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7 Days Bhutan Sports Festival

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Bhutan Sport Track

Bhutan Sport Forest View

Bhutan Sport Warm Sunlight

Bhutan Sport Field View

The mystical Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan is a land of high mountains, deep valleys, picturesque villages and roaring rivers, and whose King rules by a concept of ‘Gross National Happiness’. Your 25K or 50K trail running or mountain biking event through this, Buddhist-cultural-wonder, is a rare opportunity to race in an environmentally protected region while surrounded by prayer flags, chortens and remote villages. All on a user-friendly course in the only country on the planet that is carbon-negative. Post race you’ll experience a traditional Bhutanese culture festival overlooking the pristine Valley.

Trail runners and mountain bikers of all abilities welcome.

The Festival and run will be scheduled for the first Saturday of every April

All our tours are fully customisable — the itineraries you see are simply a starting point. We'll work closely with you to tailor every detail.

7 Days Bhutan Sports Festival Itinerary

Paro - Thimphu

Thimphu 2,300m (7,550ft) -2°C – 22°C

Welcome to Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Touching down at Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide upon exiting the arrival hall. Today, we will take it easy to acclimatise to the altitude. Drive to Thimphu, check in to the hotel and lets have your first taste of Bhutanese cuisine.

Buddha Point [1 hrs] - Located at Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, the 169 feet bronze statue of Buddha Dordenma, Vajra Throne Buddha makes it one of the largest statue of Buddha in the world. The Buddha Dordenma symbolizes indestructibility, and it is said to emanate an aura of peace and happiness to the entire world. The Buddha statue will be completed soon, currently awaiting for the completed paintings but visitors can drive up to the Buddha point and view the tallest statue of Lord Buddha. The view of Thimphu valley from the Buddha point is spectacular and beautiful, especially at night.

National Memorial Chorten [1 hrs] - Meet the elderly generation in circumambulation at the National Memorial Chorten. Chorten means ‘Seat of Faith’ and Buddhists often call such monuments, the ‘Mind of Buddha’. Treat yourself with the fantastic depiction of Buddhist teachings in the form of paintings and sculptures at this temple. As the name denotes this National Memorial Chorten was consecrated on July 28, 1974, in memory of the Third King.

Tashichhodzong (Thimphu Dzong) [1 hrs] - The “fortress of the glorious religion” was initially constructed in 1641 and restored by the Third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in the 1960s. Tashichhodzong houses some ministries, His Majesty’s secretariat, and the central monk body.

Opening hour:

Weekday 05:00 PM - 06:00 PM

Weekend 09:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Winter 04:00 PM - 06:00 PM

Walk Around Thimphu Town [1 hrs] - Shop and walk around Thimphu town.

Thimphu to Punakha

Punakha 1,242m (4,075ft) 5°C – 32°C

We will set off early from Thimphu after breakfast. Then proceed to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan, about 2 1/2 hours drive from Thimphu across Dochu-la pass. Once you cross the pass, you wind down into a warm fertile valley and meander along a gently flowing aquamarine river that leads you to the Punakha Dzong, the second dzong to be built in Bhutan.

Dochula Pass [2 hrs] - At 3,050 meter, this beautiful pass located on the way to Punakha from Thimphu offers a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of Himalayas mountain range with its 108 chortens that was built by Her Majesty The Queen Mother Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck. The pass is also a popular spiritual destination for both locals and tourists.

Chhimi Lhakhang [2 hrs] - ChimelLhakang also know as Fertility Temple located in the beautiful village of Sopsokha right before the junction in Lobesa. The monastery stands on a small hill close to the village of Lobesa and was constructed in 1499 by Ngawang Choegyel, the 14th Drukpa hierarch. This monastery is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley 'Divine Madman' known for his outrageous behavior.

visited this temple and were blessed miraculously with children.

Punakha Dzong [2 hrs] - Placed strategically at the junction of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers, the Dzong was built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to serve as the religious and administrative seat of the region. It was here that the dual system of government was introduced in the 17th century and in 1907, enthroned the first King Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck. Damaged over the centuries by four catastrophic fires and an earthquake, the Dzong has been fully restored in the recent years by the 4th King Jigme Singye Wangchuck.

Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge [1 hrs] - The 160 metres Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge is known for the longest suspension

bridge in Bhutan, which gives you spectacular views of Punakha Dzong and the Pho Chhu Valley.

Punakha to Gangtey

Gangtey 2,900m (9,500ft) -8°C – 18°C

The valley of Phobjikha is well known as the winter home of the Black necked crane (Grus Nigricollis). Bhutan is home to around six hundred black-necked cranes with Phobjikha being one of the popular places that the birds migrate to in the winter months from the Tibetan plateau. The elegant and shy birds can be observed from early November to end of March.

Gangtey Goempa [1 hrs] - Situated south of the road and east of Wangdue Phodrang, is Gangtey Gompa, an old monastery dating back to the 17th century. The largest Nyingma monastery in western Bhutan, it was founded in 1613 by Gyalse Pema Thinlay.

Black-Necked Crane Information Centre [1 hrs] - The valley of Phobjikha is known as the winter home of the Black-necked Crane (Grus Nigricollis). Bhutan is home to around six hundred black-necked cranes with Phobjikha being one of the popular places that the birds migrate to in the winter months from the Tibetan plateau. The elegant and shy birds can be observed from early November to the end of March.

Remarks [0 hrs] - For Gangtey, our first choice of Hotels is Dewachen, but due to Dewachen having only 18 rooms and a

huge demand among tour operators sometimes we may not be able to host your stay at Dewachen. In that case, we shall

either go back to Wangdue to spend the night there, or we can arrange a homestay for you in Gangtey.

Briefing for the Bhutan Sports Festival [2 hrs] - Packet pick up and pre-race briefing in Gangtey.

Gangtey

Gangtey 2,900m (9,500ft) -8°C – 18°C

All events will be staged in the village of Gangtey at the north end of the Valley with the start/finish area of each race near the Gangtey Gonpa, or monastery. All event courses are run through remote to rural Bhutan with small intermittent farming villages dotted with traditional Bhutanese homes. The entire Valley is enclosed by several mountain ranges and since it is bisected by the Nake Chuu and Phag Chuu rivers, the Valley floor is ripe with a special variety of dwarf bamboo which is the prime diet of the graceful Black-Necked Crane. In line with the conservation process in this area, Bhutan Sports Festival will avoid the Cranes migration time in Phobjikha, and will not disrupt the valley floor habitat where the Cranes feed and when they are in the region.

Bhutan Sports Festival [9 hrs] - Events Include:

The First One-Day International Ultra and Trail Running Events in Bhutan: 25K & 50K
The First International Mountain Biking Events in Bhutan: 25K & 50K
The First Sports & Culture Festival in Phobjikha Valley
25K and 50K running events both start at 6:30 AM.

The mystical Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan is a land of high mountains, deep valleys, picturesque villages and roaring rivers, and who’s King rules by a concept of ‘Gross National Happiness’. Your 25K or 50K trail running or mountain biking event through this, Buddhist-cultural-wonder, is a rare opportunity to race in an environmentally protected region while surrounded by prayer flags, chortens and remote villages. All on a user-friendly course in the only country on the planet that is carbon-negative. Post race you’ll experience a traditional Bhutanese culture festival overlooking the pristine Valley. Trail runners and mountain bikers of all abilities welcome.

Gangtey to Paro

Paro 2,200m (7,200ft) -5°C – 25°C

The beautiful valley of Paro is home to many of Bhutan's old monasteries and temples. The country's only Airport is in Paro. The valley is also home to mount Chomolhari (7,300 meters) situated at the northern end of the valley whose glacier water forms the Pachu flowing through the valley.

Paro Dzong (aka Ringpung Dzong) [2 hrs] - Explore the Rinpung Dzong, which the locals call the ‘fortress of a heap of jewels’. Built in 1646 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the dzong stands on a hill above Paro Township. It is linked by the traditional cantilever bridge (called the Nemi Zam) over the Pa Chu where one may pose a photograph. Experience a walk up a stone paved path running alongside the imposing outer walls. Once inside the Dzong, you will be welcomed by the monks, architecture and the ancient frescoes.

National Museum (Ta Dzong) [1 hrs] - On a ridge immediately above Rinpung Dzong is Ta Dzong, originally built as a watchtower. In 1968, Ta Dzong was inaugurated as the first National Museum, and now holds a fascinating collection of art, relics, religious thangka paintings, Bhutan’s exquisite postage stamps, coins and handicrafts, together with a small natural history collection. Start or end your trip with a visit to this marvellous museum.

Paro Valley [0 hrs] - The beautiful valley is home to many of Bhutan's old monasteries and temples. The valley is also home to Mount Chomolhari (7,300 meters) situated at the northern end of the valley whose glacier water forms the Pachu flowing through the valley.

Paro Takstang Monastery

Paro 2,200m (7,200ft) -5°C – 25°C

Are you ready? We will be making the hike up to one of the key highlights in Bhutan today! Tiger's Nest aka Taktsang

Monastery

Taktsang Monastery [6 hrs] - Often called the Tiger’s Nest, perched on the cliffs, has awestruck many a visitor. “Trip to Bhutan is never complete without climbing to Taktsang”, says one tourist. Indeed, it’s true as the journey there fills you with spiritual bliss. For those not choosing the spiritual side, it is the dramatic, artistically built monument that becomes a hiker’s delight. Take a trip to this dramatically set Buddhist relic hanging from a cliff. Experience the uphill climb as you ascend

more than two thousand feet from the valley floor.

A prominent Himalayan Buddhist sacred site and temple complex located on the cliff side of Paro Valley. According to legends, it is believed that Guru Rinpoche flew to this location from Tibet on the back of a Tigress (his consort Yeshey Tshogyal) and meditated in one of the caves. Guru Rinpoche performed meditation and emerged in eight manifestations, and the place became holy, thus gaining the name Tiger's Nest.

Kyichu Lhakhang [1 hrs] - Also known as Kyerchu Temple or Lho Kyerchu, is the oldest temple in Bhutan. Just like Jambhay Lhakhang in Bumthang, it is one of the 108 temples built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo to subdue and pin down an ogress that was obstructing the spread of Buddhism. According to legend, all 108 temples were built in a single night.

Hot Stone Bath [0 hrs] - You can go for a locally own Hot Stone Bath, which can take four people at one time. This bath will help loosen your joints, release muscle tension and invoke a profound sense of relaxation. The cost is approximately USD 25 per person.

Depart Paro

Paro 2,200m (7,200ft) -5°C – 25°C

Today we will bid a fond farewell to this beautiful Himalayan country and take an early flight back to Singapore. We hope by now you would have made some friends and also kept many photos and beautiful memories of Bhutan! And we look forward to seeing you again in this beautiful land of endless Enchantments! Tashi Delek!

Discover an array of Bhutan Adventure Tours that have been meticulously crafted to showcase the enchanting essence of this mystical nation. Our tours guarantee awe-inspiring experiences that will create lasting memories for every adventurer. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Bhutan and allow your journey to continue. Embrace the irresistible allure of Bhutan, where each path reveals new wonders and revelations.

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USD 1,940

per person · SDF included

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Departs on your chosen date

✓ Private guided tour
✓ Visas for Bhutan
✓ Airport transfers
✓ Daily 3 meals (B/L/D) at designated restaurants or hotels
✓ Accommodation at 3-star hotel
✓ A qualified & licensed English-speaking guide
✓ An experienced driver & tour vehicle
✓ Entry fees & road permits
✓ Government fee, royalty, taxes & surcharges
✓ Mineral bottled water
✓ Set of traditional costume (to be returned at end of stay)
✓ Full service & assistance before, during and after your trip

✗ International flights
✗ Drukair flights into Bhutan (can be arranged with us)
✗ Hotel stay outside of Bhutan
✗ Travel insurance (can be arranged with us)
✗ Personal expenses & shopping
✗ Alcoholic drinks
✗ Tips for guide and driver

Bhutan is enjoyable all year round.

Spring: March – May
Summer: June – August
Autumn: September – November
Winter: December – February

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Authentic, Safe & Comfortable Accommodations. Your hotels are confirmed before arrival — we only book places we love.

Expert English-Speaking Guides. Licensed local guides ensure a safe journey. We'll change your guide or driver in the first two days if you're not satisfied.

Always ready to assist you. Our member services team is available by phone or email — real people, no call centres.

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Your journey contributes directly to local communities. Complete a feedback form after your tour and Druk Asia will donate to your chosen cause.

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VAST Bhutan

Museums of Bhutan

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What Our Travellers Say

★★★★★ 5.0 / 5.0 — Read All Reviews →

Rene L, Business Analyst, Major Hotel Chain

Singapore , Sep 2012

★★★★★

Druk Asia has strong networks with DrukAir and local tour agencies, making logistics a total breeze. The itinerary was well-planned yet flexible enough to accommodate different needs. We could decide when we wanted to get up, which places to visit or simply recuperate in solitude. Will go with Druk Asia again if I were to go back for spring or autumn. Won’t have it any other way!

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Eileen K, Mobile Technology Specialist

Singapore , Sep 2012

★★★★★

My trip to Bhutan was pleasant and well organized by Druk Asia. I was very happy and comfortable with my tour guide, Tshering, and had absolute confidence in my driver, Chimmi. Tshering kept me entertained throughout the trip with histories and stories about Bhutan while Chimmi was an excellent driver. Bhutan is a very beautiful country with its unique Buddhist culture and a nation of very warm people. The sceneries were spectacular and its culture charming. I will definitely visit Bhutan again and recommend Druk Asia to my friends.

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Darwid H

Indonesia , Sep 2012

★★★★★

I knew this Druk Asia through my friend who initially asked me to go to Bhutan. I have to say this travel is excellent. We went to Bhutan through Thailand and the next day we missed the flight. Bhutan’s flight is a bit strange in a sense that we need to be at Thai’s airport 2 hours before departure. The gate closed quite early. Druk Asia helped us a lot to arrange our next day flight. During our time in Bhutan, this travel agent frequently asked our condition there whether we were alright or not. This sense of caring is simply excellent, particularly for the country like Bhutan which is in the Himalayan continent. I really grateful to go to this country with Druk Asia. Excellent!

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Chieh Suang

Malaysia , Sep 2012

★★★★★

Just wanted to let both of you know that we had a great time in Bhutan. Thanks for looking into the details. Both our guide and driver were great. Thanks again!

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Davide C, Investment Management

Switzerland , Sep 2012

★★★★★

Back from Bhutan, I wanted to let you know that this has probably been the best holiday I ever had. Bhutan is really a wonderful place, the people are so friendly and the landscape gorgeous. We also had the best weather one could ask for, and that helped. We have been very happy the whole tour. One suggestion I would give you is to propose your future clients to spend 1 night in a farmhouse. We did, and we loved it. The host was absolutely nice and the experience of sharing dinner, breakfast and the ordinary life of a Bhutanese family was absolutely fantastic.

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Chika

Japan , Sep 2012

★★★★★

An unique experience! We had wonderful time in Bhutan. Though it was a short trip, we enjoyed natural beauty, spectacular view and warm friendly people. We have been many countries but this trip was something different, ...memorable and nostalgic.

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