This special interest tour, an appealing combination of textiles and cultural sightseeing, is a treat for everyone who is interested in textile traditions. It is ideal for all those who are enthusiastic about colors and patterns, who appreciate the attention to detail and want to experience the lively diversity with all their senses.
On this trip you will explore the art of weaving in west and central Bhutan, delving into the world of fabrics, threads and colors in various contexts of Bhutanese society: everyday village life, festivals and religious ceremonies. The various textile traditions will run like a “red thread” through your journey. Furthermore this tour includes cultural highlights such as a visit to the famous Taktsang monastery and gorgeous hikes to remote temples in pristine landscape, adorned with colorful prayer flags
Activities depend on time of arrival, light sightseeing and introduction by Barbara at dinner.
Hike/drive to Rinpung Dzong for some first impressions of the marvellous ancient architecture in Bhutan. Hike/drive further up to the National Museum, which houses a large Thangka collection. In Thimphu visit shops and a new generation of textile designers.
Visit the Royal Textile Academy. You may also get a chance to visit the Textile Conservation Centre. Barbara will guide you through the showrooms and explain about the textiles on display. Later Jungshi paper manufacture and Traditional Boot House.
Today drive to Punakha via Dochula pass with its 108 chorten and continue to Punakha Dzong where you will attend a religious festival, tshechu, with mask dances (’cham).
Early drive to Punakha Dzong to see the unfolding of a huge roll thankgha. Later dyeing workshop at your lovely homestay.
Drive to Trongsa via Pele la and Chendibji Chorten.
Visit Nettle weavers in Langthel with some sightseeing on the way back.
Visit Trongsa Dzong and Tadzong before continuing your journey to Bumthang, Chumey valley.
Drive to Tharpaling monastery to see another huge thongdroel being unfolded. Later spend time in a weaver’s house. You will see a yathra loom and weaving, raw wool, wool spindle and spinning and different types of dye.
Visit the Yathra weavers in Zungney village. Drive to Tamshing lhakhang and walk to a nice homestay. Visit a weaving centre with Assamese looms. Conclude with a short valley walk to Kurjey- and Jambey lhakhang.
Full day weaving workshop at Leki lodge with weaver Rinzin Wangmo.
Half day weaving workshop. Later drive to Tang valley, visiting a sheep farm on the way.
Enjoy a visit to Orgyen Choling palace & museum (old garments). Later felting with a local farmer where you will also take lunch.
Return to Paro by flight and activities depend on actual time of arrival, several options. Music evening with Jigme Drukpa today or tomorrow.
Hike to Tigernest monastery, later stroll through town for last minute shopping.