From Bhutan 9 Nights 10 Days Explore Beautiful Bhutan

Day 1 · Arrive in Paro-Transfer to Thimpu

1. 1

   Paro

   15 min

   Arrive at Paro International Airport to be received by our guide who will welcome you with the traditional white scarf. After that you will head towards Thimpu which is a beautiful 1.5 hrs drive amidst nature.

2. 2

   Buddha Dordenma

   2 hours Admission not included

   If your arrival is by evening ,you will get the time to explore the famous Buddha Dordenma Statue. Marvel at the magnificence of the tall statue while viewing the beauty of Thimpu from a vantage point.

Overnight stay at a 3-star Hotel in Thimpu.

Day 2 · Thimpu Sightseeing

1. 1

   Stop 1

   3 hours Admission not included

   The trip starts early morning where you will explore Thimpu after the breakfast. The morning activities will introduce you to the rich culture and heritage of Bhutan. Soak in the culture, prayers ,colorful craft and peace in the Dzong.

   You will visit National Memorial Chorten which is a sacred spot of worship. You can witness the vibrant daily life of the older people in Bhutan who get together at Chorten and spend their day there meeting other and spending time in praying and sharing food which they bring from home. Its a beautiful and unique way of keeping the senior citizens of the country active and engaged. You can meet the priests and witness the chanting or sermons if any local ceremony is going on.

2. 2

   National Folk Heritage Museum

   2 hours Admission not included

   The Museum is in a traditional Bhutanese Home. You can immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Bhutan culture and craft. Each floor of the Museum will take you on an enchanting journey to the rich past of Bhutan.

3. 3

   Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan

   2 hours Admission not included

   Visit The Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan which is an educational institute set up to preserve the traditional unique weaves and textile patterns of Bhutan. The academy has revived many old weaves from Dzongs and introduced modern methods to conserve the designs. Witness and learn the weaving methods and the colorful patterns.

4. 4

   Centenary Farmers Market

   2 hours

   The local farmers market, situated near the Wang Chuu river is a beautifully, organized, well laid out vegetable and fruits market. Experience the local flavor and learn the local lifestyle of Bhutan. Farmers from all over the country gather here and display their produce.

   CRAFT BAZAAR- Craft Bazaar is a colorful sight on a long road, displaying authentic Bhutanese traditional paintings, handicrafts and wood carvings. This is a perfect one stop for a glimpse of Bhutan art and craft and for souvenir back home for friends and family.

Stay at a 3-star hotel in Thimpu.

Day 3 · Thimpu to Phobjikha

1. 1

   Phobjikha Valley

   3 hours

   Start your third day- drive to the most beautiful valley of Bhutan, Phobjikha Valley. Be ready to be mesmerized by nature's bounty for around 3 hours.

   The valley is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including expansive landscapes, verdant forests, and picturesque views of the Himalayas. Phobjikha means 'valley of cranes'.

   Tranquil and picturesque, the valley plays host every winter to one of the most venerated natural rituals in the Himalayas as thousands of Black-Necked Cranes swoop down into its sheltered bowl on their migratory journey.

2. 2

   Gangtey Monastery

   3 hours Admission not included

   Get ready for a spiritual journey in the Gangtey Monastery built in 17th century with Tibetan inspired architecture. Gangtey Monastery is a four storey complex with five temples that surround the main central tower.

   Inside the monastery, there are beautiful statues of Guru Rinpoche and other deities.

   Gangtey/Phobhijka valley is the winter home for the endangered black-necked cranes. The black-necked cranes are considered sacred birds in Bhutan and it is revered as a symbol of longevity. The Black-Necked Crane Festival is also celebrated and held in Gangtey Monastery during mid-November every year.

Overnight stay at Phobjikha

Day 4 · Phobjikha to Bumthang

1. 1

   Bumthang

   6 hours

   Drive from Phobjikha to Bumthang,5-6 hours drive. Bumthang translates to - beautiful field which you would witness and enjoy during the drive.

   Bumthang's fascinating valley is the spiritual heartland of the nation and home to some of the oldest Buddhist temples and monasteries.

   They have their own brewery, own craft and is a haven for hikers.

   While enjoying the drive, you can pit stop at small villages on the way to get a slice of village life of Bhutan.

Overnight in Bumthang.

Day 5 · Bumthang Local Sightseeing

1. 1

   Jakar Dzong

   2 hours Admission not included

   The Jakar Dzong or the “Castle of the White Bird” dominates the Chamkhar valley and overlooks the town. It is the seat of the first king of Bhutan.

   Marvel at its unique architecture which is different from rest of the Dzongs in Bhutan.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   2 hours Admission not included

   Tamshing Lakhang temple visit will take you to an enchanting journey into the history. Its temple and monastery are remarkable for their direct connection to the Bhutanese saints .Tamzhing consists of a deteriorating temple and a vihara, home for monks. It supports a body of over 95 Buddhist monks.

   In March 2012, the monastery was submitted for inscription on the list of World Heritage Sites.

   Tamshing is the original home of sacred dances that are celebrated at traditional festivals of Bhutan.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   2 hours Admission not included

   Dive into spirituality beautiful architecture, stunning views, and peaceful atmosphere in Kurjey Lakhang temple.

   Kurjey Lhakhang is famous for its historical and spiritual significance. It is closely associated with Guru Rinpoche, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism, who is said to have meditated in the cave located within the monastery.

4. 4

   Burning Lake

   one hour Admission not included

   Burning Lake known as Mebar Tsho in Bhutanese ,is a small fresh water lake, a sacred pilgrimage site for the Bhutanese with bright multicolored prayer flags surrounding it and a small altar. Experience its miraculous beauty and serenity while listening to the legendary stories surrounding the place.

Overnight in a 3 star hotel at Bumthang

Day 6 · Bumthang to Punakha

1. 1

   Punakha

   8 hours

   Drive to Punakha which is approx 7-8 hours enjoying the scenic beauty, including winding mountain roads, lush valleys, and views of the Himalayas. Experience the beautiful drive on a well-maintained two-lane highway, snaking through mountains and valleys.

2. 2

   Punakha District

   3 hours

   After the long drive, relax in your hotel for a while and then explore the Punakha city. The Punakha Dzong is a beautiful masterpiece which cannot be missed.

Overnight in a 3-star Punakha hotel.

Day 7 · Punakha to Haa

1. 1

   Haa Valley

   5 hours

   Start your day with a drive to Haa valley, approx 5 hours through the scenic and picturesque landscape.

2. 2

   Lhakhang Karpo

   2 hours Admission not included

   Visit the mysterious place with lots of myths and legends and probably one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. It is one of the best places to visit in Haa valley. These are two temples which are called Black and White temples, get ready to get captivated by the air of tranquility and reverence that envelops them.

Overnight in Haa Hotel.

Day 8 · Haa to Paro

1. 1

   Paro

   3 hours

   Drive to Paro for 2.5 hours while enjoying the stunning views of the Himalyas.

2. 2

   Kyichu Lhakhang

   2 hours Admission not included

   Kyichu Lhakhang is a charming old temple with stunning gardens filled with Chinese roses, wisteria, flowers, orange trees full of oranges which grow all the year round.Nature at its best, and the Buddhist traditions in the complex offering a peaceful experience. Be ready to be mesmerized in the rythm of bell clunking.

Overnight in Paro

Day 9 · Tiger's Nest Hike -Taktsang

1. 1

   Paro Taktsang

   6 hours Admission not included

   Tiger's Nest hike would take around 6 hours for a round trip . Hike amidst the pine trees ,waterfalls and bird chirping ,witnessing prayer flags at different spots.

Overnight at Paro

Day 10 · Departure

1. 1

   Paro

   Passing by

   Transfer to Paro International Airport for onwards journey