Introduction
Embark on a 10-day adventure in the heart of the Eastern Himalayas with our Bhutan Tours itinerary. From the enchanting landscapes of Paro to the vibrant culture of Thimphu and the serene valleys of Gangtey, this journey offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and rich traditions. Explore ancient monasteries, hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest, visit historical sites, and experience the unique character of Bhutan, all while enjoying the warm hospitality of its people. This itinerary promises an unforgettable exploration of a kingdom where time-honored customs coexist with a reverence for nature.
Day 01: Arrive Paro by Druk Air
Destiny Bhutan staff will greet you upon arrival at Paro Airport (7,000ft) and drive you through the valley of Paro to the hotel. After lunch visit Ta Dzong, the National Museum housed in an ancient watchtower, which has a fine collection of ancient Thangka painting, textiles, weapons and artifacts. Walk to the traditional wooden bridge. O/N at Paro.
Day 02: Paro Sightseeing -Thimphu
Early morning hike to viewpoint of Taktshang, the Tiger’s Nest (one and a half hours walk). This magical monastery clings to a vertical granite cliff 3,000 ft above the valley floor. The monastery unfortunately got burnt in 1998 but it has recently been reconstructed. On the way back drive upto the Drugyel Dzong. This Dzong is of historical importance (which was in ruin for many years and now it is under construction), from whose ramparts the Bhutanese repelled Tibetan invaders. On a clear day one can view the sacred Mount Chhomolari, Mountain of Goddess (24,000 ft). And also Visit Kyichu Lhakhang.
Afternoon visit farm house and later transfer to Thimphu. O/N Thimphu.
Day 03: Thimphu Sightseeing
Thimphu to the capital of Bhutan, where most of the modern facilities is still not reach, some say that Thimphu is only capital in the world without the computerised tariff lighting system.
Morning visit memorial Chorten built in the memory of Lt. His Majesty the King by Royal Queen Mother, visit Cahngkha Lhakhang, Motithang mini Zoo to see the National animal The Takin. Drive down to viewpoint from where you have magnificent view of Thimphu valley, visit National Library to see the large collection of traditional books, Folk Heritage museum where you can see the typical Bhutanese house and their way lifestyle.
Afternoon if possible you can visit Tashichodzong, the parliament house of the country, handmade paper factory and some of the local Handicraft centre. Evening at leisure, O/N Same.
Day 04: Thimphu-Punakha
Morning visit Bhutan post office to see sample of Bhutanese stamp if interested otherwise visit weekend vegetable market, where people from the far village comes to sell their vegetable product and handicraft item. Later transfer to Punakha over the Dochula pass, (ht.10,000ft) from where one can see the beautiful view of eastern Himalayan range on the clear sunny day.
Visit Punakha Dzong, which is the winter home of Je Khenpo (the chief abode) the head of central Monastic body and also this place is the old capital of the country. You can walk around the Punakha valley to see the farmhouse and the Bhutan architecture. O/N Wangdi.
Day 05: Punakha – Gangtey – Bumthang
Morning transfer to Gangtey/Phobjikha valley, which is the winter habitant of Black Neck Crane. Explore in & around the valley, later transfer to Bumthang across the Pelela pass (ht. around 4000m) where there wills a lot of snow in the winter months. You will really experience the snow and yak herder in this area, visit Chenrebji Lhakhang which is built in typical Nepali style, lunch at Trongsa and after lunch visit the dzong then continue to Bumthang. O/N Bumthang
Day 06: Bumthang Sightseeing
Whole day explore Bumthang valley, visit Jambay Lhakhang, which was built by Tibetan King in 7th century which was among his 108 monastery that he had built two in Bhutan, one in Paro Kyichu Lhakhang. Visit Kurjey Lhakhang, which is one of the most sacred sites in Bhutan. The oldest dates back to 1652 and are situated on the rock face where Guru Rinpoche meditated in the 8th Century. O/N Same
Day 07: Bumthang-Thimphu
Early morning drive to Paro. On the way visit Thimphu. O/N Paro
Day 08: Thimphu-Paro
Finish sightseeing in Thimphu, afternoon transfer to Paro.
Day 09: Departure
