A comprehensive cultural tour that explores Bhutan’s ancient traditions, from western Bhutan to the lesser-known eastern regions. Delve deeper into the country’s historical landmarks, arts, and local life.
Paro International Airport (Google Map)
◦ Deep immersion into Bhutan’s cultural and spiritual heritage, with visits to monasteries, dzongs, and temples.
◦ Trek to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
◦ Explore Bhutan’s lesser-known regions like Phobjikha Valley, Tang Valley, and Haa Valley.
◦ Rich cultural experiences, including local dances, farm visits, and traditional meals.
Activities:
▪ Warm welcome at Paro International Airport.
▪ Scenic drive to Thimphu (1.5 hours), Bhutan’s capital city.
▪ En route, visit Tamchog Lhakhang, crossing the ancient iron bridge.
▪ Evening visit to Tashichho Dzong, seat of Bhutan’s government and religious body.
▪ Explore Thimphu town at leisure.
◦ Overnight: Thimphu
Activities:
▪ Visit National Memorial Chorten, a stupa built in honor of Bhutan’s third king.
▪ Explore the Institute of Zorig Chusum (School of Arts & Crafts), where students train in Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts.
▪ Visit Folk Heritage Museum to experience traditional Bhutanese village life.
▪ Buddha Dordenma, a giant Buddha statue with panoramic views of Thimphu Valley.
▪ Changangkha Lhakhang, a popular temple for locals.
▪ Evening stroll around Craft Bazaar and local markets.
◦ Overnight: Thimphu
Activities:
▪ Drive to Punakha (3-hour drive) via the scenic Dochula Pass (3,100m). Stop at the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens.
▪ Visit Punakha Dzong, a stunning fortress at the confluence of two rivers.
▪ Hike to Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley, also known as the “Divine Madman.”
▪ Evening free to explore the Punakha countryside.
◦ Overnight: Punakha
Activities:
▪ Visit Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a beautiful stupa offering scenic views of the valley.
▪ Take a leisurely walk through the rice fields and visit a local farmhouse to experience rural Bhutanese life.
▪ Option for rafting on the Pho Chu or Mo Chu rivers (optional).
▪ Relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Punakha Valley.
◦ Overnight: Punakha
Activities:
▪ Drive to the serene Phobjikha Valley (2.5-hour drive), winter home to the Black- necked Cranes.
▪ Visit Gangtey Monastery, one of Bhutan’s most important Nyingma monasteries.
▪ Take the Gangtey Nature Trail hike, an easy walk that offers beautiful views of the valley.
▪ Visit the Black-necked Crane Information Center (seasonal, November to February) to learn about the migratory birds.
◦ Overnight: Phobjikha Valley
Activities:
▪ Drive to Trongsa (4-hour drive), the ancestral home of Bhutan’s royal family.
▪ Visit Trongsa Dzong, Bhutan’s largest fortress, which has great historical and political significance.
▪ Explore the Ta Dzong Museum, showcasing Bhutanese art and royal heritage.
◦ Overnight: Trongsa
Activities:
▪ Drive to Bumthang (3-hour drive), Bhutan’s spiritual heartland.
▪ Visit Jakar Dzong, the “Fortress of the White Bird.”
▪ Explore Kurjey Lhakhang, where Guru Rinpoche left his body imprint on a rock during meditation.
▪ Visit Tamshing Lhakhang, known for its ancient murals and spiritual significance.
◦ Overnight: Bumthang
Activities:
▪ Visit Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan.
▪ Explore Mebar Tsho (The Burning Lake), a sacred pilgrimage site for Bhutanese people.
▪ Visit Ura Valley, a charming village known for its medieval atmosphere and stone houses.
▪ Evening free to relax and explore the countryside.
◦ Overnight: Bumthang
Activities:
▪ Drive to Tang Valley, a remote and less-visited part of Bumthang.
▪ Visit Ogyen Choling Palace Museum, an ancient mansion that provides a deep insight into Bhutanese aristocracy and rural life.
▪ Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese lunch at a local farmhouse.
▪ Experience a cultural program with local folk songs and dances.
◦ Overnight: Bumthang
Activities:
▪ Return to Trongsa (3-hour drive), retracing your journey through Bhutan’s central valleys.
▪ Free evening to relax or explore more of Trongsa town at your own pace.
◦ Overnight: Trongsa
Activities:
▪ Drive back to Paro (6-7 hours), with stops for rest and photo opportunities.
▪ Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, built in the 7th century.
▪ Free evening to explore Paro town and relax.
◦ Overnight: Paro
Activities:
▪ Begin your day with a hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), Bhutan’s most iconic landmark perched on a cliff 900 meters above the Paro Valley.
▪ Enjoy a picnic lunch or a meal at the cafeteria with views of the monastery.
▪ After descending, relax with a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath (optional).
▪ Evening free to explore Paro town for last-minute shopping and sightseeing.
◦ Overnight: Paro
Activities:
▪ Drive to Haa Valley (2-hour drive), one of Bhutan’s most scenic and least-visited regions.
▪ Visit Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple) and Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple), two ancient temples with fascinating legends.
▪ Take a short hike through the pristine valley and visit local farmhouses.
▪ Enjoy a picnic lunch in the valley.
▪ Return to Paro in the evening.
◦ Overnight: Paro
Activities:
▪ Transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure flight, concluding your 14- day Bhutan Heritage Exploration.
