Royal Highland Festival
Royal Highland Festival
Overview
The Royal Highland Festival takes place in Laya, one of Bhutan’s northernmost settlements, perched at an altitude of 4,000 meters above sea level. Set against the backdrop of this remote, rural landscape, the festival celebrates the unique way of life, rich history, and enduring traditions of the highland community. As the world recognizes the values and culture of the Layaps, events like this help preserve the community’s traditions, beliefs and lifestyle. You can explore centuries-old customs, such as traditional offerings dating back to the 16th century, and participate in various competitions that showcase highland animals like yaks, horses and mastiffs.
This is a personalized, private tour that can be curated to your liking – whether you're a solo traveler, part of a family, or with a group of friends. We’re happy to adjust the activities, pace, and duration to match your interests and schedule. This is your trip, your way!
Highlight
- Bhutanese joyfully commemorating Buddha’s life through Buddhist festivals
- Mule routes, mountain passes, farms, villages, and farmhouses, as well as temples and monasteries located on peaks and ridges, rural homes, and distinctive architecture
- Daily interactions with a diversity of individuals, including farmers, riders, shopkeepers, bar owners, weavers, monks, teachers, and kids, all of whom are continuously kind, responsive to our interest in them, and genuinely keen to learn more about us
- Practice and competition in archery
- Culture and history
- Local shops, textiles, and handmade goods
- Climb herders’ paths to admire valley vistas and colorful prayer flags
- Hike to Tiger’s Nest
