Paro Festival of Bhutan
Experience Bhutan’s colourful and traditional festivals and climb up to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched high on the cliff side. Start your journey travelling to the busy and chaotic capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu. Hidden temples and narrow backstreets provide a spectacular backdrop to this intoxicating city. Fly to Paro, beautifully set amidst the wooded valleys of Western Bhutan to share the celebrations at the annual Paro Festival. It’s a spectacular sight that you’ll share with the locals and the crowds of thousands each year.
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The Paro Festival, also known as Paro Tsechu, is one of Bhutan’s most vibrant and significant religious festivals. Held annually in the picturesque Paro Valley, this festival typically takes place in the spring, attracting both locals and international visitors. It’s also a time for socialising, dressing up, and sharing meals. Bhutanese families come in their finest silk ghos and kiras, the tradiional dress adding to the vibrant to the colourful costumes.
Stalls selling local snacks, textiles, and religious items line the festival grounds. Try ema datshi (chilli and cheese stew) or sip on a warm suja (butter tea) as you take it all in.
Each day of the Tshechu features a series of traditional Cham dances. Monks dressed in elaborate costumes and grotesque masks enact mythical tales and moral lessons passed down over centuries. The Dance of the Lords of the Cremation Grounds and Dance of the Terrifying Deities are filled with power, grace, and drama.
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FAQ
How challenging is the Tiger’s Nest hike?
The name translates as Tiger’s Nest and local legend recounts how Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tiger and founded the monastery where he spent a few months deep in meditation.
The path mostly consists of stone steps that cut through oak and pine forests before emerging onto a ridge. The trail begins with a continuous ascent, some of it steep and switchbacked. The altitude (3,120 metres) may cause shortness of breath, especially if you’re not acclimatised.
The views of the Paro Valley are breathtaking but the cliff-hugging monastery with significant drops can become a challenge. Overall, the hike is moderately challenging and entirely doable for most people with a basic level of fitness.
What Is The Typical Weather Conditions During The Festival?
During the Paro Tshechu Festival, typically held in March or April, the weather in Paro is mild and pleasant, marking the start of spring in Bhutan. The skies would generally be clear or partly cloudy, offering beautiful blue skies ideal for photography and scenic views. March and early April are among the driest months of the year.
Temperature: Daytime: 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F / Night-time: 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F)
What to Wear During The Festival ?
Mornings and evenings can be brisk, so a warm jacket or fleece will keep you comfortable. Warm jacket or fleece for early mornings, especially if you’re attending the pre-dawn Thongdrol unveiling..
As the sun rises, temperatures become pleasantly mild, making it easy to shed layers throughout the day. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you’ll spend time exploring the festival grounds and nearby sites.
Don’t forget sunglasses, hat and sunscreen, the high-altitude sun can be deceptively strong. Dress thoughtfully, and you’ll enjoy the full experience in comfort and style.
Do I need a visa to visit Bhutan for the festival?
Yes, all international travellers—except citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives—must obtain a visa in advance to visit Bhutan. The visa is typically issued by the Tourism Council of Bhutan, and you’ll receive an e-visa clearance letter before your trip.
In addition to the visa, all travellers must pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which contributes to Bhutan’s environmental and cultural preservation efforts. As of recent regulations, the SDF is USD 100 per person per night (subject to change), and it’s usually included in the overall tour cost.
In Nepal, an entry visa is required by UK, New Zealand, Australian, US & Canadian citizens and can be obtained on arrival at Kathmandu Airport. This currently costs $30 USD for a 15 day visa, $50 USD for a 30 day visa and $125 USD for a 90 day visa. All visas are issued as multiple entry visas and are valid from the date they are issued. To avoid the long queues, fill in the visa information prior to arrival using the following link: http://online.nepalimmigration.gov.np/.
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