Paradise Tour (8 Nights / 9 Days)
Immerse yourself in the cultural and natural splendours of Bhutan with this 9-day journey. Explore serene monasteries, majestic fortresses, and picturesque valleys while experiencing the unique heritage and traditions of this Himalayan kingdom.
Overview
- Day 1: Arrival in Paro and Transfer to Thimphu
- Day 2: Explore Thimphu
- Day 3: Drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass
- Day 4: Drive to Bumthang
- Day 5: Explore Bumthang
- Day 6: Drive to Gangtey
- Day 7: Gangtey to Paro
- Day 8: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
- Day 9: Departure from Paro
Day 1: Arrival in Paro and Transfer to Thimphu (54 km)
Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide and driver. Begin your journey to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city, a scenic drive of approximately one hour along the Paro River. If time allows, stop to explore Paro’s cultural landmarks before continuing to your hotel in Thimphu for an overnight stay.
Day 2: Explore Thimphu
Spend the day exploring Thimphu’s key attractions, including the Buddha Dordenma, Memorial Chorten, and Tashichho Dzong. Visit the Folk Heritage Museum and Motithang Takin Preserve to experience Bhutanese culture and wildlife. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the city’s charming streets.
Included Activities:
- Buddha Dordenma: A colossal statue symbolising peace and happiness.
- Memorial Chorten: A monument dedicated to the Third King of Bhutan.
- Tashichho Dzong: The seat of Bhutan’s government and monastic body.
- Motithang Takin Preserve: Sanctuary for Bhutan’s national animal, the takin.
Day 3: Drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass (76 km)
Depart Thimphu for Punakha, ascending to Dochula Pass (3,100 m) for panoramic Himalayan views and the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens. Continue downhill to the subtropical Punakha Valley. Visit Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple, and Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most exquisite fortresses.
Included Activities:
- Dochula Pass: A scenic high pass offering sweeping mountain vistas.
- Chimi Lhakhang: Temple of fertility dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley.
- Punakha Dzong: An architectural masterpiece located at the confluence of two rivers.
Day 4: Drive to Bumthang (214 km)
Embark on a full-day drive to Bumthang, the spiritual heartland of Bhutan. Cross the Pele La Pass and stop in Trongsa to visit the majestic Trongsa Dzong, once the ancestral home of Bhutan’s royal family. Arrive in Bumthang by evening and settle in at your hotel.
Included Activities:
- Pele La Pass: A gateway between western and central Bhutan.
- Trongsa Dzong: The largest fortress in Bhutan with a commanding valley view.
Day 5: Explore Bumthang
Discover Bumthang’s sacred monasteries and historic sites. Visit Kurje Lhakhang, Jambay Lhakhang, and Tamshing Monastery, each rich with legend and devotion. Explore Jakar Dzong and the Yathra Weaving Centre to observe traditional textile craftsmanship.
Included Activities:
- Kurje Lhakhang: Site where Guru Rinpoche left his body imprint on a rock.
- Jambay Lhakhang: One of Bhutan’s oldest temples built by King Songtsen Gampo.
- Tamshing Monastery: Founded by Terton Pema Lingpa, renowned for sacred murals.
- Jakar Dzong: A fortress overlooking the Chamkhar Valley.
Day 6: Drive to Gangtey (188 km)
Travel back westward to Gangtey, a picturesque glacial valley in Phobjikha. Visit the 17th-century Gangtey Monastery and enjoy a nature walk across the valley, home to the revered black-necked cranes during winter.
Included Activities:
- Gangtey Monastery: Seat of the Pema Lingpa tradition of Nyingma Buddhism.
- Phobjikha Valley: Famous for its scenic wetlands and migratory cranes.
Day 7: Gangtey to Paro (170 km)
Depart Gangtey for Paro, retracing the scenic mountain roads through Wangdue and Dochula. En route, enjoy lunch and brief photo stops. Upon arrival in Paro, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples.
Included Activities:
- Kyichu Lhakhang: A sacred temple believed to subdue a giant demoness across the Himalayas.
Day 8: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Begin early for the hike to the iconic Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery, dramatically perched on a cliff 900 metres above the valley floor. Pause for tea at the viewpoint café before continuing upward. Descend in the afternoon and enjoy a traditional hot stone bath to relax.
Included Activities:
- Taktsang Monastery: Bhutan’s most revered pilgrimage site and a symbol of national identity.
Day 9: Departure from Paro
After breakfast, your guide and driver will escort you to Paro International Airport for your onward journey. Farewell and Tashi Delek!