Best of Bhutan – Example Layout
itinerary highlights
Bhutan is one of the world’s most mystical destinations. The last great Himalayan kingdom is shrouded in mystery and magic, home to a traditional Buddhist culture that carefully embraces global developments.
Spirituality permeates every aspect of daily life, time-honored festivals are living manifestations of a national faith, and the king decrees “Gross National Happiness” as the standard by which to measure the country’s wealth. Here in the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” joy radiates not only among its citizens but to all who visit.
This classic journey takes you through four of Bhutan’s most notable areas: Thimpu, Punakha, Gangtey and Paro. Each day will be a new adventure with your local guide customized to your tastes. While your itinerary will certainly cover Bhutan’s landmark destinations, the way in which you experience these sites (and others off the beaten path) is entirely up to you. Much of Bhutan can be explored on foot with some of the best hiking in the Indian Subcontinent. Cycling is also ideal for those who enjoy it. Visit the classic Dzongs of Thimpu, explore the valleys of Punakha and hike the iconic Tiger’s Nest as you discover the best of this magical kingdom.
detailed itinerary
Day 1:
Arrival to Bhutan & Transfer to Thimphu
Welcome to Bhutan! The flight into Bhutan will have already taken you over the great Himalayas, offering the scintillating scenery of the world's highest glacial peaks. As you enter Paro Valley, you will see the silvery Pa Chu (Paro River) meandering down the valley, the Paro Dzong (fortress) and Ta Dzong (watch tower).
Day 2:
Exploration of Thimphu
The capital of one of the world's most intriguing destinations, Thimphu, combines a natural small-town feel with a new commercial exuberance that challenges the country's Shangri-La image. Vehicle traffic, unheard, now crawls through the center of town during rush hour.
However, the juxtapositions of old and new remain part of Thimphu's charm. Crimson-robed monks, government ministers clad in traditional dress and camera-wielding tourists all share pavements lined with shops selling SIM cards and Buddhist accessories.
Day 3:
Departure to Punakha
After breakfast, drive to Punakha, approximately three hours by car. Punakha sits in a sultry, fertile, and beautiful valley at the junction of the Mo Chhu ("Mother River") and Pho Chhu ("Father River"). Commanding the river junction is the gorgeous Punakha Dzong, Bhutan's most impressive building.
En-route photo-stop at Bhutan’s first fortress monastery, the 17th-century Simtokha Dzong. The journey continues over 3,050m to Dochula Pass, that overlooks the Himalayas, and is home to a concentration of 108 chortens (stupas). The Queen Mother, Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, commissioned the monument after King Jigme Singye Wangchuck was victorious in the struggle to dislodge rebels using Bhutan as a base to raid India.
Day 4:
Exploration of Punakha
After breakfast, hike through the paddy field to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten. Standing regally on the hill above the Punakha Valley, this Chorten is a classic example of Bhutan's gorgeous traditions and architecture. It was built by the Queen Mother to head off the negative forces and bring peace and harmony to all the living beings. What sets this Chorten apart is that it was designed on the principles mentioned within the holy scriptures instead of engineering manuals.
Day 5:
Departure to Gangtey
Enjoy a morning of leisure at the hotel or some hiking in the nearby forest. At the scheduled time, you will depart for Gangtey. Upon arrival at Gangtey Lodge, you will check in and enjoy the rest of your afternoon at leisure.
Overnight at Gangtey Lodge (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Day 6:
Exploration of Gangtey
Today you will explore the town of Gangtey. Hike a nature trail, stop for a picnic lunch, visit farmhouses, and the famous Gangtey Monastery. Perched atop a small hill, the Gangtey Monastery is an iconic temple associated with the Nyingmapa school of Buddhism. Located in central Bhutan's Wandue Phodrang Dzongkhag, the monastery was established in 1613 by Peling Gyalse Rinpoche, the grandson of Trenton Pema Lingpa, the great explorer.
Overnight at Gangtey Lodge (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Day 7:
Departure to Paro
Following breakfast, you'll drive to Paro. You'll get another opportunity to take photographs of the Dochu La pass and the eastern Himalayas on the scenic 4-hour drive.
The charming town of Paro lies on the banks of the Paro (or Pa) Chhu, just a short distance northwest of the imposing Paro Dzong. The main street, only built in 1985, is lined with colorfully painted wooden shop fronts and restaurants. Paro is one of the best Bhutanese towns to explore on foot.
Day 8:
Tiger's Nest Hike
For a grand finale, hike up through forests to the striking monastic retreat of Taktsang, the “Tiger’s Nest,” built in the 17th century into a sheer cliff face high above the Paro Valley (2,950 meters). Taktsang is the most famous temple in Bhutan, with one of the most spectacular settings in the world. The moderate hike will take approximately five hours from start to finish and will surely be one of your most memorable takeaways from this beautiful country. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure, perhaps exploring your hotel's exceptional spa.
Overnight at Amankora Paro (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Departing Flight Home
This morning bid farewell to the Kingdom of Bhutan. You will be escorted to Paro airport in time for your outbound flight to Delhi or Bangkok. On arrival, transfer to a hotel in either city can be arranged as needed.
Breakfast is included.
