Itinerary
Day 1 :
Arrival and Transfer to Thimphu
A day at leisure.
Overnight stay at Thimphu.
Day 2 :
Thimphu Sightseeing
Today, we will explore the city of Thimphu. Tashichho Dzong- This magnificent fortress hosts the spectacular Tsechu festival, an annual three-day extravaganza right in the heart of Tashichho Dzong's courtyard.
Weekend market- This spot is your go-to when shopping for trinkets and souvenirs. Changangkha Lhakhang- This ancient Buddhist temple was built in the year 12 CE and still stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the country. National Memorial Chorten- One of the most visited places by tourists. The memorial is characterized by whitewashed walls and a magnificent golden roof, which stands as a symbol of peace and spirituality as it is a place of reverence and contemplation for locals and visitors alike.
Tango Goemba- This is another Buddhist site built in 15 CE. To reach this place you have to trek uphill for approximately 45 minutes, offering you an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and connect with your surroundings. Overnight stay at Thimphu.
Day 3 :
Thimphu to Punakha
Traverse through the Dochula Pass, situated at an elevation of 3100 meters.
The itinerary for Punakha includes visits to the following locations: Punakha Dzong- Built in 1637, this is the largest Dzong in Bhutan, at the confluence of the rivers Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten- A monument built by the Queen Mother to ward off evil forces in Bhutan and for world peace in 2004, to reach the shrine, you must traverse the suspension bridge, follow the edges of the paddy rice fields, and ascend a small hill.
Mo Chhu - The mighty river is a major river in the Himalayan nation. Overnight stay in Punakha.
Day 4 :
Punakha to Bumthang via Trongsa
Leave for Bumthang bright and early, en route visit Trongsa, a gem of a place in Bhutan. Trongsa, aka "New Village," was named after the retreats, temples and hermit residences that grew around. It once served as the ancestral house of the royal family of Bhutan. Reach Bumthang late in the evening, check in at the hotel and rest. Overnight stay at Bumthang.
Day 5 :
Bumthang Sightseeing
Today will be dedicated to exploring Bumthang. Jambay Lhakhang- It is regarded as one of the oldest and most revered temples in Bhutan, hosting various festivals. Mebar Tso- Also known as the Burning Lake, in Tang Valley, holds great spiritual significance for the pilgrims, marked with colourful prayer flags and butter lamps offered by them. It has beautiful surroundings to suit a nature-lover's taste. Red Panda Brewery and Cheese Factory- The two neighbours are quite interesting to visit. Established back in the 60s, this place proudly hosts the wizardry of cheese-making contraptions! At the brewery, observers can witness the production process that yields unfiltered Weiss Beer, with options also including apple cider and wine. Ura Valley- On the way to this valley one can catch a glimpse of the highest mountain peak in Bhutan, Mt. Gangkhar Puensum. The route has a beautiful view of the valley, sheep pastures and forests. This valley is different from other regions with clustered and colourful houses. Overnight stay in Bumthang.
Day 6 :
Bumthang to Paro
Leave from Bumthang towards Paro. Paro is nestled in the pleasant embrace of the Paro Valley in Bhutan. It is one of the most historic valleys of Bhutan, home to 155 temples and monasteries. Late noon we'll reach Paro, and the rest of the day is for you to explore the nearby areas. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 7 :
Paro Sightseeing
The day is dedicated for you to discover the beauty of Paro. Embark on a trek to Tiger's Nest Monastery. Discover one of Bhutan's most significant Buddhist sites by trekking to Tigers Nest Monastery. Situated 900 meters above the Paro Valley, this monastery boasts incredible architecture. It's highly recommended to hike to this monastery and soak in the breathtaking views it offers. The National Museum of Bhutan- The National Museum of Bhutan showcases the country's rich history through paintings, art pieces, and cultural artefacts. Constructed in 1649 as a watchtower, it was converted to a museum in 1968, with six floors each telling unique tales from the past. Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge- Known as the Iron Chain Bridge, this gem was crafted 600 years ago by the legendary Thangtong Gyalpo in the late 1300s. it is said that he built 108 bridges across the lands of Tibet and Bhutan. Paro Chhu- This river is the lifeline of Paro. The river is so picturesque, it's definitely worth spending time there. Paro Weekend Market- The bustling market is a treasure trove of Bhutanese stamps, antiques, prayer wheels, and all sorts of goodies! Plus, don't miss out on having some delicious local cuisine. So, wrap up your day with a visit to this spot.
Day 8 :
Departure
Your journey concludes, leaving you with enduring memories of the country's rich culture, traditions, and natural splendour that will resonate with you for a lifetime.