The Himalayan Splendour

01 / THE EXPERIENCE

Discover the journey

Enjoy the mountains and the marvelous view of high Himalayan peaks in Bhutan as you travel towards the central region. Visit the beautiful Bumthang Valley, known for many historical and religious sites. Get a good insight into the lifestyle of local people and culture.

02 / WHY GO

The memorable moments

Days Activities Accommodation Meal Day1 Arrival at Paro Valley Hotel [-/L/D] Day2 Thimphu Hotel [B/L/D] Day3 Thimphu / Trongsa (200 Km, 6 hours’ drive) Hotel [B/L/D] Day4 Trongsa / Bumthang (68 Km, 3 hours’ drive) Hotel [B/L/D] Day5 Bumthang / Punakha (205 Km, 7 hours’ drive) Hotel [B/L/D] Day6 Punakha / Paro (125 Km, 4.1/2 hours’ drive) Hotel [B/L/D] Day7 Paro Hotel [B/L/D] Day8 Paro [B/L/-]

03 / YOUR ROUTE

Journey at a glance

Day Day 1:: Arrive at Paro — Your journey to Bhutan begins with a breathtaking flight over the majestic Himalayas, offering you mesmerizing views of some of the world's highest glacial peaks. As you enter the picturesque Paro Valley, you'll be greeted by the sight of the serene Pa Chu (Paro River) winding its way through the valley, the imposing Paro Dzong (fortress), and the historic Ta Dzong (watchtower). Upon landing at Paro Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative. They will assist you with the necessary formalities and ensure a smooth arrival process. Afterward, you will embark on a scenic drive to Thimphu, the modern capital city of Bhutan, which is located approximately 55 kilometers away from Paro. The drive will take approximately 2 hours, during which you can enjoy the picturesque landscapes and the serene atmosphere of Bhutan. Once you reach Thimphu, you will check in to your hotel and have the opportunity to relax and unwind after your journey. Overnight in hotel. [-/L/D] Day Day 2:: Thimphu — Your second day in Bhutan is dedicated to exploring the vibrant city of Thimphu and immersing yourself in its rich cultural and historical heritage. After breakfast, we will go sightseeing in Thimphu. National Library: Begin your day with a visit to the National Library, where you will find an extensive collection of ancient Buddhist texts, manuscripts, modern academic books, and printing blocks used for prayer flags. Painting School (Zorig Chusum): Next, head to the Painting School, also known as Zorig Chusum, renowned for its traditional thangka paintings. You can witness skilled artists at work, creating intricate and colorful religious artworks. Traditional Medicine Institute: Bhutan boasts a rich tradition of herbal medicine, and the Traditional Medicine Institute plays a pivotal role in preserving and promoting this knowledge. Learn about the various herbs used in Bhutanese medicine and the practices involved in herbal healing. Textile and Folk Heritage Museum: Explore the Textile and Folk Heritage Museum, a fascinating place that offers insights into Bhutanese material culture and living traditions. You can admire intricate textiles, traditional clothing, and exhibits showcasing the country's cultural heritage. Memorial Chorten: Visit the Memorial Chorten, a beautiful stupa constructed in memory of Bhutan's third King. The paintings and statues inside the monument provide a profound understanding of Buddhist philosophy, and the site is often filled with locals engaged in prayer and circumambulation. Trashichhodzong: Explore Trashichhodzong, an iconic fortress and monastery that houses the Secretariat building, King's Throne room, and various government offices Handicrafts Emporium: Before concluding your day, make a stop at the Handicrafts Emporium, where you can browse and purchase a wide array of beautifully hand-woven and crafted products, including textiles, jewelry, and traditional Bhutanese handicrafts. After these activities, we will return to the hotel. Overnight in hotel. [B/L/D] Day Day 3:: Thimphu to Trongsa (200 Km, 5-6 Hours) — On the third day of your Bhutan adventure, you will embark on a scenic drive from Thimphu to Trongsa, covering approximately 200 kilometers over about 6 hours. After breakfast, we will head toward Trongsa. Your first major stop is Dochula Pass, which sits at an elevation of 3,050 meters. Weather permitting, this pass offers panoramic views of several high Himalayan peaks towards the northeast. On a clear day, you may be able to spot impressive peaks such as Masagang (7,158m), Tsendagang (6,960m), Terigang (7,060m), Jejegangphugang (7,158 m), Kangphugang (7,170 m), Zongphugang (7,060 m), The Gangkar Puensum, the highest peak in Bhutan at 7,497 meters. Descend from Dochula Pass into the Wangduephodrang Valley, a descent that spans 1,700 meters in altitude. Continue your journey towards Trongsa, passing through Pelela Pass, which stands at 3,300 meters above sea level. This pass traditionally marks the boundary between the eastern and western regions of Bhutan. Make a stop at Chendbji Chorten, an 18th-century stupa built by Lama Shida. Finally, you will arrive in Trongsa, a historic town known for its impressive dzong (fortress) and its significance as a central hub in Bhutan. Check in to your lodge and enjoy a well-deserved rest. Overnight in Lodge. [B/L/D] Day Day 4:: Trongsa to Bumthang (68 Km, 3-4 Hours) — On the fourth day of your Bhutan trip, you will continue your exploration of the country as you travel from Trongsa to Bumthang, a region known for its rich cultural and historical significance. Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your lodge in Trongsa, providing you with the energy needed for the day's activities. After breakfast, take a stroll to explore Trongsa Dzong, a majestic fortress built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1647. Additionally, visit Ta Dzong, a watchtower that now serves as a museum dedicated to the epic Buddhist hero, King Gesar of Ling. After breakfast, take a stroll to explore Trongsa Dzong, a majestic fortress built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1647. Additionally, visit Ta Dzong, a watchtower that now serves as a museum dedicated to the epic Buddhist hero, King Gesar of Ling. Along the way, you'll reach the Yutong La Pass at an elevation of 3,400 meters, where you can pause to appreciate the mountainous scenery. Continue your drive, and after 13 kilometers, you will enter the Chumey Valley, a wide-open cultivated area known for its natural beauty and agricultural practices. After a satisfying lunch, embark on an afternoon exploration of Bumthang's cultural and historical treasures. Explore Jambey Lhakhang, an ancient 7th-century temple that holds immense historical and spiritual significance. Discover Jakar Dzong, the administrative center of the Bumthang region, which offers splendid views and insights into Bhutanese governance. Conclude your day of exploration by returning to your lodge in Bumthang, where you will spend a peaceful night. Overnight in Lodge. [B/L/D] Day Day 5:: Bumthang to Punakha (205 Km, 5-6 Hours) — Your fifth day in Bhutan is filled with exploration and a scenic journey from Bumthang to Punakha. Start your day with breakfast at your lodge in Bumthang. Following breakfast, take the opportunity to further explore the enchanting Bumthang Valley. After your exploration in Bumthang, continue your journey towards Trongsa, where you will stop for lunch. Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese meal at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Bhutan's distinctive cuisine. On your way to Punakha, make a stop in Wangduephodrang to visit its majestic dzong. This fortress offers impressive architecture and historical significance. Resume your journey towards Punakha, where you will be spending the night. The drive covers approximately 205 kilometers and takes about 6 hours, during which you'll pass through stunning Bhutanese landscapes. After reaching Punakha and checking in to your hotel, you can enjoy a leisurely evening. You may choose to relax at the hotel, explore the nearby surroundings, or take in the serene atmosphere of Punakha. Overnight in Lodge. [B/L/D] Day Day 6:: Punakha / Paro (125 Km, 4.1/2 Hours) — On the sixth day of your Bhutan journey, you will explore Punakha and then proceed to Paro. Start your day with a visit to Punakha Dzong, an impressive and massive fortress located at the confluence of two rivers. This historic dzong served as the capital of Bhutan until 1955 and continues to be the winter residence of the monastic body. Enjoy a delicious lunch in Punakha before you embark on your journey to Paro. En route to Paro, take a break to visit a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse. This experience will provide valuable insights into the lifestyle, culture, and traditions of the local people. Continue your drive to Paro, which covers approximately 125 kilometers and takes around 4.5 hours. Paro is a beautiful and historic town nestled in the Paro Valley. Upon reaching Paro, check in to your hotel and settle in for the night. Overnight in Hotel. [B/L/D] Day Day 7:: Paro — Your seventh day in Bhutan is dedicated to exploring the cultural and historical treasures of Paro Valley. Begin your day with a visit to Ta Dzong, which houses the National Museum of Bhutan. This unique structure served as a watchtower for the Paro Dzong in the past. After exploring the museum, proceed to the iconic Paro Dzong, also known as Rinpung Dzong. This majestic fortress was constructed in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to Drukgyel Dzong, a historic fortress built in 1647 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. This dzong was constructed to commemorate Bhutan's victory over Tibetan forces during the war of 1644. En route back to Paro, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred shrines in Bhutan. This ancient temple holds immense religious significance and features beautiful architecture and sacred relics. Return to your hotel in Paro, where you will spend your final night in Bhutan. Overnight in Hotel. [B/L/D] Day Day 8:: Paro — Early morning after breakfast we will transfer you to the airport for your onward journey.

YOUR DAY-BY-DAY ROUTE

Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1: Arrive at Paro — Your journey to Bhutan begins with a breathtaking flight over the majestic Himalayas, offering you mesmerizing views of some of the world's highest glacial peaks. As you enter the picturesque Paro Valley, you'll be greeted by the sight of the serene Pa Chu (Paro River) winding its way through the valley, the imposing Paro Dzong (fortress), and the historic Ta Dzong (watchtower). Upon landing at Paro Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative. They will assist you with the necessary formalities and ensure a smooth arrival process. Afterward, you will embark on a scenic drive to Thimphu, the modern capital city of Bhutan, which is located approximately 55 kilometers away from Paro. The drive will take approximately 2 hours, during which you can enjoy the picturesque landscapes and the serene atmosphere of Bhutan. Once you reach Thimphu, you will check in to your hotel and have the opportunity to relax and unwind after your journey.+