14-Day Educational Tour: Leadership and Cultural Immersion
This tour offers an immersive experience into Bhutan’s culture, environmental practices, and leadership development. Students will engage in meaningful activities that promote teamwork, cultural understanding, and sustainability, all set in Bhutan’s serene landscapes.
Overview
- Day 1: Arrival in Paro - Thimphu Exploration
- Day 2: Educational Excursions in Thimphu
- Day 3: Punakha – Lessons on Traditional Architecture
- Day 4: Punakha – Lessons on Traditional Architecture
- Day 5: Bumthang – Heart of Bhutan
- Day 6: Cultural Immersion in Bumthang
- Day 7: Gangtey Valley – The Black-necked Crane Experience
- Day 8: Interactive Workshops in Gangtey
- Day 9: Haa Valley
- Day 10: Haa Valley – Cultural Exchange
- Day 11: Back to Paro – Introduction to Buddhism
- Day 12: Leadership Workshop in Paro
- Day 13: Taktsang Hike – Reflection
- Day 14: Departure
Day 1 | Arrival in Paro - Thimphu
Objective: Introduce students to Bhutan’s culture and history.
- Morning:
- Arrival at Paro International Airport.
- Welcome and transfer to Thimphu (50 km / 1.5 hours).
- Afternoon:
- Visit the National Memorial Chorten and Buddha Dordenma.
- Evening:
- Brief orientation session on Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness (GNH) philosophy.
Day 2 | Thimphu – Educational Excursions
Objective: Explore Bhutan’s heritage through museums and cultural interactions.
- Morning:
- Visit the Royal Textile Academy and Folk Heritage Museum.
- Afternoon:
- Engage in interactive discussions with local artisans.
- Evening:
- Attend a traditional Bhutanese cultural performance.
Day 3 | Travel to Punakha
Objective: Learn about Bhutanese architecture and visit historic landmarks.
- Morning:
- Drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass.
- Visit the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens.
- Afternoon:
- Explore Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most majestic fortresses.
Day 4 | Punakha – Cultural and Historical Insights
Objective: Understand the historical and strategic significance of Punakha.
- Morning:
- Visit Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple.
- Afternoon:
- Walk across the Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge and enjoy riverside activities.
Day 5 | Travel to Bumthang
Objective: Experience Bhutan’s spiritual and historical heartland.
- Morning:
- Scenic drive to Bumthang with stops at important landmarks.
- Afternoon:
- Visit Jakar Dzong and Kurjey Lhakhang.
Day 6 | Bumthang – Cultural Immersion
Objective: Participate in traditional activities and explore local customs.
- Morning:
- Hands-on workshops in traditional crafts such as weaving or painting.
- Afternoon:
- Engage in storytelling sessions with local elders.
Day 7 | Travel to Gangtey
Objective: Explore Bhutan’s rich biodiversity.
- Morning:
- Travel to Gangtey and visit the Black-necked Crane Information Centre.
- Afternoon:
- Guided nature walk in Phobjikha Valley.
Day 8 | Gangtey – Conservation Activities
Objective: Learn about environmental sustainability and conservation efforts.
- Morning:
- Tree planting and eco-tourism discussions.
Day 9 | Travel to Haa Valley
Objective: Discover Bhutan’s untouched landscapes and rural communities.
- Morning:
- Travel to Haa Valley and explore its unique culture.
Day 10 | Haa Valley – Local Experiences
Objective: Engage with local communities and understand Bhutanese rural life.
- Morning:
- Participate in traditional farming and cooking activities.
Day 11 | Return to Paro – Heritage Exploration
Objective: Explore Paro’s rich history and architecture.
- Morning:
- Visit Rinpung Dzong and Ta Dzong (National Museum of Bhutan).
Day 12 | Paro – Leadership and Cultural Discussions
Objective: Engage in academic discussions and leadership development.
- Morning:
- Attend lectures and conferences on Bhutanese governance and sustainability.
Day 13 | Taktsang Hike
Objective: Experience Bhutan’s most iconic pilgrimage site.
- Morning:
- Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest).
Day 14 | Departure
Objective: Conclude the tour and depart from Bhutan.
- Morning:
- Farewell and transfer to Paro International Airport.