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About This Festival
Set at a breathtaking altitude of around 4,000 meters, the Royal Highland Festival is unlike any other celebration in Bhutan. Hosted in the secluded highland village of Laya, this festival honors the resilient lifestyle of Bhutan's nomadic mountain communities. Here, you'll witness yak-hair weaving demonstrations, traditional sports, horse races, and contests showcasing the strength and skills of highland herders. Villagers arrive dressed in their distinctive Laya attire, complete with conical bamboo hats, making the event both visually striking and culturally rich. The dramatic Himalayan backdrop — with snow-capped peaks and sweeping alpine meadows — turns the festival into an unforgettable journey, perfect for curious travelers eager to explore Bhutan's hidden corners.
Highlights
- Yak-hair weaving demonstrations
- Traditional sports and horse races
- Distinctive Laya attire with conical bamboo hats
- Dramatic Himalayan backdrop
- Nomadic mountain community culture
Plan Your Visit
Location
Laya, Gasa
Timing
October (2 days)
We can help you plan your trip to coincide with this festival and create a custom itinerary that includes other highlights of Bhutan.
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Experience Royal Highland Festival
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