Duration: 14 Days 13 Nights
Locations: Thimphu, Paro valley, Punakha, Wangdi Phodrang, Bumthang, Mongar,Takila, Tashiyangtse, Yonphula, Yonphula, Phobjikha

We tailor each tour itinerary to align seamlessly with our guests’ arrival plans—whether by flight, train, or road—and customize every detail to suit their unique preferences and needs.

OVERVIEW ITINERARY

• DAY 01 : ARRIVE PARO
• DAY 02 : PARO – YONGPHULA.(DOMESTIC AIRPORT OF FAR EAST/35 MIN FLIGHT )
• DAY 03 : DAY EXCURSION TO TASHIYANGTSE
• DAY 04 : TRASHIGANG – MONGAR
• DAY 05 :  MONGAR – LHUNTSE (TAKILA IS SITE OF LARGEST GURU RINPOCHE STATUE)
• DAY 06 :  MONGAR –BUMTHANG
• DAY 07 : BUMTHANG VALLEY 
• DAY 08 : BUMTHANG – PHOBJIKHA
• DAY 09 : PHOBJIKHA – PUNAKHA VALLEY
• DAY 10 : PUNAKHA – THIMPHU
• DAY 11: THIMPHU SIGHT SEEING AND LEISURE.
• DAY 12 : THIMPHU – PARO
• DAY 13 : PARO TIGER NEST HIKE AND FAREWELL DINNER
• DAY 14 : DEPARTURE  

 DETAILED TOUR PROGRAM

Day 01 : Paro

• Altitude: 2,250m / 7,382ft

Fly into Paro on our national carrier, Druk Air, is a befitting introduction to the spectacular beauty of our country. In clear weather, magnificent views of the world’s highest peaks give way to the lush green Paro valley as you land. First gift from Bhutan will be the cool, clean fresh air as you step out of the plane.

After clearing customs and visa control you will meet our guide and driver.
In the afternoon visit Ta Dzong, once a watchtower, built to defend Rinpung Dzong during inter valley wars of the 17th century, Ta Dzong was inaugurated as Bhutan’s National Museum in 1968.

Afterwards, walk down a hillside trail to visit Rinpung Dzong. Built in 1646 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the first spiritual and temporal ruler of Bhutan, the Dzong houses the monastic body of Paro, the office of the Dzongda (district administrative head) and Drangpoen (judge) of Paro district.

Day 02 : Paro – Yonphula

• Altitude: 2,743 m
• Flying Distance : 35 minutes

As per the flight timing, you will be escorted to Paro International airport for the onward departure to Yonphula (Eastern Bhutan) via domestic flight. Guide and driver will receive you from the domestic airport, Yonphula and then enjoy the beautiful view from there. After that drive to Tashigang, one of the biggest district in Bhutan.

Check into the hotel and then visit Tashigang dzong, the fortress which was built in 17th century and has commanding view of the valley. Inside are few interesting temples and local government offices.

(If you arrive early in Tashigang, then drive to Rangjung for the sightseeing).

Day 03 : Day excursion to Tashiyangtse

• Altitude: 1715 m

After the breakfast, drive to Tashiyangtse which will take about 2 hours’ drive time. On the way, visit to the Gomphu Kora temple, place where 8th century magician-saint Guru Padmasambhava left his body imprints. Further drive will offer occasional views of Snowy Mountain in clear weather.

Finally you will see impressive building of the old Trashi Yangtse dzong which is home to 300 monks. The dzong used to protect former trade route with Tibet and was established by the saint Pema Lingpa of 15th century.

The temples with valuable statues are worth of exploring. Also near the Trashi Yangtse is the famous Chorten Kora, the largest stupa in Bhutan built in Nepali style. This is the site of two colorful local festivals at the beginning of the year.

Trashi Yangtse is also home to National Institute for Zorig Chusum, the school where the young people learns the art crafts of their forefathers to keep Bhutan’s traditional arts alive. Evening return to Trashigang.

Day 04 : Tashigang – Mongar

• Altitude: 1,600 m
• Driving distance : 2 hours 15 minutes

After breakfast, you will drive to Mongar which will take 31⁄2 hours’ drive but on the way, you can visit Dramtse Gompa, which is one of the most important monasteries of eastern Bhutan.

This is the place from where the famous Naga Chham (mask dance of the drums from Drametse), mask dance with drums originated. This dance is ubiquitous feature of many festivals and also it was included to the UNESCO list of oral and intangible heritage. Monastery itself was founded in 16th century by descendants of the saint Pema Lingpa and its name means “the peak where there is no enemy”.

There is number of interesting chapels with a lot of important statues of the saints and protector deities. After that drive to Mongar and on the way visit Ngatshang monastery. You will also stop for a coffee at Korila pass between before reaching Mongar.

After reaching Mongar, you will visit a dzong (castle). Although built in 1930, the dzong maintains Bhutanese architectural traditions.

overnight in Mongar in a nice 3 start resort.

Day 05 : Mongar – Lhuentse (Takila) – Mongar

• Driving distance : 2 hours 25 minutes

Morning drive to Lhuntse which is one of the most rural and isolated districts in Bhutan. The landscape is spectacular with stark cliffs and gorges, beautiful conifer and pine forests and remote villages with rice, millet and corn fields.

Kurtoe region of Lhuntse is the ancestral home of Bhutan’s royal family. We will visit Takila, the place where the gigantic statue of Guru Rimpoche was recently built. Inside the statue, you find number of richly decorated chapels, which.

Further you will continue to Khoma village for most elaborate traditional cloths in Bhutan. Quality of weaving is so fine that even Royal Family places their order for clothes here. Village itself is interesting and beautiful so we will spend some extra time here having a lunch in local house and tasting local delicacies.

Then drive back to Mongar for overnight.

Day 6 : Mongar – Bumthang

• Altitude: 2,800 m
• Driving distance : 2 hours 25 minutes

The journey continues westwards winding through more rugged terrain. The drive will take minimum 7 hours, but it won’t be boring at all. Road offers most spectacular views in the country ascending 3200 meters in the distance of 84 kilometers.

After about a hour drive, you’ll pass along the ruins of Sengor dzong, which burned to ash in 1899. Chortens on the roadside are built in memory of 300 laborers who died during road building in 1970’s.

You’ll also come along the stunning Namling waterfall. After crossing the second highest motor able pass in Bhutan, the Thrumshing-la (3,580 m), you gradually descend to clustered village of Ura.

It’s good idea to stop at rhododendron garden just after the pass to see the number of species of this beautiful tree. From Ura village we will continue drive to the Shertong-la pass (3580 m). Right after that in sharp turn,
the Gangkhar Punesum, the highest mountain in Bhutan might be seen in clear weather.

Overnight at hotel in Bumthang.

Day 07 : Bumthang Valley Tour

After lunch, we will visit the following:

• Jakar Dzong: The fortress is now used as an administrative center of the valley and summer residence of monks.
• Jambay lhakhang, built in the 7th century by the King Songtsen Goempo of Tibet. In his effort to propagate Buddhism he had a plan to build a total of 108 temples in Tibet and neighboring kingdoms.
• Kujey Lhakhang (Kujey means, “Body imprint”). The temple to the right is the oldest and was built by Minjur Tempa in 1652. It was built around the cave in which Guru Rinpoche meditated and left his body imprint.
• Mebar tsho (Burning lake)– Optional

Day 06 : Bumthang – Phobjikha Valley Tour

• Elevation: 2900 m; driving time: 7 hours

After breakfast drive to Trongsa and visit Trongsa Dzong, seat of the district administration, built in 1648 Then drive to Phobjikha (lunch on the way). It is a bowl-shape valley on the western slopes of Black Mountain. Visit Gantey Goenpa – This monastery is a major attraction with an old monastery date back to the 16 century. Later start short short hike from Gangtey Goenpa to beautiful phobjikha valley.

• Altitude: 3000 m
• Driving distance : 5 hours

After breakfast, drive to Wangdue/ Punakha via Phobjikha valley. Driving through the dense forests of the Phobjikha Valley you arrive at Gangtey village where you see the Gangtey Monastery and visit the monastery.

Phobjikha valley is part of the beautiful Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park (formerly known as Black Mountains National Park), one of Bhutan’s most important nature sanctuaries.

Each winter it is home to a flock of 300 rare and endangered black-necked cranes. The surrounding hills and mountains are home to nomadic shepherds and yak-herders. This is one of the most remote and untouched regions in Bhutan and is only just opening its doors to the outside world. After lunch at Gangtey and explore Phobjikha valley and also visit the Black Necked Crane Center.

Overnight in hotel at Gangtey

Day 09 : Phobjikha – Punakha

• Altitude: 2,900 m
• Driving distance : 2 hours 33 minutes

Today after breakfast we will drive to Punakha valley with sightseeing en-route. We will stop at certain places for tea/refreshments and drive slowly towards Punakha valley.

Punakha was the winter capital for over 300 years until the time of second King. Punakha Dzong, which dominates the whole area, was built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, and established the central monastic body with 600 monks.

Today, Punakha is still the home for Je Khempo (Chief Abbot) and the central monastic body. Punakha Dzong is one of the most impressive Dzong in the Kingdom. If time permits, we will take leisure time and walk around.

Visit Punakha suspension bridge. Punakha suspension Linking Punakha Dzong to Shengana, Samdingkha, and Wangkha villages across the Tsang Chu River (aka Po Chu), this is one of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan.

It is roughly 160 meters long suspension bridge, it’s surprisingly stable. The bridge offers a spectacular view of the river and valley, and the east bank is a good starting point for multi-day treks in the nearby mountains.

Overnight Punakha at Hotel.

Day 10 : Punakha – Thimphu

• Altitude: 2,334 m
• Driving distance : 2 hours 25 minutes

After breakfast, we will drive through upper Punakha valley passing through farm houses and take a leisure walk through farmhouses to the beautiful Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Lhakhang (temple) built by Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck (the Queen Mother of Bhutan) for peace and stability in this ever changing world.

The leisurely walk up to the temple would take about an hour.

After lunch, we will travel to Thimphu and on the way we will visit Devine Madman’s temple (Chimi Lhakhang). Before arriving in Thimphu you come across Dochula (Dochula Pass 3140m).

Day 11 : Thimphu sight-seeing

Place to visit in Thimphu

• Simply Bhutan
• Changangkha Lhakhang
• Motithang Takin Reserve
• Zorig Chusum School of Traditional Arts
• Buddha Dordenma Statue
• Memorial Chorten, Thimphu
• Centenary Farmers’ Market
• Craft Bazaar

Overnight in Thimphu resort. ( Minimum best 3 Star Resort )

Simply Bhutan is a living museum in Thimphu, Bhutan, designed to preserve and showcase Bhutanese culture, traditions, and architecture. It offers visitors a chance to experience the country’s heritage through interactive displays, traditional food, cultural performances, and hands-on activities like archery, butter lamp making, and trying on Bhutanese attire. The museum is a great way to immerse oneself in Bhutan’s rich history and way of life.

Changangkha Lhakhang is a historic and spiritual Buddhist temple located on a hilltop overlooking the town of Thimphu, Bhutan. It is one of the oldest and most revered temples in the capital, dating back to the 12th century, and holds significant cultural and religious importance for the people of Bhutan.

The Motithang Takin Reserve, located in Thimphu, Bhutan, is a wildlife sanctuary dedicated to preserving the takin, Bhutan’s national animal. The takin is a rare and unique species resembling a cross between a goat and an ox, and it holds a special place in Bhutanese folklore and cultural heritage.

The Institute of Zorig Chusum, commonly known as the Zorig Chusum School of Traditional Arts, is a prestigious institute in Thimphu, Bhutan. It was established to preserve and promote the country’s rich heritage of traditional arts and crafts, collectively known as Zorig Chusum (the Thirteen Arts and Crafts).

The Buddha Dordenma Statue is a magnificent landmark located in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, overlooking Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. It is one of the largest Buddha statues in the world, standing 54 meters (177 feet) tall and made of bronze with a gilded gold finish. The statue houses over 125,000 smaller Buddha statues inside, each intricately crafted.

The Memorial Chorten, also known as the Thimphu Chorten, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Thimphu, Bhutan. This whitewashed stupa with golden spires and intricate details is a revered religious site and a place of prayer and meditation.Bhutan, known as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” stands out not just for its stunning landscapes and unique culture but also for its absence of traffic lights. This is one of the many things that make Bhutan unique and charming to travellers.

The Centenary Farmers’ Market in Thimphu is Bhutan’s largest and most vibrant vegetable market. Located near the Wangchu River, it is a bustling hub where farmers from across the country gather to sell their produce, offering a glimpse into Bhutanese agriculture and daily life.

The Craft Bazaar in Thimphu is a popular marketplace where visitors can find a wide variety of traditional Bhutanese handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. It is an excellent place to explore Bhutanese craftsmanship and purchase unique items that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Day 12 : Phobjikha-Paro sight seeing

• Altitude: 2,280 meters
• Distance: 190 km
• Estimated driving time: 5 hrs, 30 min

Today after well rest we will drive to Paro.

Visit the Tachog Temple. This 600 year old bridge crosses the Paro Chhu (Paro River) and was traditionally restored in 2005 after being washed away during a 1969 flood. The bridge was originally built by the legendary Tibetan architect, physician, blacksmith and civil engineer Thangtong Gyalpo who is an important figure in Bhutanese and Tibetan history.

Rinpung Dzong, also known as Paro Dzong, is one of Bhutan’s most stunning and historically significant dzongs (fortresses). Located in Paro, this majestic structure is an emblem of Bhutanese culture, history, and spirituality

Ta Dzong, located above Rinpung Dzong in Paro, Bhutan, is a remarkable watchtower that has been transformed into the National Museum of Bhutan. It is an iconic structure showcasing Bhutan’s rich history, culture, and art.

Day 13 : A Day Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery

• Elevation: 3120 m
• Hike time: 5 hours (up and down)

After breakfast, drive up to the base camp of Taktsang and then hike up to the most famous Monastery in the entire kingdom of Bhutan perched on the edge of a steep cliff, about 900 meters above Paro Valley.

The hike to the viewpoint will take about an hour and it will take 2 hours to the monastery. Till view point, you can experience horse ride (optional) but if you prefer hike, then it is great Lunch at Taktshang Café just above view point or you can have picnic lunch.

After completing the hike, you will be visiting one of the farm houses in Paro to experience Bhutanese life-Style and the organic Bhutanese dinner.

Benefits of Hot stone bath: It is a good remedy for skin diseases, joint pains, body aches and to relax after a hard day’s work. No scientific study has been done but it’s believed that the herbs and the chemical in the stones are a good source of medicine. Families in olden days would soak after their seasonal farm work in winter. The long, healing bath relaxed their tired bodies and helped cure backaches and joint pains.

Key Features:

Place to visit

• Tiger’s Nest Monastery
• Hot stone bath in Farm house (optional)
• Organic cuisine at Farm House ( Vegetables from the gardens )
• Experience archery at Farm House (optional)

Day 14: Departure from Bhutan

• After the breakfast, our representatives will escort you to the International Airport accordingly with the departure time. You have to reach there at the airport 2 hours prior to the departure time.