Trans Bhutan Trail To Bhutan
6N/7DThimphu (2N) - Punakha (1N) - Paro (3N)
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 7
Arrive Paro & transfer to Thimphu (55km, approx. 1.1/2 hr drive)Meeting & assistance on arrival and transfer to Bhutan’s capital city Thimphu. En route take a brief photo stop at Chuzom, the confluence of Paro & Thimphu rivers. On arrival in Thimphu, check into the hotel.
Evening at dusk proceed on a driving tour of Thimphu valley covering monuments & sites illuminated attractively: BBS tower, Trashichhoedzong, SAARC building, Changangkha Lhakhang, Buddha Dordenma & King’s Memorial Chorten. Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu.
ThimphuMoring after breakfast city tour of Thimphu & you embark on a 2 hour walking excursion from Buddha Dordenma to Changangkha. On the way, hoisting of prayer flags. Later if you want to try Bhutanese local food experance we can take them to you the Traditional Bhutanese lunch at Heritage Home Babesa (* Optional with additional cost). After Lunch explores Centenary Farmer’s Market and Coronation Park & Later in the day visit of King’s Memorial Chorten & Trashcihhoedzong. Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu.
Thimphu / Dochula / Punakha (75km, approx. 2.1/2 hr drive)After early breakfast drive to Dochula pass (3,088m). From Dochula, head down into the adjacent valley and join a section of the Trail known as the ‘Divine Madman Trail’ which is also part of Trans Bhutan Trail. You are now following in the footsteps of the Divine Madman himself, Drukpa Kuenley, when he first came to Bhutan from Tibet in the 16th century to fulfil his destiny of suppressing evil energies. On arrival at Thinleygang, enjoy a visit to the Thinleygang Lhakhang (temple), which is where the central monastic body overnights on their two-day journey from the summer residence in Thimphu to the winter residence in Punakha.
Trek Distance: approx. 10 km
Estimated Trek Duration: about 3.1/2 hours
Starting Elevation: 3,114m
Ending Elevation: 1,811m
Picnic lunch at Thinleygang Lhakhang (*Optional with additional cost).
From Thinleygang Lhakhang, picked up by our transport and drive to Punakha, late afternoon visit magnificent Punakha Dzong & then walk across Punakha Suspension Bridge, one of the oldest and longest suspension bridges of Bhutan measuring about 160m. Overnight at the Punakha.
Punakha / Paro (125km, approx. 4 hr drive)After Breakfast drive to Paro. Afternoon visit in Paro, Ta Dzong (national museum) & Rinpung Dzong.
Later in the day, visit a typical Village Farmhouse and experience traditional tea, snacks and try your hand in Bhutan’s National Sport (Archery) (* Optional with additional cost). Evening an exploratory walk around Paro city centre and market. Overnight at the hotel in Paro.
Paro Trek to Upper Dopshari WalkAfter breakfast, transfer to Upper Dopshari, located high on the opposite side of the Paro Valley. Here, you will join the Trans Bhutan Trail for a pleasant morning walk down the valley side. Stop at the village of Dopshari, where you will have the opportunity to try your hand at Bhutan’s national sport, archery, using traditional wooden bows, and to have a quick game of traditional ‘khuru’ (darts). You will also be able to enjoy a cookery demonstration and a traditional Bhutanese lunch at a local farmhouse (* Optional with additional cost).After lunch, continue to skirt around the northern ridge of the Paro Valley, enjoying fantastic views all the way, before descending through rice paddies to Lamgong Village. From Lamgong, the Trail continues down into Paro, passing the Kichu Lhakhang (temple). Afternoon for shopping or leisure in Paro city centre. Overnight at the hotel in Paro.
Trek Distance: approx. 10km
Estimated Trek Duration: about 4.1/2 hours
Starting Elevation: 2,380m
Ending Elevation: 2,826m
Paro Trek to Taktsang MonasteryAfter breakfast, proceed on a 5 hr walking excursion to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest). & once back Afternoon for shopping or at leisure in Paro city centre.
Overnight at the hotel in Paro.
Depart ParoAfter breakfast transfer to the airport for flight to onward destination.
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.
