Overview

The Amankora journey 8 Day also offers an unforgettable exploration of Bhutan’s captivating landscapes, rich culture, and spiritual heritage. Combining luxury accommodation with immersive experiences. This trip also presents a holistic adventure that delves deep into the heart of the Kingdom of Bhutan.

Starting in Paro, travelers are welcomed by the awe-inspiring sight of the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery precariously perched on a cliff. The journey then meanders through verdant valleys, quaint villages, and ancient monasteries. Each day’s trek presents a blend of natural beauty and cultural encounters, fostering a profound connection with the surroundings.

Thimphu, the capital city, unveils a mix of tradition and modernity. Exploring the Memorial Chorten and the Folk Heritage Museum offers insights into Bhutan’s rich history. A scenic drive to Punakha also reveals the stunning Punakha Dzong, set at the confluence of two rivers. This spiritual center stands as a testament to Bhutanese architecture.

Traversing the Gangtey Valley, travelers also greet themselves by the striking Gangtey Monastery and sweeping views of the Phobjikha Valley, known for its resident black-necked cranes. The journey continues to Bumthang, a spiritual heartland adorned with ancient temples and monasteries. Engaging with local artisans and witnessing the vibrant Jakar Dzong adds cultural depth.

A flight to Paro opens doors to the sacred Kyichu Lhakhang and Rinpung Dzong. The trip culminates with an ascent to the Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest, a fitting finale to an awe-inspiring journey.

Throughout the expedition, the luxurious Amankora lodges provide a serene retreat. These lodges also blend traditional Bhutanese architecture with contemporary comforts, offering relaxation and rejuvenation after each day’s exploration. Gourmet meals feature Bhutanese and international cuisine, providing a delightful culinary journey.

Conclusion and Summary

The Amankora journey 8 Day isn’t just a trip; it’s an odyssey of the senses. It also delves into Bhutan’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and spiritual essence, leaving travelers with a profound appreciation for this enigmatic kingdom. As participants immerse themselves in Bhutan’s traditions and landscapes, they also forge a connection that lingers long after the journey’s end—a true testament to the transformative power of travel.

DETAILED ITINERARY

DAY 1: ARRIVAL, TRANSFER TO THIMPHU

Elevation 2,320 m    

As your Druk Air flight weaves through the valley, arrival in Bhutan is like no other. As you touch down, keep your camera at the ready, as we have noticed how passengers slowly disembark and then stand on the tarmac totally bewildered. Then move through to immigration where you will present your Visa Approval letter and Passport for the official stamp. As you clear the Immigration check, please make your way to the baggage delivery area and here you will meet your Guide for the first time. The transfer to Thimphu is approximately 1½ hours and upon arrival and after settling in; you will have the choice of the National Memorial Chorten, National Textile Museum, Folk Heritage Museum, National Library to visit, and perhaps time to stroll the Main Street for some interesting Himalayan artifacts or textiles.

DAY 2: EXPLORE THIMPHU VALLEY

Elevation 2,320 m    

This morning you will also head to the north end of the valley to view Trashi Chhoe Dzong, the seat of Bhutan’s government and Royal offices, and pay a visit to Pangri Zampa, two 16th century buildings that now house a monastic training school for astrologers. At the head of the valley, should you wish to stretch your legs; a short hike will take you to Cheri Goemba, the monastery where the first monastic body established in the Kingdom. Back in town you should also be able to visit a few of the capital’s cottage industries ranging from traditional paper making to hand rolled incense.

DAY 3: THIMPHU TO PUNAKHA

Elevation 1,300 m    

We opt for an early departure for a dramatic drive over the high mountain pass of Dochu La and on to the Punakha Valley. Sights on the way include one of Bhutan’s first fortress monasteries, the 17th century Simtokha Dzong, and ancient wall paintings at the Hongtsho Goemba monastery. The journey also continues over the 3,050m mountain pass where on a clear day, towering Himalayan peaks are clearly visible. The descent down thru the Punakha Valley along the Kingdom’s only east-west highway will loop you through the Valley of Wangdi where you can visit the rustic Wangdiphodrang Dzong and perhaps the local town temple next door.

Time afford us to walk this small village and explore its row of intimate shops before heading back into Punakha Valley. This afternoon you will have a choice to visit the village of Talo, home of the Queens’ and the valley’s protective deity lhakhang. Later in the afternoon a hike to an ancient monastery on the hilltop behind the lodge can get organize or time given to enjoy the farmhouse and spa of the lodge.

DAY 4: EXPLORE PUNAKHA VALLEY

Elevation 1,300 m    

Your day in Punakha Valley also begins with a hike up thru fields of chilies, cabbages and rice along the banks of the Mo Chhu to the upper end of the valley to the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, a stunning monument recently built by the Queens and consecrated in 1999. Returning down thru the valley you will have plenty of time to take in the impressive Punakha Dzong, home to the remains of Bhutan’s first ruler, Shabdrung Nawang Namgyal, and the winter residence of the monastic order’s leader and his entourage of monks.

Later a picnic lunch will be served on the banks of the Punakha Chhu at a vantage point of the stunning Dzong and confluence of the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu. Following lunch a quick drive will take you to the village of Talo where you will stop to walk the stunning, quiet grounds of the village temple and perhaps visit the home village of the Kingdom’s four Queens. Further hikes or valley excursions can be organized.

DAY 5: PUNAKHA TO PARO

Elevation 2,280 m    

After descending back down from Dochu La, you will follow your way back up the dramatic Wang Chu and Paro Chu river valleys, before crossing through Paro Town towards the north end of the valley. Here, set in a pine forest, you will find the Amankora lodge and its spa. In the afternoon, there is an opportunity for a quick stroll to the nearby ruins, a visit to some of the valley’s oldest and holiest religious monuments or a ramble down Paro’s main street. Evenings at Amankora may include informative lectures on the history, religion, flora and fauna of the region or an intriguing movie on the Himalayas.

DAY 6: EXPLORING PARO VALLEY

Elevation 2,280 m    

The day starts with a visit to the National Museum, housed in the Ta Dzong (watchtower). Here, an intriguing collection of artefacts provide a wonderful introduction to the rich culture and heritage of the Kingdom. Just a short walk downhill lays the dominating Paro Dzong, a fine example of Bhutanese historic architecture. From the Dzong, the tour crosses Nyamai Zampa, a traditional cantilever bridge, and guests are then driven to the town temple, built in 1525, to view ancient wall paintings. Paro options include picturesque picnic spots or, perhaps, a visit to a traditional farmhouse to lunch with the family.

This afternoon there will be choice of excursions with those wanting a further immersion into the culture and religion, visits to the Kyichu Lhakhang, Dumtse Lhakhang and the Drukgyel Dzong alter room can be organized. For the hikers, a beautiful trail can be taken up behind the lodge carrying on past Drukgyel Dzong, along the Paro Chhu, then across a suspension bridge and up thru terraced farmland and forests before looping back down the river to a second bridge and across the river, returning to the lodge.

DAY 7: TIGER’S NEST HIKE

Elevation 2,280 m    

This morning will begin with a hike up to view one of Bhutan’s most revered monuments, the Taktshang Goemba, more commonly referred to as the “Tiger’s Nest”. The four to five hour return trek also offers spectacular views of this sacred monastery perched on a cliff face 900m above the valley floor. The balance of the day can be spend browsing shops in town, enjoying the spa around the lodge or taking on another hike into the rich forests that rise up behind the lodge.

DAY 8: DEPARTURE DAY

Elevation 2,280 m    

A car will be ready to take you to Paro Airport. Transfer time is approximately 30 minutes and you are advised to arrive at the airport an hour before your international flight departure.

INCLUDED

  • Private guided tour
  • Visas for Bhutan
  • Airport transfers
  • Daily 3 meals (B/L/D) & house beverages at Aman
  • Accommodation at Aman Resorts
  • A qualified & licensed English-speaking guide
  • An experienced driver
  • A tour vehicle
  • Entry fees & road permits
  • Government fee, royalty, taxes & surcharges
  • Mineral bottled water
  • Laundry service on a daily basis
  •  A 60-minutes massage per person at Aman Spa
  • Full service & assistance before, during and after your Bhutan trip

EXCLUDED

  • Flight into Bhutan via Drukair (can also be arranged with us)
  • Flight on other airline to catch Drukair Flight
  • Meals at 4-5 stars restaurants
  • Hotel stay outside of Bhutan
  • Expenditure of personal nature
  • Travel Insurance (can also be arranged with us)
  • Tips for the guide and driver
  • Alcoholic drink