Total Number of Days: 13

Best Season: March to May and October to December

Grade: Moderate

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Day 1/ Paro

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• The arrival at Paro International Airport itself is thrilling, as the landing at Paro involves a breathtaking descent between the rippled peaks. Upon your arrival you will embark on a scenic surface journey to Thimphu, covering approximately 47 kilometres (27 miles) in just about one and a half hours.

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• Thimphu, with its historical roots tracing back to 1216, underwent a remarkable transformation into Bhutan's modern capital in 1961. This youthful city gracefully combines tradition and modernity, serving as a reflection of Bhutan's evolving identity.

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• On arrival in Thimphu, there will be some free time to settle in and relax after an introductory briefing.

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Day 2/ Thimphu

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• Ample time is available to explore the capital and its captivating attractions. The itinerary includes visits to several noteworthy sites. First on the list is the Cultural Heritage Museum, offering insights into Bhutan's rich heritage. Next, a visit to the Takin Park provides the opportunity to catch a glimpse of Bhutan's national animal, the Takin, in its natural habitat. The journey continues to the Dechen Phodrang Monastery, meaning 'Palace of Great Bliss'.

 

• The Thimphu Post Office provides a unique and enjoyable experience, showcasing a diverse collection of philatelic items available for viewing and purchases. Our itinerary also includes a visit to the National Memorial Chorten, a sacred pilgrimage site cherished by Bhutan's older generation. Furthermore, there's a chance to witness an exciting archery tournament by the river, offering a glimpse into Bhutan's rich tradition of sports.

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• As the day draws to a close, our final destination will be the Trashi Chhoe Dzong, which serves as both the spiritual and governmental heart of the city, offering a profound cultural experience.

 

Day 3/ Thimphu - Gangtey

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• This morning, leaving the capital city behind, we venture over the Dochu La Pass, standing at 3140 m. If the weather smiles upon us, we'll be welcomed by a panoramic view of the Himalayas, with a hill adorned with 108 chortens before us. Here, we'll explore the latest temple constructed in Bhutan, featuring wall paintings depicting monks using laptops, airplanes, mobile phones, and satellite dishes.

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• Our winding road journey continues through mountain forests, guiding us towards Gangtey in the Phobjikha Valley, our destination for the next couple of nights.

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Day 4/ Gangtey

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• Today, we embark on an exciting hike through the enchanting Phobjikha Valley, commencing near the Gangtey Monastery. Our leisurely ascent takes us to the delightful local villages of Gophu, Dogsena Pana, and Jangchub Lhakhang, immersing ourselves in the rustic charm of traditional village life amidst rural, agricultural landscapes of exquisite beauty.

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• As we begin our descent, we'll gracefully complete the circuit, eventually reaching the captivating village of Khewa Lhakhang. If we're fortunate and visiting during the winter months, we might even catch a glimpse of the elegant black-necked cranes gracing the valley.

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Day 5/ Gangtey - Bumthang

 

• Our journey takes us to Bumthang today, with a delightful stop in Trongsa for lunch and a visit to the dzong. In the afternoon, the voyage continues towards Bumthang, with a pause along the way at the Chumey Yathra textile and weaving center before settling into the hotel.

 

Day 6/ Chokhor Valley

 

• Following breakfast, a short drive leads to Kharsumphe village. From there, we embark on a gentle uphill hike to Tamshing Lakhang, enjoying scenic views of Kurje Lhakhang on the opposite side of the Chamkhar River.

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• Afterward, a return to the hotel awaits, crossing a suspension bridge over the river. An exploration of Jakar's main street and a visit to a local café for high tea, a delightful way to spend the day.

 Day 7/ Chokhor Valley - Tang Valley

 

• Embarking on an 8km hike today, our journey commences above the private Buddhist Monastery of Kharchu. It leads us through picturesque pastures, offering captivating vistas of the Jakar Valley. Trekking through a serene pine forest, we ascend to 3,100m, reaching the breathtaking Batela Pass. Here, we're treated to a mesmerizing panoramic view of the Tang Valley, our stay for the upcoming nights.

 

• After savoring this spectacle, we commence our descent to Bapzur Village. We may engage in a conversation with some local nuns during our visit to a nearby nunnery. Our journey continues by vehicle, culminating in a farmhouse lunch and a visit to the Ogyen Choling Palace Museum. Here, we'll be transported back in time to the 19th and 20th centuries, immersing ourselves in intricate recreations of granaries, homes, and more. Upon returning to our homestay, ample time awaits to unwind in a soothing hot stone bath, followed by a glass of locally brewed Ara (wine).

 

Day 8/ Tang Valley

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• A challenging yet rewarding hike awaits today. Our journey leads us to the revered and sacred Thowadra Monastery, aptly named the ‘highest rock,’ perched at an altitude of 3400m. Blessed by the presence of Guru Rinpoche, who meditated here and left his indelible footprints in the stone, this site holds great significance.

 

• Our hike commences from the north end of the Tang Valley, starting at 2750m along a dirt road by the riverside, eventually crossing the river via a wooden bridge. The trail ascends through serene pine forests, passing several monuments along the mountainside. The final stretch of the trail proves to be steep, yet the sight of the monastery, perched on the cliff above, serves as a powerful motivator to conquer the stone steps leading to its summit. From this vantage point, we're treated to a magnificent view of the Tang Valley on the horizon. We then explore the enigmatic and exceptionally sacred temple, ingeniously built directly into the cliff walls.

 

• Subsequently, we retrace our steps, returning to the first bridge where our host awaits with a warm picnic and a cup of chai, marking the conclusion of our day's adventure as we head back to the comforts of our homestay.

Day 9/ Tang Valley - Punakha

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• After breakfast, the journey continues with a drive to Punakha, the former capital city. Passing through the Trongsa Valley, a quick stop awaits at the Chendebji Chorten, nestled at a river confluence. Following this picturesque pause, the path ascends to Pele La Pass at 3400m, then descends to the valley floor at 1200m, leading us into the historical town of Punakha.

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Day 10/ Punakha

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• In the morning, we take beautiful stroll to the Khamsum Namgyal Chorten, a charming temple constructed for the current king by his mother. Descending through the picturesque villages and along the serene riverbank, you'll traverse an idyllic rural landscape.

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• In the later part of the day, an exploration of the Punakha Dzong awaits. Once the capital of Bhutan, it stands dramatically at the confluence of two mighty rivers: the Pho Chhu (Father River) and the Mo Chhu (Mother River), creating a stunning natural backdrop for this historic fortress-monastery which is renowned for its expansive prayer hall adorned with three colossal Buddhas and exquisite painted thangkas.

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Day 11/ Punakha - Paro

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• Today's itinerary leads us back to Paro, the starting point of our Bhutanese adventure. However, before we embark on this journey, we have an early morning visit planned to the renowned Divine Madman’s Temple, Chime Lhakhang, nestled in the serene Lobesa Valley.

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• As we arrive in Paro in the late afternoon, we can explore the Paro Dzong, also known as Rinpung Dzong, constructed in 1644 on the orders of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. This dzong, which translates to 'the fortress of the heap of jewels,' is an exquisite example of Bhutanese architecture, featuring fourteen shrines within its walls. Concluding our day, you'll have some leisure time to further explore Paro at your own pace.

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Day 12/ Paro

 

• This morning, commence the journey towards the Takstang Gompa, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched at an elevation of 3010 m. Along the way, pause at the viewpoint and teahouse where you will return for lunch. Undoubtedly, this is among the most awe-inspiring monasteries in Bhutan, nestled on a rock ledge a thousand meters above the valley floor. The primary temple was constructed on the very spot where Guru Rinpoche, it is said, flew on the back of a tiger to meditate within this cave perched on a rocky precipice. The hike to the viewing point takes approximately 1.5 hours, followed by another 1.5 hours to reach the monastery and return.

 

• In the afternoon, seize the opportunity to visit Kyichu Lhakhang, the final Bhutanese temple on our itinerary. This auspicious 8th-century temple was built over the left foot of a mythical demoness, believed to have obstructed the spread of Buddhism across Tibet and the entire Himalayan region. As evening descends, let's come together to celebrate our achievements and savor our last group dinner of this remarkable journey.

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Day 13/ Tour ends in Paro

 

• Your tour concludes this morning in Paro. Depending on your flight departure time, there may be an opportunity for some last-minute souvenir shopping and leisurely exploration before you transfer to the airport. Safe Journey!