Bhutan is perhaps the most mysterious and diverse of all the Himalayan kingdoms, where for centuries a traditional Buddhist culture has thrived in isolation from the rest of the world. It is a land of contrast – with lush forested valleys, fortified monasteries, sacred mountains, art and architecture unique to the region. Our journey begins in Paro and we head out into the countryside to visit the beautiful Punakha, Bumthang and Gangtey Valleys. Here we explore the rural lifestyle and architecture of Bhutan before heading to Thimphu. We have two days to explore the capital before returning to Paro where, on one of the highlights of our tour, we visit Taktsang (the Tiger’s Nest) - a small monastery clinging to a rocky cliff 900 metres above the valley floor.
Itinerary
| Day 1 |
(Sat) Arrive in Paro and transfer to hotel. |
| Day 2 |
Drive to Punakha, with fine mountain views in good weather. |
| Day 3 |
Drive to Bumthang via Tongsa, visit Wangdi Phodrang and cross the Pele La Pass to Jakar. |
| Day 4 |
Drive to the Phobjika Valley and visit Gangtey. |
| Day 5 |
Morning exploration of the valley. Afternoon drive to Thimphu. |
| Day 6 |
Full day sightseeing in Thimphu. |
| Day 7 |
Drive to Paro and visit the Tiger's Nest Monastery. |
| Day 8 |
Trip ends in Paro this morning (Sat). |