Cypress Tour (11 Nights / 12 Days)
Embark on a remarkable 12-day journey through Bhutan, exploring stunning valleys, serene monasteries, and cultural landmarks. This tour offers a deep dive into Bhutan’s spiritual and natural wonders.
Overview
- Day 1: Paro
- Day 2: Chelela Pass to Thimphu
- Day 3: Thimphu
- Day 4: Thimphu to Punakha
- Day 5: Punakha
- Day 6: Punakha to Bumthang
- Day 7: Bumthang
- Day 8: Tang Valley to Bumthang
- Day 9: Bumthang to Wangdue
- Day 10: Wangdue to Paro
- Day 11: Paro
- Day 12: Departure
Day 1: Arrival and Sightseeing in Paro (2250m / 7382ft)
Upon arrival, a team member will guide you to your hotel. After resting, explore key landmarks such as Rinpung Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, and Drugyel Dzong.
Included Activities:
- Rinpung Dzong: A fortress-monastery with stunning architecture and rich history.
- Kyichu Lhakhang: One of Bhutan’s oldest temples, showcasing Buddhist heritage.
- Drugyel Dzong: Historic ruins commemorating Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invaders.
Day 2: Excursion to Chele La Pass, then Drive to Thimphu (174 km)
Visit Chele La Pass, the highest motorable point in Bhutan, and hike to Kila Gompa Nunnery. Enjoy scenic views and head to Thimphu.
Included Activities:
- Chele La Pass: Breathtaking views of Mt. Jumolhari and vibrant prayer flags.
- Kila Gompa Nunnery: A serene retreat for nuns, nestled in the cliffs.
Day 3: Sightseeing in Thimphu
Explore the city’s cultural landmarks, including the Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma statue, and Tashichho Dzong. Visit the Motithang Takin Preserve and learn about traditional Bhutanese crafts.
Included Activities:
- Memorial Chorten: A stupa dedicated to the third Druk Gyalpo.
- Buddha Dordenma: A towering golden Buddha statue.
- Tashichho Dzong: A historic fortress and administrative centre.
- Motithang Takin Preserve: Home to Bhutan’s national animal.
Day 4: Thimphu to Punakha (76 km)
Drive to Punakha via the scenic Dochula Pass. Visit Punakha Dzong and stroll through lush rice fields along the riverbanks.
Included Activities:
- Dochula Pass: A panoramic viewpoint with 108 chortens.
- Punakha Dzong: A riverside fortress of historical and cultural importance.
Day 5: Punakha Village Tour
Visit the Punakha Suspension Bridge and hike to Limbhukha Village, enjoying breathtaking views and local hospitality.
Included Activities:
- Punakha Suspension Bridge: Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge with scenic views.
- Limbhukha Village: Famous for medicinal red rice and its serene ambiance.
Day 6: Punakha to Bumthang (214 km)
Begin the journey to Bumthang, stopping at Pele La Pass and Trongsa Dzong. Visit the Yathra Textile Factory en route.
Included Activities:
- Pele La Pass: Gateway to central Bhutan with stunning vistas.
- Trongsa Dzong: A historic fortress with panoramic views.
- Yathra Textile Factory: Showcasing traditional handwoven textiles.
Day 7: Sightseeing in Bumthang
Visit sacred sites such as Jambay Lhakhang, Kurje Lhakhang, and Jakar Dzong. Explore the town’s charming markets and shops.
Included Activities:
- Jambay Lhakhang: One of the oldest temples in Bhutan.
- Kurje Lhakhang: A sacred site linked to Guru Padmasambhava.
- Jakar Dzong: A fortress overlooking the Chamkhar Valley.
Day 8: Excursion to Tang Valley, then Back to Bumthang (84 km)
Explore Tang Valley and visit Ogyen Choling Palace. Stop by Mebar Tsho, the “Burning Lake,” known for its spiritual significance.
Included Activities:
- Tang Valley: A scenic valley with traditional villages.
- Ogyen Choling Palace: A museum preserving Bhutanese heritage.
- Mebar Tsho: A sacred site linked to Pema Lingpa’s discoveries.
Day 9: Bumthang to Wangdue (197 km)
Drive to Wangdue, stopping at Gangtey Monastery and Chendebji Chorten along the way.
Included Activities:
- Gangtey Monastery: A monastery overlooking the Phobjikha Valley.
- Chendebji Chorten: A stupa inspired by Nepalese architecture.
Day 10: Wangdue to Paro (124 km)
Drive to Paro, stopping at Chimi Lhakhang and Dochula Pass. Visit Druk Wangyal Monastery en route.
Included Activities:
- Chimi Lhakhang: A temple known for its fertility blessings.
- Druk Wangyal Monastery: A temple blending history and mythology.
Day 11: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Start the day with a hike to Taktsang Monastery, perched on a cliffside. Enjoy lunch midway and explore the monastery.
Included Activities:
- Paro Taktsang: A sacred Buddhist site and cultural icon.
Day 12: Departure from Paro
After breakfast, a team member will escort you to the airport for your departure. Farewell and safe travels!