Overview
Experience the enchanting beauty and spiritual richness of Bhutan on a captivating Highlights tour that unveils the essence of this mystical Himalayan kingdom. This carefully curated journey also combines the country’s awe-inspiring landscapes, cultural treasures, and warm-hearted locals for an unforgettable adventure.
Embark on your Bhutan Highlights tour in Paro, a picturesque valley also surrounded by towering mountains. Here, marvel at the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliffside. As you hike to this sacred site, you’ll soak in panoramic views and a sense of spiritual serenity.
Continue your journey to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, where ancient traditions blend harmoniously with modern life. Also Explore the Memorial Chorten, a spiritual landmark, and gain insights into Bhutan’s unique Gross National Happiness philosophy. Wander through bustling markets and engage with local artisans, discovering traditional crafts and textiles.
Traverse the stunning Dochula Pass, adorned with fluttering prayer flags, en route to Punakha. Also Admire the grandeur of Punakha Dzong, a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture nestled at the confluence of two rivers. Delve into the country’s history and spirituality as you explore the intricate murals and courtyards.
Journey deeper into Bhutan’s heartland as you venture to the Phobjikha Valley, a haven for rare black-necked cranes. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this glacial valley, interact with the friendly local community, and gain insights into their sustainable way of life.
Journeying Through Time and Spirit: Bhutan’s Historic Treasures and Hidden Valleys
The Bhutan Highlights tour also takes you to Bumthang, a region rich in history and spiritual significance. Visit ancient monasteries like Jakar Dzong and Kurjey Lhakhang, where Buddhism’s roots in Bhutan run deep. Traverse charming villages, experiencing the warmth of Bhutanese hospitality firsthand.
Conclude your journey with a visit to Haa Valley, a hidden gem recently opened to tourists. Encircled by towering peaks, this remote valley also offers a glimpse into traditional Bhutanese rural life. Explore the valley’s monasteries, farmlands, and sacred sites.
Throughout your Bhutan adventure, savor authentic Bhutanese cuisine, also known for its flavors and use of chili peppers. Engage in cultural exchanges with monks, artisans, and locals, gaining insights into Bhutan’s unique way of life.
Conclusion and Summary
In just a few days, the Bhutan Highlights tour also encapsulates the country’s essence, offering a blend of spirituality, natural beauty, and cultural immersion. As you bid farewell to this magical kingdom, you’ll carry with you cherished memories of a land where happiness and tradition intertwine seamlessly.
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 01: Arrival Paro (2250m) – Thimphu (2350m)
Arrive Paro by Bhutan’s national carrier, and it’s a scenic flight as the plane touch down the lush green Paro Valley flying past the world’s highest mountains. 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 Paro 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. Afterwards, drive to Thimphu which is an hours drive. Overnight at Hotel (Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 02: Thimphu – Punakha (1310m)
After breakfast, visit the National Memorial Chorten with it’s golden spines shinning in the sun, its tinkling bells built in honor of third King of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Institute of Traditional Medicine, where old healing arts such as acupuncture and herbal remedies are still practiced. Also visit the Folk Heritage Museum, dedicated to the Bhutanese rural past with it’s exhibition of items & artifacts used in rural households, the Textile Museum, where the art of traditional weaving is still kept alive and preserved through exhibition and has a good collection of old textiles rich in its colour and design. Afterwards, drive to Punakha from Thimphu for about 1 & half hour. First the road climbs steeply through the pine & cedar forests festooned with hanging lichen high up near Dochula pass (3,050 m). Often panoramic Himalayan views can be spotted from the pass. After stopping for tea, the road descends along a series of hairpin bends to the fertile valley of Punakha. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 03: Punakha – Thimphu (2350m)
After breakfast, visit Punakha Dzong crossing the bridge. It’s the ancient capital of Bhutan connecting the Mo Chu & Pho Chu Rivers. It is also the winter capital for the monks and the Je Khenpo (chief abbot). Afterwards, drive to Lobeysa for lunch. After lunch hike another 20 minutes to Chime Lhakhang, temple of the “Divine Madman” built in 1499 and today mostly visited by the women who couldn’t bear Children, thus also known as the temple of fertility. Afterwards, drive to Thimphu. Overnight at Hotel.(Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 04: Thimphu – Day excursion to Haa Valley (2740m) – Paro
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 05: 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 06: Paro depart
After breakfast, 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)