URA YAKCHOE FESTIVAL BHUTAN

The Ura Yakchoe Festival is an annual event in Bhutan's Bumthang district, known for its famous dance called "Ura Yakchoe" and the sacred relic displayed for blessing. Legend has it that the old woman was visited by a lama who disappeared and left behind a sack. Inside she found a sculpture that is now on display every year. The festival is a popular celebration in central Bhutan and brings communities together through dance, song and food. The festival takes place from the 12th to the 16th day of the third lunar month and is held at the Ura Guru Lhakhang. The main part of the festival is five days of public performances that include Thromu Dance, Mangchen Dance and Tenkor.

Minimum travellers 2
Maximum travellers 10

Itinerary

  • 1

    Arrival in Paro

    Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed. In the afternoon you will be transferred to the hotel to rest. Later you will visit Paro Dzong and explore Paro town.

  • 2

    Paro Sightseeing

    A morning hike to Taktsang Monastery, an afternoon visit to the National Museum of Bhutan and a traditional dinner with local cuisine.

  • 3

    Paro to Thimphu

    A 1-hour drive to Thimphu, an afternoon visit to the Tashichho Dzong National Monument and Chorten, and an evening tour of the Thimphu Weekend Market.

  • 4

    Thimphu Sightseeing

    A morning visit to the Dordenma Buddha statue and Changangkha Lhakhang, an afternoon visit to the Folk Heritage Museum and the Royal Textile Academy, and free time for shopping or relaxation.

  • 5

    Thimphu to Bumthang

    A scenic 7-hour drive to Bumthang, overnight rest at a hotel, and a light exploration of Jakar town in the evening.

  • 6

    Bumthang Sightseeing

    Visit Jakar Dzong and exploring Jambay Lhakhang in the morning, visiting Kurjey Lhakhang and Tamshing Lhakhang temples in the afternoon and relaxing at the hotel.

  • 7-10

    Ura Valley – Ura Yakchoe Festival

    A 1-hour drive to the Ura Valley, attending the opening ceremonies of the Ura Yakchoe Festival, participating in community activities, and enjoying local food stalls. The days include watching traditional dances, participating in games, archery competitions and meeting locals to learn about Uro traditions and customs.

  • 11

    Ura Valley to Jakar

    Enjoy a final festival moment before returning to Jakar, visiting missed attractions, tasting local delicacies and attending a cultural performance or event.

  • 12

    Jakar to Phobjikha Valley

    Drive to Phobjikha Valley (3 hours), visit Gangtey Monastery, enjoy the views of the valley and, in season, a relaxing walk to observe the Black-necked Cranes.

  • 13

    Phobjikha Valley to Punakha

    A 2-hour drive to Punakha, a visit to Punakha Dzong and a walk across the Punakha Suspension Bridge.

  • 14

    Punakha to Paro & Departure

    The morning includes a 3-hour drive back to Paro, possibly a visit to Kyichu Lhakhang, and then a flight from Paro International Airport to your next destination.

Services

Cost Includes

  • Bhutan Government Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): USD $100 per person per night (as of 2023–2024 for international tourists)

    Visa Fee: USD $40 per person

    Accommodation: 3-star hotels (as per government regulations)/ 4-star/luxury hotels at an additional cost

    All Meals (Full Board): Breakfast, lunch, and dinner (at the hotel or local restaurants)

    Private Tour Vehicle: Comfortable vehicle with a professional driver

    Licensed Bhutanese Tour Guide: English-speaking guide (other language guides may be available upon request)

    Sightseeing and Entry Fees: All permits and entrance fees to monuments, temples, museums, and national parks

    Airport Transfers: Pick-up and drop-off at Paro International Airport

    Bottled Drinking Water: Usually provided during tours and treks

    Internal Permits: For restricted areas like Haa Valley, Bumthang, or Trashigang (if included in your itinerary)

Cost Excludes

  • Flights to and from Bhutan: International airfare to Bhutan (usually via Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines from Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, etc.)

    Travel Insurance: Mandatory for entry, but must be purchased separately
    Personal Expenses:Tips, laundry, drinks, shopping, phone calls, etc.

    Optional Activities: Cultural programs, hot stone baths, archery sessions, or any activities not mentioned in the itinerary

    Upgrades to Luxury Hotels or Services: If you want to upgrade to 4- or 5-star accommodation or private luxury transport

    Extra Nights: If you choose to stay beyond the scheduled itinerary

    Medical or Emergency Evacuation Costs: If required during the trip

Equipments

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