In the morning drive to the old capital, Punakha, via Dochu La Pass at 3050 metres, where we will stop for a hot drink and enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Eastern Himalaya range. When we reach Punakha you can visit Chimi Lhakhang  (Temple of Fertility) built in the 15th century by the ‘Divine Madman’ (Lama Drukpa Kunley).  In the afternoon you may like to visit Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Chorten or Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery.

Built in 1637, it is strategically placed at the confluence of two rivers, the Po Chu and the Mo Chu. You will see locals dressed in their finest clothes who have walked from miles around to attend the festivities.  The Punakha Drupchen is unusual because of the recreation of the battle scene in which the Shabdrung tricked the Tibetan invaders which takes place on the last day.  In 1639 the Tibetan army invaded Bhutan to seize Bhutan’s most precious relic, the Rangjung Kharsapani, a self-created image of Chenresig.  The Shabdrung concocted an elaborate ceremony in which he pretended to throw the relic into the Mo Chhu (river) and the disappointed Tibetans withdrew. Today a special ceremony takes place in memory of this.

A group of 136 people dressed in battle garb perform a dance, then shout and whistle as they descend the front stairs of the Dzong.  Next, they proceed to the river to the accompaniment of cymbals, drums and trumpets.  At the river, the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot) throws a handful of oranges representing the Rangjung Kharsapani relic into the river.  This is both a recreation of the Shabdrung’s trick and also an offering to the Luu, the sub-surface spirits in the river.  The singing and cheering warriors then carry their generals back into the Dzong as firecrackers explode around them.

Visit Dumtse Lhakhang, The National Museum, Paro Rinpung Dzong, and Kyichu Lhakhang (temple). 

You can stop at the Taktshang cafeteria viewpoint on the way up for a wonderful view of the monastery.