Bhutan Odyssey

01 / THE EXPERIENCE

Discover the journey

Unveil Bhutan's rich tapestry of history and natural wonders on a comprehensive tour of the western and central regions. Immerse yourself in the enchanting stories and ancient tales that infuse every corner of this mystical land. Explore the picturesque Phobjikha Valley, the winter sanctuary of the revered black-necked cranes, while listening to the folklore that surrounds their presence. Your journey takes you to the serene Haa Valley, tucked away in the pristine western Bhutan. As you venture deeper into the heart of the country, don't miss Chele La, offering a panoramic view of the majestic Chumolhari and Jichu Draksey mountains, a breathtaking spectacle that connects you to Bhutan's spiritual heritage and natural splendor.

02 / WHY GO

The memorable moments

DAYS Activities Accommodation Meal DAY1 Welcome to Bhutan- Paro Airport Hotel [-/L/D] DAY2 Paro-An excursion within Hotel [B/L/D] DAY3 Paro / Thimphu- Exploring beyond Hotel [B/L/D] DAY4 Thimphu – Punakha Hotel [B/L/D] DAY5 Punakha / Wangduephodrang / Gangtey (70 km, 3 hours’ drive) Hotel [B/L/D] DAY6 Gangtey / Trongsa (120 km, 4.5 hours’ drive) Hotel [B/L/D] DAY7 Trongsa / Bumthang (68 km, 3 hours’ drive) Hotel [B/L/D] DAY8 Bumthang- The full package for religion Hotel [B/L/D] DAY9 Bumthang / Wangduephodrang (205 km, 7 hours’ drive) Hotel [B/L/D] DAY10 Wangduephodrang / Paro (77 km, 3 hours’ drive) Hotel [B/L/D] DAY11 Paro (Excursion to Haa Valley) Hotel [B/L/D] DAY12 Depart Paro- back to the Airport [B/L/-]

03 / YOUR ROUTE

Journey at a glance

Day Day 1:: Welcome to Bhutan- Paro Airport — Your journey to the enchanting Kingdom of Bhutan begins with a captivating flight, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscapes. Whether you are flying along the Himalayan range from Kathmandu or over the foothills from Kolkata, your arrival in Bhutan promises a mesmerizing aeronautical experience. Upon landing at Paro Airport, you will go through immigration and customs procedures. Bhutan takes pride in preserving its unique culture and environment, and these formalities are a part of the country's commitment to responsible tourism. From the airport, you will be transferred to your selected hotel in Paro, where you will check in and have some time to relax. In the evening, you have the option to take a stroll along the main street of Paro town, where you can soak in the atmosphere, explore local shops, or enjoy the charming ambiance of this picturesque Bhutanese town. Overnight in hotel. [B/L/D] Day Day 2:: Paro-An excursion within — Your second day in Bhutan is packed with cultural exploration and visits to significant landmarks in the charming town of Paro. Begin your day with a wholesome breakfast at your hotel in Paro, preparing you for a day of cultural immersion. Your first stop is Ta Dzong, which houses the National Museum of Bhutan. This unique circular building was originally a watchtower and has been transformed into a museum that showcases Bhutan's rich cultural and historical heritage. After visiting the museum, take a leisurely walk down the trail to reach Rinpung Dzong. This stunning fortress monastery boasts a long and captivating history, and its architectural beauty is a testament to Bhutanese craftsmanship. In the afternoon, venture to Drukgyel Dzong, a historical fortress that once served as a strategic defense against Tibetan invasions. Although the dzong now lies in ruins, it holds a powerful place in Bhutanese history and offers splendid views of the surrounding landscapes. In the evening, explore Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan. This serene temple, dating back to the 7th century, is a place of deep spiritual significance and features beautiful architecture and religious relics. Return to your hotel in Paro for a restful night, reflecting on the rich cultural experiences you've had during the day. Overnight in hotel. [B/L/D] Day Day 3:: Paro / Thimphu- Exploring beyond — On your third day in Bhutan, you will travel from Paro to Thimphu, the vibrant and modern capital of the country. After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Thimphu, which serves as the contemporary capital of Bhutan. The journey takes you through picturesque landscapes and offers glimpses of Bhutan's natural beauty. En route to Thimphu, make a stop at Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress in Bhutan. This historic structure now houses the School for Buddhist Studies. Explore the dzong's architecture and its role in Bhutanese education and culture. In the afternoon, visit the Memorial Chorten, a serene stupa built in memory of Bhutan's third King. It holds great religious and traditional significance and is known for its architectural beauty and spiritual ambiance. Continue your exploration by visiting Tashichhodzong, an impressive fortress-monastery that serves as the seat of Bhutan's government. It's also the summer residence of the Chief Abbot. Explore the Handicrafts Emporium, where you can find a wide assortment of beautifully handcrafted products, including textiles, jewelry, and traditional Bhutanese handicrafts. Visit the Textile and Folk Heritage Museum, offering valuable insights into Bhutan's textile traditions and folk culture. Return to your hotel in Thimphu for a comfortable night's rest. Overnight in hotel. [B/L/D] Day Day 4:: Thimphu – Punakha — On the fourth day of your Bhutan journey, you will explore Thimphu in the morning and then embark on a scenic drive to Punakha in the afternoon. After breakfast, we will go sightseeing in Thimphu. National Library: Begin your day with a visit to the National Library, which houses a vast collection of ancient Buddhist texts, manuscripts, modern academic books, and printing blocks for prayer flags. Painting School (Zorig Chusum): Next, head to the Painting School, also known as Zorig Chusum, famous for its traditional thangka paintings. Witness skilled artists at work, creating intricate religious artworks. Traditional Medicine Institute: Learn about Bhutan's rich herbal medicine tradition at the Traditional Medicine Institute, where herbal medicines are prepared, and the art of herbal medicine is taught. In the afternoon, begin your journey to Punakha. At an elevation of 3,050 meters, this pass offers enchanting views of the Bhutanese Himalayas. On a clear day, you can witness panoramic vistas of various peaks and mountains. Continue your drive to Punakha, the old capital of Bhutan. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and settle in. Overnight in hotel. [B/L/D] Day Day 5:: Punakha / Wangduephodrang / Gangtey (70 km, 2-3 hours) — After enjoying your breakfast, you will embark on a scenic drive to Gangtey via Wangduephodrang. This journey covers approximately 70 kilometers and should take around 3 hours, offering you the opportunity to witness the natural beauty and cultural treasures of Bhutan. Your first stop will be at the majestic Wangduezhong. Dzongs are distinctive Bhutanese fortress-monasteries that serve as administrative centers and places of worship. WangdueDzong is known for its grandeur and architectural splendor. After visiting the dzong, you can wander through the local market in Wangduephodrang. Bhutanese markets are colorful and bustling, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the local people. As you continue your journey towards Gangtey, you will pass through dense forests of oak and rhododendron trees. Upon arriving in Gangtey, spend your evening taking a leisurely walk around Gangtey village. This charming village offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Bhutanese rural life. Visit GangteyGoenpa, which is the only Nyingmapa monastery in the region. Nyingmapa is one of the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism. For the night, you have the option to camp under the stars, immersing yourself in Bhutan's pristine nature, or stay at a guesthouse, where you can enjoy the comforts of modern amenities while still being close to the natural surroundings. Overnight camping. [B/L/D] Day Day 6:: Gangtey - Trongsa (120 km, 4 hrs.) — Begin your day with an early morning exploration of the picturesque Phobjikha Valley. This valley is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and is particularly famous for being the winter home of the Black Necked Cranes. These graceful and rare birds migrate to Bhutan from Tibet during the winter months, and if you're lucky, you might get to witness their elegant dance in the open marshes. After your morning adventure, enjoy a delicious lunch in a local eatery, savoring Bhutanese cuisine and refueling for the journey ahead. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic drive to Trongsa, covering approximately 120 kilometers. This drive will take around 4.5 hours as you traverse the stunning Bhutanese landscape. Along the way, you will cross the Pele la Pass, which stands at an elevation of 3,300 meters above sea level. Upon reaching Trongsa, settle into your accommodations for the night. Trongsa is a historic town in Bhutan known for its impressive Trongsa Dzong, perched on a hilltop and overlooking the Mangde Chhu River. In the evening, take a stroll to the bustling Trongsa market. Bhutanese markets are not only places for shopping but also provide an opportunity to immerse you in the local culture. You can interact with the friendly locals, browse through handicrafts, and sample some regional delicacies. This visit will give you a taste of daily life in Trongsa. Overnight in Lodge. [B/L/D] Day Day 7:: Drive throngs / Bumthang (68 km, 3 hours’ drive) — After breakfast start your day by visiting two significant cultural landmarks in Trongsa: Trongsa Dzong: Explore the magnificent Trongsa Dzong, an architectural masterpiece and one of the most impressive dzongs in Bhutan. This fortress-monastery is strategically perched on a hilltop overlooking the Mangde Chhu River. You can admire the intricate woodwork, and vibrant murals, and learn about its pivotal role in Bhutanese history. Trongsa Dzong was instrumental in the unification of Bhutan under the Wangchuck dynasty. Ta Dzong (Watchtower Museum): Next, visit Ta Dzong, which once served as a watchtower to defend Trongsa Dzong and the surrounding region. Today, it functions as a museum that offers insights into Bhutan's rich cultural and historical heritage. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, religious relics, and exhibits that provide a deeper understanding of Bhutan's past. The afternoon will be spent on a scenic drive to Bumthang, covering a distance of approximately 68 kilometers. This drive should take around 3 hours, allowing you to relax and soak in the changing landscapes as you move farther east. Upon your arrival in Bumthang, check into your hotel and take some time to rest and refresh. After settling in, you can spend the evening at your leisure. You might want to take a peaceful stroll around the hotel's surroundings. Overnight in hotel. [B/L/D] Day Day 8:: Bumthang — Bumthang is a region of immense religious significance, and today's itinerary will immerse you in the rich spiritual heritage of Bhutan. Start your day by visiting Tamshing Lhakhang, a sacred temple with a fascinating history. It was built by the renowned Treasure discoverer Pema Lingpa, who is a revered figure in Bhutanese Buddhism. After exploring Tamshing Lhakhang, proceed to Jakar Dzong, the administrative center of the Bumthang valley. Dzongs in Bhutan serve as both fortresses and monastic centers. In the afternoon, visit Kurje Lhakhang, one of the holiest and most sacred places in Bumthang. It's named after the "kurje" or body print of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) believed to be left in the rock face. Next, explore Jampa Lhakhang, an ancient monastery dating back to the introduction of Buddhism in Bhutan. This sacred site is believed to have been constructed during the same period as Paro Kyichu Lhakhang, Lhakhang Karpo, and Lhakhang Nagpo in Haa. After a day filled with spiritual and cultural exploration, return to your lodge in Bumthang for a restful night. Overnight in Lodge. [B/L/D] Day Day 9:: Bumthang / Wangduephodrang — Begin your day by exploring the vibrant Bumthang market, where you can witness the hustle and bustle of local trading and experience the authentic Bhutanese way of life. After you visit the market, embark on a scenic drive from Bumthang to Wangduephodrang. This journey covers a significant distance of approximately 205 kilometers, and it's estimated to take around 7 hours. During your drive, you will stop for lunch at one of the famous restaurants in Trongsa town. This will be a perfect opportunity to savor Bhutanese cuisine and take a break from the road. After arriving at Wangduephodrang we will transfer you to the hotel. Overnight in hotel. [B/L/D] Day Day 10:: Wangduephodrang / Paro (77 km, 2-3 hours) — Today's journey takes you from Wangduephodrang to Paro, covering a distance of approximately 77 kilometers, which should take around 3 hours by road. Start your day by visiting Chimi Lhakhang, located on a hillock in the center of the valley in Punakha. This temple is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenley, also known as the "Divine Madman," and is famously known as the temple of fertility. In the afternoon, you will continue your journey by driving towards Paro, which is known for its picturesque landscapes and historical attractions. Upon reaching Paro, you can check into your accommodation for the night. Depending on your preferences and energy levels, you may choose to explore some of Paro's attractions, such as the Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong), the National Museum of Bhutan, or simply wander around the town to soak in the local atmosphere. Overnight in hotel. [B/L/D] Day Day 11:: Paro (Excursion to Haa Valley) — Begin your day early to embark on an exciting excursion to Haa Valley. This picturesque journey will take you through some of Bhutan's most stunning landscapes. Start by driving towards Haa via Chele-la pass. After traveling 4 kilometers, the road to Haa diverts from Bondey village. As you continue your drive, you'll pass through blue pine and rhododendron forests, experiencing the natural beauty of Bhutan. After approximately 45 kilometers of driving, you will reach Chele-la Pass, which stands at an elevation of 4200 meters. From this vantage point, you'll be treated to clear views of Mount Jomolhari and Jichu Drakey. In the afternoon Continue your drive for another 22 kilometers to reach Haa Valley. Upon arrival in Haa, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the scenic surroundings, taking in the serene atmosphere of this remote valley. Visit Lhakhang Karpo, also known as the White Temple, followed by a visit to Lhakhang Nagpo, the Black Temple. The central shrine in Lhakhang Nagpo is said to resemble the one in Lhasa Jowo, Tibet. These temples are believed to have been constructed during the same period as Jampa and Kyichu Lhakhangs, showcasing the rich history and culture of the region. Overnight in hotel. [B/L/D] Day Day 12:: Depart Paro — After breakfast, transfer to the airport.

YOUR DAY-BY-DAY ROUTE

Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Bhutan- Paro Airport — Your journey to the enchanting Kingdom of Bhutan begins with a captivating flight, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscapes. Whether you are flying along the Himalayan range from Kathmandu or over the foothills from Kolkata, your arrival in Bhutan promises a mesmerizing aeronautical experience. Upon landing at Paro Airport, you will go through immigration and customs procedures. Bhutan takes pride in preserving its unique culture and environment, and these formalities are a part of the country's commitment to responsible tourism. From the airport, you will be transferred to your selected hotel in Paro, where you will check in and have some time to relax. +