Western and Central Bhutan Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Paro and Transfer to Thimphu

Upon arriving in Bhutan, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your guide and driver at the airport. After enjoying a welcome tea and refreshments, you will embark on a sightseeing tour in Paro. Key highlights include Kichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples built in 629 AD, Rinpung Dzong, known as the ‘Fortress of the Heap of Jewels,’ and Ta Dzong, a former watchtower converted into a museum. After your tour, you’ll drive to Thimphu, the heart of Bhutan, where you can settle into your hotel and either relax or explore the city at your leisure.

Day 2: Thimphu to Punakha

Today, you will journey to Punakha and Wangdue, with a stop at Dochula Pass (3,150 m) to admire the breathtaking views of the Eastern Himalayan range and the 108 stupas. Afterward, take a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang, a fertility temple revered by childless couples. Continue to Punakha Dzong, the ‘Palace of Great Happiness,’ which stands beautifully at the confluence of the Pochu and Mochu rivers. Finally, enjoy a walk across a suspension bridge to visit Gidagom village.

Day 3: Punakha to Trongsa

Today, you will drive to Trongsa, taking in stunning mountain views at Pele La Pass (3,300 m). On the way, you’ll pass through Rukubji Valley, where you’ll see traditional houses amidst lush mustard, potato, barley, and wheat fields. Stop at Chendebji Chorten, a large white Nepali-style stupa, before arriving at Trongsa Dzong, the largest fortress monastery in Bhutan. You may choose to hike an ancient trail to the river base and up to the fortress, a journey that takes about 2.5 hours. After touring the fortress, visit the ancient watchtower, now a museum, before driving through scenic routes via Yotong La Pass (3,425 m) and stopping at a Yathra weaving center in Chumey Valley. Enjoy a stroll around Bumthang upon arrival.

Day 4: Bumthang Sightseeing

Your day begins with a visit to Jakar Dzong, the ‘Fortress of the White Bird,’ which boasts impressive surrounding walls. After lunch, embark on a hike to ancient and significant religious sites, including Jambay Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang, Pema Sambha Lhakhang, and Tamshing Lhakhang. These temples, dating back to the 8th century, are steeped in myth and history. In the afternoon, hike to Menbar Tsho (The Burning Lake), a revered lake believed to fulfill wishes, before visiting Wangdichholing Palace, the first palace of the Wangchuk dynasty. Spend your evening at leisure exploring the charming town.

Depart for Phobjikha, a serene valley on the northwestern edge of the Black Mountain, famous for being a roosting ground for black-necked cranes. On your way, visit Trongsa Dzong and enjoy a nature walk through a blue pine forest to Kwewa Village. Here, you can sample homemade tea and local snacks while interacting with monks at Kewa Monastery. The evening is free for you to relax at your hotel or explore the area.

Day 6: Phobjikha to Thimphu

Begin your day with a sunrise walk around the valley, soaking in the natural beauty. After breakfast, drive back to Thimphu. Upon arrival, check into your hotel before visiting Buddha Gang for a panoramic view of the capital. You will also visit Memorial Chorten and Tashichhoe Dzong, the administrative and spiritual heart of Bhutan, housing the king’s office and the State Monastic Body. Enjoy your evening by exploring the city at your own pace.

Day 7: Cultural Exploration in Thimphu

Enjoy another day of cultural exploration in Thimphu. After breakfast, visit Sangay-gang, home to the national animal of Bhutan, the Takin. You’ll then embark on a Wangditse hike (1 hour) through a thick blue pine forest to Choekhortse Goemba, where you can take in the scenic views. Next, visit the General Post Office to create personalized postage stamps, followed by a trip to Zorig Chusum, the School for Thirteen Traditional Arts and Crafts, and the Craft Bazaar for local handicrafts. Don’t miss the chance to visit Zilukha Nunnery, where you can interact with the nuns, and stop by the Farmers’ Weekend Market for organic produce. End the day at the national stadium to watch locals play archery. Evening is at your leisure.

Day 8: Paro – Trek to Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

On your final day, enjoy a wholesome breakfast before hiking to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), which clings to a cliff 900 m above Paro Valley. The trek takes around five hours round trip, with the option to hire a pony or horse if needed. Before entering the monastery, offer butter lamps for well-being, and once inside, embrace the divine energy that permeates this spiritual site. After lunch at a hillside café, enjoy an authentic Bhutanese farewell dinner at a village home, complete with local liquor known as Ara. After dinner, your representative will bid you farewell at the airport as you prepare for your journey home.