Punakha Drubchen: Recreation of War
8 days · from US$2580 per person — all-inclusive: guide, transport, accommodation, meals, visa and SDF.
A unique festival that reenacts the 17th-century battle against Tibetan armies. Features local militia "Pazaps" dressed in ancient battle gear marching around the Dzong.
Highlights: Battle Reenactment · Punakha Dzong · Pazap Procession · Historic Victory
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival
Arrive in Paro, drive to Thimphu (1 hour). Evening orientation about Punakha Drubchen - a unique festival reenacting the 17th century victory over Tibetan invaders. Overnight: Thimphu
Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing
Full day exploring the capital. Buddha Dordenma, National Memorial Chorten, Tashichho Dzong, Textile Museum. Overnight: Thimphu
Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha
Drive to Punakha valley (3 hours) via Dochula Pass. Afternoon visit to Punakha Dzong, the magnificent fortress where the festival is held. Learn the history of the 1639 battle when Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal defended against Tibetan forces. Walk across the suspension bridge. Overnight: Punakha
Day 4: Punakha Drubchen Day 1
The Drubchen festival is a unique reenactment of ancient battle. Local militia called "Pazaps" (meaning "soldiers") dress in ancient warrior costumes - chain mail, helmets, swords, and shields. Morning: The Pazaps march around Punakha Dzong recreating the defensive formations used in the 1639 battle. The pageantry, martial music, and historical costumes create a dramatic spectacle. Monks perform ritual dances invoking protective deities who helped secure victory. The festival blends military history with religious ceremony. The entire community participates - men as warriors, women in traditio
Day 5: Punakha Tshechu
The Drubchen transitions into Tshechu festival. Today features traditional mask dances by monks in the dzong courtyard. Witness sacred Cham dances honoring Guru Rinpoche. The combination of military reenactment (yesterday) and religious dances (today) makes this festival sequence unique in Bhutan. Overnight: Punakha
Day 6: Punakha Valley
Recovery day after intense festival days. Visit Chimi Lhakhang, Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten. Optional: Hot stone bath, rafting, or village walks. Overnight: Punakha
Day 7: Punakha to Paro
Drive to Paro (4 hours). Stop at viewpoints along the way. Afternoon at leisure. Visit Paro town and shops. Farewell dinner. Overnight: Paro
Day 8: Departure
Morning at leisure. Optional Tiger's Nest hike if time permits. Transfer to airport. You leave having witnessed a unique historical festival - the reenactment of Bhutan's military history combined with religious celebration. Tashi Delek!