Royal Highland Festival

Trip Highlights

Witness traditional Layap dances, songs, and highland rituals.
Experience yak beauty contests, horse races, and nomadic competitions.
Explore the scenic valleys of Punakha and Thimphu.
Hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest).
Enjoy panoramic Himalayan landscapes and alpine highland scenery.

Trip overview

Experience Bhutan’s most unique high-altitude cultural celebration on this immersive journey to the Royal Highland Festival, held annually in the remote village of Laya in Gasa District. Celebrated around October 23-24, the festival honors the traditions of Bhutan’s highland nomadic communities (Layaps), who live in one of the most pristine and elevated regions of the Himalayas. Initiated under the patronage of His Majesty the King, the festival promotes highland culture, sustainable livelihoods, and community vitality. At nearly 4,000 meters above sea level, the festival showcases vibrant mask dances, yak competitions, highland songs (Auley), traditional sports, and exhibitions of local products such as yak wool textiles, medicinal herbs, and dairy products. Beyond the festival, this journey explores Bhutan’s scenic valleys, historic dzongs, monasteries, and the iconic Tiger’s Nest, offering a complete cultural experience.

Why Book This Festival Tour?

Experience Bhutan’s highest-altitude festival in a remote Himalayan village.
Engage with nomadic Layap communities and their centuries-old traditions.
Witness rare yak competitions and highland cultural performances.
Enjoy an authentic Bhutanese journey from valleys to high mountains.

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Itinerary

Day 01:

Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu

Arrive at Paro International Airport, one of the world’s most scenic mountain landings. Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide and embark on a scenic drive to Thimphu. The route winds through picturesque valleys dotted with terraced rice fields, traditional villages, and fluttering prayer flags, offering your first glimpse of Bhutan’s stunning landscapes. After reaching Thimphu and enjoying lunch, begin your orientation with a visit to the Memorial Chorten, a striking golden stupa built in honor of Bhutan’s third king. Continue with a leisurely stroll through Kaja Throm, the town center, where you can observe everyday life, meet local artisans, and immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture. Conclude your day with an overnight stay at your hotel in Thimphu.

Day 02:

Thimphu Sightseeing

After breakfast, spend the day exploring Thimphu’s cultural, artistic, and natural attractions. Start with Buddha Point (Buddha Dordenma), a massive golden statue overlooking the valley, offering panoramic views and a serene atmosphere. Visit Simply Bhutan, a cultural showcase of local crafts and traditions, followed by the Takin Preserve, home to Bhutan’s national animal. Continue to the Postal Museum, which highlights Bhutan’s unique postage stamp history, and the Folk Heritage Museum, showcasing traditional Bhutanese rural life. Explore the Textile Museum to learn about Bhutanese weaving and patterns, and visit the School of Arts and Crafts, where students create traditional artworks. End the day at local markets, browsing handicrafts, souvenirs, and Bhutanese produce, and soaking in the lively atmosphere of the capital. Return to your hotel in Thimphu for an overnight stay.

Day 03:

Thimphu – Punakha

After breakfast in Thimphu, begin your scenic drive to Punakha, covering approximately 75 km in 2.5-3 hours. About 22 km from Thimphu (roughly 45 minutes), you will reach the breathtaking Dochula Pass at an altitude of 3,100 meters. On clear days, the pass offers panoramic views of the snow-capped eastern Himalayas. The site is marked by the iconic 108 memorial stupas, known as the Druk Wangyal Chortens, built in honor of Bhutanese soldiers.

After spending time admiring the views and walking among the chortens, continue descending through changing vegetation from cool alpine forests to the lush, subtropical landscapes of Punakha Valley at about 1,200 meters above sea level. Upon arrival in Punakha, visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, strategically located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. After lunch, drive approximately 15 km (20–30 minutes) to the trailhead for Chimi Lhakhang, followed by a gentle 20–30 minute walk through rice fields and traditional villages to reach this revered fertility temple. Later, return to your hotel and relax amid Punakha’s mild climate, scenic river valleys, and peaceful rural surroundings. Overnight at the hotel in Punakha.

Day 04:

Punakha – Gasa (Approx. 85 km | 3–4 Hours Drive)

After breakfast in Punakha, begin your scenic drive north toward Gasa, covering approximately 85 kilometers in about 3-4 hours, depending on road conditions. The journey gradually ascends into a more remote and mountainous landscape, with winding roads following the Mo Chhu River. Along the way, enjoy views of dense forests, small hillside villages, terraced fields, and dramatic mountain scenery as you enter one of Bhutan’s least populated districts.

Upon arrival, visit the historic Gasa Dzong, perched strategically on a hilltop overlooking the valley. Built in the 17th century, the dzong once served as a defense stronghold protecting the region from Tibetan invasions and today functions as an administrative and monastic center. After exploring the dzong and enjoying sweeping valley views, you may choose to visit the nearby Gasa Hot Springs (Gasa Tshachu), known for their therapeutic mineral waters and serene natural setting. The hot springs require a short walk downhill from the road and provide a relaxing experience before continuing your highland journey toward Laya. Return to your hotel in Gasa and prepare for the upcoming high-altitude adventure.

Day 05:

Gasa – Laya (Approx. 40 km Drive | 2 Hrs Drive + 1–2 Hrs Hike)

After breakfast in Gasa, begin your journey toward the remote highland village of Laya. Drive approximately 2 hours (around 40 km) to Taktse Makha, the road head and starting point of your hike. The scenic drive follows winding mountain roads alongside rivers and through dense forests, gradually ascending toward Bhutan’s alpine region. Upon reaching Taktse Makha, begin your 1-2 hour hike to Laya. The trail climbs steadily, with some steeper sections, passing through pine forests, grazing pastures, and small settlements. As you gain elevation, enjoy sweeping views of dramatic mountain landscapes and pristine wilderness.

Situated at approximately 3,800 meters above sea level, Laya is one of Bhutan’s most distinctive highland villages. As you approach the village, you will notice traditional stone houses clustered against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. You will also encounter locals dressed in their unique Layap attire, including the characteristic conical bamboo hats. Upon arrival, settle into your homestay accommodation and take time to acclimatize to the altitude. Explore the village, interact with residents, and witness the charm of this remote Himalayan community, experiencing their simple yet deeply rooted way of life. Overnight at Homestay in Laya

Day 06:

Royal Highland Festival – Day 1 (Laya | Approx. 3,800m Altitude)

After breakfast at your homestay, walk to the festival grounds to attend the first day of the vibrant Royal Highland Festival, celebrated in the remote highland village of Laya. Set against a spectacular Himalayan backdrop, the festival highlights the unique traditions and livelihood of Bhutan’s nomadic communities. Throughout the day, enjoy traditional Layap cultural performances, including highland songs (Auley) and energetic dances performed in colorful attire. One of the major attractions is the yak beauty contest and yak-based competitions, where herders proudly showcase their finest animals, reflecting the deep importance of yaks in highland life. You will also witness highland horse races, traditional

archery contests, and indigenous games that bring together communities from across the region.

Explore exhibition stalls displaying yak products such as butter, cheese, textiles woven from yak hair, and locally gathered medicinal herbs. Engage with local highlanders dressed in their distinctive conical bamboo hats and traditional garments, learning about their customs, seasonal migrations, and mountain lifestyle. As evening approaches, gather for festive celebrations that may include traditional music and bonfire gatherings under the clear Himalayan sky, creating a truly unforgettable high-altitude cultural experience. Overnight stay at a homestay in Laya.

Day 07:

Royal Highland Festival – Day 2 (Laya)

Enjoy the second day of the Royal Highland Festival with a fuller program of cultural and community activities in the highland village of Laya. The morning begins with sacred mask dances and community performances, followed by highland strongman competitions that showcase endurance and traditional feats of strength. Cultural storytelling sessions and the chanting of Auley (epic ballads) continue through the day, offering a deeper understanding of the oral traditions, legends, and values passed down among Bhutan’s nomadic highlanders.

Visit the agricultural and livestock exhibitions to see yak herding practices up close, along with displays of local produce and highland tools used in daily life. This is a good opportunity to interact with herders and artisans, learn about seasonal migrations, and observe how communities sustain themselves in the harsh alpine environment. After lunch, begin the return journey toward Punakha, depending on road conditions and weather. Overnight stay at a hotel in Punakha.

Day 08:

Punakha – Paro

After breakfast, drive back to Paro, retracing the scenic mountain route via Dochula Pass, where, on a clear day, you can enjoy sweeping views of the eastern Himalayas and the 108 chortens that line the pass. The journey offers beautiful forested landscapes and occasional photo stops before descending into the Paro Valley.

On arrival in Paro, begin your sightseeing with a visit to the National Museum of Bhutan (Ta Dzong), which provides an excellent introduction to Bhutan’s history, traditional arts, and religious heritage. Continue to Rinpung Dzong, an impressive fortress-monastery that serves as the administrative and monastic center of the valley. Later, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the country’s oldest temples, revered for its spiritual significance and serene atmosphere. In the evening, return to your hotel to rest and prepare for the Tiger’s Nest hike the following day.
Overnight at the hotel in Paro.

Day 09:

Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) | Approx. 3,120m – 3,200m | Hike: 4–5 hours round trip

After an early breakfast, embark on the hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery, perched dramatically about 1,000 meters above Paro Valley at an altitude of approximately 3,120-3,200 meters. The trail takes around 4-5 hours for a round trip, passing through serene pine forests, fluttering prayer flags, and several scenic viewpoints with breathtaking panoramas of the valley below. The hike offers a combination of natural beauty and spiritual ambiance, making it one of Bhutan’s most unforgettable experiences.

At the monastery, explore the complex, including meditation caves, sacred shrines, and intricately decorated temples that reflect centuries of Buddhist devotion. After the visit, descend back to Paro for a farewell dinner celebrating your journey through Bhutan’s culture, traditions, and landscapes. Overnight at a hotel in Paro.

Day 10:

Departure from Paro

After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey. Depart with unforgettable memories of Bhutan’s highland culture, majestic Himalayan scenery, and the vibrant Royal Highland Festival. Tashi Delek!

Cost Details

Cost includes

Accommodation
Full Board Meals
English speaking Guide
Transportation
Entrance fee, Visa fee
Unlimited bottles of mineral water
Applicable government taxes(5%GST)
SDF
Trying out of traditional Bhutan attire
Hot spring
Personal stamp.

Cost exclusion

Medical & personal insurance
Personal expenses
Emergency evacuation charges
Tips for the guide and driver
Airfare
Pony Ride to Taktshang (Tiger Nest)
Hot Stone Bath
Raffting

Trip Facts

Trip Duration 10 Days / 9 Nights

Trip Price $2670

Single Supplement $378

Region Covered Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gasa, Laya

Accomodation Hotels in cities; homestay or camp in Laya

Transport Private vehicle with experienced driver and licensed guide

Difficulty: Medium

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Hotels where you’ll be staying during this trip

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Transportation

Choice of vehicles for this trip

Private SUVs for Couples 2 Seater

Toyota Innova (2 Units) 5 Seater

Coaster Buses (4 Units) 25 Seater

Mini Bus (8-Seater) 8 pax. Seater

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Food and Drink

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   Carolann M 
 
 
 
 Verified An unforgettable week in Bhutan!
An unforgettable week in Bhutan with Happiness Kingdom In July 2025, I joined a 7-day group tour of Bhutan with Happiness Kingdom, and it was truly an unforgettable experience from start to finish. I had a fantastic time and enjoyed every single moment of the trip. From the very beginning, I felt incredibly well looked after and completely safe, which allowed me to fully relax and immerse myself in the experience. The organisation was excellent, and I was especially impressed by how much we managed to see and do in just one week without ever feeling rushed. Our tour guide, Karma, was absolutely outstanding. His knowledge, professionalism, and warm personality made the journey even more special. He went above and beyond to ensure everyone was comfortable, informed, and enjoying themselves, and his passion for Bhutan really shone through. Thanks to Happiness Kingdom and Karma, this trip created memories I will cherish forever. I would highly recommend them to anyone considering a visit to Bhutan — you won’t be disappointed.
  
 
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   Rachel L 
 
 
 
 Verified A fantastic Bhutan trip!
We had a wonderful experience exploring Bhutan’s rich culture with Jigme Thinley and Tenzin Wangchuk. Jigme is incredibly knowledgeable and provided engaging explanations about Bhutan’s history and traditions. We thoroughly enjoyed learning from him. Every story, explanation, and insight added depth and meaning to the places we visited. At one point, Jigme even prepared a simple makeshift heat pack to ensure we stayed comfortable in the cool mountain weather. That thoughtful gesture made all the difference and showed just how dedicated he is to his guests’ comfort. Shoutout to Tenzin as well, a wonderful and skilled driver. We felt safe and comfortable throughout our journey. Both of them were exceptionally helpful and attentive. Each day was well-scheduled and relaxed, letting us take in the experience without rush.
  
 
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   Becky S 
 
 
 
 Verified Best value to see Bhutan in a cultural tour
We selected this tour company both because of reviews and cost. Flights to and from Bhutan cost more than our 10-days in Bhutan with Happiness Kingdom. Our guide, Tschering Namgay, and driver, Tashi, were great! Both were so polite and helpful. Tashi was a safe driver. Namgay was a very knowledgeable cultural guide. He explained all the temples and fortresses, the stories and history of Bhutan, and the nuances and meanings of Buddhist sculptures and paintings. He had a good sense of humor and worked hard to ensure we got to see and do all that we wanted to do. Communication with the tour company was delayed, because of the time difference, but always responsive. They were happy to rearrange the plans to accommodate what we wanted to do instead of the standard, without leaving out the important things we didn't even know we wanted to see. Our hotels were comfortable, restaurants with good and sufficient food, and although our schedule was full, we were not rushed (just tired) every day. We got to see the black-necked cranes and several other birds. We enjoyed the Takin Preserve to see some of the more difficult species of animals. Word of caution though - if you are unfit, need a cane, walker, or wheelchair, Bhutan is NOT for you. There are stairs and hilly climbs everywhere. It is not ADA-compliant. But, if you want to take a tour of Bhutan, we recommend Happiness Kingdom as your tour company & #tscheringnamgay, #tashi as your guide and driver.
  
 
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   Sam B 
 
 
 
 Verified Great 6-day trip in Bhutan
Really enjoyed our 6 day tour of Bhutan with our guide Bhim and driver Tshering. They were both very attentive to our every need, and took us to some great places. We loved the hike to Tiger's Nest and the visit of Punakha Zhong. Bhim was very knowledgeable and gave us all the context and history we needed while visiting all the religious sites. Thanks again for everything!
  
 
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   ik298 
 
 
 
 Verified Wonderful trip
7days Bhutan Trip 19.th – 25th. of October 2025 I had booked the 7days trip to Bhutan via Asia Odyssee travel agency. This trip was really a great adventure and everything was wonderful. Well Bhutan I is a very special and amazing country with such a beautiful landscape, very cultivated architecture and overall deep religious life. Well let me give you some details of my tour: The first 3 days I spent with 5 other persons from all over the world. On the second day we made the hike to Tiger nest. I am not so used to climb steep mountains (Steps!!!), so my knees were already quite hurting from my former trek in Nepal. Our driver, Phub Gyeltshen, carried all the way up my backpack and motivated me all the way up to carry on. All the three days he was always there when somebody needed anything, everybody found on his place freshwater bottles. His drive was safe and very relaxed. The last days I travelled alone with the same guide and the driver Gembo. There we had quite long drives – over Dochu La. Also his way to drive was save and forward-looking. I really could enjoy to be on routes. But the main contribution of this wonderful trip layed in the responsibility of the guide (all 7 days!) Sonam Phuntsho. He is such a mindfulness person and always tries to make that everybody feels well. His explanations at the different sites where really detailed and showed that he has a great knowledge, specially religious belongings. Two of the other travellers were Tibetans and he could give always profound answers even from them, who had a great knowledge of the Bhuddist religion. In the day when I was travelling alone, we talked a lot about the social life, education, regime (your King), environmental protection and much more. So I got a deep insight of the life in Bhutan. So I really want to thank you for this wonderful days. Before this trip Bhutan seemed to be an unreachable country and somehow unreal, but now it is a part of my dreams, a country were I really could feel the meaning of happiness and mindfulness. .
  
 
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   Paul W 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing place. Wonderful people.
I did a 7-day trip through West Bhutan and loved the tour overall. It was very well organised and Bhim (Narayan) and Dorji (Wangchuk) were a pleasure to spend time with. Friendly, helpful and a credit to the hospitality of their country. My personal highlights were the dzong at Punakha, getting to enjoy two tsechus (festivals) at Wangdue and Thimphu, and the hike to Tiger's Nest. The addition of a homestay was also a nice way to see a different side to Bhutan. I can thoroughly recommend both visiting Bhutan and this trip.
  
 
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   thierry w 
 
 
 
 Verified Great travel in Bhutan
Very well organise 10 days tour group in Bhutan. the guide Tashi and Phuba the driver were fantastic. Adapting the time for us to discover places without rushing us. 'the hotels were we stayed were nice and the food very good. I would highly recommand happiness kingdom travel to anyone who decide to travel to bhutan
  
 
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   Chris K 
 
 
 
 Verified Fantastic tour, well organised, great Guide and Driver. Excellent in all aspects
Did a small group tour of Bhutan over 10 days with Tashi and driver Phuba. The tour took our group from Paro to Thimbu, Punakha, Phobjikha Valley and Bumthang Valley. A lot of logistics to get that to go off smoothly; stayed in good hotels, always with extremely enthusiastic staff, saw lots. But what really set this off was Tashi; extremely knowledgeable and equally extremely patient with guiding the group through from zero to at least a vague understanding of Bhutan Buddhist culture and history. Tashi, your sense of humor and tolerance really made this trip work. And Phuba always there and ready to assist.
  
 
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   MK L 
 
 
 
 Verified A memorable journey!
It was our first visit to Bhutan, and it turned out to be an incredibly unforgettable journey -- stunning views, awesome culture, and super friendly locals! We arranged this exclusive 6-day trip via a travel agency in Hong Kong. We landed at Paro Airport on 7 Sept and proceeded to Thimphu, then Punakha, before returning to Paro for the Tiger's Nest. Huge thanks to our amazing guide Jigme for his expertise, organization, and dedication in making the journey truly memorable. He possesses great knowledge and has revealed to us the charm of Bhutan. Jigme attentively looked after us in every way, including informing all the restaurants of my dietary preference, and ensured we were comfortable to fully enjoy each moment throughout the trip. We are grateful for our friendly driver Tashi and his outstanding abilities. The ride was so comfortable and smooth! We couldn't have requested a better team! 👍👍 I was also impressed that Jigme not only spoke fluent English but also knew French! A heartfelt thank you to Jigme and Tashi, and I wish you both the very best! 🙏🙏
  
 
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   Madam Wong 
 
 
 
 Verified The Guide Who Turned Our Bhutan Trip Into a Masterpiece .
TE25070007AT Bhutan is a country rich in culture and steeped in deep historical traditions. Our tour guide, Mr. Trashi Dhendup Namgyel, demonstrated exceptional professionalism throughout our journey. He was highly knowledgeable and consistently able to answer all of our questions with clarity and insight. Mr. Namgyel also went out of his way to accommodate our requests whenever possible, ensuring that our experience was both comfortable and memorable. We are truly grateful to have had him as our guide on this meaningful trip. — Madam Wong