Essence Of Bhutan With Sacred Festivals And Ancient Culture
Whats included?
Itinerary
9x Breakfast
9x Breakfast
9x Dinner
9x Dinner
9x Lunch
9x Lunch
Accommodation included: 9 nights
Accommodation included: 9 nights
Visa Fee & Processing. You'll...
Visa Fee & Processing. You'll receive your e-Visa within 3-4 business days.
Twin sharing accommodations at 3-star...
Twin sharing accommodations at 3-star hotels certified by Tourism Council of Bhutan.
All ground transportation including round...
All ground transportation including round trip airport transfers
English-speaking licensed private tour guide.
English-speaking licensed private tour guide.
All internal taxes for the...
All internal taxes for the services listed above
Entry/Admission - National Museum of...
Entry/Admission - National Museum of Bhutan
Entry/Admission - Rinpung Dzong
Entry/Admission - Rinpung Dzong
Entry/Admission - Bhutan Postal Museum
Entry/Admission - Bhutan Postal Museum
Entry/Admission - National Institute for...
Entry/Admission - National Institute for Zorig Chusum
Entry/Admission - Thimphu Chorten (Memorial...
Entry/Admission - Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten)
Entry/Admission - Buddha Dordenma
Entry/Admission - Buddha Dordenma
Entry/Admission - Dochula Pass
Entry/Admission - Dochula Pass
Entry/Admission - Chimi Lhakhang Temple
Entry/Admission - Chimi Lhakhang Temple
Entry/Admission - Punakha Dzong
Entry/Admission - Punakha Dzong
Entry/Admission - Tongsa Dzong
Entry/Admission - Tongsa Dzong
Entry/Admission - Kurje Lhakhang
Entry/Admission - Kurje Lhakhang
Entry/Admission - Gangtey Monastery
Entry/Admission - Gangtey Monastery
Entry/Admission - Chele La Pass
Entry/Admission - Chele La Pass
Entry/Admission - Kyichu Lhakhang
Entry/Admission - Kyichu Lhakhang
Entry/Admission - Paro Taktsang
Entry/Admission - Paro Taktsang
Not included:
Travel insurance. We highly recommend...
Travel insurance. We highly recommend getting insurance. For trekking adventure insurance is a MUST.
International Airfares
International Airfares
Alcoholic beverages, laundry services, telephone...
Alcoholic beverages, laundry services, telephone call charges
Gratuity to guide and driver...
Gratuity to guide and driver (optional)
Any other expenses of personal...
Any other expenses of personal nature
Start planning your experience
ยAbout experience
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Paro International Airport / Transfer to the capital city Thimphu
Stop At: National Museum of Bhutan, Paro, Bhutan
After receiving you at the Paro International Airport, you will be taken on your first adventure in the Kingdom of Bhutan.
The National Museum of Bhutan is located in Paro just above the Rinpung Dzong (administrative headquarter of Paro district) was established in 1968. It is housed in an ancient watch tower called Paro Ta Dzong (Ta Dzong means โwatch tower fortressโ) built in 1649. It displays hundreds of ancient Bhutanese artifacts and artworks including traditional costumes, armour, weaponry and handcrafted implements for daily life. The collection at the National Museum preserves a snap-shot of the rich cultural traditions of the country.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Rinpung Dzong, Paro Bhutan
Paro Rinpung Dzong (Rinpung Dzong means โfortress of the heap of jewelsโ) was built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in 1646 and established as the administrative and monastic centre of the western region. Today, the Dzong serves as the office of the governor of Paro district and head of the district monk body in Paro. A great annual festival known as Paro Tsechu is held in Rinpung Dzong from the eleventh to the fifteenth day of the second month of the traditional Bhutanese lunar calendar (usually in March or April of the Gregorian calendar). On this occasion, holy images are taken in a procession followed by a series of traditional mask dances conveying religious stories which are performed by monks for five days.
After visiting the Dzong, take a short walk to the traditional wooden cantilever bridge called Nemeyzampa, where your driver will be waiting for you. The roofed wooden cantilever bridge is built in a traditional style and this type of bridges are called Bazam.
After lunch at one of the restaurants in the town, you will be transferred to the capital city Thimphu. The road distance is 55km and takes approximately 1.5-hours.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Bhutan Postal Museum, Thimphu Bhutan
Postal service in Bhutan was launched only in 1962 until which time communications and delivery of mails were done by messengers on foot (building of roads started from 1961) . The museum was established in 2015. Philatelic enthusiasts can find rich collection of stamps, stamp albums and First Day Covers. A bank is also located in the same complex so you can exchange your money into local currency Ngultrum (Nu.)
If interested, you can also print stamps with your own photos.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: National Institute for Zorig Chusum, Thimphu Bhutan
The National Institute of Zorig Chusum (Zorig Chusum means 13 Traditional Arts & Crafts) was established to promote and preserve the thirteen traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan and to facilitate increased access in learning Zorig skills by Bhutanese youths. Many of these traditional arts and crafts are declining with the advent of modern technologies and therefore, the government is putting in lot of effort to train youths to keep the traditions alive. The thirteen arts and crafts are categorized as Shing Zo (woodwork), Dho Zo (stonework), Par Zo (carving), Lha Zo (painting), Jim Zo (sculpting), Lug Zo (casting), Shag Zo (wood turning), Gar Zo (blacksmith), Troe Zo (ornament making), Tsa Zo (bamboo work), De Zo (paper making), Tsem Zo (tailoring, embroidery and applique) and Thag Zo (weaving). These thirteen arts and crafts are an essential part of Bhutanโs cultural heritage that have been practiced from time immemorial. If the class is in session when you arrive, you will be allowed to enter the classroom and observe students as they get hands-on training.
Duration: 45 minutes
Meals included:
โข Lunch
โข Dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Kuenphen Rabten Resort or a similar one.
Day 2: Sightseeing in Thimphu / Transfer to Punakha Valley
Stop At: Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten), Thimphu Bhutan
After breakfast, visit the National Memorial Chorten and pray for our safe journey ahead. This monument is a Buddhist stupa built in 1974 in loving memory of the late Third King of Bhutan is one of the most frequented landmark in Thimphu. People from all walks of life throng here to pray and circumambulate giving you an opportunity to observe how Bhutanese people devote themselves to daily prayers and take refuge in the teachings of the Lord Buddha.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Buddha Dordenma, Kuensel Phodrang Viewing Point, Thimphu 11001 Bhutan
The magnificent 169 feet tall bronze statue of Lord Buddha is located on a hilltop overlooking the Thimphu valley. From here you can see a nice view of Thimphu city. It was built to celebrate the 60th birth anniversary of the Fourth King His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck and also for the purpose of bringing peace in the world . The giant Buddha statue houses more than 100,000 8-inch tall Buddha statues of same type. The construction began in 2006 and was completed in 2015 after almost 10 years.
From there, you will be transferred to Punakha valley via the Dochula, a sacred mountain pass. Lunch will also be served at Dochula Cafeteria. The road distance to Punakha is 74km and takes about 3-hours.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Dochula Pass, Thimphu Bhutan
En route to Punakha, stop at Dochu La Pass located at 3,150 meters (10,334 ft) and enjoy spectacular panoramic view of the distant Himalayan mountain ranges (weather permitting). This picturesque mountain pass was only a sacred site until 2004 when Her Majesty Grand Queen Mother Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck built 108 stupas adorning the pass. Continue driving to Punakha, the elevation drops gradually in a short period of time. As you reach the lower valley, you will feel the drastic change in altitude from 3,150m just an hour and a half ago to 1,200m.
After lunch at the cafeteria, continue driving to Punakha.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Stop At: Chimi Lhakhang Temple, Punakha Bhutan
About 11km before reaching proper Punakha town, visit Chimi Lhakhang Temple located about 30 minutes walk from the nearest road through the beautiful terraced rice fields and farmhouses. Chimi Lhakhang was built in 1499 by Lama Ngawang Chogyal on a site blessed by his older brother, Lama Drukpa Kuenley who was known as โDivine Madmanโ for his obscene behavior and unorthodox ways of propagating Buddhism. He would often express his desire for sex and use phallus as a medium to subdue malevolent spirits. Today, one of the relics of Chime Lhakhang is a phallus. The blessing of the phallus is considered sacred particularly to women who are unable to conceive a child as it brings fertility to women, giving them ability to bear offspring. Because of this belief, people like to call Chhime Lhakhang as โTemple of Fertilityโ. Married couples who are unable to conceive a child often come to this temple seeking blessings from the Divine Madman. As much as it sounds โtoo good to be trueโ, there are many stories of happy couples who are blessed with child after visiting the temple.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Punakha Dzong, Punakha 13001 Bhutan
From there drive to Punakha town and visit the historic Punakha Dzong locally known as โPalace of Great Blissโ built in 1637 to guard the region against Tibetan forces. This beautiful and most impressive Dzong in Bhutan is a fine example of traditional Bhutanese architecture, painting and craftsmanship. The Dzong served as the administrative centre and the seat of the Government of Bhutan until 1955. It now serves as the office of the District Administrator (Dzongdag) and the winter residence of the Chief Abbot of Bhutan, Je Khenpo.
Then walk to Bhutan's longest suspension bridge across the glacial fed Phochu (male) river. Punakha Dzong is flanked by two glacial fed rivers Phochu (male) and Mochu (female).
Duration: 45 minutes
Meals included:
โข Breakfast
โข Lunch
โข Dinner
Accommodation included: Dinner and overnight at Meri Puensum Resort or a similar one.
Day 3: Hike to Khamsum Yuellay Namgyel in Punakha / Transfer to Trongsa in Central Bhutan
Stop At: Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, Punakha Bhutan
After breakfast, you will venture out on a beautiful 2.5-hour return hike to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Choeten. Located on a ridge overlooking the picturesque Punakha valley, this wonderful Buddhist structure is a fine example of Bhutanese architecture used in building temples, monasteries and Zangdogpelri (copper coloured mountains). It was built over a period of almost 10 years under the command of Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck, one of the Queen Mothers of Bhutan and was consecrated in 1999.
It takes only about 20 minutes drive from the main town of Punakha to the nearest road point. From there you cross a suspension bridge over the Punakha Mochu River (female river) and the trail takes you through paddy fields. Normally it takes just under one hour to reach the serene site of the marvelous choeten. The view below is stunning with glacial fed Mochu river snaking through the fertile Punakha valley.
After the hike, descend back to the roadhead and drive to town for lunch.
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Stop At: Tongsa Dzong, Trongsa Bhutan
After lunch, you will be transferred to Tongsa, the main central region in Bhutan. The road distance is 142km and takes about 6-hours.
The drive will take you through the pristine forests, high mountain passes and idyllic villages.
If you arrive in Trongsa before 5PM, you will have opportunity to visit the Trongsa Dzong.
Built in 1648, Trongsa Dzong holds a significant place in the history of Bhutan as it was from here that the ancestors of Royal family of Bhutan emerged as the most powerful rulers in the 19th and early 20th century. The first and second hereditary Kings of Bhutan ruled the country from this ancient seat of power. There is a tradition that crown prince must be invested as Trongsa Penlop (Governor of Trongsa) here at Trongsa Dzong before he ascends the throne of the King. After visiting this magnificent Trongsa Dzong, walk up to the promontory where the Trongsa Ta Dzong (watch tower of Trongsa) is located. Built in 1652, this Ta Dzong guarded the Trongsa Dzong from internal rebellion. Today, it houses the fascinating museum providing visitors with an insight into the significance of Trongsa in Bhutanโs history.
Duration: 30 minutes
Meals included:
โข Breakfast
โข Lunch
โข Dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Tashi Ninjay Guest House or a similar one.
Day 4: Trongsa / Transfer to Bumthang Valley in Central Bhutan
Stop At: Kharchu Monastery, Jakar., Jakar, Bhutan
After breakfast in Trongsa, you will be transferred to Bumthang via Yontongla Pass at 3,4250m above the seal level, the highest road point between Trongsa and Bumthang valley.
En route, stop briefly at the roadside Yathra weaving center (Yathra is the colourful textiles hand woven out of sheep and yak hair) and get insights on the traditional attires and the weaving culture of the people of Bumthang. Continue driving towards Chamkhar, the main town of Bumthang. The valley of Bumthang is considered as the religious heartland of Bhutan and home to some of the oldest temples and monasteries in the country.
On arrival in Bumthang, check into hotel and lunch will be served. After lunch, visit the largest monastery in Bumthang called Kharchu Dratsang where hundreds of monks study Buddhist philosophy. You will have an opportunity to meet monks and interact with them. If interested, you can offer prayers at the monastery.
Duration: 45 minutes
Stop At: Kรถnchogsum Lhakhang, Bhutan
Visit Kencho Sum Lhakhang which dates back to 8th century during the time of Guru Rinpoche. Later it was restored by Terton Pema Lingpa in 1479. In February 2010, the temple was destroyed by a tragic fire sending the whole country into shock and stirred sense of mourning. However, as sacred as it is and to the solace of all the people, the sacred relics and statue of Buddha were saved from the disastrous fire. Today, the temple has been restored by Pema Lingpaโs 11th reincarnation, His Holiness Lhalung Sungtrul Rinpoche.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Tamshing Lhakhang Temple, Bumthang Bhutan
Tamshing Lhakhang was built by the great treasure discoverer of Bhutan, Pema Lingpa in 1501 AD and became the seat of his successive reincarnations even to this day. Among the many treasures and religious artefacts handcrafted by Pema Lingpa himself, there is an armory which stood the test of time for five centuries bearing no rust or any sign of deterioration. It is believed that you will be cleansed of all your past sins and defilement if you circumambulate the inner sanctum 3 rounds carrying that sacred armory.
After that, spend leisure time exploring the main town of Bumthang.
Duration: 30 minutes
Meals included:
โข Breakfast
โข Lunch
โข Dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Kaila Guest House or at a similar one.
Day 5: Full day exploring the valley of Bumthang
Stop At: Jambay Lhakhang Temple, Near Bumthang River, Jakar Bhutan
After breakfast, visit one of the oldest temples in the in the Kingdom, Jampa lhakhang, which was founded by the King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet in the 7th century AD. The King was destined to built 108 lhakhangs to subdue the spirit of the demoness that was residing in the Himalayas. Jampa Lhakhang is one of the two which were built in Bhutan. The other one is Kichu Lhakhang in Paro, both believed to have been built on the same day.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Kurje Lhakhang, Bumthang Bhutan
Visit 17th century Kurjey Lhakhang (Kurje means โbody imprintโ and Lhakhang means โtempleโ). There are three lhakhangs at Kurje. The oldest lhakhang was constructed by the Trongsa Governor Chogyel Minjur Tenpa in 1652 on the site where Guru Rinpoche (Guru Padmasambhava) meditated after subduing an evil spirit that was harming the local people and the King Chakhar Gyab popularly known as Sindu Raja. Inside the lhakhang are the statues of the Buddhas and the cave known as Dragmar Dorji Tsegpa, meaning a โred-coloured cave resembling pile of vajrasโ, in which Guru Rinpoche meditated. The second Lhakhang was constructed in 1900 by the 13th Trongsa Governor, Gongsa Ugyen Wangchuck who later became the first hereditary King of Bhutan in 1907. The third Lhakhang was built in the 1980s under the patronage of Her Royal Grandmother Ashi Kezang Choden Wangchuck (mother of the fourth King) with guidance from her spiritual root teacher H.H. Dilgo Khentse Rinpoche.
After visiting this temple, drive to a nearby village to explore and interact with the local people. Visit a family homestead to get a rare insight into their daily lives, culture and tradition.
Lunch can be served at one of the family farmhouse if interested.
Duration: 5 hours
Meals included:
โข Breakfast
โข Lunch
โข Dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Kaila Guest House or at a similar one.
Day 6: Bumthang / Transfer to Phobjikha valley
Stop At: Phobjikha Valley, Bhutan
Following early breakfast, drive to the valley of Phobjikha via the same route we came โ Yotong La Pass, Trongsa, Pele La Pass and Chendebji. The road distance is 188km and takes about 6-hours.
Make a brief stop at Chendebji for lunch and continue towards Phobjikha valley. Phobjikha is a vast U-shaped glacial valley at an elevation of about 3,000 meters (9,800 ft) and it is a winter home for endangered Black Necked Crane from November to March and migrates back to Tibet by the beginning of spring season. Researchers have confirmed that the same birds which migrates here in winter goes as far back as Mongolia in summer. Every year on the 11th of November, Black Necked Crane Festival is held to celebrate the arrival of this endangered and majestic bird which becomes an inseparable part in the lives of the local people during winter months. Black-necked Crane is considered as a sacred bird in Bhutan and there are songs dedicated to this revered bird. One such popular song in Bhutan is the one titled โWhite Crane! Lend me your wingsโ composed by the sixth Dalai Lama of Tibet, Tsangyang Gyatso in 17th century.
In the evening visit a family farmhouse/homestay for delicious dinner of authentic home-cooked local cuisine. If interested you can also soak up in a traditional hot stone bath believed to have therapeutic and revitalizing effect for an additional fee of about $15 per person.
Duration: 7 hours
Meals included:
โข Breakfast
โข Lunch
โข Dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Yue-Loki Guest House or at a similar one.
Day 7: Gangtey Nature Hike in Phobjikha / Transfer back to Paro valley
Stop At: Gangtey Monastery, Gangtey Bhutan
After breakfast, visit the famous landmark in Phobjikha valley โ a 17th century Gangtey Monastery popularly known as Gangtey Goenpa (goenpa literally means โremote placeโ and is usually a place of religious significance). Founded in 1613, this is one of the largest monasteries in Bhutan. The monastery also has a monastic college where hundreds of monks study Buddhist philosophy for 9 years. An annual religious festival, Gangtey Tshechu, is held at this majestic monastery during autumn when the harvest season is just over. A series of dazzling sacred mask dances interspersed by Bhutanese folk dances are performed during this festival.
Then venture out on an exhilarating Gangtey Nature Hike through the pristine valley. The trail is about 5km long and takes approximately 3 hours including ample time to take photographs and observe pristine natural surroundings. The nature trail begins from Gangtey Monastery and leads through wonderful meadows, forests, beautiful traditional village houses, farm lands, crystalline streams. This short nature trail gives you a great feeling of the valley and understanding of the community living there.
After lunch, you will be transferred back to Paro valley. The road distance back to Paro is 180km and takes about 5.5-hours.
Duration: 8 minutes
Meals included:
โข Breakfast
โข Lunch
โข Dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Khangkhu Resort or at a similar one.
Day 8: Drive to Chelela Pass at 3800m and do a short hike to a Nunnery
Stop At: Chele La Pass, Paro Bhutan
After breakfast, drive to Chele La Pass which is the highest motorable road point in Bhutan at an altitude of about 3,800m/12,500ft above sea level. The road distance is 34km and takes about 1-hour.
The air is thin and fresh at this altitude. On a clear day, the mountain pass offers grand view of surrounding Himalayan peaks, Paro valley and Haa valley. We can spend sometime walking along the pass among the colourful prayer flags and enjoying the beautiful views around and appreciate the pristine environment. If you are interested, we can arrange prayer flag hoisting activity for you. There are many types of prayers but this particular prayer flags called Lungta (Winder Horse) are traditionally hoisted to bring peace, harmony, ward off bad luck and clear obstacles on your path.
From there do a short easy 1-hour hike to the Kila Goempa Nunnery home to dozens of nuns. From there you can see unobstructed view of Paro valley below. The driver will pick you up just below the nunnery or you can even walk dowhill to the main road.
You will then drive back to Paro valley.
Duration: 5 hours
Stop At: Kyichu Lhakhang, Lamgong Gewog, Paro 12001 Bhutan
On arrival back to Paro, visit one of the oldest temples in the Kingdom, Paro Kyichu Lhakhang. Located just a few minutes drive from the main town of Paro, Kyichu Lhakhang is one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan. It is believed to have been built in 659 A.D. by King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet in his effort to build 108 such temples across the Himalayan region to subdue the spirit of a demoness who was causing obstruction to the spread of Buddhism. Bhutan is blessed with two of these temples, one being Jampa Lhakhang in Bumthang, central Bhutan. Both Kichu Lhakhang and Jampa Lhakhang are believed to have been built on the same day.
Leisure time around Paro town.
Duration: 30 minutes
Meals included:
โข Breakfast
โข Lunch
โข Dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Khangkhu Resort or at a similar one.
Day 9: Hike to the famous Paro Taktsang and later visit a beautiful farmhouse
Stop At: Paro Taktsang, Taktsang Trail BT, Paro Bhutan
Taktsang monastery is located on the face of a sheer 800-meter rock cliff in Paro. It normally takes about 2 hours to reach the monastery from the road head. It is the most popular tourist attraction in Bhutan.Taktsang which literally translates to โTigerโs Nestโ, is regarded as one of the most important monasteries in Bhutan. Its history is associated with the visit of Guru Padmasambhava (known as Guru Rinpoche), the Indian saint who came to Bhutan and introduced Tantric Buddhism in the mid-eighth century AD. It is believed that Guru Padmasambhava flew to Taktsang from Kurtoe Singye Dzong in eastern Bhutan, riding on a tigress. Taktsang monastery was originally built in 1692 on the sacred cave where Guru Padmasambhava meditated.
The trail takes you through the ancient path shaded by pine trees. After an hour of steep uphill hiking, you will reach a nice cafeteria from where you can see spectacular view of Taktsang monastery perched on the face of a steep rock cliff. It takes further 1 hour to reach the monastery.
Lunch will be served at the Taktsang cafeteria and then we retrace our steps back to the base where our driver will be waiting.
Spend leisure time in town. Towards the late afternoon, you will visit one of the beautiful farmhouse and enjoy delicious home-cooked local cuisine. You may participate in preparing some of the popular local dishes.
If interested, you can also dip in hot stone bath with revitalizing and therapeutic effect for an additional fee of about $15 per person charges by the owner.
Duration: 6 hours
Meals included:
โข Breakfast
โข Lunch
โข Dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Khangkhu Resort or at a similar one.
Day 10: Departure from Paro International Airport
Pass By: Paro International Airport, Airport Road Paro, Paro 12001, Bhutan
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Paro International Airport depending on your flight departure time. Our guide and driver will bid you farewell.
Meals included:
โข Breakfast
No accommodation included on this day.
Day 1: Arrive Paro International Airport / Transfer to the capital city Thimphu
Stop At: National Museum of Bhutan, Paro, Bhutan
After receiving you at the Paro International Airport, you will be taken on your first adventure in the Kingdom of Bhutan.
The National Museum of Bhutan is located in Paro just above the Rinpung Dzong (administrative headquarter of Paro district) was established in 1968. It is housed in an ancient watch tower called Paro Ta Dzong (Ta Dzong means โwatch tower fortressโ) built in 1649. It displays hundreds of ancient Bhutanese artifacts and artworks including traditional costumes, armour, weaponry and handcrafted implements for daily life. The collection at the National Museum preserves a snap-shot of the rich cultural traditions of the country.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Rinpung Dzong, Paro Bhutan
Paro Rinpung Dzong (Rinpung Dzong means โfortress of the heap of jewelsโ) was built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in 1646 and established as the administrative and monastic centre of the western region. Today, the Dzong serves as the office of the governor of Paro district and head of the district monk body in Paro. A great annual festival known as Paro Tsechu is held in Rinpung Dzong from the eleventh to the fifteenth day of the second month of the traditional Bhutanese lunar calendar (usually in March or April of the Gregorian calendar). On this occasion, holy images are taken in a procession followed by a series of traditional mask dances conveying religious stories which are performed by monks for five days.
After visiting the Dzong, take a short walk to the traditional wooden cantilever bridge called Nemeyzampa, where your driver will be waiting for you. The roofed wooden cantilever bridge is built in a traditional style and this type of bridges are called Bazam.
After lunch at one of the restaurants in the town, you will be transferred to the capital city Thimphu. The road distance is 55km and takes approximately 1.5-hours.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Bhutan Postal Museum, Thimphu Bhutan
Postal service in Bhutan was launched only in 1962 until which time communications and delivery of mails were done by messengers on foot (building of roads started from 1961) . The museum was established in 2015. Philatelic enthusiasts can find rich collection of stamps, stamp albums and First Day Covers. A bank is also located in the same complex so you can exchange your money into local currency Ngultrum (Nu.)
If interested, you can also print stamps with your own photos.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: National Institute for Zorig Chusum, Thimphu Bhutan
The National Institute of Zorig Chusum (Zorig Chusum means 13 Traditional Arts & Crafts) was established to promote and preserve the thirteen traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan and to facilitate increased access in learning Zorig skills by Bhutanese youths. Many of these traditional arts and crafts are declining with the advent of modern technologies and therefore, the government is putting in lot of effort to train youths to keep the traditions alive. The thirteen arts and crafts are categorized as Shing Zo (woodwork), Dho Zo (stonework), Par Zo (carving), Lha Zo (painting), Jim Zo (sculpting), Lug Zo (casting), Shag Zo (wood turning), Gar Zo (blacksmith), Troe Zo (ornament making), Tsa Zo (bamboo work), De Zo (paper making), Tsem Zo (tailoring, embroidery and applique) and Thag Zo (weaving). These thirteen arts and crafts are an essential part of Bhutanโs cultural heritage that have been practiced from time immemorial. If the class is in session when you arrive, you will be allowed to enter the classroom and observe students as they get hands-on training.
Duration: 45 minutes
Meals included:
โข Lunch
โข Dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Kuenphen Rabten Resort or a similar one.
Day 2: Sightseeing in Thimphu / Transfer to Punakha Valley
Stop At: Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten), Thimphu Bhutan
After breakfast, visit the National Memorial Chorten and pray for our safe journey ahead. This monument is a Buddhist stupa built in 1974 in loving memory of the late Third King of Bhutan is one of the most frequented landmark in Thimphu. People from all walks of life throng here to pray and circumambulate giving you an opportunity to observe how Bhutanese people devote themselves to daily prayers and take refuge in the teachings of the Lord Buddha.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Buddha Dordenma, Kuensel Phodrang Viewing Point, Thimphu 11001 Bhutan
The magnificent 169 feet tall bronze statue of Lord Buddha is located on a hilltop overlooking the Thimphu valley. From here you can see a nice view of Thimphu city. It was built to celebrate the 60th birth anniversary of the Fourth King His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck and also for the purpose of bringing peace in the world . The giant Buddha statue houses more than 100,000 8-inch tall Buddha statues of same type. The construction began in 2006 and was completed in 2015 after almost 10 years.
From there, you will be transferred to Punakha valley via the Dochula, a sacred mountain pass. Lunch will also be served at Dochula Cafeteria. The road distance to Punakha is 74km and takes about 3-hours.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Dochula Pass, Thimphu Bhutan
En route to Punakha, stop at Dochu La Pass located at 3,150 meters (10,334 ft) and enjoy spectacular panoramic view of the distant Himalayan mountain ranges (weather permitting). This picturesque mountain pass was only a sacred site until 2004 when Her Majesty Grand Queen Mother Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck built 108 stupas adorning the pass. Continue driving to Punakha, the elevation drops gradually in a short period of time. As you reach the lower valley, you will feel the drastic change in altitude from 3,150m just an hour and a half ago to 1,200m.
After lunch at the cafeteria, continue driving to Punakha.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Stop At: Chimi Lhakhang Temple, Punakha Bhutan
About 11km before reaching proper Punakha town, visit Chimi Lhakhang Temple located about 30 minutes walk from the nearest road through the beautiful terraced rice fields and farmhouses. Chimi Lhakhang was built in 1499 by Lama Ngawang Chogyal on a site blessed by his older brother, Lama Drukpa Kuenley who was known as โDivine Madmanโ for his obscene behavior and unorthodox ways of propagating Buddhism. He would often express his desire for sex and use phallus as a medium to subdue malevolent spirits. Today, one of the relics of Chime Lhakhang is a phallus. The blessing of the phallus is considered sacred particularly to women who are unable to conceive a child as it brings fertility to women, giving them ability to bear offspring. Because of this belief, people like to call Chhime Lhakhang as โTemple of Fertilityโ. Married couples who are unable to conceive a child often come to this temple seeking blessings from the Divine Madman. As much as it sounds โtoo good to be trueโ, there are many stories of happy couples who are blessed with child after visiting the temple.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Punakha Dzong, Punakha 13001 Bhutan
From there drive to Punakha town and visit the historic Punakha Dzong locally known as โPalace of Great Blissโ built in 1637 to guard the region against Tibetan forces. This beautiful and most impressive Dzong in Bhutan is a fine example of traditional Bhutanese architecture, painting and craftsmanship. The Dzong served as the administrative centre and the seat of the Government of Bhutan until 1955. It now serves as the office of the District Administrator (Dzongdag) and the winter residence of the Chief Abbot of Bhutan, Je Khenpo.
Then walk to Bhutan's longest suspension bridge across the glacial fed Phochu (male) river. Punakha Dzong is flanked by two glacial fed rivers Phochu (male) and Mochu (female).
Duration: 45 minutes
Meals included:
โข Breakfast
โข Lunch
โข Dinner
Accommodation included: Dinner and overnight at Meri Puensum Resort or a similar one.
Day 3: Hike to Khamsum Yuellay Namgyel in Punakha / Transfer to Trongsa in Central Bhutan
Stop At: Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, Punakha Bhutan
After breakfast, you will venture out on a beautiful 2.5-hour return hike to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Choeten. Located on a ridge overlooking the picturesque Punakha valley, this wonderful Buddhist structure is a fine example of Bhutanese architecture used in building temples, monasteries and Zangdogpelri (copper coloured mountains). It was built over a period of almost 10 years under the command of Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck, one of the Queen Mothers of Bhutan and was consecrated in 1999.
It takes only about 20 minutes drive from the main town of Punakha to the nearest road point. From there you cross a suspension bridge over the Punakha Mochu River (female river) and the trail takes you through paddy fields. Normally it takes just under one hour to reach the serene site of the marvelous choeten. The view below is stunning with glacial fed Mochu river snaking through the fertile Punakha valley.
After the hike, descend back to the roadhead and drive to town for lunch.
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Stop At: Tongsa Dzong, Trongsa Bhutan
After lunch, you will be transferred to Tongsa, the main central region in Bhutan. The road distance is 142km and takes about 6-hours.
The drive will take you through the pristine forests, high mountain passes and idyllic villages.
If you arrive in Trongsa before 5PM, you will have opportunity to visit the Trongsa Dzong.
Built in 1648, Trongsa Dzong holds a significant place in the history of Bhutan as it was from here that the ancestors of Royal family of Bhutan emerged as the most powerful rulers in the 19th and early 20th century. The first and second hereditary Kings of Bhutan ruled the country from this ancient seat of power. There is a tradition that crown prince must be invested as Trongsa Penlop (Governor of Trongsa) here at Trongsa Dzong before he ascends the throne of the King. After visiting this magnificent Trongsa Dzong, walk up to the promontory where the Trongsa Ta Dzong (watch tower of Trongsa) is located. Built in 1652, this Ta Dzong guarded the Trongsa Dzong from internal rebellion. Today, it houses the fascinating museum providing visitors with an insight into the significance of Trongsa in Bhutanโs history.
Duration: 30 minutes
Meals included:
โข Breakfast
โข Lunch
โข Dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Tashi Ninjay Guest House or a similar one.
Day 4: Trongsa / Transfer to Bumthang Valley in Central Bhutan
Stop At: Kharchu Monastery, Jakar., Jakar, Bhutan
After breakfast in Trongsa, you will be transferred to Bumthang via Yontongla Pass at 3,4250m above the seal level, the highest road point between Trongsa and Bumthang valley.
En route, stop briefly at the roadside Yathra weaving center (Yathra is the colourful textiles hand woven out of sheep and yak hair) and get insights on the traditional attires and the weaving culture of the people of Bumthang. Continue driving towards Chamkhar, the main town of Bumthang. The valley of Bumthang is considered as the religious heartland of Bhutan and home to some of the oldest temples and monasteries in the country.
On arrival in Bumthang, check into hotel and lunch will be served. After lunch, visit the largest monastery in Bumthang called Kharchu Dratsang where hundreds of monks study Buddhist philosophy. You will have an opportunity to meet monks and interact with them. If interested, you can offer prayers at the monastery.
Duration: 45 minutes
Stop At: Kรถnchogsum Lhakhang, Bhutan
Visit Kencho Sum Lhakhang which dates back to 8th century during the time of Guru Rinpoche. Later it was restored by Terton Pema Lingpa in 1479. In February 2010, the temple was destroyed by a tragic fire sending the whole country into shock and stirred sense of mourning. However, as sacred as it is and to the solace of all the people, the sacred relics and statue of Buddha were saved from the disastrous fire. Today, the temple has been restored by Pema Lingpaโs 11th reincarnation, His Holiness Lhalung Sungtrul Rinpoche.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Tamshing Lhakhang Temple, Bumthang Bhutan
Tamshing Lhakhang was built by the great treasure discoverer of Bhutan, Pema Lingpa in 1501 AD and became the seat of his successive reincarnations even to this day. Among the many treasures and religious artefacts handcrafted by Pema Lingpa himself, there is an armory which stood the test of time for five centuries bearing no rust or any sign of deterioration. It is believed that you will be cleansed of all your past sins and defilement if you circumambulate the inner sanctum 3 rounds carrying that sacred armory.
After that, spend leisure time exploring the main town of Bumthang.
Duration: 30 minutes
Meals included:
โข Breakfast
โข Lunch
โข Dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Kaila Guest House or at a similar one.
Day 5: Full day exploring the valley of Bumthang
Stop At: Jambay Lhakhang Temple, Near Bumthang River, Jakar Bhutan
After breakfast, visit one of the oldest temples in the in the Kingdom, Jampa lhakhang, which was founded by the King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet in the 7th century AD. The King was destined to built 108 lhakhangs to subdue the spirit of the demoness that was residing in the Himalayas. Jampa Lhakhang is one of the two which were built in Bhutan. The other one is Kichu Lhakhang in Paro, both believed to have been built on the same day.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Kurje Lhakhang, Bumthang Bhutan
Visit 17th century Kurjey Lhakhang (Kurje means โbody imprintโ and Lhakhang means โtempleโ). There are three lhakhangs at Kurje. The oldest lhakhang was constructed by the Trongsa Governor Chogyel Minjur Tenpa in 1652 on the site where Guru Rinpoche (Guru Padmasambhava) meditated after subduing an evil spirit that was harming the local people and the King Chakhar Gyab popularly known as Sindu Raja. Inside the lhakhang are the statues of the Buddhas and the cave known as Dragmar Dorji Tsegpa, meaning a โred-coloured cave resembling pile of vajrasโ, in which Guru Rinpoche meditated. The second Lhakhang was constructed in 1900 by the 13th Trongsa Governor, Gongsa Ugyen Wangchuck who later became the first hereditary King of Bhutan in 1907. The third Lhakhang was built in the 1980s under the patronage of Her Royal Grandmother Ashi Kezang Choden Wangchuck (mother of the fourth King) with guidance from her spiritual root teacher H.H. Dilgo Khentse Rinpoche.
After visiting this temple, drive to a nearby village to explore and interact with the local people. Visit a family homestead to get a rare insight into their daily lives, culture and tradition.
Lunch can be served at one of the family farmhouse if interested.
Duration: 5 hours
Meals included:
โข Breakfast
โข Lunch
โข Dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Kaila Guest House or at a similar one.
Day 6: Bumthang / Transfer to Phobjikha valley
Stop At: Phobjikha Valley, Bhutan
Following early breakfast, drive to the valley of Phobjikha via the same route we came โ Yotong La Pass, Trongsa, Pele La Pass and Chendebji. The road distance is 188km and takes about 6-hours.
Make a brief stop at Chendebji for lunch and continue towards Phobjikha valley. Phobjikha is a vast U-shaped glacial valley at an elevation of about 3,000 meters (9,800 ft) and it is a winter home for endangered Black Necked Crane from November to March and migrates back to Tibet by the beginning of spring season. Researchers have confirmed that the same birds which migrates here in winter goes as far back as Mongolia in summer. Every year on the 11th of November, Black Necked Crane Festival is held to celebrate the arrival of this endangered and majestic bird which becomes an inseparable part in the lives of the local people during winter months. Black-necked Crane is considered as a sacred bird in Bhutan and there are songs dedicated to this revered bird. One such popular song in Bhutan is the one titled โWhite Crane! Lend me your wingsโ composed by the sixth Dalai Lama of Tibet, Tsangyang Gyatso in 17th century.
In the evening visit a family farmhouse/homestay for delicious dinner of authentic home-cooked local cuisine. If interested you can also soak up in a traditional hot stone bath believed to have therapeutic and revitalizing effect for an additional fee of about $15 per person.
Duration: 7 hours
Meals included:
โข Breakfast
โข Lunch
โข Dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Yue-Loki Guest House or at a similar one.
Day 7: Gangtey Nature Hike in Phobjikha / Transfer back to Paro valley
Stop At: Gangtey Monastery, Gangtey Bhutan
After breakfast, visit the famous landmark in Phobjikha valley โ a 17th century Gangtey Monastery popularly known as Gangtey Goenpa (goenpa literally means โremote placeโ and is usually a place of religious significance). Founded in 1613, this is one of the largest monasteries in Bhutan. The monastery also has a monastic college where hundreds of monks study Buddhist philosophy for 9 years. An annual religious festival, Gangtey Tshechu, is held at this majestic monastery during autumn when the harvest season is just over. A series of dazzling sacred mask dances interspersed by Bhutanese folk dances are performed during this festival.
Then venture out on an exhilarating Gangtey Nature Hike through the pristine valley. The trail is about 5km long and takes approximately 3 hours including ample time to take photographs and observe pristine natural surroundings. The nature trail begins from Gangtey Monastery and leads through wonderful meadows, forests, beautiful traditional village houses, farm lands, crystalline streams. This short nature trail gives you a great feeling of the valley and understanding of the community living there.
After lunch, you will be transferred back to Paro valley. The road distance back to Paro is 180km and takes about 5.5-hours.
Duration: 8 minutes
Meals included:
โข Breakfast
โข Lunch
โข Dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Khangkhu Resort or at a similar one.
Day 8: Drive to Chelela Pass at 3800m and do a short hike to a Nunnery
Stop At: Chele La Pass, Paro Bhutan
After breakfast, drive to Chele La Pass which is the highest motorable road point in Bhutan at an altitude of about 3,800m/12,500ft above sea level. The road distance is 34km and takes about 1-hour.
The air is thin and fresh at this altitude. On a clear day, the mountain pass offers grand view of surrounding Himalayan peaks, Paro valley and Haa valley. We can spend sometime walking along the pass among the colourful prayer flags and enjoying the beautiful views around and appreciate the pristine environment. If you are interested, we can arrange prayer flag hoisting activity for you. There are many types of prayers but this particular prayer flags called Lungta (Winder Horse) are traditionally hoisted to bring peace, harmony, ward off bad luck and clear obstacles on your path.
From there do a short easy 1-hour hike to the Kila Goempa Nunnery home to dozens of nuns. From there you can see unobstructed view of Paro valley below. The driver will pick you up just below the nunnery or you can even walk dowhill to the main road.
You will then drive back to Paro valley.
Duration: 5 hours
Stop At: Kyichu Lhakhang, Lamgong Gewog, Paro 12001 Bhutan
On arrival back to Paro, visit one of the oldest temples in the Kingdom, Paro Kyichu Lhakhang. Located just a few minutes drive from the main town of Paro, Kyichu Lhakhang is one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan. It is believed to have been built in 659 A.D. by King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet in his effort to build 108 such temples across the Himalayan region to subdue the spirit of a demoness who was causing obstruction to the spread of Buddhism. Bhutan is blessed with two of these temples, one being Jampa Lhakhang in Bumthang, central Bhutan. Both Kichu Lhakhang and Jampa Lhakhang are believed to have been built on the same day.
Leisure time around Paro town.
Duration: 30 minutes
Meals included:
โข Breakfast
โข Lunch
โข Dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Khangkhu Resort or at a similar one.
Day 9: Hike to the famous Paro Taktsang and later visit a beautiful farmhouse
Stop At: Paro Taktsang, Taktsang Trail BT, Paro Bhutan
Taktsang monastery is located on the face of a sheer 800-meter rock cliff in Paro. It normally takes about 2 hours to reach the monastery from the road head. It is the most popular tourist attraction in Bhutan.Taktsang which literally translates to โTigerโs Nestโ, is regarded as one of the most important monasteries in Bhutan. Its history is associated with the visit of Guru Padmasambhava (known as Guru Rinpoche), the Indian saint who came to Bhutan and introduced Tantric Buddhism in the mid-eighth century AD. It is believed that Guru Padmasambhava flew to Taktsang from Kurtoe Singye Dzong in eastern Bhutan, riding on a tigress. Taktsang monastery was originally built in 1692 on the sacred cave where Guru Padmasambhava meditated.
The trail takes you through the ancient path shaded by pine trees. After an hour of steep uphill hiking, you will reach a nice cafeteria from where you can see spectacular view of Taktsang monastery perched on the face of a steep rock cliff. It takes further 1 hour to reach the monastery.
Lunch will be served at the Taktsang cafeteria and then we retrace our steps back to the base where our driver will be waiting.
Spend leisure time in town. Towards the late afternoon, you will visit one of the beautiful farmhouse and enjoy delicious home-cooked local cuisine. You may participate in preparing some of the popular local dishes.
If interested, you can also dip in hot stone bath with revitalizing and therapeutic effect for an additional fee of about $15 per person charges by the owner.
Duration: 6 hours
Meals included:
โข Breakfast
โข Lunch
โข Dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Khangkhu Resort or at a similar one.
Day 10: Departure from Paro International Airport
Pass By: Paro International Airport, Airport Road Paro, Paro 12001, Bhutan
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Paro International Airport depending on your flight departure time. Our guide and driver will bid you farewell.
Meals included:
โข Breakfast
No accommodation included on this day.
Select a country to define if the visa is required
Who talk about us:
Best cities to travel to
America
Europe
Travel to Amsterdam
Travel to Amsterdam
Travel to Paris
Travel to Madrid
Travel to Budapest
Travel to Amsterdam
Travel to Barcelona
Travel to Amsterdam
Travel to Vienna
Travel to Amsterdam
Travel to Berlin
Travel to Copenhagen
Travel to Amsterdam
Travel to Amsterdam
Travel to Amsterdam
Travel to Munich