Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the mystical landscapes and cultural treasures of Bhutan, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Himalayas. The Bhutan Exclusive Tour is also a mesmerizing adventure that encapsulates the essence of this enchanting kingdom in a compact yet captivating itinerary.
Commence your expedition in the picturesque capital, Thimphu, where traditional Bhutanese architecture also blends harmoniously with modern influences. Explore the revered Tashichho Dzong, a stunning fortress-monastery, and witness the bustling local markets where vibrant textiles, handicrafts, and local produce entice the senses.
Journey onward to the tranquil town of Punakha, graced by the resplendent Punakha Dzong, a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture surrounded by lush paddy fields. The iconic Punakha Suspension Bridge also offers breathtaking views of the confluence of two mighty rivers.
In the serene valley of Paro, the iconic Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest, awaits atop a steep cliff. The hike to this spiritual haven rewards adventurers with awe-inspiring vistas and a sense of accomplishment.
Your Bhutanese sojourn also continues with a visit to the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, followed by an exploration of the Rinpung Dzong, a testament to Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage.
Experience the charm of Bhutan’s rural life in the beautiful valley of Gangtey. Also Observe the graceful black-necked cranes that migrate here in winter, and gain insights into Bhutan’s conservation efforts at the Gangtey Nature Center.
Conclude your expedition with a glimpse of Bhutan’s eastern treasures in Bumthang during Bhutan Exclusive tour, where ancient monasteries, fertile valleys, and rich folklore await. Engage with the locals, known for their warm hospitality, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture during local festivals and rituals.
Conclusion and Summary
Throughout the Bhutan Exclusive tour, also relish Bhutanese cuisine, characterized by fiery chilies and savory cheese, and engage with monks, artisans, and locals who offer glimpses into Bhutan’s unique way of life. The Bhutan Exclusive Tour is also a carefully curated odyssey that unveils the nation’s splendor and cultural richness. It leaving travelers with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for this extraordinary kingdom.
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 01: Arrival Paro (2250m) – Thimphu (2350m)
Arrive Paro by the Bhutanese National Carrier flying over the world’s highest mountains and finally landing at the lush green Paro valley. A cool and clean fresh air greets the visitor as stepping down from the plane, the first gift of Bhutan. After clearing customs and visa formalities, meet the representatives and the Bhutanese guide, and a short tour brief by the guide then transfer to Paro town for lunch. Then drive towards Thimphu (the capital of Bhutan) for about hour.
In Thimphu, visit Buddha point for a stunning view of Thimphu city and Takin Compound during Bhutan Exclusive Tour. On the way to the viewpoint over Thimphu is the home of Bhutan’s national animal, the Takin. Then continue to Tashi Choe Dzong- the fortress of the glorious religion initially constructed in 1641 and rebuilt by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk in the 1960s. Folk Heritage Museum – a 300 year old traditional house converted into a museum, Centenary Farmers Market, the new authentic craft bazaar. Overnight at Hotel (Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 02: Thimphu – Punakha (1310m)
After breakfast, drive for about 3 hours to Punakha. Climb up the mountain road to Dochula La at 3140m. On clear weather, the pass commands a wonderful panorama of the Eastern Himalayas. From the pass, descend through varied forest and finally emerging into the highly cultivated valley of Punakha. Take a short hike through beautiful rice fields to Chimmi Lhakhang. A temple dedicated to Drukpa Kuenley. A favorite saint of the Bhutanese people is known affectionately as “the Divine Madman”. The temple is on a hillside in the middle of rice fields and has become a pilgrimage site for childless couples. Enjoy some tea and snacks at the end of hike while overlooking the fields. Afterwards, visit Punakha Dzong. Located at the confluence of the Pho-chu (male-river) and Mo-chu (female-river), the Punakha Dzong is arguably the most impressive dzong in the country. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 03: Punakha – Gangtey (2320m)
Drive to Wangduephodrang Dzong, which is perched on a spur at the confluence of two rivers. The position of the Dzong is remarkable as it completely covers the spur and commands an impressive view both up and down the valley. Then drive up a winding mountain road through oak and rhododendron forest, and over a high pass down into the Phobjikha valley, surely one of the loveliest high altitude valleys in Bhutan. Phobjikha is one of Bhutan’s few glacial valleys, and chosen winter home of black-necked cranes, migrating from the Tibetan plateau. Enjoy 1½ hours Gangtey nature trail from the monastery through the jungle before emerging to the valley floor. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 04: Gangtey – Bumthang (2800m)
Today, we drive 5 hours to Bumthang valley. The road climbs rapidly through a series of hairpins out of Trongsa and there are great views back to the Dzong and out across the valley. After passing through cultivated fields for a while, the trail re-enters the forest and reach the Yotong La (3400m). Descending to a low point of 2650m at a village called Chumey; the scenery is once again totally different as the route enters the wide-open Bumthang valleys. It takes about an hour to get to the roadside at Chumey, the first of the four valleys in Bumthang. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 05: In Bumthang- Sightseeing
In the morning visit Kurje Lhakhang, one of the most sacred places in the kingdom as Bhutan’s “patron saint”, Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) meditated here. From Kurje monastery, a tarmac road also heads south along the right bank of the river to Jambey Lhakhang. This temple, erected by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century, is one of the two oldest in Bhutan (the other being Kyichu Lhakhang in Paro). After lunch, hike to Tamshing Lhakhang, founded in 1501 by Pema Lingpa. It contains interesting and ancient Buddhist wall paintings. Later, visit Jakar Dzong, “the castle of the white bird”, and then take a stroll through Bumthang’s market area before returning to the hotel. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 06: Bumthang – Ura – Bumthang (2800m)
After breakfast, drive towards the Ura valley which is 42 kilometers from Bumthang. The road also reaches the Ura Shelthangla from where a magnificent view of Bhutan’s highest peak, Gangkhar Puensum (7,500 m) can be spotted. The road then descends into Ura valley by long loops across fields and pastures. Ura’s main occupation is raising sheeps, yaks and the introduction of potato farming has brought a certain degree of prosperity of people. In Ura, visit Ura Lhakhang and picnic lunch will be served at one of many inviting spots. Afternoon: drive back to Bumthang. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 07: Bumthang – Mongar (1700m)
Today is the longest day so wake up earlier than usual as a 7-8 hours drive to Mongar from Bumthang. During this 184 kms trip on hilly roads, witness varieties of floras and faunas passing through Ura valley, one of the most beautiful valley’s of Bhutan. All kinds of vegetations awaits en-route. You will reach in Mongar before dusk. Evening: Go round Mongar town. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 08: Mongar – Trashigang (3773m)
Morning: visit Mongar Dzong. The Dzong was built with a tradition touch in 1930s, and is the newest Dzong in the Dragon County. The Dzong was reconstructed following an order from the royals in the recent past. The Dzong is unique and traditional at the same time. The Dzong is a perfect example of modernization of Bhutanese architecture. After this visit drive back to Trashigang by crossing over Korila Pass reaching Trashigang by mid afternoon. In Trashigang, visit Trashigang Dzong. The Dzong was built in 1659 to defend the country from Tibetan invasions. Likewise, the Dzong is said to be have political stronghold of Eastern Bhutan for over 300 years. It is one of the strategically placed Dzongs in Bhutan. The current Dzong is made bigger in 1936. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 09: Trashigang – Mongar (1600m)
In the morning, proceed towards Gom Kora. It is also one of the temples where Guru Rinpoche, the great tantric meditated. After spending around a full day in this divine place drive back to Mongar for overnight stay. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 10: Mongar – Bumthang (2800m)
This day is also all about being on the roadways where occasional stops will be made in gorgeous places for photography. The journey will start from Mongar towards Bumthang. It requires around 7-8 hours reaching the destination. In the evening, explore around Bumthang. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 11: Bumthang – Paro (2250m)
After breakfast, also re-trace the same route back towards Gangtey and the road journey today is bit longer with 8 hours of drive. Upon arrival at Gangtey, check-in hotel. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
After breakfast, drive back to Paro cross Dochula pass which is about 5 hours drive. PM: Stroll around the streets of Paro. Overnight at Hotel.(Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 12: Paro depart
After breakfast, Also transfer to the airport to catch the onward flight. Bid farewell to the remote and legendary Dragon Kingdom disappearing again behind its guardian mountains. (Breakfast only included)