The Royal Highlander festival shares the beauty and the wonders of Gasa Dzongkhag through its nature, history and its age old tradition and culture, to share Gasa’s vision of “Good to Great Gasa” and to finally share all theses authenticity and the simplicity of the life of the Highlanders with our guests. This itinerary also includes cultural tour of western Bhutan, such as Paro, Thimphu and Punakha.

During the festival, visitors can witness The traditional offering of Buelwa (Gift offering) with Auley (traditional epic poem/song recitation tradition originated from Zhabdrung Rinpoche days) that begun during Zhabdrung Rinpoche’s reign in showing loyalty and respect by the community of Laya is being offered for dynamic and visionary leadership of our successive monarchs.

Variety of cultural programs will be performed by Layaps. The various competitions on highland animals including the Yaks, horses and Mastiffs will be held and also competition such as traditional songs and dances will be held.

The festival consists of series of stalls ranging from local based yak produce to highland technology, highland agriculture technology, medicinal herbs & plants and others.

The plateau where it is hosted allows for a panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges. Visitors stay in tents set up by the nomadic people of Lunana and Laya and roam the high plains while interacting with the highlanders. This is truly a unique experience with attendance at about 200 each year.

Royal Highland Festival + Blissful West – The Itinerary

Day 1, 20th October 2025 – Flight to Paro, Bhutan. Transfer to Punakha (3hrs drive). Stop at Dochula Pass to enjoy the view of the Himalayas. Temple Of Fertility. Night halt in Punakha

Hotel: Dharma Siddhi

Day 2, 21th October 2025 – Visit Punakha Dzong, Suspension Bridge and Khamsum Chorten. Drive to Gasa (3hrs drive). Night halt in Gasa

Accommodation: Home Stay

Day 3, 22nd October 2025 – Drive to Taktse Makha (2hrs drive). Hike to Laya (2 – 3 hrs hike). Explore Laya the highest settlement of the highlanders. Night halt in Laya.

Accommodation: Home Stay

Day 4, 23rd October 2025 – Royal Highland Festival – Day 1. Option to hike into the mountains after lunch to check out campsites of Yak hearders. Night halt in Laya

Accommodation: Home Stay

Day 5, 24th October 2025 – Royal Highland Festival – Day 2. After lunch hike to Lungo (3 Hrs) and then to Taktse Makha (1.5 Hrs) and drive to Gasa (2 Hrs). Experience the Gasa Hotspring.

Accommodation: Home Stay

Day 6, 25th October 2025 – Drive to Punakha (3 hrs) after breakfast. Lunch at Punakha Farmers Market. Rinchengang Village. Night halt in Wangdue

Hotel: Gaselo Eco Lodge

Day 7, 26th October 2025 – Cleansing Ritual at Gaselo Monasetry. Gaselo Village Hike. Drive to Thimphu. Explore Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Dinner hosted by Breathe Bhutan. Nightlife (Optional).

Hotel: City Heritage (3 Star)

Day 8, 27th October 2025 – Take it easy during the morning hours or cultural tour of Thimphu and drive to Paro after lunch. Night halt in Paro.

Hotel: Tashi Namgay Resort

Day 9, 28th October 2025 – Hike to Tigers Nest. Hotstone bath after returning back to Paro. Stroll in Paro town. Night halt in Paro.

Hotel: Tashi Namgay Resort

Day 10, 29th October 2025 – Tashi Delek! Bid Bhutan farewell and catch a flight to your next destination.

TRIP NOTES:

1. This is a private tour with your own guide and vehicle.
2. Tour Vehicle: 1 KIA Sorento.
3. Special Activities: Talk on Buddha Dharma, Cycling in Phobjikha, Cultural Performance at a scenic location, well-being ritual by nuns, cleansing ritual by a Buddhist master, sponsor meal to nuns

PACKAGE COST:

US$ 3095 For Solo & USD$ 5035 For Two (Does Not Include Air Ticket)

PAYMENT TERMS:

1. 50% of the tour payment to be deposited when confirming the trip. This fund will be used to book air ticket and hotel rooms. Air tickets need to be purchased in USD.
2. 50% of the balance payment can be deposited any time after the first deposited but latest before two months (60 days) of arrival date. The SDF will be paid with this deposit and visa will then be processed.
3. Here is the link on how to make a payment to Bhutan and our bank details: click here
4. If you wish to pay with a credit card, we will generate a payment invoice/link. There will be a 5% bank and processing fee if you wish pay online through a payment link (gateway)

PACKAGE COVERS/INCLUDE:

*The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of USD100 goes towards activities that promote carbon-neutral tourism and building a more sustainable tourism sector. This includes offsetting the carbon footprint of tourists and up skilling workers in the travel industry.

• Package Covers:
• Hotel rooms at the mentioned hotels/resorts
• Three meals (at hotels and local restaurants of your choice)
• Comfortable travel vehicle and certified travel guide, throughout the tour
• SDF/Royalty of USD100 per person per night
• Entrance fees, Cooking Class And Hoist a Prayer flag

PACKAGE DOES NOT COVER/INCLUDE:

• While the above package covers all travel expenses and you will not need to pay a penny extra, the following is not covered in the package:
• Alcoholic beverages at hotels/restaurants
• Food and beverages at luxury hotels and restaurants
• Shopping and tips for guide and driver
• Hot Stone Bath, Cycling, Weaving Class & Horse Riding
• Air Ticket

Why Breathe Bhutan?

At Breathe Bhutan, everything we do is guided by our core values—authenticity, immersion, sustainability, quality, empowerment, wellbeing, integrity and creativity. These aren’t just words to us; they shape every journey we craft and every experience we offer. Our trips might come at a premium, but that’s because we go the extra mile to ensure that every aspect of your journey reflects our unwavering commitment to quality, standard and care. Here are ten reasons why our quotation may higher than others, and why we believe it’s worth it:

1. Symbol of Adventure:

We love the tradition behind Bhutanese travelers carrying a wooden cup on their journeys (back in the days when traveling was done on foot). It’s not just practical—it’s symbolic. So, we gift each traveler a traditional wooden cup. It’s something you’ll actually use on your trip, especially when visiting rural homes where it’s customary to offer tea and roasted rice. More than that, it’s a keepsake from your adventure in Bhutan.

2. Dining Freedom:

One of the joys of travel is discovering local cuisine. Unlike other tour operators, where the restaurants you will eat at are predetermined, we don’t believe in limiting your dining options just to cut costs. Instead, we encourage you to explore and choose where you’d like to eat, so you can experience the full spectrum of both Bhutanese and non-Bhutanese flavors. It’s all part of the adventure.

3. Caring Guides and Drivers:

Our guides and drivers are more than just knowledgeable—they are passionate individuals dedicated to sharing the beauty and essence of Bhutan with you. Handpicked for their expertise, warmth, and ability to make your journey enjoyable, they are not only exceptional at what they do but also delightful companions throughout your adventure. In Bhutan, salaries and wages are generally quite low due to the local economy. At Breathe Bhutan, we are committed to using our travel business as a force for good, ensuring that our guides and drivers are well-compensated. By doing so, we aim to enhance their quality of life and support the well-being of their families. Moreover, our guides and drivers will be at your beck and call 24/7, ready to cater to your every need. Whether it’s an early morning photography session, a rejuvenating yoga practice at dawn, or exploring Bhutan’s nightlife late into the evening, they will ensure your experience is seamless and tailored to your preferences.”

4. Curated Accommodations:

We are particular about where you stay. We don’t just pick hotels based on price—we choose places that offer something unique, whether it’s local architecture, personalized service or a cultural experience. Your accommodation should enhance your stay, not just be a place to sleep.

5. Comfortable Transportation:

Traveling through Bhutan’s beautiful valleys can take time, and we want to make sure you’re comfortable along the way. That’s why we only use vehicles which are the most comfortable to travel in and also that they are no more than five years old, ensuring a smooth and safe journey.

6. Authentic and Immersive Hospitality:

We go out of our way to ensure that your experience of Bhutan is authentic and immersive. Whether it’s learning how to prepare local delicacies like ema datshi or momos in a traditional kitchen or joining monks at a monastery for morning prayers, or helping farmers plant rice in the fields, we aim to connect you with Bhutan’s way of life. Sometimes, we like to invite our guests into our own homes for a meal. It’s not just about the food—it’s about giving you a chance to meet our friends and experience Bhutanese hospitality in a truly authentic way. We believe that the people you meet are what make a place special.

7. Souvenirs & Gifts:

At Breathe Bhutan, we believe that tourism is a powerful tool for uplifting communities and transforming lives. That’s why we thoughtfully choose gifts for our guests that reflect our deep commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs and farmers. Each item we offer is not just a token of appreciation, but a symbol of the positive impact your journey is making on the lives of people from all walks of life. By choosing us, you’re not just experiencing Bhutan—you’re helping to create opportunities and sustain livelihoods across the country.

8. Legacy of Conservation:

One of the most meaningful things we offer is the chance to plant a tree. It’s not just a symbolic gesture; it’s a real contribution to Bhutan’s environmental sustainability. And we don’t just plant the tree and forget about it—we take care of it, ensuring that it grows strong and healthy, just like the memories you’ll take home.

9. Surprise Elements:

We don’t want to give everything away upfront. Some of the special touches we include are meant to be surprises, little moments that we hope will make your journey with us even more memorable.

10. Beyond Business:

For us, Breathe Bhutan isn’t just a business— its an expression. We believe that by staying true to our values, we can offer something truly special—something that goes beyond the usual tourist experience and leaves a lasting impact on everyone who travels with us.