Day 1: Arrival in Paro, Transfer to Thimphu for city exploration
Dochula Pass Welcome to Bhutan! Our experienced guide will meet you at the Paro airport and then transfer you to the capital city Thimphu. Nestled high in the Himalayas, Bhutan, locally known as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon", is a serene kingdom where ancient Buddhist traditions meet forward-thinking environmentalism. It is famously the only carbon-negative country in the world and the pioneer of Gross National Happiness, a philosophy that prioritizes the well-being of its people and the preservation of its pristine landscapes over mere economic growth. From the iconic Tiger’s Nest monastery clinging to a cliffside to the colorful mask dances of local festivals, Bhutan offers a rare, slow-paced sanctuary from the modern world. Along the way, we’ll pause at the hereditary Tamchog Lhakhang Iron Bridge, a 15th-century engineering marvel built by the legendary Thangtong Gyalpo. After arrival in Thimphu, we’ll visit some of its spiritual landmarks. Our first stop is the National Memorial Chorten, a landmark of deep devotion where the elderly gather to spin prayer wheels and chant mantras. This stupa, with its golden spires and intricate carvings, was built to honor the Third King and serves as a powerful monument to global peace. Next, we’ll the Buddha Dordenma Statue, one of the largest sitting statues in the world. This bronze "Buddha Point" is gilded in gold and houses over 100,000 smaller Buddha statues within its chest. Standing at the foot of this massive figure, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Thimphu Valley, providing a perfect moment for photography. We’ll conclude the day at the majestic Tashichho Dzong. This impressive fortress serves as the center of government and religion, and it is particularly stunning when illuminated at dusk. Finally, your guide and the driver will escort you to your hotel. Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Thimphu Deluxe (3 stars) or similar
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Day 2: Thimphu one day cultural tour with Tango Monastery
This morning, we will spend 1.5 hours hiking to the Tango Monastery, one of top institutes of Buddhist learning in Bhutan. In the afternoon, we pay a visit to Thirteen Traditional Arts and Crafts School, a place for youth to learn skills like Knitting and carving, and then proceed to the Folk Heritage Museum, which houses a lot of folk relics. Thereafter, we conclude today's travel at the Motithang Takin Preserve to watch the Bhutan's national animal - Takin before visiting the Traditional Paper Making Factory. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Thimphu Deluxe (3 stars) or similar
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Day 3: Drive to Punakha, Punakha sightseeing with hiking to Chimi Lhakang
In this morning, we will take you to Punakha by 2.5 hours drive. On the way, we have a short break at Dochula Pass and then admire the famous 108 stupas nearby. Later, we hike to Chimi Lhakang with the history of over 600 years. Next we explore Punakha Dzong, the administrative center of Punakha and its nearby Suspension Bridge. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Meri Puensum Resort Punakha (3 stars) or similar
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Day 4: Travel to Gangtey by car, Sightseeing tour with Gangtey Monastery
Today, we will drive to Gangtey/Phobjikha to continue your Bhutan tour package. On the way, you will be guided to visit the Renchengang Village, which is famous for stone works. Upon arrival, we visit Gangtey Monastery with beautiful murals. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Dewachen Phobjikha (3 stars) or similar
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Day 5: Hiking across Gangtey Nature Trail, 5-6 hour's scenic drive to Trongsa
After a big breakfast, we will hike across the Gangtery Nature Trail. Then, we reach the Crane Information Center and visit the Gangtery primary school to meet up with children and teachers. Thereafter, we will take a 5-6 hour's scenic drive to Trongsa. On the road, we will cross Pele La Pass and make a short stop at the Chenbdji Chorten. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Yangkhil Resort Trongsa (3 stars) or similar
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Day 6: Trongsa exploration with Trongsa Dzong, Private transfer to Bumthang
Local Dance and Singing Performance Today we'll start with a visit to Trongsa Dzong, the ancestral home of the Royal Family and the largest fortress in Bhutan. Perched high above a deep gorge, this architectural masterpiece was historically the gateway between the east and west; its strategic location allowed the governors of Trongsa to effectively control the entire kingdom. You’ll explore its labyrinth of courtyards, corridors, and temples, all while enjoying the dramatic views of the Mangde River valley below.
Next, we'll set off on a scenic 4-hour drive toward Bumthang. Along the way, we’ll stop at the weaving center and shops. You’ll see local women skillfully hand-weaving yathra, a unique, thick wool textile characterized by vibrant colors and intricate geometric patterns. It’s a wonderful opportunity to witness this traditional craft firsthand and perhaps pick up a piece of authentic Bhutanese artistry directly from the artisans.
Upon arrival in Bumthang, let's check into the hotel and have a good rest. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Ugyenling Bumthang (3 stars) or similar
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Day 7: Bumthang full-day highlights tour
This morning, explore the charm of Bumthang valley by visiting the grand Kurje Lhakhang, Jambey Lhakang, and Tamshing Lhakhang that has a collection of oldest murals. Later, we turn to Jakar Dzong, the administrative center of Bumthang. Later, we stroll in the nearby village and have a leisure time at a local handicraft shop. In the afternoon, we continue to visit Lhodrak Kharchhu Monastery. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Ugyenling Bumthang (3 stars) or similar
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Day 8: Fly from Bumthang to Paro, Half-day Paro sightseeing
This morning our guide will see you off at the airport for a 25 minutes' flight to Paro. Upon arrival, our local guide will transfer you to the hotel. After a short break, you will be escorted to visit Ta Dzong, used as the National Museum at present. Later, turn to Paro Dzong. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tenzinling Resort Paro (3 stars) or similar
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Day 9: Paro one day tour with Taktsang
This morning, we will continue to Taktsang (Tiger's Nest), the holiest Buddhist monastery in Bhutan and well known for the scaring location as well. After that, approach the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest religious fortresses in Bhutan. Later, visit Aum Chencho Farm house. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tenzinling Resort Paro (3 stars) or similar
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Day 10: Departure from Paro, Airport see-off
Your Bhutan holiday ends today. Our guide will see you off at the airport. Wish you a nice trip! Meals: Breakfast
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