7 Day Bhutan Sports Festival

Trail running or mountain biking adventure

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Paro Valley

Day 1: Arrival in Paro and Drive to Thimphu

Upon landing at Paro International Airport, your guide welcomes you with warm Bhutanese hospitality. Drive along scenic rivers to Thimphu, where you check into your hotel and savor authentic local cuisine.

Begin your cultural immersion with visits to the National Memorial Chorten and Tashichho Dzong before admiring the towering bronze Buddha Dordenma at Kuenselphodrang Nature Park.



Thimphu Heritage

Day 2: Exploring Thimphu’s Heritage

Spend the day discovering the cultural richness of Bhutan’s capital. Visit the Heritage Museum to understand rural traditions, then explore the Textile Museum, showcasing intricate weaving techniques.

At the traditional Papermaking Factory, artisans demonstrate ancient methods. Later, visit the Takin Enclosure, home to Bhutan’s beloved national animal, and enjoy panoramic views of Thimphu Valley from Sangaygang before concluding with Simtokha Dzong.



Dochula Pass

Day 3: Scenic Drive to Punakha

Embark on a journey to Punakha, crossing the spectacular Dochula Pass adorned with 108 memorial chortens and Himalayan vistas.

Descend into fertile valleys and walk to Chhimi Lhakhang, the temple of fertility associated with Drukpa Kunley, the Divine Madman. In Punakha, explore the impressive Punakha Dzong, gracefully situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.



Bhutan Sports Festival

Day 4: Bhutan Sports Festival Marathon

Rise early and travel to Gasa Dzongkhag where the Bhutan Sports Festival takes place.

Choose between the marathon or mountain biking race, each winding through pristine forests, riverside paths, and traditional villages before finishing at Punakha Dzong. Experience the thrill of adventure amidst Bhutan’s natural splendor and celebrate with participants who share your passion for endurance and discovery.



Paro Valley

Day 5: Journey to Paro Valley

Return to Paro, a valley where history and natural beauty blend harmoniously. Visit Rinpung Dzong, an iconic fortress overlooking the valley.

Walk across the traditional cantilever bridge, Nemi Zam. Explore Ta Dzong, home to Bhutan’s National Museum with artifacts and art. Capture sweeping views of Mount Jomolhari before strolling through Paro’s traditional streets lined with handicraft shops.



Taktsang Monastery

Day 6: The Taktsang Monastery Hike

Embark on Bhutan’s most iconic pilgrimage to Taktsang Monastery, dramatically perched on a cliffside 900 meters above the valley floor.

Hike through pine forests, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and pause for breathtaking views from the cafeteria. After a fulfilling local lunch, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, a sacred 7th-century temple, before relaxing with an optional traditional hot stone bath.



Paro Airport

Day 7: Departure from Bhutan

After breakfast, transfer to Paro Airport where your journey through Bhutan’s spiritual and natural wonders concludes.

As your flight departs, reflect on the unique blend of adventure, endurance, and cultural immersion that defined your Sports Festival experience, leaving you with memories of Bhutan’s pristine landscapes and timeless traditions.