The Royal Highland Festival was first introduced in 2016 to celebrate the birth of His Royal Highness, the Gyalsey. The festival takes place in Laya, Gasa, where it is located at 4,000m above sea level. It is considered one of the highest settlements of Bhutan with approximately 110 houses.

The sole purpose of the festival is to help the Layap community restore an age-old tradition, culture, and faith, which is under the threat of rapid urbanisation. Age-old practices of offerings that have existed as early as the 16th century can be witnessed during the festival – ranging from competitions involving highland animals, such as horses, mastiffs, and yaks, and traditional songs and dances.

DAY 1 – OCTOBER 19TH | ARRIVAL: PARO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Kuzuzangpo la! And, welcome to Bhutan! Enjoy the breathtaking approach into Paro.

1. Head to Thimphu, an hour’s drive from Paro.

2. Check-in at the hotel.

3. In the evening, visit Buddha Point.

DAY 2 – OCTOBER 20TH | THIMPHU

Visit:

1. Tashichhodzong

2. Ziluka Anim Dratsang – Nunnery

3. National Institute of Zorig Chusum and the Folk Heritage National Museum

4. Royal Textile Academy

DAY 3 – OCTOBER 21ST | THIMPHU TO PUNAKHA

1. First stop: Dochula Pass.
Dochula Pass offers a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range. The view is amazing with snow-capped mountains forming a majestic backdrop to the tranquillity of the 108 chortens adorning the mountain pass.

2. Visit Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the fertility temple.
Built in the 15^th century by Lama Drukpa Kunley, popularly known as the ‘Divine madman’. Many who wish to conceive, visit the temple for blessings and guidance.

3. Punakha Dzong.
It is the second oldest and second largest Dzong with one of the most majestic structures in the country. Built at the confluence of two rivers, the fortress is celebrated as the fortress where all the kings are crowned and the winter residence of the Central Monastic Body.

4. Suspension Bridge.

This bridge stretches behind Punakha Dzong connecting with the villages on the other side. It is one of the longest bridges in Bhutan.

DAY 4 – OCTOBER 22ND | PUNAKHA TO KOINA, GASA

1. Drive to Koina and hike to Laya.

2. Overnight halt in Laya.

DAY 5 – OCTOBER 23RD | ROYAL HIGHLAND FESTIVAL

“Good to Great Gasa,” a vision shared amongst the people of Gasa can be experienced through the Royal Highlander Festival where the Dzongkhag’s nature, age-old traditions and culture, and history are expressed to the folks that attend the event. The festival’s simple-nature and authencity is not to be missed!

Enjoy the various cultural programmes performed by the Layaps.

DAY 6 – OCTOBER 24TH | LAYA

Explore the Laya Valley.

DAY 7 – OCTOBER 25TH | GASA TO PUNAKHA

1. Hike back to Koina.

2. Option of hot spring bath.

3. Drive back to Punakha.

DAY 8 – OCTOBER 26TH | PUNAKHA TO PARO

Have a relaxing morning, and then head to Paro in the afternoon.

DAY 9 – OCTOBER 27TH | PARO

Visit:

1. Paro Rinpung Dzong

2. National Museum of Bhutan

3. Drugyel Dzong

4. Kyichu Lhakhang

5. Namgay Artisanal Brewery

DAY 10 – OCTOBER 28TH | HIKE TO TAKTSANG

1. The Hike up to Taktsang.
Taktsang is the most famous tourist destination in Bhutan. It hangs on a cliff, 3,120 meters above sea level. Due to its unique location, visitors hiking up to this sacred site are left with nothing but a breathtaking and unforgettable experience.

2. Hot Stone Spa
Relieve your tired feet and legs after the hike at a hot stone spa.

3. Enjoy a traditional dinner.

DAY 11 – OCTOBER 29TH | DEPARTURE

Bidding you a safe journey home with warm memories to take back with you. TASHI DELEK!