Domkhar Tsechu or festival is an annual religious event at Domkhar in the Chumey Valley of Bumthang district. Domkhar was established by Lama Kuenkhen Longchen Rabjam in the 16th century. Longchen Rabjampa (1308-63), a pre-eminent scholar of Dranang, Tibet was revered as the great redactor and dexographer of Nyingma teachings par excellence. He promoted a special teaching of Dzogpa Chenpo (the great perfection). Towards the end of his life, he was exiled to Bhutan, where he founded eight monasteries throughout the country. The festival is observed every year on the 10th -12th day of the 3rd month of the Bhutanese calendar at Domkhar Temple.
Day 1: Paro–Thimphu:
Arrive at Paro International Airport.
Travel to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. En route, visit Tachog Monastery.
Afternoon, visit National Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma Statue, Kuenselphodrang Park, and Traditional Handmade Paper Factory.
Accommodation: Hotel Tara Phendeyling (or similar)
Day 2: Thimphu
Hike to Cheri Monastery.
Afternoon, visit Takin Park, Centenary Farmers’ Market, Institute for Traditional Arts and Crafts, and the majestic Tashichhodzong which houses the office of His Majesty the King.
Accommodation: Hotel Tara Phendeyling (or similar)
Day 3: Thimphu–Punakha:
Travel towards Punakha.
On the way, stop at Dochula pass and visit the 108 Victory Stupas. Then visit Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple.
Afternoon, visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, the longest suspension bridge, and Galem’s house.
Accommodation: Zhingkham Resort (or similar)
Day 4: Punakha-Bumthang
Leave Punakha for Bumthang.
En route, stop at the reconstruction site of Wangduepodrang dzong.
Then stop at the Trongsa Dzong and the museum at Ta Dzong.
Our highest driving point will be a mountain pass- Pelela at 3140 meters and Yotongla pass. From there we gradually take a descent to the floor of Bumthang valley which is often filled with dense fog.
Overnight stay in Bumthang
Day 5: Bumthang
Today, we will drive to Chumey valley to witness Domkhar Tshechu.
Afternoon, you will be visiting Tamzhing Monastery, Kurjey Lhakhang, and Jambay Lhakhang.
Ramble through the small Chamkhar town in the evening.
Overnight stay in Bumthang
Day 6: Bumthang-Paro
Travel back to Paro.
En route, if time permits, we will visit Semtokha Dzong-the oldest dzong in the country.
Overnight stay at Bhutan Mandala Resort
Day 7: Paro-Taksang Monastery
Hike to Taksang Monastery or the Tiger’s Nest.
Afternoon, visit the National Museum, Paro Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, and one of the nearby homestays to have a hot-stone bath.
Overnight stay at Bhutan Mandala Resort
Day 8: Departure
Fly back to your country.