A Journey to the Center of Bhutan

This trip is designed to take you to the heart of Bhutan - literally and metaphorically. You will cover Bhutan's most popular destinations and breadth-taking landscapes. At the same time, you can also reach some of the remote nooks and corners where you can have an authentic local experience. On top of that, you can customize the specifics of your own trip so that it is a truly tailor-made tour for you.

Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Bhutan!

Stop At: Paro, Paro, Paro District
As your flight makes an adrenaline-pumping descend into Paro Valley, you will be greeted by a place unique in time and space. The airport itself is different from the typical airport with carefully curated Bhutanese feel about it.
Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge, Paro-Thimphu Highway, Paro 12001 Bhutan
Stop by this ancient iron-chain bridge build in the 15th century by the "da Vinci of the Himalayas." It leads to the temple built by him on the opposing hillock.
Duration: 20 minutes

Stop At: Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten), Thimphu Bhutan
Built in memory of the late 3rd King of Bhutan who is known fondly as the father of modern Bhutan, the Memorial Stupa is a fascinating piece of unique Bhutanese architecture incorporating modern aspects as re-enforced concrete and a beautiful lawn. It is the most famous rendezvous for the pious folks of Thimphu to circumambulate and chant mantras.
Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Centenary Farmers Market, Main Town, Near the Wangchhu River, Thimphu Bhutan
A thrilling medley of local green grocers, dry grocers and wholesale suppliers selling organic local produce, aromatic incense powders, spices and dry red chilli.
Duration: 30 minutes

Meals included:
• Lunch: Your first meal in Bhutan at a 3-Star eatery featuring local and international items
• Dinner: Welcome dinner at Folk Heritage Restaurant
Accommodation included: Overnight at a 3-Stars hotel in Thimphu

Day 2: Thimphu: Past, Present and the Future

Stop At: Buddha Dordenma, Kuensel Phodrang Viewing Point, Thimphu 11001 Bhutan
Visit Kuenselphodrang - the largest sitting statue of the Buddha in the world. The panoramic view of Thimphu valley is magnificent. Choose to take a short nature walk downhill to the half-way point or enjoy the view from your car.
Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Simply Bhutan Museum, Genyen Lam, Thimphu Bhutan
Simply Bhutan is a living museum dedicated to show-casing the age-old customs and traditions of Bhutan. Enjoy a local beverage such as suja or rice wine, look at the various cultural artifacts and spectate the local dances.
Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Changangkha Lhakhang, Thimphu Bhutan
Every baby born in Thimphu come to this historic temple to receive a name from its powerful protector deity. Its statues and murals are some of the oldest and most magnificent. The temple itself is busy with the pious believers coming to offer their prayers, butter-lamps and incenses.
Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Motithang Takin Preserve, Thimphu Bhutan
There is a curious tale about the place which involves a high Lama, a goat and a yak, and some drinking. It is best left to be told when you reach the preserve where Bhutan's national animal roams along with several other rare wildlife.
Duration: 45 minutes

Stop At: Tashichho Dzong, Thimphu, Bhutan
This fortress is probably one of the most documented in antiquity. English missionaries coming to Bhutan in the 17th - 19th century drew and photographed it. Today, it is the beating administrative heart of Bhutan where the Dragon King has his Throne Room.
Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: The Craft GALLERY, Norzin Lam 3 Building #69, Opposite to Bhutan Development Bank Limited (BDBL), behind Department of Revenue and Customs (DRC) and Duty Free Shop, Thimphu 11001 Bhutan
A bonanza of local products from all over the country with innovative modern twists. Explore the lives of the locals by looking at the products they craft. Continue onto the Craft Bazaar where numerous handicraft shops offer an amazing variety of local crafts and products that you can buy as souvenirs.
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes

Meals included:
•
•
•
Accommodation included: Overnight at one of the 3-Star hotels in the Thimphu

Day 3: Thimphu - Punakha

Stop At: Dochula Pass, Thimphu Bhutan
Dochula is magnificent atoll with a 108 Stupas built to celebrate the victory of the 4th King of Bhutan against terrorist camps in the South in 2003. Enjoy a warm drink at the Dochula cafes with a stunning view of the Jiligang Mountain Ranges
Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Chimi Lhakhang Temple, Punakha Bhutan
If you are in Bhutan, the Legacy of the Divine Madman is everywhere - on the giant phallic paintings to the tiny phalluses you can buy as souvenirs. The ultimate place to discover more is the Temple of Fertility where couples can pray to be blessed with a beautiful baby. The surrounding area is beautiful and decidedly Bhutanese, and you can enjoy a walk through the villages.
Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Punakha Dzong, Punakha 13001 Bhutan
Built in the 17th century at the confluence of the Male and Female rivers that merge together to form the turquoise-colored Punakha River, Punkha Dzong is an imposing fortress that commands not only Punakha valley but the history of the entire country. A traditional cantilever bridge leads to the Dzong.
Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Punakha Suspension Bridge, Punakha Dzong, Punakha 13001 Bhutan
The longer suspension bridge in Bhutan links the opposing faces of the valley. It is used by the locals for daily commute, and with its beautiful backdrop of prayer flags, it forms a scenic and photogenic spot.
Duration: 30 minutes

Meals included:
•
•
•
Accommodation included: Overnight at a 3-Star Hotel in Punakha

Day 4: Punakha - Trongsa

Stop At: Pelela, Bhutan
Pelela is the end of western Bhutan and start of eastern Bhutan. Legendary figures passed this pass, creating history in their footsteps. Today, a commanding Temple stands in the saddle, proudly marking the watershed.
Duration: 15 minutes

Stop At: Chendebji Chorten, Chendebji, Trongsa Bhutan
This giant stupa was built in image of the Boudhanath Stupa of Kathmandu in the 18th century to subdue the locals demons. Surrounded by the lush forests of Chendebji, this serene spot has an awe-inspiring effect on visitors.
Duration: 15 minutes

Stop At: Tongsa Dzong, Trongsa Bhutan
Trongsa Dzong is the longest fortress in Bhutan. Built in the 17th century, it is home to one of the most intricate woodwork in Bhutan. Its construction on a commanding hillock with meandering courtyards invokes imaginations of brave warriors of Bhutan of the by-gone century.
Duration: 45 minutes

Stop At: The Tower of Trongsa Museum, Trongsa Bhutan
The Royal Heritage Museum is fascinating for several reasons. First, it is housed in the Watch Tower of Trongsa Dzong - a turreted fortress built to defend the main fortress. Second, it hosts a interesting variety of cultural artifacts and antiques tracing back to various past and present members of the royal house of Bhutan.
Duration: 1 hour

Meals included:
•
•
•
Accommodation included: Overnight at 3-Stars hotel in Trongsa

Day 5: Trongsa - Bumthang

Pass By: Yutong La Pass, Trongsa Bhutan
Stop over at the pass that divides Trongsa district from Bumthang district. Here you see pinned the hopes and aspirations of an entire district on a red noticeboard that also welcomes you to the "Valley Resembling a Vase" - Bumthang

Pass By: Bumthang District, Bumthang District
Bumthang is blessed with a rich number of important religious and cultural landmarks. Its landscapes, adorned with Himalayan pines spread their fragrance as you drive by. Stop by for rest, toilet and photographing.

Stop At: Jakar, Jakar, Bumthang District
Jakar Chamkhar Town is a quaint little market town with distinct Bhutanese characteristics but a east-meets-wild-west kind of ring to it! Essentially, it is how Thimphu must have looked in the 80s except here, you can find shops selling modern clothes, phones, 4G sim-cards and great coffee.
Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Jakar Dzong, Chamkhar Valley, Jakar Bhutan
Literally meaning Fortress of the White Bird, Jakar Dzong sits on a hillock commanding the Jakar Valley. On the way up, stop by on the road to enjoy a panoramic view of the entire valley with its paddy fields, the Chamkhar Town and expansive willow plantations. At the Dzong, hike town to the water well located many flights of stairs below the fortress - its musty cellar now settled by some bats.
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes

Meals included:
•
•
•
Accommodation included: Overnight at a 3-Star hotel in Bumthang

Day 6: Bumthang

Stop At: Burning Lake, Bumthang Bhutan
Although not a fiery lake as its name suggests, there is a rich story behind how it came to be known as the Burning Lake. Enjoy a detour in the pine-laden spot as the riverine lake swirls and creates a serene aura.
Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Ogyen Choling Palace Museum, Ogyen Choling, Tang, Bumthang, Jakar Bhutan
Bhutan was a feudal society for some time in its history. What did a feudal manor look like- Ogyen Choling Museum, the only private museum in Bhutan has a superbly curated collections of family artifacts, heirlooms, everyday implements, arms and religious belongings of the Ogyen Choling Manor. The central tower was arguably the tallest private residence in Bhutan before the advent of modern concrete towers.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

Stop At: Jambay Lhakhang Temple, Near Bumthang River, Jakar Bhutan
Jambay Lhakhang was one of the 108 temples built by a Tibetan Buddhist emperor to pin town a demoness in a single night. It is a one-storey temple reminiscent of the earlier Bhutanese temples, and features a three-step stair in the middle said to symbolize the past, the present and the future.
Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Bumthang Brewery, Bathpalathang, Bumthang Bhutan
Visit the place where they make the Red Panda weiss beer in Bumthang and take a taste or two. Nearby, you can visit the Bapalythang Cheese Unit where they make swiss-style cheeses. And near that, you can visit the farm store selling local brandy, honey, tea and other products.
Duration: 1 hour

Meals included:
•
•
•
Accommodation included: Overnight at 3-Star Hotel in Paro Valley

Day 7: Bumthang - Phobjikha

Pass By: Trongsa, Trongsa, Trongsa District
Drive from Bumthang to Phobjikha at a slow and relaxed pace via Trongsa. In between, we will take stops on the way for rest, toilet and photography as well as a lunch stop.

Meals included:
•
•
•
Accommodation included: 3-Star accommodation in Gangtey

Day 8: Phobjikha

Stop At: Gangtey Monastery, Gangtey Bhutan
Gangtey Monastery is a magnificent 18th century temple built on a commanding ridge commanding the valley below. The road leading to the temple meanders through an old-fashioned township.
Duration: 45 minutes

Stop At: Phobjikha Valley, Bhutan
Walk the Gangtey-Phobji Nature Trail along the edge of the most famed and beautiful valley in Bhutan. In the summer, the valley is a mosaic of grazing cattle, lush pastures and wild flowers, while in the winter, the melodious Black Necked Cranes fill the vale with their songs and dances. With an idyllic view surrounded by farms and houses, Phobjikha is a must-visit!
Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: Black Necked Crane Center, Bhutan
Whether its the crane season or not, the Black Necked Crane is a good place to visit. It offer a astounding panoramic view of the valley, and has a beautifully curated collection of multi-media materials of the local flora and fauna.
Duration: 30 minutes

Meals included:
•
•
•
Accommodation included: Overnight stay at a village homestay

Day 9: Phobjikha - Punakha

Stop At: Khamsum Nyenzergang Chorten, Bhutan
Build on top of an atoll with an amazing view of the valley below, Khamsum Yuelley Stupa is a towering temple with a distinct architecture. Trek through the rice fields of Punakha to reach the hillock. Opt for a river rafting experience that sees you hit the river below the stupa, and emerge near the majestic Punakha Fortress.
Duration: 2 hours

Meals included:
•
•
•
Accommodation included: Overnight at a 3-Stars hotel in Punakha

Day 10: Punakha - Paro

Pass By: Punakha, Punakha, Punakha District
Drive to Paro from Punakha with stops on the way for rest, toilet and lunch. Take in the majestic mountain ranges and dense Bhutanese forests as you ascend and descend Dochula.

Meals included:
•
•
•
Accommodation included: Overnight at a 3-Stars Hotel in Paro

Day 11: Paro - Haa

Pass By: Chele La, Bhutan
Chele La served an entry point into Thimphu for a long time. British Indian missions to Bhutan used this pass. Today, it marks the boundary between Paro and Haa.

Stop At: Haa District, Haa District
Haa is one of the most beautiful and isolated areas in the kingdom, adorned with pristine alpine forests and tranquil mountain peaks. It is unspoilt by the exploits of tourism, and offers an authentic Bhutanese experience
Duration: 3 hours

Stop At: Lhakhang Nagpo, Bhutan
Visit the famous Lhakhang Karpo and Nagpo - White and Black Chapels of Haa. Explore their rich history, architecture and intricate murals.
Duration: 2 hours

Meals included:
•
•
•
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in 3-Stars hotel in Haa

Day 12: Haa - Paro

Stop At: Rinpung Dzong, Paro Bhutan
Built on the atoll overlooking the Paro Airport, Rinpung Fortress Offers a magnificent view of Paro Valley.
Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: National Museum, Tag-Dzong Rinpung Dzong, Paro 12001 Bhutan
Located directly above the Rinpung Fortress, the National Museum hosts an exhaustive collection of cultural products from all over Bhutan. It houses some of the most exquisite paintings and intricate artifacts, thus providing a glimpse into Bhutan’s rich cultural and religious history.
Duration: 2 hours

Meals included:
•
•
•
Accommodation included: Overnight at 3-Stars hotel in Paro

Day 13: Paro

Stop At: Paro Taktsang སྤ་རོ་སྟག་ཚང་།, Taktsang trail BT, F9R7+PCR, Taktsang trail, Paro, Bhutan
The path to Tagtshang Monastery is a rather-steep hike through pine-scented forests. If you are daunted by the uphill walk, you can always opt to take a pony up - for a fee!
Duration: 3 hours

Stop At: Paro Taktsang, Taktsang Trail BT, Paro Bhutan
The famed Paro Tagtsang is an expansive monastery set on a sheer cliff-face with a magnificent view of the pine-filled valley below. Hop between the temples with intricate murals and beautiful statues, and explore the nooks and corners around the monastery.
Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Kyichu Lhakhang, Lamgong Gewog, Paro 12001 Bhutan
Kyichu is the twin of Bumthang Jambay Lhakhang. As one of the oldest Buddhist temples in the country, it is an interesting landmark with beautiful statues and unique murals.
Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Paro, Paro, Paro District
Set in the flat river valley, the Paro Town is a quaint town with an amazing number of gift shops where you can see and buy crafts and artifacts. Stroll around this uniquely Bhutanese town, and enjoy your last dinner in Bhutan at a 3-Star restaurant.
Duration: 2 hours

Meals included:
•
•
•
Accommodation included: Overnight at a 3-Stars hotel in Paro

Day 14: Adieu, Bhutan

Pass By: Paro Airport Bird's Eye View Point, Paro Bhutan
In the morning, our guide and driver will drive you to the airport, and wave goodbyes. By then, we hope that you have enjoyed your trip in Bhutan. We hope you will revisit Bhutan someday soon!

Meals included:
•
No accommodation included on this day.

Informacion Adicional
"Infants must sit on laps"
"Infant seats available"
"Service animals allowed"
"Not wheelchair accessible"
"Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level"
"This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers"
"Confirmation will be received at time of booking"



Start Time:
Confirm time with the local provider in advance of your experience.
A Journey to the Center of Bhutan
12/12/2019 - 3/24/2024

Monday :

12:00 AM - 10:30 PM

Tuesday - Sunday :

12:00 AM - 11:30 PM

Duration: 14 Days
Start location: Traveler pickup is offered

Airports

• Paro Airport, Paro Bhutan
• Bagdogra International Airport, Distt. Darjeeling Siliguri, M8PG+25X, Bagdogra, West Bengal 734421, India

Cancellations and refunds: If you cancel at least 7 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee.
If you cancel between 3 and 6 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is a 50 percent cancellation fee.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, there is a 100 percent cancellation fee.

Included

• 13x Breakfast
• 13x Dinner
• 13x Lunch
• Accommodation included: 13 nights
• Entry/Admission - The Craft GALLERY
• Entry/Admission - Chimi Lhakhang Temple
• Entry/Admission - Paro Taktsang
• Entry/Admission - Tashichho Dzong
• Entry/Admission - Dochula Pass
• Entry/Admission - Chendebji Chorten
• Entry/Admission - Jakar Dzong
• Entry/Admission - Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge
• Entry/Admission - Centenary Farmers Market
• Entry/Admission - Ogyen Choling Palace Museum
• Entry/Admission - Jambay Lhakhang Temple
• Entry/Admission - Lhakhang Nagpo
• Entry/Admission - Buddha Dordenma
• Entry/Admission - Simply Bhutan Museum
• Entry/Admission - The Tower of Trongsa Museum
• Entry/Admission - Burning Lake
• Entry/Admission - Motithang Takin Preserve
• Entry/Admission - Punakha Suspension Bridge
• Entry/Admission - Rinpung Dzong
• Entry/Admission - National Museum
• Entry/Admission - Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten)
• Entry/Admission - Gangtey Monastery
• Entry/Admission - Kyichu Lhakhang
• Entry/Admission - Paro Taktsang སྤ་རོ་སྟག་ཚང་།
• Entry/Admission - Black Necked Crane Center
• Entry/Admission - Changangkha Lhakhang

Not Included

Facilities