Fascinating Bhutan
9N/10DThimphu (2N) - Punakha (1N) - Trongsa (1N) - Jakar (2N) - Phobjikha (1N) - Paro (2N)
A striking and sacred space shrouded in myth, Bhutan is filled with grand examples of its extraordinary beliefs and traditional heritage, from the awe-inspiring architecture of its mountain forts and monasteries to the images of Buddhist religious figures painted or carved onto craggy rock faces.
Day 1Day 2Day 3Day 4Day 5Day 6Day 7Day 8Day 9Day 10
Arrival in Paro & transfer to Thimphu (65 km/ 02 hour drive approximately)Once you arrive in Paro, you will be received by our representative and guide who will transfer you to your hotel in Thimphu. Upon arrival, proceed for check-in at your hotel. Depending on arrival time, we can proceed for city sightseeing or relax in the hotel. Visit interesting weekend market (Thu-Sun). Vegetable vendors from different pockets of the country come to sell their products.
Thimphu SightseeingIn the morning we will visit Handmade paper mill, School of Arts and crafts (closed on Sundays, government holidays) where students learn 13 different arts used predominantly in Bhutan. We will also visit nearby folk heritage museum and National Library before lunch. After lunch, drive pass by Memorial Chorten built in memory of the 3rd King. Visit Buddha viewpoint, Changangkha Lhakhang, the oldest temple in the valley, Enclosure where national animal, Takin are kept and Zilukha Nunnery.
Overnight in Thimphu.
Thimphu to Punakha (2 ½ hrs)Today’s drive passes through Dochula pass at 3150 making the most beautiful pass in Bhutan. 108 Druk Wangyel Chortens built over the pass by queen mother in 2003 marks the pass more important than another passes. When the weather permits one can enjoy a spectacular view of the highest mountains of Bhutan at a sight that stretches almost 180 degrees. After a photo break, we will continue our drive to warm valley of Punakha. On arrival, check into the hotel. Afternoon, we will visit the most beautiful Punakha Dzong, which houses the most elaborated temple in the country. The Dzong, showcase the finest example of the arts and crafts of Bhutan.
Overnight in Punakha, (altitude 1350m).
Punakha to Trongsa (5 hrs)Check out of the hotel and visit Chimi Lhakhang on foot, the temple of fertility associated with religious art of phallus. En route, stop to see Wangi ruin Dzong. Continue to Trongsa over Pelela Pass at 3300m which forms the part of Black Mountain Range that divides the country into east and west. On arrival in Trongsa, visit Trongsa Dzong which was ancient home of our royals. Evening relax at your hotel.
Overnight in Trongsa, (altitude 2200m).
Trongsa – Jakar (3 hrs)Morning visit watch tower which houses a museum now and further drive pass by Yotongla pass at 3425m. En route, stop over the weaving place, beside the road where “Yatha” (wool weaving) is done which the valley of Bumthang is famous for. Later in the afternoon we will visit white bird fortress, Jakar Dzong. Evening we will relax in the hotel or walk to visit Jakar town by foot.
Overnight in Jakar, (altitude 2650m).
Jakar sightseeingVisit Jampay Lhakhang, the one of the first 2 Buddhist temples built in the country. This is the home of the naked dance that is still performed annually. Visit Kurjey temple, the site where the royals are cremated. One can either walk cross the suspension bridge and visit the village of Parar and Tamshing on foot or drive there. End your day with a walk passing by the Swiss farm. Evening stroll in Jakar town and try some local pancake and noodles.
Overnight in Jakar.
Jakar to Phobjikha (6-7 hrs)After breakfast enjoy the drive to the valley of Black-necked crane. Black-necked crane is one of the rare specials of the birds in the world, which migrates from Tibetan plateau to Bhutan in winters. On arrival in Phobjikha, visit Gangtey Gompa, the largest and the only monastery of the Nyingmapa sect in western Bhutan and take 2 hours natural tail walk before checking into the hotel. Evening relax in your hotel.
Overnight in Phobjikha, (altitude 2900m).
Phobjikha to Paro (6 hrs)After early breakfast drive to Paro. Afternoon we will visit National Museum, the first of its kind which has a collection from natural history to religious paintings. Visit 17 century Paro Dzong (Fortress) on foot and continue walking through the oldest wooden bridge still in use. Visit Kichu Lhakhang, one from the two oldest temples built in 7th century. Evening stroll old Paro town and peep into some local handicrafts stores.
Overnight in Paro, altitude 2200m.
Paro SightseeingIn the morning, we will hike to Tiger’s Nest Temple, the most revered temple in the country that literally hangs on a granite cliff overlooking the Paro valley at 900m above the valley floor. The temple is associated with Guru Rimpoche who visited in 8th century and believed to have meditated three months in this cave and converted entire valley into Buddhism. It is 2 hours walk up hill for an average hiker, however it can take our almost entire day too. Evening back to the hotel and relax.
Overnight in Paro.
DepartureTake away the sweet memories of Bhutan .Transfer to airport for your departure flight.
Overview
Bhutan, a small kingdom nestled in the eastern Himalayas, is a land of pristine natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique traditions. Known as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," Bhutan has managed to preserve its traditional way of life and remains one of the world's last intact Buddhist kingdoms. Bhutan has to offer Gross National Happiness, Breathtaking Landscapes, Ancient Monasteries and Dzongs, Cultural Festivals, Bhutanese Architecture, National Dress, Warm Hospitality.
Policy
InclusionsExclusions
- Sightseeing as per itinerary.
