Bhutan Tour – 7 Nights 8 Days

The flight into Bhutan reveals scenic and breathtaking views of the 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

Today you will be unfolding the various secrets of Thimphu. Start by visiting Memorial Chorten, Zilukha Nunnery, and Takin Sanctuary. Next, head towards the Indigenous Hospital, Textile Museum, Heritage Museum, Traditional School of arts & crafts, and Tashicho Dzong. Later explore Zangdopelri temple, the renowned paper factory, and other various landmarks.

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 passing witness the 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.

After breakfast head on a hike across Gangtey Nature Trail. Regarded as one of the most beautiful and shortest existing nature trails taking you along meadows and pine woodlands. On this trail, you have the opportunity to visit the magnificent Goemba (Monastery). Along the way cross various villages and raging rivers.

Next, proceed towards Trongsa Museum. Nestled strategically above the Trongsa dzong, the Ta Dzong served as the watch tower for centuries. It was built by Choeje Minjur Tempa in 1652. The museum is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and includes a media room where visitors can watch a documentary program on the history of the monarchy. The Ta Dzong was renovated and converted into a museum at a cost of Nu. 97 million with funds from the Austrian government. The museum is dedicated to the coronation and centenary celebrations. After exploring the museum and learning about the rich history of the country head back toward your accommodations.

Overnight in Trongsa.

Today first visit the Punakha Dzong (fortress). Built-in 1637 by Zhabdrung it 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.

Then head on an exciting hike to Chimi Lhakhang also known as the Temple of fertility. This Temple was built by lam Drukpa Kuenley “The Divine Madman” in 1499. It is about thirty minute hike across fields from the road –Wooden phalluses are often found hanging in the four corners of houses and also phalluses are painted on the walls of houses. It is the common belief that this helps in driving away evil spirits. After the hike is completed proceed back to your accommodation.

Overnight in Punakha/Wangdue.

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 Himalayas representative will drop you at the airport approximately 1-hour before your flight.