Bhutan Tour – 6 Nights 7 Days

The flight into Bhutan reveals scenic and breathtaking views of Himalayan mountains. Once you land at Paro's head on a short drive to Thimphu. On the way to visit, Tamchhog Lhakhang nestled on the opposite side of the river. The temple was built by Thang Thong Gyalpo of Tibet, who constructed numerous iron bridges throughout Bhutan. Next, head toward Kuenselcholing's viewpoint. From here witness the grand views of Thimphu valley is from Buddha point.

Then visit the Memorial Chorten: This particular chorten was constructed in 1974 as a memorial for the third King of the country. King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, is widely regarded as the father of modern Bhutan. At last, explore Tashichho Dzong, built in 1641 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. It houses the secretariat building, the throne room and the office of the king, and the central monk body. After exploring the various landmarks head back to your accommodation.

Overnight in Thimphu

After breakfast head on a short hike to Cheri Monastery which includes Dodina and Jigme Dorji Wildlife Sanctuary. The hike is about an hour, and all along the hike witnesses the biodiversity of the region. Spot birds such as Yellow-browed Tit, Yellow-rumped Honeyguide, Long-billed Thrush, and Ultramarine Flycatcher. Next, proceed towards the paper factory, the handmade paper making in Bhutan stemmed from the age-old tradition that originated in the 8th century of Bhutanese history. The handmade paper constitutes a valuable National heritage of Bhutanese cultural identity and is preserved through all the ages. Traditional paper is recognized and held in high esteem both in the home and outside world.

Then proceed to the weekend market and Bhutan craft bazaar: The private stalls offer a variety of high-end quality products from places across the country such as wood carved products, bags, and, wooden and clay utensils, Bangchung, Dhapa, jewelry boxes, bookmarks, and handmade packing papers (Deysho) in different patterns, antique items and etc. Later stroll around the city.

Overnight in Thimphu.

Today after breakfast head towards Gangtey. Along the way, you will cross a high pass of Dochula at an elevation of 3,140 meters/ 10,362 feet. From the pass witness a beautiful panoramic view of the Himalayas. If the skies are clear, the following peaks can be seen from this pass (left to right): Masagang (7,158 m), Tsendagang (6,960 m), Terigang (7,060 m ), Jejegangphugang (7,158 m ), Kangphugang (7,170 m ), Zongphugang (7, 060 m ), a table mountain that dominates the isolated region of Lunana – finally Gangkar plenum, the highest peak in Bhutan at 7,497 meters. After soaking in the grand views head towards Gangtey. Upon reaching your accommodation relax and rest.

Overnight in Gangtey.

Early in the morning visit the Gangtey Goemba. Perched in the hills of Phobjikha valley the great monastery of Gangtey, was established in the 17th century. This quiet, remote valley is the winter home of black-necked cranes, which migrate from the arid plains of Tibet in the north, to pass the winter months in a milder climate.

Then hike to Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of fertility): This Temple was built by lam Drukpa Kuenley (The Divine Madman) in 1499. It is about a thirty-minute hike across fields from the road. Witnessing the traditional houses explore the various temples around. After the hike is completed proceed back to your accommodation.

Overnight in Punakha.

After breakfast visit the Punakha Dzong. Built-in 1637 by Zhabdrung the Dzong is remarkably located between the rivers of Mo (Female) Chu (river) and Pho (Male) Chu. Until the time of the second king, it served as a seat of the king.

Next head on a long drive to Paro. At Paro visit Rimpung Dzong. The Rimpung Dzong, is known as the “fortress of the heap of jewels” built in the time of the dynamic spiritual and political leader Zhabdrung in 1644. Once a year, as part of the Tsechu festival, one of the oldest Thongdol (gigantic scroll paintings) is ceremonially unfurled here.

Later head towards Kichu Lhakhang Monastery. One of the two most sacred and oldest monasteries in Bhutan. It was built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. After exploring the cultural landmarks head back to your accommodation or stroll around the city.

Overnight in Paro

After breakfast head on a hike toward the Taktshang Monastery also renowned as the Tiger’s nest. Bhutan’s most recognizable cultural icon is perched 800 meters/2640 feet up a seemingly sheer cliff. Although it was tragically and mysteriously consumed by fire in April 1998 it has now been restored to its former glory. It is believed that in the 8th century, the great tantric master Guru Rimpoche/ Padmasambhava flew on the back of a tigress to the site where the monastery now stands.

Next, visit Farmhouse: Picturesque farmhouses dot the valley amongst fields and hillsides. The two to three-storied Bhutanese farmhouses are exquisite in appearance, with colorfully decorated outer walls and lintels, and are traditionally built. A visit to a farmhouse gives an interesting glimpse into the lifestyle of a farming family. Later stroll around the town and learn about the culture and lifestyle of the people.

Overnight in Paro.

Today you’ll be leaving Bhutan. The Alpine Club of Himalaya representative will drop you at the airport approximately 1-hour before your flight.