Bhutan Tour – 8 Nights 9 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 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 8th century of Bhutanese history. The handmade paper constitutes as valuable National heritage of Bhutanese cultural identity and is preserved through all the ages. The Traditional paper is recognized and held high esteem both in 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 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 puensum, 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.

Head on an early morning hike across the Gangtey Nature Trail. This is one of the most beautiful and shortest existing nature trail. In this trail you have the opportunity to visit the magnificent Goemba (Monastery), pine trees and high alpine grounds . Next, head to the Trongsa Museum situated 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 as 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 visiting the museum head towards your accommodation.

Overnight in Trongsa.

After breakfast head on a long drive to Bumthang. Today you will be visiting Jambay Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang & Tamzhing Monastery. Later stroll around the city and learn about the rich cultural and traditions of the locals.

Overnight in Bumthang

Start the tour by visiting 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 second king, it served as a seat of the king.

Then hike to Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of fertility). This Temple was built by lam Drukpa Kuenley “The Divine Madman” in 1499. It is about thirty minutes hike across fields from the road –Wooden phalluses are often found hanging in the four corners of the 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 enjoying the hike head 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 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 the oldest Monastery in Bhutan. It was built in 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 towards the Taktshang Monastery also renowned as the Tiger’s nest. Bhutan’s most recognizable cultural icon 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.

If you have any inquiries or require assistance and further information about this trip or any other trips, please feel free to contact the Alpine Club of Himalaya – Walk of the Himalaya.