Essence of Bhutan – Overland Tour

Day 1: Touchdown in Paro and Journey to Thimphu

Upon landing at Paro International Airport, you will experience a breathtaking descent through mountain valleys. After clearing customs and meeting your guide, you will embark on a scenic drive to Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu. As you travel through the valley, you’ll pass rural homes and hillside monasteries, offering a glimpse of Bhutan’s serene lifestyle. Thimphu, known for being the only capital without traffic lights, is a peaceful town of about 100,000 residents. In the evening, visit the Handicrafts Emporium to explore Bhutanese arts and crafts.

Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing and Drive to Punakha

Your day begins with a visit to Thimphu’s cultural sites, including the National Memorial Chorten, the Folk Heritage Museum, and the Textile Museum. These sites provide a deep dive into Bhutan’s history, traditional life, and artistry. After a local lunch, you will head to Punakha, the former capital. The drive crosses Dochula Pass, which offers panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges on clear days. After descending into the fertile valley of Punakha, you will visit Punakha Dzong, majestically located between two rivers, and check into your hotel for the night.

Day 3: Punakha to Bumthang via Trongsa

Today, you will embark on a stunning journey to Bumthang, crossing two mountain passes: Pele La (3,300 m) and Yotong La (3,400 m). The drive takes you through varying landscapes, from semi-tropical forests to alpine environments. Along the way, you’ll stop at Trongsa to visit its impressive Dzong, the ancestral home of Bhutan’s royal family. The road winds through serene valleys and quaint villages before reaching Bumthang, a region known for its beauty and deep spiritual significance.

Day 4: Bumthang – Exploring Bhutan’s Spiritual Heartland

Bumthang is Bhutan’s spiritual heart, filled with monasteries and temples. Today’s itinerary includes visits to Jambay Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, and Kurjey Lhakhang, where Guru Rinpoche left his body imprint. After lunch, enjoy a scenic hike across a suspension bridge to Thangbi Valley, where you’ll explore the ancient Thangbi Lhakhang. The day ends with a stroll through Chamkhar Town, where you can immerse yourself in local life.

Day 5: Bumthang to Wangdue via Gangtey

After breakfast, you’ll begin the scenic drive back to Wangdue, passing through Gangtey and over the Pelela Pass. Gangtey is home to the Gangtey Monastery and Phobjikha Valley, known for its beauty and as the winter home of the endangered black-necked cranes. The valley’s gentle slopes and serene landscapes make it one of Bhutan’s most beautiful spots. After exploring the monastery, continue to Wangdue for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 6: Wangdue to Paro via Dochula Pass

Today, you’ll travel back to Paro via Dochula Pass. Enjoy a lunch stop and some shopping in Thimphu before arriving in Paro. The scenic drive offers spectacular views, and you’ll have the evening to relax at your hotel in Paro, preparing for the adventures of the next day.

Day 7: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery

The highlight of your trip, today you will hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery. The trail winds through a pine forest and takes about two hours to reach the cafeteria, where you’ll enjoy stunning views of the cliff-side monastery. You can continue the hike up to the monastery itself, where you’ll explore its sacred shrines. After lunch, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, and the National Museum before strolling through Paro’s town center.

Day 8: Departure from Paro

Your magical journey through Bhutan ends today. After breakfast, your guide will escort you to Paro airport for your departure. As you leave this peaceful Himalayan kingdom, you’ll carry with you memories of Bhutan’s landscapes, culture, and spiritual essence.