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 Best of Bhutan 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 blends harmoniously with modern influences. Also 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 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. Observe the graceful black-necked cranes that migrate here in winter, and gain insights into Bhutan’s conservation efforts at the Gangtey Nature Center.

Conclusion and Summary

Conclude your expedition with a glimpse of Bhutan’s eastern treasures in Bumthang, 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.

Throughout the tour, relish Bhutanese cuisine, also 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 Best of Bhutan Tour is a carefully curated odyssey that unveils the nation’s natural splendor and cultural richness, 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 Bhutan’s national carrier, Druk Air, and it’s also a scenic flight as the plane touch down the lush green Paro Valley flying past the world’s highest mountains during Best of Bhutan Tour. Steeping down from the plane, cool, clean and fresh air welcomes the visitor, the first gift of Bhutan. After clearing the customs and visa formalities met by the representatives and transfer to Paro for lunch. Afterwards, visit Rinpung Dzongbuilt in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the first spiritual and temporal ruler of Bhutan. Then drive to Thimphu (1 hour) following Pa Chhu downstream.

In Thimphu, drive on to the Buddha Terrance for a stunning view of the valley and take a drive to visit Takin Preserve to see Takin, Bhutan’s national animal – a strange looking beast which some say resembles a beestung moose! Take a view of the majestic Tashichoe Dzong, the seat of the government before circumventing the Memorial Chorten – a monument erected in memory of Bhutan’s third king H.M. Jigme Dorji Wangchuk. Visit Centenary Farmers Market, the new authentic craft bazaar, National Institute of Traditional Medicine that still dispenses traditional herbal medicines to the locals, the Folk Heritage Museum – a 300 year old traditional house converted into a museum. Overnight at Hotel (Lunch/Dinner included)

Day 02: Thimphu – Punakha (1310m)

After breakfast, drive for about 1 & half hour 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, who as a favorite saint of the Bhutanese people is known affectionately as “the Divine Madman”. The temple is also on a hillside in the middle of rice fields and has become a pilgrimage site for childless couples. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)

Day 03: Punakha – Gangtey (Phobjikha Valley) (2320m)

Drive to Gangtey via Wangdue. After Wangdue, the drive is 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 (Phobjikha Valley) – Thimphu (2350m)

After breakfast, drive back to Punakha to visit a stunning hill-top nunnery – Sangchen Dorji Lhundrup Chholing. Have a chat with the nuns and enjoy the charm of the surrounds! The main temple is also dedicated to the bodhisattva of compassion (Avalokiteshvara) and next to the temple is a beautiful Stupa and there are slate carvings of religious figures. Re-crossing Dochula and drive towards Thimphu upon arrival check-in hotel. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)

Day 05: Thimphu – Day excursion to Haa Valley (2740m) – Paro

After breakfast, drive over the Chelela pass (3899 m) during Best of Bhutan Tour. From the pass, good view of the Himalayan Ranges and the valley beyond can be spotted. Then continue the drive towards Haa. Haa is made up of five counties and was closed to outside world until 2002. There is a military camp by the Indian Army. In Haa valley, visit Wangchucklo Dzong dating back to 1915 and Lhakhang Nakpo (Black temple) is said to have been built by pigeon emanation of King Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century and Lhakhang Karpo (white temple). After the visit drive to Paro. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)

Day 06: Paro – Hike to Taktsang Monastery ‘Tiger’s Nest’ (3120m)

After breakfast drive towards the base camp of Taktsang for the hike up to the Taktsang Monastery-Tiger’s Nest. It’s about two hours hike up the cafeteria. From this point, enjoy the spectacular view of the monastery, where Guru Padmasambhava landed on the back of a tigress in 8th century. Then visit the Taktsang Monastery and hike back to the road point then drive to Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred shrines in Bhutan. Afterwards, back to hotel. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)

Day 07: Paro depart

After breakfast, Also transfer to the airport to catch the onward flight. Bid farewell to the Best of Bhutan Tour of remote and legendary Dragon Kingdom disappearing again behind its guardian mountains. (Breakfast only included)