Community Based Tour Bhutan Home-stay/Farmhouse Tour

Glimpse of the Itinerary
Day 01: Bangkok/Delhi/Kathmandu – the enchanting valley of Paro
Day 02: 108 stupas and the rice fields of Punakha
Day 03: Across the Black Mountains to Bumthang
Day 04: Bumthang, seems like Switzerland
Day 05: Glacial valley of Phobjikha Valley
Day 06: The Capital city, Thimphu
Day 07: Full day Excursion in & around the Hustle and Bustle of the Capital City
Day 08: Taktsang Expedition
Day 09: Departure

This Tour is organized in 5 beautiful valleys of Bhutan – Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Phobjikha and Bumthang Valleys. Meeting interesting Bhutanese local people and taking short hikes through fields of seasonal crops, hand picking local available fresh fruits, tasting particular family’s special local dishes, clicking pictures, joining the family for meals will give you wonderful experiences.
For this 8 nights 9 days tour, you will get to experience 1 night at a modern Bhutanese family home in Thimphu city, 4 nights at traditional Bhutanese farmhouses in Paro, Punakha, Phobjikha and Bumthang valleys and 3 nights at hotels in Thimphu, Bumthang and Paro.
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Day 1: Arrive Paro

Arrive Paro by Drukair. Fly into Paro. After immigration and customs formalities, you will be received by our representative of Rinzin Thunderbolt – Bhutan HEIGHTS. Then you will be driven to your hotel in Paro. After checking into your hotel and refreshment you will visit Paro Rinpung Dzong (fortress), built in 1645 to defend the valley against Tibetan invaders. The Dzong is now an administration center of the Paro District and school for monks. From the Dzong you will walk down to Nyamyi Zam (Traditonal Cantilever Bridge), one of the oldest bridge in Bhutan.
Then you will visit one of the clusters of farm houses in Paro Valley and a visit to a farm house offers a good glimpse into the lifestyle of a farmer.
You may visit the vegetable gardens and paddy fields around the farmhouse. You can observe farmers performing farming activities. You can also try archery (the National Sport of Bhutan) with traditional bow and arrow.
Accommodation: Dinner & overnight at a homestay in Paro.

Day 2: Paro-Punakha

Distance: 130km approx. Estimated driving time: 3 ½ hour
After breakfast, you will travel to Punakha which will take you through Chunzom (confluence of Pachu- the river flowing through Paro valley & Wangchu –the river flowing through Thimphu valley). On the way, pit stop at Tachog Lhakhang (temple), this 14th century temple located on the base of a mountain across the Pa chu on the Paro-Thimphu highway. Built by the great master architect Thangtong Gyalpo, famously known as Lama Chazampa which literally means Iron Bridge Builder. The temple houses some unique statues. To get to the temple one may actually walk over the iron chains that spans over the Pa chu.
After crossing Chunzom, the drive will take you along the Wangchu upto Simtokha where road diversion leads you to Punakha/Wangdue through Dochula (Pass) at an elevation at about 3,050mtr / 10156ft. In the clear spring sky, you can enjoy the panoramic view of the Himalayan Mountain ranges. At Dochula (Pass) you will see the beautiful 108 chortens (stupa) built on the hill by Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck (the Queen Mother of Bhutan) for the security and wellbeing of His Majesty, the King of Bhutan. You will also visit Druk Wangyal Lhakhang (temple) .The temple was built to honor His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck (the 4th King of Bhutan). The past and future appear to merge in the details of the temple that tells the story of a supreme warrior figure whose vision pierces the distant future.
After refreshment at Dochula (Pass) Café, you will continue your journey to Punakha at1350mtr (4430 feet). Punakha has been inextricably linked to some of the most momentous events in the Bhutanese history and deserves its reputation as one of the most beautiful and significant regions at the heart of Bhutanese culture. Punakha had served as the former capital of Bhutan from and the 1st National Assembly was held here. Punakha Dzong (fortress) is historically important and stands as the symbol for a unified Bhutan.
You will stop at Lobesa Village to visit the Devine Madman’s Monastery-Chhimi Lhakhang, famously known for its fertility shrine, where one can receive a special fertility blessing. After lunch at Lobesa Village you will visit the Punakha Dzong, located on the island of the Pho - Chu (Male River) and the Mochu (Female River). The dzong was built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal (high Drupa Kagyu lama who unified the warring valley kingdoms under a single rule in 16th century) to serve as the religious and administrative seat of the region. It was here that the dual system of government was introduced in the 17th century and in 1907, enthroned the first King of Bhutan Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck.
Optional: In the evening visit Rinchengang & Lobesa villages where you will take a short walk through the village and have free interaction with the villagers.
Accommodation: Dinner & overnight at a homestay in Lobesa Village in Punakha.

Day 3: Punakha – Trongsa - Bumthang

 

Distance: 197 km. estimated travel time: 7 hour
After breakfast, travel to Bumthang through Trongsa. The drive will take you through dense forests of oak and blue pine trees and through the subtropical vegetation. The journey will also take you through the village of Nobding and Pele La (pass) at 3300meter (10825 feet). Throughout your trip you will come across the beautiful sceneries of rural Bhutan, with scattered settlements far from the road which make you stop for pictures. You will also pass through open meadows, and valley of yak herders and several other villages via Chendebji Chorten (Stupa). Lunch and refreshments will be served enroute. On arrival at Trongsa, you will visit Museum which is housed in the Ta Dzong (watch tower).A museum in which aspects of Bhutanese culture and history are explained by beautifull objects. Documentary will be shown too which explains a great deal about Bhutanese history and history of monarchy.
After that you will continue your journey to Bumthang passing through Yotong La (Pass) at 3400mtr. Just before reaching Bumthang you will come across “Yathra” Weaving Centre at Zugney Village where you will see local weavers weaving Yathra. Yathra is the name for the colorful, hand-woven woolen cloth (often with geometric designs) that is produced in this region and wool used for this type of textile is sheep wool as the sheep is reared in this Bumthang Valley. Yathra is made into jackets or bags, etc.
Then you will be driven further to Bumthang Valley. On arrival at Bumthang, check into your hotel in Bumthang.
Accommodation: Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Bumthang.

Day 4: Bumthang

Full Day Excursion:
• Jambay Lhakhang, built in the 7th century by the King Songtsen Goempo of Tibet. In his effort to propagate Buddhism he had a plan to build a total of 108 temples in Tibet and neighboring kingdoms.
• Kujey Lhakhang (Kujey means, "Body imprint"). The temple to the right is the oldest and was built by Minjur Tempa in 1652. It was built around the cave in which Guru Rimpoche meditated and left his body imprint.
• Jakar Dzong, "castle of the white bird". According to legend, when the lamas assembled in about 1549 to select a site for a monastery, a big white bird rose suddenly in the air and settled on a spur of a hill. This was interpreted as an important omen, and the hill was chosen as the site for a monastery and for Jakar Dzong. The fortress is now used as an administrative center of the valley and summer residence of Trongsa monks.
• Tamshing Lhakhang: This temple is also known as Tamshing Lhendrup Chholing (Temple of the Good Message). In the evening stroll around the beautiful landscape of the Bumthang Jakar valley
After lunch drive to Mebar Tsho (Burning lake) and visit the lake and then drive back to your hotel and in the evening you may wish to take a stroll around Bumthang Town.
In the evening walk through a village and you can relax in the Traditional Bhutanese Hotstone bath.
Accommodation: Dinner & overnight @ a homestay in Bumthang.

Day 5: Bumthang- Phobjikha Valley

Accommodation: Distance: 185 km, estimated travel time: 7 hour
After breakfast, drive to Phobjikha valley. Driving through the dense forests of the Phobjikha Valley you arrive at Gangtey village where you see the Gangtey Monastery and visit the monastery. Phobjikha valley is part of the beautiful Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park (formerly known as Black Mountains National Park), one of Bhutan’s most important nature sanctuaries. Each winter it is home to a flock of the rare and endangered black-necked cranes, migrates to Bhutan to avoid the harsh climate in Tibet. The surrounding hills and mountains are home to nomadic shepherds and yak-herders. This is one of the most remote and untouched glacial regions in Bhutan and is only just opening its doors to the outside world.
While Phobjikha valley has hotels and gueathouses due to its popularity as a tourist destination, it is still a unique valley removed from the buzz of the capital city not far off and we strongly encourage our guests to use hgomestays / farmhouses so that the community is directly benefited.
After lunch at Phobjikha valley and explore the valley and also visit the Black Necked Crane Center.
Option: Hike Nature Trail
In the late afternoon visit the farmhouse/homestay where you will have dinner and overnight at the same farmhouse in Phobjikha Valley.
Accommodation: Overnight @ a Homestay in Phobjikha

Day 6: Phobjikha - Thimphu

Distance: 136 km & estimated driving time: 5 hour
After breakfast you will be driven to Thimphu via Punakha with lunch enroute. On arrival at Thimphu, check into your hotel and after a refreshment visit the following:
• Centenary Farmers’ Market (open from Thu-Sun only): Most of the Thimphu’s population and many valley dwellers converge on the bustling weekend market, held by the side of Wangchu River. A visit to the market provides great photo opportunities, as well as the chance to mingle with local people.
• Tashichhoe Dzong, a fortress of the glorious religion. It was built in 1641 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel and was reconstructed into present structure by the late King, His majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in the year 1962-1969. It houses the secretariat building, the throne room and the office of the king, and the central monk body.
Accommodation: Dinner & overnight @ a hotel in Thimphu.

Day 7: Thimphu

Full Day Excursion
• Bhutan Post Office Headquarters to get personalized Bhutanese postage stamps with your photo on them. You can bring along your favorite photo to put on the stamps and put these stamps on your postcard to send to your family and friends.
• National Textile Museum which is a good place to see the art of traditional weaving being kept alive and preserved through exhibition and has a good collection of old textiles which are rich in colors and designs. You will also see people weaving with intricate designs.
• Traditional Bhutanese paper making factory. The handmade paper making in Bhutan stemmed from the age old tradition originated in 8th century of Bhutanese history. The handmade paper constitutes as valuable National heritage of Bhutanese cultural identity and is preserved through all the ages. The Traditional paper is recognized and held high esteem both in home and outside world.
• Jungshi Paper Factory was established in November 1990 as an undertaking of the Royal Government of Bhutan. The unit now boasts as a major and sole dealer in handmade paper and its products.
• Simply Bhutan– A living museum of rural life which provides visitors and tourists with fascinating insights into the Bhutanese material culture and way of life.
After lunch visit the following:
• National Institute of Traditional Medicine (outside only), where medicinal herbs are compounded and dispensed, and traditional medical practitioners trained.
• The School of Traditional Painting of Arts and Crafts where students undertake a six-year course on the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan.
• Takin Preserve, is a large enclosure with the national animal, the Takin that looks like a cross between a goat and a moose. This is an extremely rare member of the goat family. Found in herds in the very high altitudes 4000mtr / (13,125ft and over). They live on a diet of grass and bamboo.
• Tashichhoe Dzong, a fortress of the glorious religion. It was built in 1641 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel and was reconstructed into present structure by the late King, His majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in the year 1962-1969. It houses the secretariat building, the throne room and the office of the king, and the central monk body.
• Craft Bazaar where craftsmen and artisans from across the country display and sell their handicrafts and Government-run Handicrafts Emporium and local crafts shops, to browse through examples of Bhutan’s fine traditional arts. Here you can buy hand-woven textiles, thangkha paintings, masks, ceramics, slate and wood carvings, jewelry, and other interesting items made from local materials.
Accommodation: Dinner and overnight at a Hotel in Thimphu OR homestay at a modern Bhutanese family home.

Day 8: Thimphu – Paro.

Hike to Taktsang Ghoempa (Tiger’s Nest Monastery)
After breakfast, drive to Paro which takes about 1.1/2 hour and then hike up to Taktsang Monastery, also known as ‘Tiger’s Nest’. The walk up to the half way viewpoint will take about 1 – 1 ½ hrs depending on your fitness and from View Point you will enjoy a spectacular view of the monastery clinging to the side of the cliff. Stop for refreshment at the View Point Cafeteria. Then walk further up to the monastery which will take about 1 hour. It is said that in the 8th century Guru Rinpoche flew on the back of a tigress from eastern Bhutan to this place and meditated in a cave here for 3 months. The principal Lhakhang (monastery) of the present monastic complex dates from 1692. Taktsang was damaged severely by fire in 1998 but has now been fully restored to its former glory. After visiting the monastery, walk downhill back to the road on the way stop for lunch at the view point cafeteria and then walk further downhill to the base. Then drive back to hotel. On the way visit Kyichu temple, one of the 108 temples built in the 7th century by the Tibetan King Songsten Gampo. The story goes that a giant demoness lay across the whole area of Tibet and the Himalayas and was preventing the spread of Buddhism. To overcome her, King Songtsen Gampo decided to build 108 temples, which would be placed on all the points of her body. Of these 108 temples, 12 were built in accordance with precise plans. Thus, it happened that in about the year AD 638 the temple of Jokhang in Lhasa was built over the very heart of the demon.
In the evening you can experience the Traditional Bhutanese Hotstone bath.
Accommodation: Dinner & overnight @ a hotel in Paro.

Day 9: Paro Departure

In the morning after breakfast your tour guide from Rinzin Thunderbolt – Bhutan HEIGHTS will escort you to the Paro airport for your flight to your onward destinations.
End of Tour Program
Bhutan Tour Cost for the 8 Nights 9 Days Bhutan Homestay Tour Itinerary.
Travel Time 1 pax 2pax 3pax & above
Low Season :
June, July & August US$ 1920/person US$1840/ person US$1600/person
Peak Season :
March, April & May / September, October & November US$ 2320/person US$ 2240/person US$ 2000/person
The above Bhutan tour package prices include the following:
• Bhutan Government Royalty of US$ 65/person/night
• FIT surcharges of US$40/person/night for a single traveler and US$30/person/night for a double
• Twin sharing rooms at 3 star hotels or homestay/farmhouses
• All meals ( breakfast, lunch, dinner & light refreshments) with standard menu at 3 star hotels and at farmhouses
• English speaking tour guide service
• All transfers and excursions by private vehicles
• All entrance fees to museums and monuments
• All internal taxes and fees
• Mineral drinking water
The above tour prices do not include the following:
• Single room supplement of US$ 40/room/night (optional)
• Bhutan Visa fee of US$40/person
• Airfares (optional)
• Travel insurance (recommended)
• Other personal expenses like overseas calls, laundry, etc.
***Thank you & Tashi Delek***

Glimpse of the Itinerary
Day 01: Bangkok/Delhi/Kathmandu – Arrive to the enchanting valley of Paro & drive towards the Capital City – Excursion.
Day 02: 3 hour drive and Excursion includes 108 stupas & temple of fertility.
Day 03: Rice fields & Fortress of Punakha, Nunnery & Drive to a village (Temple visit).
Day 04: 5 hour drive over the Black mountains, Visit to the majestic fortress of Trongsa.
Day 05: drive pass by Ta Dzong (museum), step into the land where Buddhism Originated.
Day 06: Full Day Excursion in & around Bumthang.
Day 07: 5.1/2 hour drive - Retrace and enjoy the drive back to the glacial valley of Phobjikha.
Day 08: Retrace and enjoy the drive back to Enchanting Valley (8 hour drive / pit stops / Excursion)
Day 09: Paro – Tiger Nest Expedition
Day 10: Departure

 

ITINERARY IN DETAIL
Day 01| Arrival PARO and drive to THIMPHU (1.1/2 hour)
Flying into the country’s only international airport, in the beautiful Paro valley, the clear mountain air, forested ridges, imposing monasteries and welcoming Bhutanese people in their striking national dress, provides a breath-taking first impression. On arrival at Paro airport, after immigration and custom formalities, you will be welcomed by our tour representative (English speaking Guide) from Rinzin Thunderbolt – Bhutan HEIGHTS who will be accompanying you during your stay in Bhutan.
Drive to the capital, Thimphu at 2340meter (7675ft) which takes about 1.1/2 hour, the lunch will be served in the Hotel and later drive pass by Memorial Chorten (temple) built in memory of the late 3rd King. Visit the newly built statue of Buddha (169feet / 51meter) offering magnificent view of entire Thimphu valley.
Visit the Takin Preserve, a large enclosure for the national animal Takin (Burdocas Taxicolor). Visit the fortress of Thimphu, Tashichho Dzong, which houses the throne of the king, District Administrative center and the Monastic body.
Overnight @ Hotel in Thimphu

Day 02| THIMPHU to PUNAKHA (3 hour) 
Morning drive to Punakha at 1350meters through Dochula (pass) at 3050meter, If the weather permits one can enjoy a spectacular Himalayan Vistas of Bhutan. Walk around the 108 stupas and continue your drive to sub-tropical valley of Punakha. On arrival, hike to the temple of fertility Chimi Lakhang  dedicated to one of the highly revered 15th Century saint Lama Drukpa Kuenley famously known by the Bhutanese as The Devine Mad Man associated with religious art of phallus.(unorthodox method of teaching administered by ribald connotations).
Overnight @ Hotel in Punakha

Day 03| PUNAKHA
Full Day Excursion
In the Morning drive to visit Punakha Dzong (fortress) which houses the most elaborate temple in the country. This is a fine example of Bhutanese rich Art and Architecture. We will drive you to Talo monastery and while returning back we will be also visiting Nalanda monastery or Sangchen Dorji Lhendrup Nunnery
Overnight @ Hotel in Punakha
Day 04| PUNAKHA to TRONGSA tours (5 hour)
Morning, after b/fast start your drive for Trongsa through Wangdue district and view the ruins of Wangdue Dzong (Fortress), which has been destroyed by fire in the year 2012 but now under construction. Continue to Trongsa over Pelela (Pass) at 3300meter which forms the part of Black mountain range that divides the country into east and west. The drive is long but the landscape is pleasing and worthy. Upon arrival visit Trongsa Dzong(fortress).  It is optional that you could visit the fortress the next day. Later transfer to your hotel.
Overnight @ Hotel in Trongsa

Day 05| TRONGSA to Bumthang (3 hour)
Morning after breakfast visit Trongsa town and visit the majestic Trongsa Dzong (Fortress), the home of the royals and the unique watchtower, Ta Dzong which houses a newly converted museum. Drive pass by Yotong La (pass) at 3425meter. On the journey stop over the weaving place, beside the road where “Yatha” (wool weaving) is done which the Valley of Bumthang is famous for and continue your drive for Bumthang.
Overnight @ hotel in Bumthang
Day 06| Bumthang
Full Day Excursion

Morning visit:  Jampay Lakhang, one of the first Buddhist temples built in the country. Visit Kurjey Lakhang (Temple), the site where royals are cremated, one can either walk cross the suspension bridge and visit Tamshing Lakhang(temple). After lunch drive to Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake) which is a deep water pool in a gorge of the Tangchhu (river), located about 15 minutes off the road that goes towards one of the remote valleys of Bumthang. End your day with a walk passing by the Swiss Weiss Beer Brewery. Evening stroll in Bumthang town.
Overnight @ hotel in Bumthang
Day 07| Bumthang to PHOBJIKHA (5.1/2 hour)
Retrace and enjoy the drive back to the glacial valley through the dense forests of the Phobjikha Valley you arrive at Gangtey village where you see the Gangtey Monastery. The valley is home for the endangered Black Necked Crane, one of the rare specials of the birds in the world, which migrates from Tibetan plateau to Bhutan in winters (Early Nov to end of Feb) to avoid the harsh climatic conditions in Tibet. Phobjikha valley at 2900meter is also paradise for nature lovers and hikers so one can enjoy the hike around the remote valley of Phobjikha.  Homestay optional.
Overnight @ hotel in Phobjikha
Day 08| PHOBJIKHA to PARO (8 hrs)
Morning visit Gangtey Gompa (monastery), the largest and the only monastery of the Nyingmapa sect (school of Buddhism) in western Bhutan, continue your drive back to Paro. If time permits, in Paro visit the National Museum, the first of its kind which has a collection from natural history to religious paintings. Retrace the drive back to Paro, after lunch visit Paro Rimpung Dzong (Fortress) and walk downhill to one of the oldest wooden bridge (cantilever Bridge). Continue further to stroll around the old Paro town and sneak a look into some local handicrafts stores. Evening, drive back to the hotel.
Overnight at hotel in Paro

Day 09| PARO
Excursion to Tiger Nest.
Morning drive to the base for the hike to Tiger’s Nest, the most revered temple in the country that literally hangs on a granite cliff overlooking a valley. Lunch will be served in the cafeteria. As most of the day will be spent on hike. Drive back, visit a farmhouse/homestay, and experience hot stone bath &Farewell dinner
Overnight @ hotel in Paro
Day 10| Fly back (our guide will escort you to the airport and bid you farewell)

Glimpse of Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Paro, Explore the enchanting valley of Paro & Drive to Thimphu (Drive 1½ Hour)
Day 02:  Full Day Excursion in and around Thimphu & Drive back to Paro
Day 03: Tiger Nest Expedition
Day 04: Departure
Itinerary in Detail
Day 01: Enchanting valley of Paro (2280meters)

Get on board Druk Air, Bhutan’s national airline, from Bangkok, Kolkotta, New Delhi or Kathmandu bound for Paro. The flight to Paro offers fascinating views of the eastern Himalayan range, including Mt. Everest. On arrival our company’s representative will receive you at the airport, and you could stop for tea after your early morning flight. Your Bhutan expedition will begin with visits to places of historical importance in the enchanting valley of Paro. It will begin with a visit to Paro Rinpung Dzong (fortress on a heap of jewels), followed by the Ta Dzong which was formerly a watch tower and the now the country’s national museum. Later we visit Kyichu Lakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan built by the 1st Buddhist King of Tibet.
After that our team will drive you to the capital Thimphu, which takes about 1.5hrs and transfer you to the Hotel.
Take rest in the hotel and you can take an evening walk in Thimphu City.

Overnight @ hotel in Thimphu
Day 02: Bird’s eye view of Thimphu valley (2320m)

Full Day Excursion

Thimphu has lot to offer and we start with visit to the Memorial Chorten, one of the Bhutan’s most beautiful stupas built in memory of the late 3rd king Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, also referred to as the father of modern Bhutan.
The next visit will be to Kuensel Phodrang, where the gigantic world’s largest sitting Buddha Statue stands (a point from where you can have a Bird’s eye view of the valley). You will further drive to the Takin Preserve, a large enclosure for the national animal of Bhutan.

OPTION: Drive to Dochula (pass) at 3050meters to see the Spectacular Himalayan Mountain Vistas and beautiful monument of 108 stupas, it will take about an hour drive from Thimphu and later drive back to Paro.

(OR)

Visit other important places(you can choose few places of your interest) include the Simply Bhutan for an insight into the medieval lifestyle of the Bhutanese, the National Library which contains collections of literature and scriptures, the Textile Museum for ancient Bhutanese textile collections, the local Bhutanese Paper making factory – one of the 1st cottage industries established in the country,  Zorig Chusum (The institute of thirteen traditional arts and crafts),  Weaving center at Changzamtog, If time permits, visit Tashichho Dzong, the center of government and the monastic order. Later transfer to your hotel.

Overnight @ hotel in Paro

 

Day 03: Tiger Nest Expedition (2950m)

A visit to Bhutan is incomplete without going to Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s lair), one of the most sanctified and sacred temples in Bhutan.
Transfer to trail-head (30 minutes’ drive from the hotel), It is 5 hour round trip along an old trail. Begin your trek to Takstang monastery, Bhutan’s most famous sight. It is located on the face of a 900m sheer cliff, but accessible only by walk or to ride mule/pony. Your guide can arrange pony/horse for ride uphill till the Cafeteria (half way point), but one must be able to walk after that. A proper trekking boot or good walking shoes is necessary. For this hike those who choose not to can stay back with the driver and tour around Paro.
This hike is absolutely unforgettable and promises every visitor an enthralling experience.
After the hike drive back, visit a farmhouse/homestay and experience hot stone bath & souvenir shopping.
Overnight @ hotel in Paro.
 Day 04: Departure (our guide will escort you to the airport before time and bid you farewell)

Wild Wild West
Be prepared for an enchanting journey!
This package is designed to bring in concrete forms, what you learnt and heard about Bhutan. Your theoretical knowledge about Bhutan will be translated into reality as you see the cultural icons of the country, people, landscape, flora and fauna. It is a tour that will take you back to the 7th century and also showcase some of the recent distinct features of the Kingdom.
All through the journey, you will be enveloped by a pristine environment with forest cover, beautiful landscapes and gushing rivers. You can see the lifestyles of people and the living art and architecture, embodied in Bhutan’s handicraft and textile industry.
There is an adage that seeing is believing and this package will also showcase you the glory and grandeur of the Himalayan Kingdom. You might have heard or read about “Taktsang” (Tiger’s Lair), perched on a Cliff about 1000meters, overlooking a valley. You can see this amazing architectural wonder.
You are promised an unforgettable experience.
Glimpse of Itinerary
Day 01: Bangkok/Delhi/Kathmandu – Arrive to the enchanting valley of Paro
Day 02: Bird’s eye view of Thimphu valley
Day 03: 108 stupas, Temple of Fertility and the rice fields of Punakha
Day 04:  The fortress of Happiness/Retrace and enjoy the drive back to the Enchanting valley of Paro
Day 05: Tiger Nest Expedition
Day 06: Departure

Itinerary in Detail
Day 01 – Arrival at the enchanting valley of Paro
Get on board Druk Air, Bhutan’s national airline, from Bangkok, Kolkotta, New Delhi or Kathmandu bound for Paro. The flight to Paro offers fascinating views of the eastern Himalayan range, including Mt. Everest. On arrival after immigration and custom formalities our company’s representative will receive you at the airport and escort you to the hotel. After a brief stopover in the hotel, your Bhutan expedition will begin with visits to places of historical importance in Paro. It will begin with a visit to Paro Rinpung Dzong (fortress on a heap of jewels), followed by the Ta Dzong which was formerly a watch tower and the now the country’s national museum. Later we visit Kyichu Lakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan built by the 1st Buddhist King of Tibet. In the evening visit Paro town, stroll through its quaint two streets and transfer to Hotel.

Overnight @ Hotel.

Day 02: Bird’s eye view of Thimphu valley

After breakfast, we begin the day with about 1.1/2 hour drive to Bhutan’s capital city. Thimphu has lot to offer and we start with visit to the Memorial Chorten, one of the Bhutan’s most beautiful stupas built in memory of the late 3rd king Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, also referred to as the father of modern Bhutan.
The next visit will be to Kuensel Phodrang, where the gigantic world’s largest sitting Buddha Statue stands (a point from where you can have a Bird’s eye view of the valley). You will further drive to the Takin Preserve, a large enclosure for the national animal of Bhutan.

Other important places(The Guide will choose few places of your interest) include the Simply Bhutan for an insight into the medieval lifestyle of the Bhutanese, the National Library which contains collections of literature and scriptures, the Textile Museum for ancient Bhutanese textile collections, the local Bhutanese Paper making factory – one of the 1st cottage industries established in the country,  Zorig Chusum (The institute of thirteen traditional arts and crafts),  Weaving center at ChangzamtogIf time permits, visit Tashichho Dzong, the center of government and the monastic order. Independent tour of the town.

Overnight @ Hotel.

 

Day 03: 108 Stupas & the rice fields of Punakha

After breakfast, you will be heading towards Punakha at 1350m, which is about 3hours drive from Thimphu. The road climbs rapidly and the sharp bends may seem even more numerous than usual! In about 45 minutes, you will reach at Dochula (pass at 3050m) marked by 108 stupas, on a clear day the pass offers visitors a spectacular view of the majestic eastern Himalayan Vista that consists of snowcapped peaks with elevations ranging from 6000m to 7550m.. A cup of hot coffee or tea at the pass has almost become part of tradition for travelers.
The onward drive is a gradual descend through a temperate type of leafy forests where Rhododendron and Magnolia bloom in March and April and constantly changing vegetation.
After 1.1/2 drive just before reaching Punakha , (Pre / post lunch) you will walk/hike through the rice fields and visit Chimmi Lakhang, - the temple of fertility dedicated to one of the highly revered 15th Century saint Lama Drukpa Kuenley famously known by the Bhutanese as The Devine Mad Man associated with religious art of phallus.(unorthodox method of teaching administered by ribald connotations). Also renowned for blessing barren women with fertility.
In the evening transfer to your hotel.

Overnight @ Hotel.

 

Day 04: Retrace and enjoy the drive back to the Enchanting valley of Paro.

In the morning before the 4 hour drive back to Paro (from where you entered the country). After breakfast visit Punakha Dzong (the fortress of Happiness) located at the confluence of Mo Chhu (Female River) and Pho Chhu (Male River) combine to form the Puna Tsang Chhu. The Dzong was constructed by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal (the Unifier of the country) in 1637 and is the second largest & oldest Dzongs in Bhutan, also has served as the capital of Bhutan until 1955. It was in Punakha Dzong that Ugyen Wangchuck, the 1st King of Bhutan, was crowned on 17 December 1907.

Retrace and enjoy the drive back to the Enchanting valley of Paro via Thimphu. Stop for lunch/snack/tea at Dochula (pass) Druk Wangyel Café.
Later when you reach Paro, drive further north to visit the Ruins of Drugyel Dzong. In fine weather, the towering peak of Mount Jomolhari(mountain of the Goddess Jomo), 7,314meters (24000 feet) high, appears as a back drop. The mountain, which marks the frontier with Tibet, is sacred, as are all the mountains in Bhutan.
Drugyel Dzong, with a delightful village nestling at its fot is built on a rocly spur that blocks the Paro valley and protected it from invasions from the north.
The Dzong was built in 1647 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to commemorate his victory over the Tibetans in 1644. Drugyel Dzong means ‘fortress of the victorious Drukpas’.
Unfortunately, in 1951, a butter-lamp fell over and started a terrible fire. Only the walls remained and Drugyel dzong became no more than a dramatic silhouette falling into ruins.
Later Transfer to the Hotel.

Overnight @ hotel

 

Day 05: Tiger Nest Expedition
A visit to Bhutan is incomplete without going to Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s lair), one of the most sanctified and sacred temples in Bhutan.
Our journey to the Lair will begin half an hour drive to the base. It is 5 hour round trip along an old trail, with prayer flags fluttering. Taktsang is not just a sacred place, but an architectural wonder. Perched some 1000 meters on a hill overlooking a valley, it is believed that the great Indian Saint and Buddhist Master, Guru Padma Sambhava flew on the back of a tigress in a wrathful form to this place in 746 AD, to subjugate the evil forces who were obstructing the spread of Buddhism. The hike/trek, which will take about five hours (up & downhill) is an unforgettable one and promises every visitor an enthralling experience.
After the hike drive back, visit a farmhouse/homestay, and experience hot stone bath & souvenir shopping.
Overnight @ hotel in Paro
Day 06: Departure (our company’s representative will escort you to the airport and bid you farewell)

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