Glimpses of Bhutan
TRIP OVERVIEW
Got limited time? This fast-paced tour of Western Bhutan is our personal “best of” distillation of our Western Bhutan Splendour Tour idea. Beginning with the “must-see” sights, soaking up the underrated capital city of Thimphu, to the gravity-defying Taktshang, the Tiger’s Nest of Paro valley and striking architectures of verdant Punakha valley. You will experience the very best of the three enchanting western valleys of this remarkable country.
ITINERARY SKETCH
DAY 01: ARRIVE PARO – THIMPHU
DAY 02: EXHIBIT THE COSMOPOLITAN CAPITAL OF BHUTAN
DAY 03: HEAD TO THE ANCIENT CAPITAL PUNAKHA ACROSS DOCHU-LA PASS
DAY 04: TRAVEL BACK TO THE PASTORAL PARO VALLEY
DAY 05: SCALE THE ICONIC TIGER’S NEST MONASTERY, PARO VALLEY
DAY 06: DEPART BHUTAN
TOUR BRIEF
We exhibit, meet and interact with people at three major neighbourhoods in the west region, covering all the major cultural illustrations and historical landmarks, before eventually bringing us back to the picturesque valley of Paro, the adventure capital of Bhutan.
DAY-WISE DETAILED ITINERARY
DAY 01: ARRIVE AT PARO, TRANSFER TO THE SMART CAPITAL,– THIMPHU
57Km
1-Hour
Kuzu-Zangpo-La & Welcome to Bhutan! Meet your team at Paro International Airport, then transfer to Thimphu, enjoying the scenic Pa Chu River along the way.
Tachog Lhakhang Suspension Bridge: experience a scenic walk across this ancient bridge, connecting the hillside temple.
Arrive in Thimphu, the largest city in Bhutan. Check in at the hotel and enjoy a cup of herbal tea before lunch at a popular local eatery.
Breakfast is leisurely. Today, we will explore Bhutan's capital, Thimphu, a short distance from the city center.
First, experience the spiritual side by visiting Chang-Gang-Kha "Lhakhang" Monastery, a revered site for locals and the oldest in the valley.
Next, drive to the Takin Preserve Centre, to see Bhutan's national animal, the takin. Then, head to Sangaygang Tower, also known as "Lover's Point," for stunning views before lunch at a top restaurant.
DAY 02: EXHIBIT THE SMART CAPITAL CITY OF BHUTAN, THIMPHU IN DEPTH
DAY 03: TRAVEL TO THE ANCIENT CAPITAL, PUNAKHA VALLEY, ACROSS DOCHU-LA PASS
71.3Km
2.3Hrs
1,242m
Start the day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a 2.3-hour journey to Punakha Valley, covering 72km across the Dochu-La Pass at 10,301ft. Enjoy scenic views of the Eastern Himalayas over a cup of coffee.
We pass the village of "Thinleygang" and stop at the quaint Sopsokha village for a hike to Chimi Lhakhang Temple, known as the fertility temple. Experience terraced rice fields and traditional homes adorned with colourful phalluses, all seeking blessings.
Start your day with breakfast. We drive through familiar villages, stopping at Lamperi Botanical Park, known for its diverse ecosystem and wildlife. Learn about local yak herders' lifestyle.
A short drive takes us to Dochu-La Pass for scenic views, followed by lunch before our tour of Paro, including the National Museum of Bhutan, showcasing Bhutanese culture.
We will walk to Rinpung “Dzong” fortress, significant in history. In the evening, we stroll through Paro.
Overnight at a hotel in Paro.
DAY 04: RETURN BACK TO THE PASTORAL PARO VALLEY
113.7Km
3.2Hrs
2,280m
After a lavish breakfast, we set off for the terminus to begin our journey to the Tiger's Nest monastery, also known as ‘Taktshang’. This stunning monastery seems to rise from the cliff, embodying beauty. It is among the most cherished Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Bhutan.
The well-maintained, moderately challenging trail has some steep climbs, but many sections are gentle, showcasing amazing views of the monastery and the valley.
After our trek, we will have lunch at the cafeteria and visit the historic Drugyel Dzong fortress, celebrating Bhutanese victory over Tibetan forces, and see Kyichu Lhakhang, the nation's oldest temple.
We will end the day at a premium hotel in Paro.
DAY 05: THE TIGER’S NEST TRIUMPH DAY AT PARO VALLEY
4miles
10,433ft
On this day, we wish you farewell at Paro International Airport for the flight to your onward destination. We wish you a happy journey, and we certainly hope you have tons of fond memories to take back home from Bhutan!
DAY 06: DEPARTURE DAY
2,340m
6-7hrs
Your afternoon city orientation tour includes the Centenary Farmers Market. You may also catch live archery at the Chang-Lingmi-Thang Archery Stadium nearby, with matches on weekends.
Venture along the stone-laid paths to the Jungzhi Hand-made Paper Factory. Then, drive to the Main Traffic Area to see the bustling capital's traffic, and visit the Authentic Bhutanese Crafts Market nearby.
Stay overnight in a Premium or 3-5 Star Hotel in Thimphu.
In the afternoon, visit the National Memorial Chorten, a peace monument located near the city centre. Take a 10-minute drive to the 13 Arts and Crafts School, commonly referred to as “Painting School.” Catch the young aspiring artisans of the country live in action. Head back to check out the Bhutan Post Office situated in the town's main area. Stamp-making is highly valued in Bhutan as it is regarded as a cultural ambassador of the nation.
In the evening, we head north to witness a brief national flag ceremony at Trashichhoe Dzong fortress. We will explore the interiors of this fortress. Its courtyard hosts one of the nation’s most popular religious autumn festivals, the Thimphu Tshechu Festival.
Overnight stay in a premium 3-star, 4-star, or 5-star hotel in the capital city, Thimphu
On our way back, we stop for lunch at the cafeteria. Then, we set out to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten for a 45-minute hike, crossing a small suspension bridge and enjoying views of rice paddies and the Mo Chhu River.
Head back to Punakha Dzong, a striking fortress between the Male and Female Rivers, known for its intricate designs. If you enjoy history, walk to the Punakha Suspension Bridge. Suspended over the Phochu River, it's the second largest in the country.
Overnight at a hotel in Punakha.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Which regions and valleys of Bhutan does this tour cover?
A: This is a fast-paced tour focused on Western Bhutan. It covers three enchanting western valleys: the Paro Valley, the capital city of Thimphu, the ancient capital of Punakha Valley, and the Phobjikha Valley.
Q. How physically demanding is this tour? How much hiking is involved?
A: The tour is described as "fast-paced" and includes "selective and remedial hiking and trekking". Key hikes include: 1. Tiger’s Nest (Taktshang): This is the most significant hike. The trail is "moderately graded", featuring "challenging climbing", and takes about 2 hours. 2. Chimi Lhakhang: An "enjoyable hike" through terraced rice fields to the fertility temple. 3. Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten: A 45-minute "rejuvenating hike" through rice fields and villages. 4. Gangtey Nature Trail: A "healing wilderness hike" through forests and small villages.
Q. What kind of accommodation is provided on this tour?
A: You have the option to opt for a premium 3-Star Hotels, a contemporary 4-star resorts or a chic-boutique mountain Retreats, which are described as the finest in the location in its category, chosen to add value to your trip.
Q. What unique cultural experiences are included, beyond typical sightseeing?
A: This is an "immersive cultural tour" designed to get you "beneath the surface". Specific cultural experiences include: 1. Local Interaction: Sharing a three-course Bhutanese meal with a local family.
2. Archery: Participating in a "hands-on" game of archery, one of Bhutan's living cultures, with your local host.
3. Monastic Life: Interacting with monks and attending a special Buddhist ritual ceremony at Kuenzang Chhoeling Shedra.
4. Traditional Crafts: Visiting the Jungzhi Hand-made Paper Factory to watch the "Deh-sho" paper-making process and the 13 Arts and Crafts School ("Zorig Chusum") to see students training in 13 different traditional arts.
5. Personalised Souvenir: Visiting the Bhutan Post Office to get a personalised Bhutanese self-portrait stamp.
Q. What are the major "must-see" landmarks I will visit?
A: The itinerary covers all major cultural and historical landmarks in the western region. Key sites include: 1. Paro: The gravity-defying Taktshang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery, Rinpung “Dzong” fortress, the National Museum of Bhutan, and Kyichu Lhakhang, the country’s oldest temple. 2. Punakha: The "striking" Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang (the fertility temple), and the Punakha Suspension Bridge. 3. Thimphu: The National Memorial Chorten, the Takin Preserve Centre, and Trashichhoe Dzong, which holds the King's throne room. 4. On Route: The scenic Dochula Pass with its 108 monuments.
Q. You mention the flight to Paro is special. Can you explain why?
A: The flight to Paro International Airport is described as a "thrilling experience" because the approach brings you closer to the tall mountains of the valley than any other flight in the world. The itinerary notes that flights from Kathmandu and Delhi are particularly rewarding, offering "spectacular views" of the world's tallest peaks, including Mt. Everest.
People Also Ask
Q. How long is the hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery on this tour?
A: The itinerary states the hike to the Tiger's Nest (Taktshang) Monastery involves a "challenging climbing" portion and takes about 2 hours on a well-established, moderately graded trail.
Q. Will I get to try Bhutanese archery on this tour?
A: Yes, the tour includes a "hands-on game of archery with a local host, allowing you to participate in one of Bhutan's "thrilling living cultures".
Q. What is the significance of the Chimi Lhakhang temple?
A: Chimi Lhakhang is known as the "fertility temple". Childless couples from Bhutan and even as far as Tibet visit to receive blessings from a wooden phallus kept inside the shrine.
Q. What can I do at the Bhutan Post Office in Thimphu?
A: At the Bhutan Post Office, you can get a "Bhutanese self-portrait stamp". It's also a place where you can view or buy ancient stamp collections.
Q. When can I visit Trashichhoe Dzong in Thimphu?
A: The visit is timed for the evening to attend a short national flag ceremony. The fortress has specific visiting hours: Winter (Dec-Feb): Weekdays 4 p.m.–6 p.m., Weekends 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Summer (Mar-Nov): Weekdays 5 p.m.–6 p.m., Weekends 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Q. What is the "Takin" and where can I see one?
A: Takin is the national animal of Bhutan. The itinerary includes a visit to the Takin Preserve Centre in Thimphu, where you can come "face to face" with these unique animals, which are described as looking like a crossbreed between a gnu and a cow.
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