Experience the magic of Bhutan on this 9-day journey that takes you through its vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and spiritual heritage. From the bustling streets of Thimphu to the sacred monasteries of Punakha and the iconic Tiger’s Nest in Paro, each day unfolds a new adventure. Along the way, witness colorful festivals, explore traditional villages, and soak in the serenity of the Himalayas. This all-inclusive tour offers the perfect blend of culture, nature, and unforgettable Bhutanese hospitality.
– Airport Reception: Meet your guide from Laughingthrush Adventure at Paro International Airport (2,200m) for a warm welcome.
– Refreshments or Lunch: Sample your first Bhutanese cuisine, featuring options like red rice, ema datshi, and yak cheese.
– Visit Ta Dzong (National Museum): Explore artifacts and exhibits showcasing Bhutanese history and culture.
– Visit Rinpung Dzong: A fortress built in the 17th century, featured in the movie Little Buddha.
– Drive to Thimphu (approx. 1 hour): Pass through scenic river valleys and forested mountains.
– Stop at Tamchhog Lhakhang: See the iconic 15th-century iron bridge built by Tibetan master Thangtong Gyalpo.
– Acclimatize and rest at your hotel in Thimphu (Altitude: 2,400m).
National Memorial Chorten: Built in honor of Bhutan’s third king, surrounded by spinning prayer wheels.
– Kuensel Phodrang: Home to a 51-meter bronze Buddha statue with sweeping views of Thimphu Valley.
– National Painting School (Zorig Chusum): Watch young artisans learn and practice Bhutan’s 13 traditional crafts.
– Changangkha Temple: A 13th-century temple often visited by families seeking blessings for newborns.
– National Textile Museum: View royal and traditional garments, including intricately woven handlooms.
– Postal Museum: Learn about Bhutan’s unique stamp culture and design your own custom stamp.
– Trashichhoe Dzong: The seat of the King’s office and monastic body with beautiful architecture.
– Explore Thimphu Town and Craft Market: Shop for handmade souvenirs like prayer flags, incense, and jewelry.
– Overnight at a hotel in Thimphu.
Depart for Punakha via Dochula Pass (3,100m): Stop for tea or coffee with a panoramic view of 108 stupas.
– Visit Lamperi Botanical Garden: Discover native plants, wild orchids, and butterflies.
– Visit Punakha Dzong: A masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture nestled between two rivers.
– Visit Chimi Lhakhang: Temple of Fertility, built in the 15th century by Lama Drukpa Kunley.
– Join evening prayers with nuns at Sangchen Dorji Lhendrup Nunnery.
– Overnight in a traditional farmhouse in Punakha (Altitude: 1,250m).
Morning at the Farmhouse: Wake up to a rural breakfast with buckwheat pancakes and butter tea.
– Punakha Dzong: Revisit the Palace of Great Bliss & and learn about its historical importance.
– Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten: A picturesque 1-hour walk through pine forests and terraced rice fields.
– Suspension Bridge Walk: Cross the Puna Tsang Chhu river en route to Phobjikha Valley.
– Drive to Phobjikha (Altitude: 3,000m): A glacial valley and habitat for the endangered black-necked cranes.
– Nature Trail Hike (1 hour): Walk across the serene valley and spot wildlife.
– Overnight in a farmhouse or lodge in Phobjikha.
Visit Crane Center: Learn about conservation efforts and crane migration.
– Gangtey Goenpa Monastery: Ornate hilltop monastery dating to the 16th century.
– Scenic Drive via Pelela Pass (3,400m): Journey past peaceful villages including Sephu and Chendebji.
– Viewpoint of Trongsa Dzong: Majestic fortress cascading down the mountainside.
– Visit Ta Dzong Museum: Displays related to Bhutan’s kings and historical artifacts.
– Drive to Bumthang via Yotongla Pass (3,500m): Stop at Yathra Weaving Center for handwoven woolen products.
– Visit Jakar Dzong (White Bird Fortress).
– Overnight in Jakar (Altitude: 2,700m).
– Visit Jambay Lhakhang: Ancient temple and site of the sacred naked dance.
– Hike to Kurjey Lhakhang: Temple built on a sacred site where Guru Rinpoche meditated.
– Cross suspension bridge to Tamshing Lhakhang: Temple known for its painted murals and relics.
– Swiss Farm: Taste red panda beer, local cheese, and apple cider.
– Join monks at Kharchu Dratsang Monastery for evening prayer chants.
– Explore Jakar Town: Try local noodles and buckwheat pancakes.
– Participate in Tercham Festival & Fire Blessing Ritual: A midnight ceremony involving mask dances and passing through a flaming gate known as Mewang.
– Overnight in Jakar.
– Scenic drive to Tang Valley: Known for its buckwheat fields and yak farms.
– Visit Burning Lake (Mebar Tsho): Sacred site associated with treasure discoverer Pema Lingpa.
– Tang Remochen Lhakhang: Temple built on tiger-stripe rock believed to be blessed by Guru Rinpoche.
– Ugyen Choling Palace Museum: Discover Bhutanese noble life and history; enjoy lunch at the museum café.
– Return to Bumthang for overnight stay.
Domestic Flight: Transfer to Paro via scenic air route.
– Namgay Artisanal Brewery: Try locally brewed red rice beer and craft ales.
– Hike to Zuri Dzong: 14th-century watchtower with panoramic views.
– Visit Kyichu Lhakhang: Bhutan’s oldest temple, revered for its spiritual energy.
– Paro Town Exploration: Buy souvenirs like Himalayan herbal teas, prayer wheels, and textiles.
– Try archery and wear Bhutanese traditional dress (Gho/Kira) at a farmhouse.
– Overnight in Paro (Altitude: 2,200m).
– Drive to base and begin 5-hour round-trip hike to Taktsang Monastery.
– Stop at halfway cafeteria for tea and views of the cliffside temple.
– Final ascent via stone staircase to the famed Tiger’s Nest, built into the rock face.
– Return hike and enjoy a traditional hot stone bath at the farmhouse followed by dinner.
– Overnight in Paro.
– Breakfast at the hotel.
– Transfer to Paro International Airport.
– Farewell by your guide and driver with traditional Bhutanese blessings.
– 3*** hotel or Homestay with three meals
– Professional cultural and trekking Guide
– SUV and 4×4 Truck with experienced driver.
– Tea and bottle water throughout the trip.
– Hot stone Herbal bath
– Monumental & National Park fees
– Visa fees
– SDF Fees (SDF Sustainable Development Fees directly paid to Govt)
– Sleeping Tent
– Sleeping bag if required
– Sleeping Mat
– Solar lamp in dining and kitchen tent.
– Pillow, Inner Blanket & Hot water bag.
– Dinning Tent & Dining sets.
– Kitchen Tent & Kitchen Sets
– Toilet Tent, Pot & Paper.
– Horse for Luggage
– All personal expenses such as bars, beverages, laundry, telephone and tips.
– Medical / Travel Insurance.
