Embark on an enchanting 8-day journey through the heart of Bhutan, exploring the serene landscapes and cultural gems of Gangtey and Trongsa. This immersive Bhutan Gangtey Trongsa tour also offers a captivating glimpse into the rich heritage and natural beauty that define this Himalayan kingdom.
The adventure begins in Gangtey, a picturesque valley also renowned for its breathtaking vistas and diverse wildlife. Nestled amidst rolling hills, visitors are treated to panoramic views of lush green meadows and dense forests. The Gangtey Monastery, an architectural marvel perched on a hill, provides insight into Bhutanese spirituality and history. A visit to the Black-Necked Crane Information Centre offers an opportunity to witness these majestic birds in their natural habitat, adding a touch of rare wonder to the experience.
Continuing onward, the journey leads to Trongsa, a town steeped in tradition and charm. The iconic Trongsa Dzong, a fortress that holds both historical significance and architectural splendor, stands as a testament to Bhutan’s medieval heritage. The Ta Dzong, now transformed into a museum, offers a curated collection of artifacts that provide a deeper understanding of Bhutanese culture and history.
Immersive Encounters: Cultural, Culinary, and Natural Discoveries in Bhutan’s Heartland
As the tour unfolds, travelers engage with the warm hospitality of the local communities, immersing themselves in the unique customs and way of life. Along the way, the vibrant local markets also offer a chance to engage in authentic exchanges with artisans and farmers, gaining insights into Bhutan’s rural economy and crafts.
The journey through Bhutan’s heartland is also a culinary exploration. Traditional Bhutanese dishes, often featuring rice, chilies, and local cheese, introduce visitors to a distinctive gastronomic experience. Shared meals with locals offer a window into the importance of food in Bhutanese culture and the bonds it fosters.
Throughout the Bhutan Gangtey Trongsa tour, the tranquility of Bhutan’s landscapes also invites moments of reflection and rejuvenation. From the mist-shrouded valleys to the soaring mountains, the natural beauty resonates with the kingdom’s commitment to environmental conservation and spiritual harmony.
Conclusion and Summary
In just 8 days, the Bhutan Gangtey Trongsa tour captures the essence of this extraordinary country – a blend of ancient traditions and modern sensibilities, nature’s grandeur and human humility. With every step, travelers also invited to uncover the layers of Bhutan’s beauty and immerse themselves in its captivating narrative.
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 01: Arrival Paro (2250m) – Thimphu (2350m)
Arrive Paro by the Bhutanese National Carrier flying over the world’s highest mountains. We finally landed 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 an hour’s drive.
In Thimphu, visit Buddha point for a stunning view of Thimphu city and Takin Compound. 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 was 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 early breakfast, drive towards Punakha for about 1 & half hour passing along Dochu La Pass at 3140m. On clear weather, the pass commands a wonderful panorama of the Eastern Himalayas. From the pass, the road descends through varied forest and finally emerging into the highly cultivated valley of Punakha. En-route 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 known affectionately as “the Divine Madman”.
In the afternoon, 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 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 – Trongsa (2200m)
Rejoin the east west highway to Pele la pass (3420m) marked by prayer flags. On a clear day Jumolhari, Kangbum & Jichu Drake can be spotted from the pass. After Pele la pass enters the traditional eastern region. The road gradually drops passing through Kgebji village, Sephu village, Chendebji village followed by large Chendebji Chorten. After Chendebji, the road passes through farms, villages then the valley narrows and then widens again, and it turns the corner into wide Mangde river valley. After a while Trongsa Dzong can be visible. The road then follows the side valley to cross the bridge at the upper reaches of Mangde Chhu river to arrive at Trongsa. The total drive is about 2 hours. PM: Visit Trongsa Dzong. Trongsa Dzong is the most impressive Dzong in Bhutan built in 1644 by the Shabdrung. It is an architectural masterpiece. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 05: Trongsa – Wangdue (1310m)
After breakfast, re-trace the same route for drive back to Wangdue from Trongsa. The drive is about 6 hours. Wangdue Phodrang Dzong in Wangdue is an ancient fort atop hill built in 1638 located at the confluence of two rivers and originally meant to protect the southern invasion. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 06: Wangdue – Haa Valley (3050m) – Paro (2250m)
After breakfast, drive over the Chelela pass (3899 m). 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 07: 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. Also visit Rinpung Dzong built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the first spiritual and temporal ruler of Bhutan; the Dzong continues its age-old function as the seat of the district administration, district court and the monastic body. The southern approach to the Dzong has a traditional roofed cantilever bridge called Nemi Zam. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 08: Paro depart
After breakfast, transfer to the airport to catch the onward flight. Bid farewell to our current Bhutan Gangtey Trongsa Tour located at the remote and legendary Dragon Kingdom disappearing again behind its guardian mountains. (Breakfast only included)