Bhutan Experience Tour

After breakfast, we proceed for full day sightseeing of Thimpu. Thimpu and Paro is the best part of Bhutan experience tour. Firstly, we visit National Memorial Chorten, a stupa built in 1974 in the memory of third king. Further, we drive above the Thimpu city to witness 51m tall Buddha, the largest stupa in the world gilded with gold.

We also explore Kingdom’s rich culture at National Library; the Bhutan’s thirteen traditional arts and crafts where student undergo training. Visiting Bhutan Museum also offers the insight of Bhutanese ancient arts and tradition.

It is worth exploring Changangkha Lhakhang built in 12th century. It is perched on a ridge above Thimpu. Visiting Takin Preserve allows you to explore Takin, the rare national animal of Bhutan. We also explore Tashichoe Dzong, the summer residence of the Je Khempo or Chief About.

Highest Altitude

2320m (Thimpu)

After breakfast, we drive to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan following the some of the dramatic river valleys and cultivated fields.

On the way to Punakha, we pass Dochu La Pass (3,050m) which exhibits the clear view of mountain range on a clear day. From Dochu La Pass, we drive down to the warmer valley of Punakha and Wangdue. En route to Punakha- we stop at Mitsina village; explore Chimi Lhakhang, the famous temple known for fertility blessings.

Activity & Duration

3 hour drive

Highest Altitude

1300m (Punakha)

Today, we drive north of Punakha valley following the Mo Chu and hike to Khamsum Yelley Namgyal Chorten, a great example of the Bhutanese architecture and art.

In the evening, we drive to Punakha Dzong which is located at the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. Built in 1637, this Dzong was built by the founder of Bhutan and has been administrative hub of Bhutan for centuries. The wooden architecture carved in the Dzong is of high standard.

After breakfast, we drive east to Trongsa over Pele La Pass (3390m). It is one of central hub of the Kingdom and historical place where unification of the country started. We visit Trongsa Dzong (built in 1648) that is located at the ridge overlooking the Mangdechu River. This Dzong used to the center power for central and eastern Bhutan.

Both the first and second kings ruled the country starting from this ancient seat. Presently, it serves as the district headquarter of the river and civil administrative of Trongsa district.

We also visit ancient watch tower located above the Trongsa Dzong which is now converted into the art museum showcasing the historical and religious heritage of the fortress and Bhutan’s monarch.

After breakfast, we drive from Trongsa to Bhumthang passing Yotong La Pass (3,425m). During the trip, you will the glimpse of the Black Mountain and Himalayan Peaks like Jomolhari. We pass the lush forest in the board valley and small settlements on the way to Bhumthang.

Activity & Duration

2 hour drive

Highest Altitude

4000m (Bhumthang)

After breakfast, we drive towards the glacier valley of Phobjikha- one of auspicious wildlife reserve in the country that protects large flock of black-necked cranes. The valley also houses Nyingmapa monastery built in 17th century

En route- we halt at Chedebji Chorten that resembles to Swayambhunath (Kathmandu) stupa with eyes painted at the four cardinal points. The stupa was built by Lama Shida to cover up the remnant of evil demons that was buried in this very spot.

After lunch, we drive towards Phobjika valley and upon arrival in the valley, we join a short downhill walk to the Khewa Lhakhang through mani stone located to the north of Gangtey Goenpa.

Activity & Duration

5.5 hour drive

Highest Altitude

3000m (Phobjika valley)

Today, we explore Crane Observation and information Center before making 5 hour drive towards Thimpu. On the way, we visit Wangdue Dzong at Wangdue and make a short hike to the village of Rinchengang. We further stop at Dochu La Pass and enjoy the Lunch. Visiting 108 Druk Wanggyal Lhakhang, we drive back to Thimpu and enjoy leisure time at Thimpu.

Activity & Duration

5 hour drive

Highest Altitude

2320m (Thimpu)

After breakfast, we drive back to Paro and walk up to Taktsang Monastery, also known as “Tiger Nest”. Perched at the top of sheer rock cliff overlooking the Paro valley, Taktsang Ghoempa is the great assortments of four temples, eight caves and several buildings. Either of Bhutan tour is incomplete with making a trip to this iconic religious site.

Legend had it Guru Rimpoche flew here at the back of pregnant Tigress in 8th century. He medicated for three months, three days and three house which is today called the Taksang Senge Samdup Cave. The statue of Dorje Droloe protects the entrance of the gate.

The gradual climb to the viewpoint takes 1.5 hour where you can admire the spectacular view of monastery clinging to the side of the cliff. From viewpoint, it takes 1.5 hours of hike to reach the monastery. After exploration, we hike back to the viewpoint (cafeteria) to have lunch and walk further down to the road point.

Next, we drive to the Paro valley and pay homage to Drukgyel Dzong (in ruins), the ancient fortress used as the barrier for Tibetan invaders. It was destroyed by catastrophic fire in 1951. In the evening, we enjoy traditional hot stone bath and rest overnight in hotel.

Your 11 days Bhutan experience tour comes to an end today. Transfer to Paro International Airport for final departure