9 Nights 10 Days-Culture

Day 1: Arrival in Paro - Drive to Thimphu (1.5 hours)

• Activities:

  • Arrival at Paro International Airport, where you will be greeted by your guide.

  • Begin the scenic drive to Thimphu (approximately 1.5 hours, 65 km). The route offers breathtaking views of lush green valleys, terraced fields, and small villages.

  • En route, stop at Tachogang Lhakhang, a 15th-century iron-chain bridge built by the legendary Tibetan saint Thangtong Gyalpo.

  • Upon arrival in Thimphu, check in to your hotel and relax after your journey.

• Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu.

 

Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing

• Activities:

  • Start your day by visiting the National Memorial Chorten, a stupa built in memory of Bhutan’s third king Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, and a popular spot for local devotees.

  • Explore the gigantic Buddha Dordenma, one of the largest Buddha statues in the world, overlooking the Thimphu valley.

  • Visit the Folk Heritage Museum, which offers insights into Bhutan’s rural traditions and lifestyle, and the Textile Museum, showcasing the country's vibrant handwoven fabrics.

  • Stop at Tashichho Dzong, the administrative and religious center of Bhutan. In the evening, stroll through the weekend market (if applicable), where locals sell organic produce, handicrafts, and other goods.

  • For a short outdoor activity, take a hike to Cheri Monastery, an ancient spiritual retreat in the hills surrounding Thimphu.

• Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu.

 

 

Day 3: Drive to Punakha (3 hours)

• Activities:

  • Depart Thimphu and embark on a 3-hour drive to Punakha via the scenic Dochula Pass (3,100 meters). On clear days, enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas and explore the 108 memorial chortens (stupas) built at the pass.

  • Continue the journey downhill through forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine trees to reach the warmer valley of Punakha.

  • Visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, Bhutan’s most beautiful fortress, located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.

  • Take a short walk across the Punakha Suspension Bridge, offering stunning views of the valley.

  • Hike through paddy fields to reach Chimi Lhakhang, the Temple of Fertility, dedicated to the "Divine Madman," Lama Drukpa Kunley.

• Overnight: Hotel in Punakha.

 

Day 4: Drive to Phobjikha Valley and Sightseeing

• Drive from Punakha to Phobjikha Valley (3-3.5 hours): Begin your day with a scenic drive from Punakha to the stunning Phobjikha Valley, also known as Gangtey. The journey takes you through dense forests of oak and rhododendron, charming villages, and serene mountain landscapes.

• Phobjikha Valley Exploration: Once in Phobjikha, enjoy the valley’s pristine beauty. This glacial valley is home to the endangered Black-Necked Cranes, which migrate here during winter.

  • Gangtey Monastery: Visit this revered monastery, perched atop a hill overlooking the valley. It is an important Nyingma monastery in Bhutan.

  • Nature Trail Hike: Take a gentle hike through the valley, soaking in its natural beauty and spotting birds and local wildlife.

• Overnight Stay in Phobjikha: Check into a cozy hotel or homestay in Phobjikha and enjoy a peaceful evening amidst nature.

 

Day 5: Drive from Phobjikha to Bumthang (5-6 hours)

• Drive from Phobjikha to Bumthang (5-6 hours): The journey to Bumthang takes you through breathtaking mountain passes, pristine forests, and small hamlets. En route, you will cross Pele La Pass (3,420 meters) and Yotong La Pass (3,400 meters), offering spectacular views of the Himalayas.

• Scenic Stops: Stop at Chendebji Chorten, a 19th-century Nepalese-style stupa, and other scenic spots along the way.

• Hotel Check-In in Bumthang: Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax after the long drive.

 

Day 6: Bumthang Sightseeing

• Jakar Dzong: Visit Jakar Dzong, also known as the "Castle of the White Bird," which serves as an administrative and monastic center.

• Kurjey Lhakhang: Explore Kurjey Lhakhang, a sacred site where Guru Rinpoche meditated, leaving his body imprint on a rock.

• Tamshing Lhakhang: Discover this ancient temple known for its beautiful frescoes and connection to Terton Pema Lingpa, a treasure discoverer.

• Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake): Visit this sacred lake associated with Guru Rinpoche’s prophecies and Bhutanese spirituality.

Day 7: Explore Bumthang

• Ura Valley Excursion: Take a short drive to Ura Valley, known for its cobblestone paths, traditional houses, and pastoral beauty.

• Local Crafts and Farms: Visit local weavers and cheese-making farms to learn about traditional craftsmanship and taste authentic Bhutanese cheese.

• Relaxation: Spend the evening exploring Bumthang town or relaxing at your hotel.

Day 8: Drive from Bumthang to Paro(7-8 hours)

• Drive from Bumthang to Paro (7-8 hours): Start early for the long but rewarding drive back to Paro. The journey retraces some scenic routes through mountain passes, forests, and charming villages.

• Hotel Check-In in Paro: Arrive in Paro and check into your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

 

Day 9: Paro Sightseeing

• Tiger's Nest Monastery (Taktsang): Hike to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliffside. The hike takes about 5-6 hours round trip and offers breathtaking views.

• Rinpung Dzong: Visit Rinpung Dzong, a historic fortress and monastery that hosts the annual Paro Tsechu festival.

• National Museum of Bhutan: Explore Bhutan’s rich history and culture at the National Museum, housed in an ancient watchtower.

• Kyichu Lhakhang: End your day with a visit to this ancient temple, one of the oldest in Bhutan, believed to have been built in the 7th century.

 

Day 10: Departure from Paro

• Airport Transfer: After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure flight, carrying unforgettable memories of your Bhutan journey.