WESTERN BHUTAN TOUR

WESTERN BHUTAN TOUR

7 Nights | 8 Days

 

Welcome to the mystical kingdom of Bhutan, where ancient traditions meet breathtaking landscapes. This tour invites you to immerse yourself in the cultural richness and natural beauty of Thimphu, Punakha, Phobjikha, and Paro.

Begin your journey in Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, where you’ll spend two nights exploring its bustling markets, majestic monasteries, and vibrant cultural sites. Discover the heart of Bhutanese governance at the Tashichho Dzong, and marvel at the giant Buddha Dordenma statue overlooking the valley.

From Thimphu, venture to Punakha, the ancient capital nestled amidst fertile valleys and terraced rice fields. Here, spend a night and explore Punakha Dzong, a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture, and embark on a scenic hike to the Chimi Lhakhang, dedicated to the Divine Madman.

Continue your journey to Phobjikha, a pristine valley known for its tranquil environment and as a winter habitat for black-necked cranes. Spend a night surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and embark on the Gangtey Nature Trail Hike, offering stunning views of the valley and its unique biodiversity.

Conclude your Bhutanese odyssey in Paro, where you’ll spend two nights exploring its historic sites and natural wonders. Embark on the iconic hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched precariously on a cliffside, and visit the serene Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan.

Throughout your tour, savor the flavors of Bhutanese cuisine, interact with friendly locals, and immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of this enchanting Himalayan kingdom. This Bhutan tour promises an unforgettable experience, weaving together cultural immersion, scenic beauty, and spiritual exploration in a journey of a lifetime.

 

Day Activity/Valley Overnight
1 Arrival at Paro International airport / drive towards Thimphu city Thimphu
2 Explore Thimphu Valley Thimphu
3 Drive towards Punakha valley, have tea at Dochula mountain pass and visit Sangchen Dorji Lhuendup Nunnery Punakha
4 Drive towards Phobjikha Valley Phobjikha
5 Drive back to Paro Valley Paro
6 Explore Paro Valley Paro
7 Hike to Tigers Nest Paro
8 International Departure

Day 1: Arrive in Paro – Drive to Thimphu

  • Altitude: Paro – 2,250 meters (7,382 feet); Thimphu – 2,334 meters (7,657 feet)
  • Distance: Approximately 55 km (34 miles)
  • Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes

Upon arrival in Paro, embark on a scenic drive to Thimphu, the vibrant capital of Bhutan. As you wind through mountainous roads, immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas. Upon reaching Thimphu, check into your hotel and unwind after your journey.

Day 2: Explore Thimphu – Hike to Cheri Monastery and Visit the Folk Heritage Museum

Begin your day with a hike to Cheri Monastery, nestled amidst lush forests overlooking Thimphu Valley. This tranquil sanctuary offers a serene retreat and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

In the afternoon, delve into Bhutanese culture at the Folk Heritage Museum, where exhibits showcase traditional Bhutanese artifacts, textiles, and architectural styles. Gain insight into the country’s rich heritage and customs as you explore the museum’s displays.

Day 3: Drive to Punakha – Visit Chimi Lhakhang and the Nunnery

  • Altitude: Punakha – 1,200 meters (3,937 feet)
  • Distance: Approximately 72 km (45 miles)
  • Duration: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes

Embark on a picturesque drive to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan, nestled at a lower altitude amidst verdant valleys. En route, visit Chimi Lhakhang, a revered temple dedicated to the Divine Madman and renowned for its phallic symbols believed to bestow fertility blessings.

Continue your journey to visit a nearby nunnery, offering a glimpse into the spiritual lives of Bhutanese women devoted to their religious practices.

Day 4: Drive to Phobjikha – Visit the Crane Research Center

  • Altitude: Phobjikha – 3,000 meters (9,842 feet)
  • Distance: Approximately 78 km (48 miles)
  • Duration: Approximately 3 hours

Journey to the tranquil valley of Phobjikha, renowned for its pristine environment and as a winter habitat for the endangered black-necked cranes. Visit the Crane Research Center to learn about conservation efforts aimed at protecting these majestic birds. Take in the breathtaking scenery of rolling hills and lush forests that characterize this idyllic valley.

Day 5: Gangtey Trail Hike – Drive back to Paro

  • Altitude: Paro – 2,250 meters (7,382 feet)
  • Distance: Approximately 180 km (112 miles)
  • Duration: Approximately 5 hours

Embark on a scenic hike along the Gangtey Trail, winding through picturesque landscapes dotted with traditional Bhutanese villages and terraced fields. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature as you explore this pristine wilderness.

In the afternoon, journey back to Paro, enjoying panoramic views of the Himalayas and lush valleys along the way.

Day 6: Explore Paro Valley

Spend the day exploring the enchanting Paro Valley, home to ancient temples, monasteries, and cultural landmarks. Visit historical sites such as the National Museum of Bhutan, housed in a former watchtower, and stroll through Paro town’s charming streets lined with traditional Bhutanese architecture.

Day 7: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery

  • Altitude: Tiger’s Nest Monastery – 3,120 meters (10,236 feet)
  • Distance: Approximately 9 km (5.6 miles) round trip
  • Duration: Full day (including hike time)

Embark on a memorable hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, one of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks perched precariously on a cliffside. Ascend through pine forests and rhododendron groves, marveling at the monastery’s awe-inspiring architecture and panoramic views of the Paro Valley below.

Day 8: Departure

Bid farewell to the Land of the Thunder Dragon as you transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure flight, carrying with you cherished memories of your Bhutanese adventure.

Trip Highlights

  • Witness spectacular bird’s eye view of the Himalayas while flying in/out from Bhutan
  • Explore Bhutan’s important spiritual & pilgrimage sites
  • Explore the capital city of Bhutan
  • Visit Punakha Dzong – the most beautiful monastery in Bhutan
  • Explore the beautiful glacier valley of Phobjikha
  • Hike to Taktsang Monastery ‘Tiger’s Nest’- one of the most famous monastery in Bhutan

We provide a full package for the Bhutan tour which includes the followings:

  • A minimum of 3 star accommodations
  • All meals in Bhutan
  • English speaking tour guides
  • All internal ground transportation
  • USD 100 Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) in Bhutan
  • International Air fares Kathmandu – Paro – Kathmandu
  • Domestic Airfare Bumthang – Paro
  • Visa for Bhutan
  • Mineral drinking water
  • All entrance fees

The Bhutan tour package price do not include the followings:

  • Travel and medical insurance, personal expenses, calls, laundries.
  • Other personal expenses like overseas calls, laundry, etc
  • Alcoholic Beverages
  • tips for guides and drivers

 

 

 TASHI DELEK!