Stupas built by Her Majesty for the well being of the Nation and Love Live His Majesty. It descends to Punakha and Wangdue at 1300mts which will take another two hours. Visit Historic and one of the most beautiful Punakha Dzong built in 1637 by Great Zhabdrung Rimpoche who unified Bhutan in 17th Century.
Overnight: Hotel in Punakha

Day 6: Punakha - Punakha
After breakfast walk to the famous Devine Madman’s Monastery the Chhimi Lhakhang “No Dog Monastery” built in 1499. Today it is very popular because couples who are married for so many years and don’t have children’s but always desired go there and get blessed from the wooden Phallus and in another Nine months the wife gets pregnant. We will visit the monastery and meditate and picnic lunch will be served outside the monastery in a lush green ground. After Lunch drive to Punakha and visit the beautiful and legendary Khamsum Yuley Namgyal Monastery built by Her Majesty the Queen mother of our Crown Prince.
Overnight: Hotel in Punakha

Day 7: Punakha – Bumthang (210 Kms, 8 hours, 2500mts)
After breakfast drive to Bumthang via Wangdi village town. Have the pack lunch around the Pelela pass (3390 Mts) or you have the option to continue to Chendebji Stupa. Chendebji Stupa is a massive stupa built in Sherpa style. We have only two such stupas in Bhutan and the other one is in Tarshi Yangtse, eastern Bhutan. After lunch, drive onto Bumthang via Trongsa. At Trongsa, stop to visit the Trongsa Dzong which is one of the most magnificent Dzongs in Bhutan with many old and holy temples inside the Dzong, also visit the ancient WatchTower which has a temple dedicated to Ling Geyser (Alexandra the Great) and have your evening tea and continue to the Bumthang for the night.
Overnight: Hotel in Bumthang

Day 8: Bumthang – Bumthang
Full Day witness the Jakar Festival
Overnight: Hotel in Bumthang

Day 9: Bumthang – Bumthang
Full Day witness the Jakar Festival
Overnight: Hotel in Bumthang

Day 10: Bumthang – Ura - Bumthang
Day excursion to beautiful Ura Valley and visit to Burning Lake
Overnight: Hotel in Bumthang

Day 11: Bumthang – Trongsa (3 hrs drive, 2100mts)
After breakfast drive to Kurjey monastery and Jakar Dzong, District Administration Centre.
Overnight: Hotel in Trongsa

Day 12: Trongsa – Wangdue/Punakha (3 hrs drive)
After breakfast drive to Wangdue and if time permits then drive to Gangtey/Phobjikha which is located in one of Bhutan’s most picturesque valley, Phobjikha. Visit Gangtey Gompa, which now houses one of the only Nyingmapa Monasteries in Bhutan. The valley is also the winter home to the rare Black-Neck cranes (Grus Nicorocolis), which migrate from remote parts of Tibet, China and Siberia to winter in this valley.

Day 13: Punakha – Thimphu
After breakfast drive to Thimphu. On the way hike to the legendary Chimi Lhakhang built in 15th Century by a saint popularly known as Devine Mad Man “Drukpa Kuenley”. It is believed that the couple who are married for so long years and doesn’t result in pregnancy, they go there and pray and in next coming months the wife gets pregnant.
Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu

Day 14: Thimphu – Paro
After breakfast leisure time, shopping and relax hour till lunch. Lunch in Thimphu and after lunch drive to Paro, arrive Paro and relax and explore the town
Overnight: Hotel in Paro

Day 15: Depart Bhutan
Early morning drive to Airport and board flight for onwards journey.
Wishing you safe journey and thanks for visiting Bhutan with us