Overview
Bhutan Tour, a landlocked country located in the eastern Himalayas. A popular destination for tourists seeking an authentic cultural experience. The “Land of the Thunder Dragon” offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, making it a prime destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in a different way of life. Visitors to Bhutan can expect to be greeted by friendly locals, breathtaking scenery, and ancient temples and monasteries. Our 8 Nights 9 Days Bhutan Tour starts once you land at Paro, followed by a drive to Thimphu. At Thimphu after exploring several cultural landmarks proceed towards Gangtey. Along the way cross a high pass and witness the grand views of the majestic peaks. Next, proceed to Trongsa, here head on various smalls hike around soaking in the natural beauty of the country. Then the tour takes you towards Bumthang, where you will be visiting various monasteries and learning about the ways of life of the locals. Then proceed towards Punakha/Wangdue and Paro. The trip finally ends after a detail tour of the city of Paro. 8 Nights 9 Days Bhutan Tour provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to step back in time and experience a different way of life, surrounded by stunning mountain vistas, lush forests, and rolling hills. Be a part of this thrilling adventure with the Alpine Club of Himalaya.
Tour Highlights
- Explore the Land of Thunder Dragons.
- Hike across the exquisite landscapes of Bhutan.
- Hike the Gangtey Nature Trail.
- Visit the renowned Taktshang Monastery also renowned as the Tiger’s Nest.
- Visit various ancient monasteries, places, and Chortens.
- Cross a high Himalayan pass and witness the highest peak of Bhutan.
- Learn about the culture and traditions of the people.
Itinerary
Day 1 :
Day 1: Arrive in Paro (2,300 Meters/ 7,545 Feet) and drive to Thimphu (2,334 Meters/ 7,657 Feet). Driving Time: 1 hour 30 minutes.
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
Day 2 :
Day 2: Full day sightseeing in Thimphu (2,334 Meters/ 7,657 Feet).
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.
Day 3 :
Day 3: Thimphu (2,334 Meters/ 7,657 Feet) to Gangtey (3,000 Meters/ 9,842 Feet). Driving Time: 5 Hours
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.
Day 4 :
Day 4: Gangtey (3,000 Meters/ 9,842 Feet) to Trongsa (2,170m / 7,119feet). Driving Time: 5 Hours.
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.
Day 5 :
Day 5: Trongsa (2,170m / 7,119feet) to Bumthang (2,600 Meters/ 8,530 Feet). Driving Time: 4 Hours/ 68 Km.
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
Day 6 :
Day 6: Bumthang (2,600 Meters/ 8,530 Feet) to Punakha/ Wangdue (1,242 Meters/ 4,074 Feet). Driving Time: 7 Hours
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.
Day 7 :
Day 7: Punakha/ Wangdue (1,242 Meters/ 4,074 Feet) to Paro (2,300 Meters/ 7,545 Feet). Drive Time: 4 Hours/ 125 Km.
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.
Day 8 :
Day 8: Full day Sightseeing in Paro (2,300 Meters/ 7,545 Feet).
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.
Day 9 :
Day 9: Final Departure
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.
Cost Includes
- Bhutanese visa fees
- Tours specified in the itinerary.
- Best hotel accommodations, “A” grade hotels (Government approved 3 stars and above)
- Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Coffee with snacks as and when required)
- All land transportation by private vehicle within Bhutan as per the itinerary.
- Services of experienced and English-speaking guide (Government Licensed holder)
- Mineral water on long trips both on a trek and cultural tours.
- Museum fees and other special entry fees.
- All necessary permits for entering Dzongs, Monasteries, Monuments, and restricted areas.
- Government royalty, tax, and fees.
Cost Exclude
- Airfare for international flights to and from Bhutan
- Items of a personal nature (personal gear, telephone calls, beverages, internet, laundry, etc.)
- Trip cancellation and medical/evacuation insurance
- Tips for staff (guide and driver)
- Travel Insurance
FAQs
What types of accommodations are provided during the trek?
In Bhutan, you will be staying in 3 stars hotels throughout the tour. Visitors also can choose from staying at Hotels, Resorts, Farm stays, and Homestays. Each provides various types of services and facilities.
What dining options are available during the trip?
During the Bhutan tour many restaurants, especially in Thimphu offer Chinese, Indian, Nepalese as well as Western dishes apart from authentic Bhutanese food. The Bhutanese food consists of Rice accompanied by one or two side dishes consisting of meat or vegetables. Pork, beef, and chicken are the meats that are eaten most often. Vegetables commonly eaten include spinach, pumpkins, turnips, radishes, tomatoes, river weed, onions, and green beans. The traditional Bhutanese food is lavishly spiced with dried or fresh red or green chilies.
Important Note
Your safety is of paramount importance to us at the Alpine Club of Himalaya. We have the absolute authority to cancel the trip or change the itinerary, when deemed necessary or when we have reason to believe your safety is at stake. Weather conditions, the health condition of a group member, natural disasters, and such, can contribute to changes in the itinerary when traveling in remote mountainous regions. In these extreme situations, we kindly request that you offer your full cooperation to the trusted leader of the group appointed by the Alpine Club of Himalaya. However, we assure you that we will make every effort to keep to the above itinerary.
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