Bhutan Itinerary Days 4–7: Druk Wangyel Festival, Punakha Dzong + Phobjikha Valley
In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I continue my Bhutan travel series covering Days 4–7 of my guided journey through one of the most unique and spiritual countries in the world.
These were some of the most immersive days of the entire trip.
It begins high in the mountains at the Druk Wangyel Festival, held annually at Dochula Pass. Surrounded by 108 chortens and Himalayan peaks, this patriotic festival honours Bhutan’s Fourth King and celebrates peace, unity, and national identity. Wearing the traditional Bhutanese gho, I experienced mass dances, military performances, storytelling, and a powerful display of modern Bhutanese culture.
From there, we descend into the warmer Punakha Valley — home to the breathtaking Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most important historical and spiritual landmarks. Built in 1637 at the meeting point of two rivers, this former capital remains a living monastery and royal ceremonial site — and yes, it’s where Bhutan’s King and Queen were married.
I also hike to the hilltop temple Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, walk through rural villages to reach the famous fertility temple Chimi Lhakhang, and cross the swaying Punakha Suspension Bridge with dramatic valley views below.
One of the most special experiences? Staying in a traditional Bhutanese homestay — helping churn butter, cooking local dishes, and learning about family history in a farmhouse perched above the valley.
The journey then takes me east into the stunning Phobjikha Valley, often called the “Switzerland of Bhutan” for its wide glacial landscape and alpine feel. Here, I overnight at Gangtey Monastery, witness an emotional end-of-year monk ceremony, and experience Bhutan’s spiritual depth in complete silence — and freezing temperatures.
Check out my previous Bhutan episodes
Episode 1 Interview with Ugyen Rinzin - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000743770563
Episode 2 - IMMERSIVE Hiking to Tiger's Nest Monastery - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000744754502
Episode 3 - Days 1-3 solo episode - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000745691316
Episode 4 - Interview with a female monk - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000747763604
Episode 5 - IMMERSIVE Day in Bhutan - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000748856300
Episode 6 - Ama Om Homestay Interview - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000750963609
🎧 If Bhutan has ever been on your travel radar, this series will show you why it deserves to be.
This entire journey through Bhutan was made possible by Breathe Bhutan, who created an incredible, deeply immersive itinerary that allowed me to experience the country far beyond the surface. From meeting local families to having honest conversations like this one, their focus on authentic, responsible, and meaningful travel is something I’ll be showcasing throughout this series.
Thanks & Credits
Huge thanks to Breathe Bhutan for creating an authentic, culture-focused itinerary and making experiences like this possible. Also, thanks to Tourism Bhutan for hosting me on this trip and making this series possible.
Breathe Bhutan
Website to book tours - https://www.breathebhutan.com/
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⏱️ Timestamps
00:00 – Intro & overview of Bhutan Days 4–7
02:00 – Wearing the traditional Bhutanese gho
03:45 – Druk Wangyel Festival at Dochula Pass
07:00 – Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple) walk through villages
09:30 – Sunset views over Punakha Dzong
11:30 – Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
14:30 – Exploring Punakha Dzong (Bhutan’s former capital)
16:30 – Traditional Bhutan homestay experience
17:45 – Crossing the Punakha Suspension Bridge
18:30 – Visiting a Bhutanese nunnery
19:30 – Arriving in Phobjikha Valley (Switzerland of Bhutan)
20:30 – Overnight stay at Gangtey Monastery
21:45 – Witnessing a powerful monk ceremony
22:30 – Reflections & cancelling the winter trek
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Winging It Travel Podcast Credits
Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond
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