Bhutan Three Jewels Cultural Tour

The Bhutan Three Jewels Cultural Tour offers an enriching experience for travelers with limited time, allowing you to explore Bhutan’s most iconic destinations. This 5-day, 4-night journey takes you through Thimphu, the vibrant capital city; Paro, a fertile valley known for its terraced fields that produce the renowned red rice; and Punakha, the ancient capital with its stunning scenery.

Along the way, you’ll be mesmerized by Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes, including the majestic Mount Chomolhari (7,314m), which stands tall at the valley’s northern edge, with glacial waters feeding into the Pa Chhu (Paro River). During this tour, you will witness Bhutan’s natural beauty, while immersing yourself in the rich culture, traditions, arts, and history of the Bhutanese people.

Itinerary :

 Day 1: Arrival in Bhutan & Transfer to Thimphu

– Upon arrival at Paro Airport, you’ll be greeted by your guide and driver. A scenic one-hour drive along valleys lined with traditional homes and hillside monasteries brings you to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Along the way, you’ll see chortens (Buddhist shrines) dotting the landscape.

– In the evening, visit the Handicrafts Emporium, where you can explore a variety of Bhutanese handicrafts, including textiles, carvings, and handmade products.

– Overnight: 3-star hotel in Thimphu

 Day 2: Thimphu to Punakha via Dochula Pass

– After breakfast, drive through the picturesque Dochula Pass. If the weather is clear, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the snow-capped Himalayas. Along the way, visit the Chimi Lhakhang temple, built in the 15th century by Lama Drukpa Kuenley.

– After lunch in Punakha, visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, built in 1637. The fortress is located between the Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River) and served as the seat of Bhutan’s government for many years.

– In the evening, take a hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Choling Monastery, offering stunning views of the Punakha Valley.

– Overnight: 3-star hotel in Punakha

 Day 3: Punakha to Thimphu

– After breakfast, return to Thimphu for sightseeing. Visit the National Memorial Chorten, built in memory of the third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, and the Folk Heritage Museum, which showcases Bhutan’s rural culture and traditions.

– After lunch, explore the Textile Museum, dedicated to preserving the rich tradition of Bhutanese weaving, and visit the School of Arts and Crafts, where students learn traditional Bhutanese art forms.

– Overnight: 3-star hotel in Thimphu

 Day 4: Thimphu to Paro & Hike to Taktsang Monastery

– After breakfast, drive to Paro for a day of exploration. Start with a visit to the ruins of Drukgyal Dzong, a fort that once defended the valley from Tibetan invasions.

– Afterward, hike or take a horse ride to the iconic Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched on a cliffside. The hike takes approximately 1.5 hours to reach the cafeteria viewpoint, where you can enjoy stunning views of the monastery. According to legend, Guru Padmasambhava arrived at this spot in the 8th century, flying on the back of a tigress.

– After descending, visit the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most revered temples.

– Overnight: 3-star hotel in Paro

 Day 5: Departure from Bhutan

– After breakfast, transfer to Paro Airport for your onward flight. This marks the end of your cultural journey through Bhutan.

 What’s Included:

– Airport transfers upon arrival and departure

– Minimum of 3-star accommodation with twin-sharing rooms (upgradable to 4/5-star hotels)

– All meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner with tea/coffee and snacks

– Mineral water during meals and the tour

– Services of a government-licensed English-speaking Bhutanese guide

– Sightseeing and tours as mentioned in the itinerary

– Entry fees for temples, monasteries, and museums

– Access to medical facilities if needed

 What’s Excluded:

– International and domestic flights to/from Bhutan

– Travel insurance

– Personal expenses like laundry, beverages, and phone calls

– Tips for guides and drivers

– Bhutan visa fee of US $50 and the Sustainable Development Fee of US $100 per person, per night (paid directly to the operator before visa application)

– Single room supplement of US $30 per night if requested

This carefully crafted itinerary offers an immersive experience of Bhutan’s cultural heritage, natural beauty, and spiritual essence, providing a memorable journey in just five days.