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Travel Packages
Itineraries
Day 1. Arrive at Paro Airport and site seeing Day 2 . Paro - Thimphu. Site seeing in Paro in the morning and driving to Thimphu in the afternoon. Day 3. Thimphu - Punakha- Thimphu Day 4. Thimphu – Paro. Day5. Departure from Paro.
If you have limited time, in just four days you can get a good impression of Bhutan by concentrating Thimphu, Paro and a short visit to Punakha. Day 1. Paro. Day 01:Arrive Paro
On the first day visit the beautiful valley of Paro, the home of Bhutan’s oldest Monasteries and fortress. The valley of Paro has an International Airport, the entry point for all visitors flying into Bhutan by Druk Air, The only national carrier. Visit Paro Dzong (fortress) also known as Rinpung Dzong means ‘fortress on a heap of jewels)one of the Bhutan’s oldest and most popular dzong displaying the Bhutan’s finest architecture. Scene from Bernardo Bertolucci’s 1995 film “ little Buddha” was filmed here. Then visit Ta Dzong at the top of the hill above Paro Dzong, The only National Museum of Bhutan. The ruins of Drukgyal Dzong is about 15 kms from Paro town, the 17th century fortress used to keep invading Tibetan forces at bay was destroyed by fire in 1951. The most popular spiritual heritage to visit in Paro valley is Taktshang, meaning Tiger’s lair located at the side of a cliff at a height of 900 m above Paro valley.
Takshang(Tiger’s Next) On the way you can also visit historic and lovely kyichu Lhakhang dates back to 7th century AD Day 2. Thimphu On day two, in the afternoon make a two hours drive to The Capital, Thimphu stopping at the charming Tamchhog Lhakhang en route. Day 3. Punakha. Day three you make a long day trip to Punakha over Dochula pass. It is better budgeting an extra day for this as Punakha dzong is the most beautiful in the country. If the day is clear you can have a panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges from the Dochula Pass. In March it is worth walking an hour in the gorgeous rhododendron above the Dochu la pass . The beauty of this pass is further enhanced by the Druk Wangyal Chortens made of up 108 small stupas built by the eldest Queen , Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk .. Punakha is the ancient capital of Bhutan. The beautiful Punakha Valley is about 2 1/2 drive away from Thimphu. This sub-tropical valley grows plenty of food grains, fruits and vegetables. Places of interest are : Punakha Dzong : This historic dzong was built by Shabdrung Nawang Namgyel (A saint who came to Bhutan from Tibet in 1616 AD) in 1637 at the confluence of two rivers Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu , portraying the image of medieval city from a distance. This Dzong is the stunning example of Bhutanese architecture. This Dzong continues to be the winter home for the clergy headed by the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbott). The dzong is open to visitors during the Punakha Tshechu and during the summer months when the monk body moves to Thimphu. Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chhorten : A short drive up the valley is the Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chhorten, built by third Queen, Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuk. This chhorten is the splendid example of fine Bhutanese architecture and only one of its kind in the world. On the way back to Thimphu you can pop into a nearby Chimi Lakhang built by cousin of Lama Drukpa Kuenley, “the divine madman”. The childless women go there for blessings from the saint. Day 4. The Fourth and final day is in Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Thimphu is a bustling town with a population of about 100,000 people located at the bank of Thimphu Chhu . Thimphu is the home to the Bhutanese Royal Family, the Royal government and several ministries, foreign missions and developmental projects. The places of interest in Thimphu include : The Tashichhoedzong : This large dzong is located north of Thimphu city at the bank of Thimphu Chhu . It is also known as the “Fortress of the glorious religion” and houses the throne room of His Majesty the King, the central monk body and the main secretariat building. This Dzong is open to visitors during the Thimphu Festival (Tshechu) and when the monk body moves to Punakha for winter residence. Memorial Chorten : This stupa was built by the mother of Third King in 1974 in memory of her son His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk. This memorial chorten is the most visible religious structure in Thimphu. National Library : The National library was established in 1967 to preserve many ancient Dzongkha texts and is lavishly decorated . Here you will find Bhutan’s history in the form of religious and historical literature. Semtokha Dzong : Little away from Thimphu city on a lofty ridge , stands the oldest Dzong or fortress of the kingdom built by Shabdrung . It now houses the Institute for language and Culture. Weekend Market : The colourful vegetable markets full of local products and handicraft (for this try to arrange your trip between Friday to Sunday) is one of the main tourist attraction. There are numerous other places of interest like textile museum, The folk Heritage Museum founded by Her Majesty the Queen Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk, , The Institute of Traditional medicine.etc… There are various monasteries and temples in and around Thimphu. In the late afternoon drive back to Paro as most flights leave early morning. Day 5. Departure from Paro
Day 1: Arrival at Paro Day 2: Paro Sightseeing and Drive to Thimphu Day 3: Thimphu Day 4: Thimphu to Punakha Day 5: Punakha, Wangdue to Phobjikha (Gangtey) Day 6: Phobjikha to Paro Day 7: Depature from Paro
Tours in detail: Day 1: Arrival at Paro On a clear day, the flight to Paro is breathtaking, with views of major Himalayan peaks such as Everest, Kanchenjunga and Makalu, and on the final approach Bhutan’s own snowy peaks, the sacred Chomolhari, Jichu Drake and Tserimgang. You will be greeted by our representative, and after completion of arrival formalities you will be taken to your hotel. On the first day visit the beautiful valley of Paro, the home of Bhutan’s oldest Monasteries and fortress. The valley of Paro has an International Airport, the entry point for all visitors flying into Bhutan by Druk Air, The only national carrier. Visit Paro Dzong (fortress) also known as Rinpung Dzong means ‘fortress on a heap of jewels)one of the Bhutan’s oldest and most popular dzong displaying the Bhutan’s finest architecture. Scene from Bernardo Bertolucci’s 1995 film “ little Buddha” was filmed here. Then visit Ta Dzong at the top of the hill above Paro Dzong, The only National Museum of Bhutan. The ruins of Drukgyal Dzong is about 15 kms from Paro town, the 17th century fortress used to keep invading Tibetan forces at bay was destroyed by fire in 1951. The most popular spiritual heritage to visit in Paro valley is Taktshang, meaning Tiger’s lair located at the side of a cliff at a height of 900 m above Paro valley. Takshang(Tiger’s Next) On the way you can also visit historic and lovely kyichu Lhakhang dates back to 7th century AD Day 2: In the afternoon make a two hours drive to The Capital, Thimphu stopping at the charming Tamchhog Lhakhang en route. Day 3: The third day is in Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Thimphu is a bustling town with a population of about 100,000 people located at the bank of Thimphu Chhu . Thimphu is the home to the Bhutanese Royal Family, the Royal government and several ministries, foreign missions and developmental projects. The places of interest in Thimphu include : The Tashichhoedzong : This large dzong is located north of Thimphu city at the bank of Thimphu Chhu . It is also known as the “Fortress of the glorious religion” and houses the throne room of His Majesty the King, the central monk body and the main secretariat building. This Dzong is open to visitors during the Thimphu Festival (Tshechu) and when the monk body moves to Punakha for winter residence. Memorial Chorten : This stupa was built by the mother of Third King in 1974 in memory of her son His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk. This memorial chorten is the most visible religious structure in Thimphu. National Library : The National library was established in 1967 to preserve many ancient Dzongkha texts and is lavishly decorated . Here you will find Bhutan’s history in the form of religious and historical literature. Semtokha Dzong : Little away from Thimphu city on a lofty ridge , stands the oldest Dzong or fortress of the kingdom built by Shabdrung . It now houses the Institute for language and Culture. Weekend Market : The colourful vegetable markets full of local products and handicraft (for this try to arrange your trip between Friday to Sunday) is one of the main tourist attraction. There are numerous other places of interest like textile museum, The folk Heritage Museum founded by Her Majesty the Queen Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk, , The Institute of Traditional medicine.etc… There are various monasteries and temples in and around Thimphu.
Day 4: You make a long day trip to Punakha over Dochula pass. It is better budgeting an extra day for this as Punakha dzong is the most beautiful in the country. If the day is clear you can have a panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges from the Dochula Pass. In March it is worth walking an hour in the gorgeous rhododendron above the Dochu la pass . The beauty of this pass is further enhanced by the Druk Wangyal Chortens made of up 108 small stupas built by the eldest Queen , Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk .. Punakha is the ancient capital of Bhutan. The beautiful Punakha Valley is about 2 1/2 drive away from Thimphu. This sub-tropical valley grows plenty of food grains, fruits and vegetables. Places of interest are : Punakha Dzong : This historic dzong was built by Shabdrung Nawang Namgyel (A saint who came to Bhutan from Tibet in 1616 AD) in 1637 at the confluence of two rivers Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu , portraying the image of medieval city from a distance. This Dzong is the stunning example of Bhutanese architecture. This Dzong continues to be the winter home for the clergy headed by the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbott). The dzong is open to visitors during the Punakha Tshechu and during the summer months when the monk body moves to Thimphu. Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chhorten : A short drive up the valley is the Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chhorten, built by third Queen, Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuk. This chhorten is the splendid example of fine Bhutanese architecture and only one of its kind in the world. On the way back to Thimphu you can pop into a nearby Chimi Lakhang built by cousin of Lama Drukpa Kuenley, “the divine madman”. The childless women go there for blessings from the saint. Day 5: After sightseeing in Punakha visit Phobjikha (Gangtey) via Wangdue. Wangduephodrang lies to the south of beautiful Punakha valley at the elevation of 1,350 m and is on the national highway to the central Bhutan. The district is famous for its fine bamboo work and stone and slate carving. Wangduephodrang Dzong : This dzong was built by Zhabdrung in 1638 ,located atop of high ridge over looking the valley below , between Punak Tsang Chhu and Dang Chhu rivers. Radak Natshang : This is a 17th century Tample located behind Wangduephodrang market . This tample is dedicated to an ancient warrior king and there is a large collection of helmets, arrows and shields. Phobjikha Valley : This bowl shaped glacial valley lies on the western slope of Black mountain enroute to central Bhutan. This valley is the home to rare Black-Necked Crane and is one of the most important wildlife preserve in the country. The birds fly in from Tibet in October and November and leave just before spring. It is worth budgeting an extra half day hiking at Phobjikha if you like to explore places on foot. Gangtey Gompa: This 17th century monastery is another significant landmark in Phobjikha Valley. Day 6: Return trip from Phobjikha to Paro Day 7: Depature from Paro
Day 1. Arrive at Paro airport. Day 2. Paro -Haa Day 3. Haa and driving to Thimphu in the afternoon. Day 4 . Thimphu Day5. Thimphu and driving to Punakha in the afternoon. Day6. Site Seeing in Punakha and Wangdue and driving to Phobjikha Day 7. Phobjikha and back to Paro in the Evening. Day 8. Departure from Paro.
Day1: Arrival at Paro On a clear day, the flight to Paro is breathtaking, with views of major Himalayan peaks such as Everest, Kanchenjunga and Makalu, and on the final approach Bhutan’s own snowy peaks, the sacred Chomolhari, Jichu Drake and Tserimgang. You will be greeted by our representative, and after completion of arrival formalities you will be taken to your hotel. On the first day visit the beautiful valley of Paro, the home of Bhutan’s oldest Monasteries and fortress. The valley of Paro has an International Airport, the entry point for all visitors flying into Bhutan by Druk Air, The only national carrier. Visit Paro Dzong (fortress) also known as Rinpung Dzong means ‘fortress on a heap of jewels)one of the Bhutan’s oldest and most popular dzong displaying the Bhutan’s finest architecture. Scene from Bernardo Bertolucci’s 1995 film “ little Buddha” was filmed here. Then visit Ta Dzong at the top of the hill above Paro Dzong, The only National Museum of Bhutan. The ruins of Drukgyal Dzong is about 15 kms from Paro town, the 17th century fortress used to keep invading Tibetan forces at bay was destroyed by fire in 1951. The most popular spiritual heritage to visit in Paro valley is Taktshang, meaning Tiger’s lair located at the side of a cliff at a height of 900 m above Paro valley. Takshang(Tiger’s Next) On the way you can also visit historic and lovely kyichu Lhakhang dates back to 7th century AD Day 2. After lunch you can have an overnight trip to Ha valley en route between Paro and Thimphu. The road goes through Cheli La pass, the highest motorable pass in Bhutan and in October hiking a couple of hours above the pass gives u a most beautiful view. You can explore Juneydrak Hermitage and Chundu Lhakhang before continuing your journey to Thimphu Day 3. In the afternoon after lunch drive to Thimphu. Day 4. The fourth day is in Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Thimphu is a bustling town with a population of about 100,000 people located at the bank of Thimphu Chhu . Thimphu is the home to the Bhutanese Royal Family, the Royal government and several ministries, foreign missions and developmental projects. The places of interest in Thimphu include : The Tashichhoedzong : This large dzong is located north of Thimphu city at the bank of Thimphu Chhu . It is also known as the “Fortress of the glorious religion” and houses the throne room of His Majesty the King, the central monk body and the main secretariat building. This Dzong is open to visitors during the Thimphu Festival (Tshechu) and when the monk body moves to Punakha for winter residence. Memorial Chorten : This stupa was built by the mother of Third King in 1974 in memory of her son His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk. This memorial chorten is the most visible religious structure in Thimphu. National Library : The National library was established in 1967 to preserve many ancient Dzongkha texts and is lavishly decorated . Here you will find Bhutan’s history in the form of religious and historical literature. Semtokha Dzong : Little away from Thimphu city on a lofty ridge , stands the oldest Dzong or fortress of the kingdom built by Shabdrung . It now houses the Institute for language and Culture. Weekend Market : The colourful vegetable markets full of local products and handicraft (for this try to arrange your trip between Friday to Sunday) is one of the main tourist attraction. There are numerous other places of interest like textile museum, The folk Heritage Museum founded by Her Majesty the Queen Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk, , The Institute of Traditional medicine.etc… There are various monasteries and temples in and around Thimphu.
Day 5: You make a long day trip to Punakha over Dochula pass. It is better budgeting an extra day for this as Punakha dzong is the most beautiful in the country. If the day is clear you can have a panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges from the Dochula Pass. In March it is worth walking an hour in the gorgeous rhododendron above the Dochu la pass . The beauty of this pass is further enhanced by the Druk Wangyal Chortens made of up 108 small stupas built by the eldest Queen , Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk .. Punakha is the ancient capital of Bhutan. The beautiful Punakha Valley is about 2 1/2 drive away from Thimphu. This sub-tropical valley grows plenty of food grains, fruits and vegetables. Places of interest are : Punakha Dzong : This historic dzong was built by Shabdrung Nawang Namgyel (A saint who came to Bhutan from Tibet in 1616 AD) in 1637 at the confluence of two rivers Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu , portraying the image of medieval city from a distance. This Dzong is the stunning example of Bhutanese architecture. This Dzong continues to be the winter home for the clergy headed by the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbott). The dzong is open to visitors during the Punakha Tshechu and during the summer months when the monk body moves to Thimphu. Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chhorten : A short drive up the valley is the Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chhorten, built by third Queen, Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuk. This chhorten is the splendid example of fine Bhutanese architecture and only one of its kind in the world. On the way back to Thimphu you can pop into a nearby Chimi Lakhang built by cousin of Lama Drukpa Kuenley, “the divine madman”. The childless women go there for blessings from the saint. Day6: After sightseeing in Punakha visit Phobjikha (Gangtey) via Wangdue. Wangduephodrang lies to the south of beautiful Punakha valley at the elevation of 1,350 m and is on the national highway to the central Bhutan. The district is famous for its fine bamboo work and stone and slate carving. Wangduephodrang Dzong : This dzong was built by Zhabdrung in 1638 ,located atop of high ridge over looking the valley below , between Punak Tsang Chhu and Dang Chhu rivers. Radak Natshang : This is a 17th century Tample located behind Wangduephodrang market . This tample is dedicated to an ancient warrior king and there is a large collection of helmets, arrows and shields. Phobjikha Valley : This bowl shaped glacial valley lies on the western slope of Black mountain enroute to central Bhutan. This valley is the home to rare Black-Necked Crane and is one of the most important wildlife preserve in the country. The birds fly in from Tibet in October and November and leave just before spring. It is worth budgeting an extra half day hiking at Phobjikha if you like to explore places on foot. Gangtey Gompa: This 17th century monastery is another significant landmark in Phobjikha Valley. Day 7: Return trip from Phobjikha to Paro Day 8: Depature from Paro We will, at some point of your trip, arrange for a Bhutanese hot –stone bath, also available in most hotels for a charge.
Day 1. Arrival at Paro Airport. Day 2. Paro. Day 3. Paro –Thimphu Day 4. Thimphu Day 5. Thimphu –Punakha Day 6 Punakha –Bumthang Day 7 Bumthang Day 8 Bumthang Day 9. Bumthang- Phobjikha ( Gangtey) Day 10. Gangtey – Paro Day 11. Departure from Paro.
In addition to Paro, Thimphu, Punakha and Wangdue Phodrang, your 10 days itinerary will allow you two or three days in Bumthang, the spiritual heartland of the kingdom and home of numerous oldest monasteries and sites. First 5 days itineries cover visit to Paro, Thimphu, Punakha and Wangduephodrang (for detail please click ) On day 6. Your are in Punakha. So it is a day’s drive over Pele La Pass to the historical Dzong at Tongsa and on to Jakar Dzong. It is good to leave early as there are many things to see en route including the Nepali-style Chendebji Chorten. The area near Pele La Pass is probably the best place in Bhutan to see yaks from the road. You will reach Bumthang in the evening. We will directly take you to your Hotel. Day 7 and 8. You will have full time to explore Bumthang valley. This fascinating valley is perched at the elevation of 2,600 m to 4,000m. It is the religious heartland of the nation and home to some of the oldest monasteries and Bhuddhist temples. The Bumthang is another good place for hiking .So it is good to budget a half day hiking to stretch your legs after a week long driving. Bumthang is a picturesque valley of beautiful houses, fields of buck wheat, barely and apples. The valley is also famous for its production of honey, cheese, apples, and wollen materials. Kurje Lhakhang: This lhakhang is in Chokhor valley and it is named after the body (Kur) and print (jey) of Guru Rimpoche, which is preserved and kept inside the oldest monastery. It is believed that Guru Rimpoche meditated there in 8th century. Jambay Lhalhang: It is one of the 108 monasteries built by King Songten Goenpo (Tibet King) in 659 AD. On the same day as Kichu Lhangkhang in Paro in order to subdue the evil spirits in the Himalayan region. Tamshing Lhakhang: This monastery lies on the other side of the river opposite to Kurjey Lhakhang. It was built by Terton Pema Lingpa in 1501, a reincarnation of Guru Padmashambhava (Guru Rimpoche) and whose lineage the Royal Family trace their ancestor to. Jakar Dzong: This dzong was built in 1549 AD by the great grand father of the Zhabdrung .Jakar Dzong is in a picturesque location overlooking the Chokhor valley. The Bumthang festival is one of the most popular. It is mostly held at night and is said to bring fertility to any women wanting a child. Mebar Tsho ( Lake of Burning Fire ) : This is a scared lake for Bhutanese who believe that Pema Lingpa discovered religious treasures from this lake in 12th century. It is a lovely place where nature , religion and mythology blur into one. On auspicious day Bhutanese go and offer butter lamps . Ura Village : Ura is one of the most interesting village in Bhutan. It is about half and hour drive from Bumthang town. The drive is mainly through sheep pastures and along the way one can have a magnificent view of Mount Gangkar Puensum from Ura La. There are about 40 houses closely packed houses along cobblestone streets, the main monasteries dominates the town giving it a medieval atmosphere. Day 9. After breakfast , make a drive to Phobjikha valley (Gangtey ) As said earlier a night at Phobjikha valley will give u a chance to view a rare and endangered black-necked crane and also a chance to see GangteyGoemba. It is worth budgeting an extra half day hiking at Phobjikha if you like to explore places on foot. Day 10. After having explored Phobjikha , drive to Paro in the afternoon. Day 11. Departure from Paro to your onwards destination. If you intend to visit India consider driving to Phuentsholing, a border town from Thimphu or Paro. The Indian state of Sikkim and Darjeeling is just few hours drive from Phuentsholing and we will arrange your trip to these Indian states. The Bagdogra airport is also a few hour drives from here which has frequent flights to Kolkata and Delhi. Alternatively you can also first visit these Indian states before entering to Bhutan from this border town of Phuentsholing or if you are flying to Bagdogra instead of Paro airport in Bhutan.
We at Hills & Himalayas Tours & Treks will design your trip to suit your requirement keeping in mind your precious time , cost and your other interest. Kindly inform us the kind of trip you want to undertake and we will design it for you. The most common and frequent trips we design are as follows : 1. Festival Tour: If you wish to attend any of the colourful festival of Bhutan along your trip you just inform us which festival you wish to attend and we will design it for you and provide all informations. The important festivals and their corresponding dates you can find in our link “ Bhutan Festival “ 2. Trekking Tours: The best way to experience Bhutan is on foot. If you wish to add trekking along with your trip we will tailor it the best way possible. You just inform us the route you want to undertake along with your trip , we will do all forward planning and provide full informations to you. For more information on trekking , please click our link “Trekking in Bhutan” 3. Bird watching: This type of tour is very common among the bird lovers. Bhutan is known as the East Himalayas “Hot Spot “ and is recognized as an area of high biological diversity and is the hub of 221 global endemic bird areas. Over 670 species of birds have been recorded and many more are likely to be found. The rare and world endangered Black-Necked Crane is found roosting in Phobjikha valley during winter session. For more information please click “Flora and fauna” If you intend to visit Indian states of Sikkim, Darjeeling and Kalimpong along with your trip to Bhutan, We will arrange your trip accordingly. You just inform us in what way you want your trip to be and we will tailor the trip as per your requirement.
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