DAY 1 | ARRIVAL
Welcome to Bhutan.
On the way to Thimphu from Paro International Airport, you will stop by Tachog Lhakhang (temple), which was built by the legendary iron bridge builder, Thangtong Gyalpo.
Depending on your arrival time, do some sightseeing around the city or have a relaxing time at the hotel.
DAY 2 | SIGHTSEEING IN THIMPHU
1. Wangditse Hike
Druk Wangditse Lhakhang is one of the oldest temples in Bhutan overlooking the Thimphu Valley. This short hike from Sangaygang, home to the BBS tower is relatively easy and child-friendly. You will make your way through many prayer flags and also get a beautiful glimpse of the city. On the way back, you will stop by the Takin Preserve, where you will get to see the national animal of Bhutan.
2. Visit Tashichho dzong (fortress).
Visit the fortress of the capital with its impressive structure and unique architecture. It is an impressively large structure, surrounded by well-kept lawns and beautiful gardens.
3. Head to the School of Traditional Art of Zorig Chusum and have lunch at the Folk Heritage Museum.
See the 13 traditional arts and crafts in Bhutan before heading to the folk heritage museum to learn about the traditional lifestyle of Bhutan.
Later, you shall enjoy a Bhutanese lunch at the museum.
4. Visit Buddha Point.
Later in the evening, you will go to Buddha Point, which is located atop a hill overlooking Thimphu Valley. The Buddha Statue is said to emanate an aura of peace and happiness to the entire world. This massive statue of Shakyamuni measures in at a height of 51.5m, making it one of the largest statues of Buddha in the world. The statue is made of bronze and is gilded in gold.
DAY 3 | THIMPHU TO PUNAKHA
1. First stop: Dochula Pass.
Dochula Pass offers a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range. The view is amazing with snow-capped mountains forming a majestic backdrop to the tranquillity of the 108 chortens adorning the mountain pass.
2. Before reaching Punakha, we will visit Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the fertility temple.
Built in the 15th century by Lama Drukpa Kunley, popularly known as the ‘Divine madman’. Many who wish to conceive, visit the temple for blessings and guidance.
DAY 4 | PUNAKHA
1. Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
Found on the hill above Punakha valley, this Chorten (Stupa) was built by the Queen Mother for the sole purpose of warding off negative forces, and attracting peace and harmony for all living beings. What sets this Chorten apart from others is that, it was designed based on the principles within the Holy Scriptures, instead of modern engineering manuals.
2. Punakha Dzong
It is the second oldest and second largest Dzong with one of the most majestic structures in the country. Built at the confluence of two rivers, the fortress is celebrated as the fortress where all the kings are crowned and the winter residence of the Central Monastic Body.
3. Option of River Rafting
DAY 5 | PUNAKHA TO BUMTHANG
On the way, visit Trongsa Dzong – Built in 1647, it is the largest fortress in Bhutan. This magnificent structure can be seen long before reaching Trongsa. You can also visit the Ta Dzong, the watch tower.
DAY 6 | BUMTHANG
Bumthang is the most historic place with numerous sacred sites and monasteries. It is a place of significant historical value.
It comprises of four valleys – Choekor, Tang, Ura, and Chumey.
You will have the opportunity to visit sacred monasteries and lakes.
DAY 7
1. Ugyen Choling Palace Museum
2. Weaving Centre
3. Red Panda Brewery and Cheese Factory
DAY 8 | BUMTHANG TO GANGTEY
1. Phobjikha, also known as Gangtey, is the glacier valley of Bhutan.
It is also the winter home to the globally endangered, black-necked cranes, who migrate from the Tibetan Plateau. Every winter, beginning from the month of October, people in Phobjokha wait for their arrival as it symbolizes prosperity and a good harvest season. Bhutan has put in a considerable amount of effort into protecting the rich biodiversity in Phobjikha in order to ensure that the endangered birds have a winter home.
2. (Seasonal) Black-Necked Crane Festival
In early November, visitors also have the opportunity to take part in the Black-Necked Crane Festival.
3. Hike through Gangtey Nature Trail
4. Have a go at Bhutan’s national sport – Archery
DAY 9 | GANGTEY TO PARO
Besides being the home to the only international airport in the country, history is abundant in this valley and the numerous historical locations are proof of this very nature. The very famous tiger’s nest is nestled on the cliff that overlooks Paro valley.
1. Farm house.
Bhutan is known for its untouched ancient culture and tradition where most visitors can see the unique blend of past and present culture in Bhutan, which almost all the countries in the world have lost. The best way to experience the indigenous Bhutanese culture is by visiting the Traditional Bhutanese Farmhouse. Traditional Bhutanese Farmhouse of Paro Valley with its unique concept of preserving and showcasing the rustic Bhutanese lifestyle has enthralled the mind of many travelers. The Queen Mother of Bhutan was the first to come up with this concept of Traditional Bhutanese Farmhouse.
2. Hot Stone Bath
Enjoy a hot stone bath to relax followed by a traditional dinner.
DAY 10 | HIKE TO TAKTSANG
1. The Hike up to Taktsang.
Taktsang is the most famous tourist destination in Bhutan. It hangs on a cliff, 3,120 meters above sea level. Due to its unique location, visitors hiking up to this sacred site are left with nothing but a breathtaking and unforgettable experience.
2. Option of lunch at the cafeteria or in the town.
3. Hot Stone Spa
Relieve your tired feet and legs after the hike at a hot stone spa.
DAY 11 | DEPARTURE
Bidding you a safe journey home with warm memories to take back with you. TASHI DELEK!
Package Includes
- All meals during the tour
- Accommodation (standard twin bed sharing basis)
- Transportation
- Experienced tour guide
- Entrance for all tourist sites
Package Excludes
- Travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities
- Charges for any additional activity not mentioned in the itinerary
- Personal expenses like laundry, shopping etc.