Bhutan: The land of Thunder Dragon is a popular Himalayan country that attracts tourists from around the world due to its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural importance. From historical and ancient sites to modern-day attractions, Bhutan's unique style makes it a must-visit destination. The country places a strong emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly activities, resulting in low carbon emissions and a focus on gross national happiness rather than gross domestic production. Bhutan's undisturbed natural environment, beautiful landscapes, and stunning Himalayan scenery, as well as its monasteries, traditional foods, and unique cultures and traditions, make it an ideal destination for short or long vacations. Its diverse flora and fauna, which thrive in its varied geography, are another great attraction for visitors. As a Himalayan country, Bhutan is also known as the "homeland of the Thunder Dragon," or Druk Yul, and is considered the last paradise on earth.
What is included in the tour
- Accommodation
- Transport
- Private Guide
What is NOT included in the tour
- Flights
- Insurance
- Explore the Himalayan country
Day 1: Arrival in Paro, then transfer to Thimphu-capital of Bhutan: 54 km/ 1 hour
Welcome to only and only the kingdom of South Asia! Upon your arrival at Paro airport, you will be greeted by your guide who will assist you in transferring to your hotel situated in the vibrant heart of Thimphu city. Thimphu is an exceptional city that harmoniously blends modern development with timeless traditions. It serves as a hub for government offices, religious institutions, and commercial activities, offering a captivating glimpse into Bhutan's cultural and administrative center. Later you can take an exploratory walk around the local marketplace near the hotel which is a few minutes’ walks. The market place includes craft bazaar offering genuine Bhutanese arts & crafts
Day 2: Sightseeing tour of Thimpu
After enjoying the first breakfast in the happiest country of the world, you will take a drive to visit the oldest monastery in Bhutan. Pangri Zampa-built in 16th century, is now a school for Buddhist student monks where they learn Lamaism and astrology based on Buddhist philosophy Then, visit Bhutan Heritage Museum, offering an exceptional demonstration of ancient Bhutanese architecture which is slowly being shadowed due to modernization. The other highlight is a visit to the Institute for Zorig Chusum- Arts & Crafts School or Painting School. The Institute offers a sixyear course on the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. You will continue the sightseeing tour after lunch in one of Thimphu’s local eateries. You will visit to Buddha Point – the largest statue of Buddha in the country and have breathtaking views of the Thimphu Valley. Later, visit Tashichho Dzong: “Fortress of the Glorious Religion”. It is center of government and religion, and presently houses the throne room and offices of the king. Built-in 1641 by the unifier of Bhutan, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, which was reconstructed in the 1960s in a traditional Bhutanese manner – without nails or architectural plans.
Day 3: Drive from Thimphu to Punakha: 76 km/ 2-3 hours
Eat the delicious breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a dramatic drive (few scenic stops) over the mountain pass of Dochu La (3,080m) to Punakha passing through lush forests of oak and rhododendron trees. The towering Himalayan peaks are clearly visible from the window of the coach. The highway trails the scenic Dang Chhu before driving through forests where you will stop briefly at Dochula Pass to take in the grand outlook of eastern Himalayan Range. On arrival in Punakha, have rest for short period before visiting Punakha Dzong, built at the junction of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers in 1637, by unifier Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. It serves as the historical and administrative center of the region. Following this, you will visit the Rinchengang Village nearby, one of the oldest villages in Bhutan. Experience the traditional culture, architecture, and cheerful local people in a sleepy Punakha Valley, where an ancient way of life has unchanged for generations.
Day 4: Full day Sightseeing of Punakha Valley
Early morning, hike up through fields of vegetables and crops to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, built to take away negative forces and promote peace, stability, and harmony in the moving world. With the commanding views across the Mo Chhu river, Chorten rule the upper Punakha Valley. After lunch, start an outing to the village of Talo- above Punakha Valley which is built on a plateau with majestic views across the valley. Village houses beautiful farmhouses where flowers, corn, and sweet peas are grown in abundance. Then visit Nalanda Buddhist College – locally famous as‘Dalayna’ while the monks call it ‘Nalanda Buddhist College’. Devote the afternoon enjoying buttered tea with a spectacular view and interactions with monks. At last, you will take a short drive to the hilltop passing the huge terrace farm and vibrant orchards, to Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang nunnery. Standing on a ridge around the pine trees and overlooking valleys of Punakha and Wangduephodrang, shines of the magnificent structures of Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang (Temple) that houses a 14-foot bronze statue of Avalokiteshvara (Chenrigzig Chagtong chentong) and other statues made entirely by local Bhutanese artisans.
Day 5: Drive from Punakha to Paro: 130 km/4 hours
After breakfast, proceed for hiking to Chimi Lakhang- a temple located at the center of the valley which is known as the temple of fertility where locals pray to be blessed with children. After this back to Paro, drive down from Dochula, and follow the dramatic road around Wang Chhu and Paro Chhu river valleys. En route, you will visit Simtokha Dzong, the place of profound tantric teaching. Upon arrival at Paro, check into the hotel. Paro is the home of many Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries and rich in culture and scenic beauty with century’s long myths and legends. Then, visit Ta Dzong, originally built as a watchtower, which now converted to the National Museum. The collection includes antique Thangka paintings, textiles, weapons & armor, household objects, and a rich assortment of natural and historic artifacts. Following this you will take a short walk down the trail to visit Rinpung Dzong, directly translating to “Fortress of the Heap of Jewels”, which has a long and fascinating history.
Day 6: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery: 4-5 hours hiking
After leisurely breakfast at the hotel, drive to Satsam Chorten, stopping en route at the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo. It signifies the introduction of Buddhism in Bhutan. On arrival at the trail-head point, start walking excursion to Taktshang Monastery – one of the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries, rested on the side of a cliff 900m above the Paro valley floor. It is believed that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery and hence it is called ‘Tiger’s Nest’. The place is recognized as a most sacred place and visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime. Enjoy lunch at the base of Tiger’s Nest before back to the hotel. Note: Due to its location, the only way to get to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery is by hiking. On average it takes between four to five hours to do the round-trip hike, a reasonable level of fitness is required.
Day 7: Departure day! transfer to the Paro International Airport
With an exciting time with you, it’s time to bid a farewell with the hope of serving you again in our beautiful country. Hope this was a memorable and unforgettable part of your life. Safe journey
