Once you land in Paro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed in Bhutanese traditional style by an English/Chinese speaking tour guide. Proceed to visit Paro Dzong, a monument built in 1646 AD. It is a large Drukpa Kagyu Buddhist Monastery and houses the district Monastic Body, and government administrative offices of Paro. Overnight Stay.
After lunch, follows a 4.5-hour drive to Phunakha, the old Capital of Bhutan via Thimphu, the Modern Capital of Bhutan, and Dochu La Pass (Alt. 3050m) where you can enjoy the first view of the eastern Himalayan Mountains. Upon arrival, visit the Punakha Dzong between the Phochu and Mochu rivers, symbolizing the masculine and the feminine co-existence. Their currents are of different colours, and the two rivers unite at this spot. Overnight Stay.
This morning, drive down to Trongsa which is situated in Central Bhutan, 6.30 hours away from Punakha. Drive over the Black mountains and Pele La Pass (Alt. 3300m). Visit the Trongsa Dzong founded in 1543, a masterpiece of architecture. Overnight Stay.
Proceed to Bumthang, a 2-hour drive from Trongsa. Bumthang is a complex of four valleys – Chumey, Choekhor, Tang and Ura – with altitudes varying from 2,600 to 4,000 metres. Rich and fertile high lands covered in pine, broad U-shaped valleys, and sloping mountains add to the beauty of Bumthang. This place is also known for buckwheat and apple production, sturdy stone houses, and plethora of monasteries. Being one of the coldest parts of the country, snow is a frequent sight in winter. Overnight Stay.
Explore the four valleys – Ura, Chumey, Tang and Choekhor, which are considered the most beautiful and sacred valleys of Bhutan. If the weather is clear, you will enjoy great views of green valleys, dotted with hundreds of temples, thousand flags, and the beautiful Chamkhar river flowing through the valley. The valley is also called the mini Switzerland of Bhutan. Visit Jakar Dzong – the administrative centre of the valley, Jambay Lhakhang – one of the oldest monasteries in the Bhutan, and Kujey Lhakhang – one of the most sacred places where Guru Rinpoche left his body imprint on the cave when he was meditating. Overnight Stay.
After breakfast proceed to Phobjikha Valley, an important cultural, historical, and natural site which is 6 hours away from Bumthang. The first stop will be at Gantey Gompa, a monastery perched atop a small hill that arises from the floor of Phobjikha Valley. This beautiful spot is also the home to migratory black-necked crane (from November till March). Overnight Stay.
Today we will head to the Modern Capital of Bhutan, Thimphu, which is 6 hours away from Phobjikha Valley. Entering Thimphu, visit Trashicho Dzong which houses the main Secretariat of the Government, offices of the King, Ministries of Home Affairs and Finance, and also the Throne of His Majesty, the King of Bhutan. It is an impressive large structure surrounded by well-kept lawns and beautiful gardens. Overnight Stay.
Today sightseeing starts with the National Memorial Chorten, Traditional Medicine Institute, National Library, Textile and Folk Heritage Museum, and School of 13 Arts & Crafts. After Lunch visit the Takin mini zoo, Zilukha Nunnery, General Post Office, and traditional paper factory. Overnight stay.
Proceed back to Paro which is 1.30 hours away from Thimphu. Explore the main street where there is a vintage-looking complex with richly decorated buildings, housing small shops, institutions, and restaurants. In the evening visit the local farm house where you can experience the making of the famous local dish “ema datshi” (Chilli & Cheese) and taste “Ara” – the local wine. Overnight Stay.
After breakfast, depart to Haa Valley which is a 2-hour drive via Chele La pass (Alt. 3810m) witnessing awesome views of Bhutan’s highest mountains and Himalayan peaks. Ride through the deep pine forests and narrow valleys of Haa. Haa Valley is made up of five counties and was closed to outside world until 2002. Haa Dzong is current occupied by military with a strict no visitation policy, but the view is stunning. After a picnic lunch, visit the famous monastery of Lhakhang Karpo (White temple) and Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple). Drive back to Paro. Overnight Stay at Paro.
Today, visit the Taktsang Monastery also known as Tiger Nest Monastery. It is perched precariously on a side of a cliff. Guru Padmasambhava, known as the Second Buddha, arrived on a flying tigress and meditated at this shrine in the second half of the 8th century. As a result, it is the dream destination for Buddhist pilgrims from all over the world.
Evening you can enjoy hot stone bath (Dotsho or Menchu), and exclusive dinner at Beer Factory to get taste of the country’s best.
Overnight Stay.
Your exploration of Bhutan will end today. Have a safe trip back home.
11 Nights Tour Start From
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