Important Information

Region
Bhutan Tour
Duration
9 Days
Max Altitude 3000m
Best Season Whole Season
Activity Per Day
5-6 hrs
Grade
Level 2
Group Size
2 - 20 people
Transportation Flight - Car

The last Shangri La of the world, Bhutan is a kingdom hidden in the eastern Himalayas. Perhaps Bhutan is the only country in Asia where you will find the unique culture, heritage sites, and amazing people to admire your lifetime experience in the Kingdom of Himalaya. It is also an exemplary nation to the other countries regarding tourism policy which is directly contributing to sustainable tourism. Even after the touch of modernization Bhutanese cultural heritage and people’s lifestyle can be seen as it was centuries ago.

This tour is a private and medium one that includes landmarks like Paro, Thimphu, Gangtey (Phobjikha), Punakha, Wangdue, and Bumthang. This trip starts from Paro and visit various tourists attractions like Mini zoo, Tashichho Dzong, Craft Bazaar, Paper factory, Memorial Chorten, Gangtey Goemba, Kurjey Lhakhang, Mebar Tsho(Lake of Burning Fire), Trongsa Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang(Temple of fertility), Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s nest), Farmhouse, etc. We use Car/Hiace/Tourist Coach for road trips depending on the number of people in your group.

We understand that you have your own unique reason to travel to Bhutan. If this itinerary doesn’t meet your time, interest, and looking for customized trips. Himalayan Wander Walkers strive to create a perfect tour program by serving amazing travel experiences and the best planning advice.

Outline Itinerary ( 9 Days )

Day 1

Arrival at Paro Airport (2220m) and Drive to Thimphu (2320m).

Landing to Paro will offer you one of the best views of the Himalayas including Everest. On your arrival at Paro International Airport, you will assistance by Himalayan Wander Walkers's representative. Our Guide and driver will help you to arrange your luggage in the vehicle and drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. On the way you will visit three different sites; Tamchog Lhakhang which is built by Thang Thong Gyalpo of Tibet, Memorial Chorten, and Kuenselcholing View Point. In the evening relax for the day and stroll around Thimphu city.

Overnight accommodation is set with AP Plan.

Day 2

Morning short hike and Exploration in Thimphu

After your breakfast, you will hike to Cheri Monastery which was built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1620 and the first monk body was established. It will take about an hour to and fro. The hike en route to the Jigme Dorji Wildlife Sanctuary, a chance to see different birds and raw deer.  After the hike, you will drive to Buddha Dordhenma, one of the world's largest statues of Shakyamuni Buddha (54m/177 ft) which is dedicated to world peace. If you are lucky enough then you will experience the weekend market which held only three days a week; Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Your today’s last tour will be Tashicho Dzong, the largest landmark in Thimphu that home to the Royal Bhutanese Government offices. On the way to Tashicho Dzong, you will visit the Bhutanese Craft Bazaar or market. Here you will find varieties of products with the touch of Bhutanese traditional design. The souvenirs from this market will cherish your Bhutan travel memories in the future.   

Overnight accommodation is set with AP Plan.

Day 3

Drive to Gangtey (2800m) via Dochu La (3140m) and Visit Gantey and Phobjikha.

As a normal day, your trip starts after breakfast. Our guide and driver will assist to check out your hotel and drive to Gangtey Monastery which is about 5 hours. On the way, you will stop at Dochula Pass. This point is perfect for panoramic views of the eastern Himalayas by enjoying the cup of tea at the tea shops. Druk Wangyal Chotens add more colors to this scenic place where the 108 stupas are built to honor the Bhutanese soldiers who lose their lives in the 2003 war with Indian rebels. Gantey monastery is situated on the slopes of Phobjikha valley which is built during the 17th century. After visiting the Gangtey monastery you will drive to your hotel at Phobjikha. This valley is popular for birth watching tours especially black naked cranes are seen in huge numbers in winter. Visit the crane center.

Overnight accommodation is set with AP Plan.

Day 4

Hike to Gangtey Nature Trail and Drive to Bumthang (2600m).

In the morning you will hike to Gantey Nature Trail. This hike is about 2 hours and easier than the Paro Taktsang. Although nothing can compare with the Taktsang, Gantey Nature Hike is a completely different kind of beautiful.   This is one of the most beautiful and shortest of the existing nature trail. On this trail you have the opportunity to visit the magnificent Gonpa(Monastery), it also leads to the sloping area of flower meadows, flanked by pine trees on either side. You will even come across villages, rivers, crane roosting ground, etc. It is actually a picturesque valley hike. In the evening you will drive to Bumthang.

Overnight accommodation is set with AP Plan.

Day 5

Exploration in Bumthang valley.

Today you will visit five different places within the Bumthang valley. In the morning you will visit Swiss Farm where you will explore the procedures of brewing Red Panda beer (only native beer), sweet cheese, apple brandy, and other local dairy products. This project was first established by Fritz Maurer. Yoser Lham Shop is the main outlet for the Swiss Farm. After that, you will visit Jambay Lhakhang, built in the 8th century by Tibetan Dharma King Songtsen Gonpo. Kurjey Lhakhang is the second temple you will visit today where the body prints of Guru Rinpoche take place. This temple was built during the Tantra master’s first visit to Bhutan to flourish Buddhism. In the afternoon short hike to Tamzhing Lhakhang which means “Temple of good message”.

In the meantime, you will visit the Mebar Tsho (Lake of burning fire). A sacred lake from where the Bhutanese saint, Pema Lingpa discovered religious treasures in the 12th century.

Overnight accommodation is set with AP Plan.

Day 6

Drive to Punakha/Wangdue (1350m/4455 ft.), 6/7 hours, B.L.D

On the way back to Punakha you will visit Trongsa Dzong and Trongsa Museum. Trongsa Dzong is the largest fortress among all Dzongs of Bhutan situated on the ridge of a hill that dominates the entire town. This place is the origin of the Wangchuk Dynasty. At first, it was just a temple built by Drukpa lama, Nagi Wangchuk son of Ngawang Chhojey in 1543. This place reflects the significance of Trongsa and the history of Kings of the Wangchuk dynasty. In Trongsa, there is an impressive watchtower museum where the visitors can learn about the history of the kingdom by exploring the Bhutanese artifacts and religious treasures that are kept in this museum.

Overnight accommodation is set with AP Plan.

Day 7

Sightseeing in Punakha/Wangdue and drive to Paro.

Today you will hike to Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of fertility). It was built by the Divine Madman who is originally known for Lama Drukpa Kunley in 1499. The hike is about 30 minutes en route to the rice field. On the route, you will find wooden phalluses hanging in local houses and paintings on the wall of the house. This site is especially popular for the childless couple who come to pray for a child. Then drive to Punakha Dzong. Punakha Dzong is located between the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. It is the second-largest dzong of Bhutan and built-in remarkable structure. Later drive to Paro.

Overnight accommodation is set with AP Plan.

Day 8

Hike to Taktsang and visit the farmhouse.

Today we will hike to the most important landmark of Bhutan. After your breakfast, your guide and driver will receive you from your hotel and drive to the hiking point. The hike will be about 5 hours both way up and down. Those who are difficulty with walking can hire a horse to ease your hike. Taktsang or Tiger Nest was beautifully lying on the edge of the rocky mountain which was burned by fire in 1998 and restored later. This is also a popular pilgrimage site of Guru Rinpoche (Tantric Master).  You can hire a horse also if it’s challenging to hike up. Later you will drive to Paro and invite for dinner at the farmhouse to experience the local dishes which are served and prepared by Paro farmers. This will provide you an opportunity to learn about the lifestyle of a farming family. A hot stone bath is an optional element for those who want to experience the traditional bath.

Overnight accommodation is set with AP Plan.

Day 9

Dept from Paro airport, B.L.D

Our team is saying goodbye as your journey to Bhutan comes to an end today. If you have more time you can do some shopping or sightseeing. Approximately 2 hours before your scheduled flight guide from Himalayan Wander walkers will take you to the airport. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful countries of Bhutan, Nepal, and Tibet.

*AP (American plan) = Meal includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

 

Include

Bhutan Visa arrangement service
Government royalty and all the taxes
FIT Surcharge for one and two persons
Accommodations in 3-star hotels
Three meals a day breakfast, lunch & dinner
Full-time English speaking Bhutanese guide
Private transportation and sightseeing as per the itinerary
Museums and parks fees indicated in the itinerary
Bottled drinking water throughout the journey

Exclude

Flight fares from Kathmandu, Bangkok, Singapore, Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Dhaka, Mumbai, Guwahati, and Gaya to Bhutan- please choose the route.
Personal expenses and any alcoholic, non-alcoholic beverages
Tips to guide and driver
Single room supplement charge for two Pax and above
Luxury hotels/resorts available on supplement cost
Specialized /language guides available on supplement cost
Travel / Medical Insurance

Important Information

* The Price given here is per person based on a minimum of 2 pax. The price will be cheaper with an increase in the number of people.

* If you are flying from Nepal then let us know we can help you to book your flight to Bhutan.

* Single Room Supplement is an extra charge.

Equipment

The most important consideration for any tour is staying warm and dry. Lightweight, breathable, moisture-winking under layers are highly recommended. Insulating layers and jackets are necessary. Comfortable hiking shoes, quality socks (quality socks are recommended), and head covering (insulating caps and brimmed caps designed to block sunlight) are essential. Outer layers should be made of waterproof, wind-blocking material such as Gore-Tex. Sunglasses and sun-block cream, drinking water bottles, torchlight, foot care items such as foot powder and Moleskin, insect repellent, and personal hygiene items are also necessary. 

Useful Information

CHECKLISTS

  • Valid passport (valid for six months from the date of your trip)
  • One other picture ID, such as driver’s license (in case of emergency and for use as a substitute of passport or in case of loss of your passport) Photocopy of passport page to carry in the wallet
  • Air tickets (Make a copy of flight tickets which may be helpful, in case of loss)
  • Visa Clearance (Make a copy of visa clearance which may be helpful, in case of emergencies)
  • MasterCard, Visa Credit, and Debit Cards are accepted in Bhutan. However, travelers’ cheques and some cash are highly recommended.
  • Mobile (if your cell phone is from CINGULAR USA or ATNT (USA) operators then your cell phone will work in Bhutan.)

DRESS CODE FOR VISITING FORTRESSES, MONASTERIES, AND TEMPLES IN BHUTAN 

  • Shirt (either half or full sleeve)
  • Full pants/long skirts
  • Any type of shoes with socks
  • No Hats, No Umbrella, No Slippers, No t-shirts, No short skirt, and No half-pants
  • Photographs allowed in the courtyard only.

Frequently Asked Question