Classic Bhutan tour in 12 days

Arrival in Paro airport, transfer to Thimphu - Arrival in Paro airport, transfer to Thimphu - Thimphu weekend market

Day 1: Thimphu

Arrival in Paro airport, transfer to Thimphu
Other Transfer: On arrival in Paro International Airport, you will be received and transferred to Thimphu, capital city of Bhutan. En-route we will stop to visit an amazing temple - Takchongang Lhakhang, and Chuzom - the meeting point of two rivers (the Thimphu and the Paro). Estimated travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes


Thimphu weekend market
Excursion: People from across the country (especially from the west) come to Thimphu to sell agricultural produce and a whole gamut of goods in the weekend market located next to the national playground, Changlimithang. The market is momentarily shifted to the school soccer ground alongside the river, to revamp the old one into something like that of a shopping precinct. The weekend market is a place where people from all walks of life congregate to buy the entire week’s rations. Besides being apparently exotic, some vegetables and fruits are also mouth-watering and delectable. Some customers, especially foreigners, are more interested in buying small traditional Bhutanese souvenirs with choices ranging from decoration pieces like carved wooden masks, wooden bowls, and hand loomed fabrics to beautiful and antique jewellery.


Tashichho Dzong
Excursion: Tashichho Dzong (the Fortress of Auspicious Religion), is located in the capital and is the seat of the government as well as the monk population. His Majesty the king has his office here. During the winter, the monks move to Punakha, the old capital of the country, where the weather remains moderate when it freezes in Thimphu. Re-erected in 1968, the fortress suffered several major conflagrations. The central tower around which the fortress is built around is an original section of the old fortress. The outstandingly complex and subtle architecture of the fortress is one of the finest in the country. The fortress stands with the perfect expression alongside the Wang Chhu River in the Thimphu valley.

Memorial Chorten - Buddha viewpoint - Changangkha Lhakhang

Day 2: Thimphu

Memorial Chorten
Excursion: This memorial structure forms an important historical landmark in Thimphu city. It was constructed by the revered Dung–se Rinpoche at the behest of the late Royal Grandmother (Ashi Phuntsho Chhodron) in 1974, in memory of her son - the third king Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, who died in 1972. His remains are in Kuje Lhakhang in Bumthang, but people pay their respects to his photograph mounted on an altar inside. The Chorten has great significance in the religious life of the people, and symbolizes, as do all stupas, the levels of the Buddha’s mind and teachings. The Chorten contains three chapels representing the main spiritual themes of the Nyingmapa school. The three storeys contain enormous three-dimensional Mandalas of meditational deitiesl excellent paintings and sculptures reflecting the devout faith of the Bhutanese. Occasionally a religious ceremony is performed here. People throng to offer fragrant incense, butter for the lamps and white scarves (Khadars), and to receive blessings from venerated Lamas.


Buddha viewpoint
Excursion: The tallest Buddha image - which will perhaps be the 8th wonder of the world - is being built in Kuensel Phodrang, a hill overlooking the Thimphu Valley. This is an attraction exclusively designed to commemorate the centenary and the coronation of the fifth king, Druk Gyelpo Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, in 2008. When it's finished, this Buddha will be an incredible work of extravagant architecture. The 169 foot bronze Buddha Dordenma image fits exactly on one acre of land, and is planned to have 17 storeys of different Lhakhangs (monasteries) within it, including the throne. These include three storeys within the throne - two each inside the lotus, waist, chest, face and shoulder and one each in the legs, neck and head. The Lhakhangs will contain, among other things; 25,000 12in copper images of Buddha Dordenma gilded with gold; eight 10ft standing bodhisattvas; sixteen 6ft high Arahats; King Hashang (Maitreya Bodhisattva), Dharmata Tiger, Sutra Holder and the four direction kings. The third storey to the top will accommodate 100,000 eight inch statues of Buddha Dordenma. There will be a meditation hall inside the throne.


Changangkha Lhakhang
Excursion: The temple is one of the oldest in Thimphu, built in the 12th century. The site was chosen by Lam Phajo Drugom Zhipo. After the death of his son Nyima, his descendants took care of the monastery. Its silhouette, perched high on a spur, is a landmark of Thimphu. The monastery houses Chenrizig (Avolokitesawara), an 11-headed, thousand-armed manifestation as the central statue. The prayer books in this monastery are larger than the usual Buddhist texts. There are large prayer wheels inside the monastery and small wheels on the walls outside. The main guardian deity is named Dom-Tshang. Tourists are not allowed inside the temple without a permit, but one can sit next to the prayer flag and enjoy a good vista over the Thimphu Valley.


Takin preserve
Excursion: Visit this fascinating preserve to see the takin - a goat-antelope creature seen as the national animal of Bhutan. Local legends attribute the breeding of these animals to a 15th century saint named Drukpa Kunley, popularly known in Bhutan as the Divine Madman. While originally a mini-zoo, the area was converted into a 8.4 acre preserve after it was discovered that the animals refrained from inhabiting the surrounding forest area, even when set free. A popular stop with tourists and locals alike, the preserve also houses a few native Bhutanese species of deer, including the barking deer and sambar.


School of Arts and Crafts
Excursion: Not far from the Indigenous Hospital, the Painting School and National Library are located close to each other. At the Painting School, children follow a course in religious drawing and painting, sculpturing, carving and mask making.


National Library
Excursion: The National Library was established in 1969 and was relocated to a new Bhutanese style building inaugurated in 1984. It contains an important collection of foreign books on Bhutan, the Himalaya and Buddhism as well as a unique and very rich series of Bhutanese and Tibetan books, manuscripts and xylographs.

Transfer from Thimphu to Trongsa - Transfer from Thimphu to Trongsa - Chendbji Chorten

Day 3: Trongsa - Wangdue Phodrang

Transfer from Thimphu to Trongsa
Other Transfer: We will pass through Dochula, Wangdue, Pelela and finally reaching our home for today Trongsa. Estimated travel time: 8 hours


Chendbji Chorten
Excursion: Approximately four hours' drive from Wangduephodrang is Chendbji Chorten, patterned on Swayambhunath temple in Kathmandu. It was built in the 18th century by Lama Shida, from Tibet, to cover the remains of an evil spirit that was subdued at this spot.


Pelela Pass walk
Excursion: We will enjoy the scenic walk on the pass and have the chance to take plenty of pictures.

Transfer from Trongsa to Jakar-Bumthang - Transfer from Trongsa to Jakar-Bumthang - Trongsa Dzong

Day 4: Trongsa - Jakar-Bumthang

Transfer from Trongsa to Jakar-Bumthang
Other Transfer: Route will pass through Yotongla and famous hand woven woolen factory at Chumey. Estimated travel time: 3 hours


Trongsa Dzong
Excursion: Like almost all towns in the Kingdom, this Dzong architecture dominates the entire Trongsa horizon dwarfing the surrounding buildings. Built in 1648, it was the seat of power over central and eastern Bhutan. Both the first and second King ruled the country from this ancient seat. Protected from invaders by an impenetrable valley, Trongsa Dzong is an impregnable fortress. The Dzong itself is a labyrinth of temples, corridors and offices holding court over the local community. It is built on many levels into the side of the hill and can be seen from every approach to Trongsa, heralding its strength as a defensive stronghold. Distance Approx: 4KM Time: 2 hours, 30 mins Elevation: 2260m Alternatives: Hotel check in and explore Trongsa town.


Ta Dzong - Trongsa
Excursion: The Ta Dzong, a cylindrical stone structure rising five storeys, was built in 1652 by Chogyal Minjur Tempa, a task entrusted to him by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. After more than 350 years, it has been resurrected into a museum, that represents a tasteful blend of tradition and modernity. There are 224 items on display including a sacred image of Sung Joenma Dorji Chang (self spoken Vajradharna), a bronze statue of Pema Lingpa, made by himself, and a number of centuries-old treasures like dance and ritual costumes and objects, ancient prayer books, paintings and scrolls, and textiles.. The Ta Dzong is a living museum and the main lhakhang in the Utse is dedicated to the Maitreya Buddha (Gyaltsab Jampa), also known as the Future Buddha. A Khesar Lhakhang is dedicated to Khesar of Ling. The tower has always been a place of retreat and there are hermits in practice, including two yogis, who are in lifelong meditation. The Ta Dzong is the only structure that has been restored specifically to tribute the Wangchuck dynasty as Bhutan celebrates the centenary of the Monarchy.

Kurje Lhakhang - Jakar Dzong - Jambay Lhakhang

Day 5: Jakar-Bumthang

Kurje Lhakhang
Excursion: Situated before Jambay Lhakhang, Kurje Lhakhang consists of three temples. The one on the right was built in 1652 on the rack face where Guru meditated in the 8th century. The second temple is built on the site of a cave containing a rock with the imprint of Guru's body and is therefore considered the most holy. The third temple was built in 1990s by Ashi Kesang, the Queen Mother. These three temples are surrounded by a 108 chorten wall.


Jakar Dzong
Excursion: Founded by great grand-father of the first Shabdrung, the Dzong was initially built as a monastery in 1549. It was upgraded after the Shabdrung had firmly established his power in 1646. The Dzong is now used as administrative centre for Bumthang valley, and houses the regional monk body.


Jambay Lhakhang
Excursion: This monastery was built in the 7th century by a Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo. It is one of the 108 monasteries built by him to subdue evil spirits in the Himalayan region. Its present architectural appearance dates from the early 20th century.


Tamshing Lhakhang
Excursion: Located across the river from Kurje Lhakhang, this temple was founded in 1501 by Terton Pema Lingpa, the re-incarnation of Guru Padsambhava. The monastery has very ancient religious paintings like 1,000 Buddhas and 21 Taras (female form of Buddhistava). The temple was restored at the end of the 19th century.

Transfer from Jakar-Bumthang to Phobjikha (Gangtey) - Transfer from Jakar-Bumthang to Phobjikha (Gangtey) - Gangtey Goemba

Day 6: Wangdue Phodrang

Transfer from Jakar-Bumthang to Phobjikha (Gangtey)
Car Transfer: We will drive until Pelela pass then take a left for our stay tonight in the valley of black necked cranes in the Black Mountain region. Estimated travel time: 8 hours


Gangtey Goemba
Excursion: A Nyingmapa monastery built on a small knoll by Pema Thrinley, grandson of Pema Lingpa, the great Bhutanese saint of Bumthang, in the late 16th century. Known for its lovely paintings and statues, it is ringed with family houses of the gomchen, the religious laymen who worship the work at the monastery. It follows the Nyingma tradition of Buddhism and houses a Shedra (monastic school).


Gangtey Nature Trail
Excursion: The most beautiful and shortest of the existing nature trails in Bhutan. The trail hike starts from the mani (like a Chorten) stone wall to the north of the Ganagtey Gonpa and ends in Khewa Lhakhang. The hike takes about 90 minutes through the pine forest and small bamboo plants. You can see the Phobjkha valley so beautifully from this hike. It is one of the best hike places for nature lovers. During the winter months we can see endangered species of birds, such as Black Neck Cranes. Distance Approx: 4.2KM Time: 2 hours Elevation: 2980m Alternatives: Crane center for more information about Black Necked Cranes and Phobjikha valley with video show at the center.

Transfer from Phobjikha (Gangtey) to Punakha - Transfer from Phobjikha (Gangtey) to Punakha - Chimi Lhakhang Hike

Day 7: Punakha - Trongsa

Transfer from Phobjikha (Gangtey) to Punakha
Car Transfer: We will drive down the pass and across the valley to Phunakha. Estimated travel time: 3 hours


Chimi Lhakhang Hike
Excursion: The Chimi Lhakhang, situated on a hillock in the centre of the valley, is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenley, who in the late 15th century used humour, songs and outrageous behaviour to dramatise his teachings; and subsequently inherited the name, "Divine Madman". This temple is also known as the Temple of Fertility. It is widely believed that couples yearning for a child will be blessed with one soon after visiting. To get to the temple Chimi Lhakhang, it is about 30 minutes' walk across lush fields from the road, leads across picturesque rice paddies to the tiny settlement of Pana. Distance Approx: 1/2KM Time: 45 mins Elevation: 1380m Alternatives: Anybody can hike to Chimi Lhakhang


Chendebji Chorten
Excursion: Chendebji Chöten, built in the style of the great Bodhanath Chöten of Nepal, was constructed by Tshering Wangchuk son of Yon-Say and the Mahasiddha Zhidag in accordance with the prophecy of the Second Gangteng Tulku Tenzin Lekpai Dhundrup in order to subdue harmful, anti religious demons. It is located 41 km west of Trongsa in Bhutan at 2430 meters in elevation.

Punakha Dzong - Khamsum Yulay Namgyal - Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang nunnery

Day 8: Punakha

Punakha Dzong
Excursion: The gorgeous Punakha Dzong, with its stunning presence among a mountainous background, has played an important role in Bhutan's history. It is one of the country's most majestic structures and forms the centre of Tibetan Buddhism in this area. Built strategically at the junction of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, its initial purpose was to serve as the religious and administrative centre of the region. Damaged by four catastrophic fires and an earthquake, the Dzong has been fully restored over the years by the present King. It is now open for visitors during Punakha festival, and in summer months when the monk community moves to Thimphu.


Khamsum Yulay Namgyal
Excursion: A beautiful hike takes one to the regal Khamsum Yuelley Namgel Chorten, which was built to remove negative forces and promote peace, stability and harmony in the changing world. The Chorten dominates the upper Punakha Valley with commanding views across the Mo Chhu and up towards the mountainous peaks of Gasa and beyond.


Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang nunnery
Excursion: Perched on a ridge amid pine trees and overlooking the valleys of Punakha and Wangduephodrang, gleams the magnificent structure of Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang. The temple houses a 14-foot main bronze statue of Avalokiteshvara (Chenrigzig chagtong chentong). Other statues include those of Guru Padmasambawa, Gautama Buddha, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, Tsela Namsum, the 21 Taras and Tsepamay (Buddha of longevity). The Avalokiteshvara statue, one of the biggest in the country, was entirely the handiwork of local Bhutanese artisans. The temple complex also houses a permanent higher learning and meditation centre for nuns where, apart from religious training, it provides life skill training such as tailoring, embroidery, statue making and thangka painting.

Transfer from Punakha to Paro - Transfer from Punakha to Paro - Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong) fortress

Day 9: Paro

Transfer from Punakha to Paro
Other Transfer: We will pass through Dochula and Thimphu, via Chuzom. Estimated travel time: 4 hours


Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong) fortress
Excursion: Built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the spiritual and temporal ruler of Bhutan, the Dzong houses the monastic body of Paro, the office of the Dzongda (district administrative head) and Thrimpon (judge) of Paro district. The approach to the Dzong is through a traditional covered bridge called Nemi Zam. A walk through the bridge, over a stone inlaid path, offers a good view of the architectural wonder of the Dzong as well as life around it. It is also the venue of Paro Tshechu, held once a year in the spring.


Ta Dzong - Paro
Excursion: A one-time watch tower built to defend Rinpung Dozng during inter-valley wars of the 17th century, since 1967 Ta Dzong has served as the National Museum of the country. It holds a fascinating collection of art, relics, religious thangkha paintings and Bhutan's exquisite postage stamps. The museum's circular shape augments its varied collection, displayed over several floors.


Outdoor activities around Paro
Excursion: Today you will get to participate in some cultural outdoor activities at the Souvenir House in Paro. Experiment with a traditional Bhutanese costume, enjoy shooting some archery or playing darts. The more spa-focused among you may choose to enjoy a hot stone bath, followed by a delicious meal of freshly prepared organic food.

Haa valley excursion - Chelela pass

Day 10: Haa - Paro

Haa valley excursion
Excursion: Start the day early for the drive to Haa via Chele-la pass. 4 km away at Bondey village the road to Haa diverts towards the right hand side and the ascent towards where Chele-la pass starts. After driving through blue pine and rhododendron forest for 45 km, reach Chele-la pass (4200 metres). From this point one can have a superb views of Mount Chomolhari and Jichu Drake. This is a very good place to walk around for few minutes enjoying the view. Drive on to Haa, descending all the way for another 22 km (under an hour's drive), finally reaching Haa. The Haa Dzong is presently occupied by military, but the view from outside is stunning. After a picnic lunch visit the famous Monastery of Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple) followed by visit to Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple). The central shrine in Lhakhang Nagpo is said to have no difference with that of Lhasa Jowo in Tibet. The construction of the Lakhang Karpo is believed to have been assisted by the locality. As a result the place came to be locally known as "Hay" meaning "surprise" which later became "Haa" due to the differences in interpretations and pronunciations of different people over time. The three giant hills looming over the fringes of Haa valley were called "Me Rig Puen Sum" especially after the incidence of the Lhakhang Karpo construction. Today the three hills are popularly known as "Rig Sum Goenpa" signifying three deities - Jambayang Chana Dorji and Chenrizig. Later, other Buddhist saints like Guru Rinpoche and "Machi Labdorn" came to the Jungney Drag in Haa and blessed the locality. The principal religion followed is Drukpa Kagyupa. After the arrival of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, the chief guardian deity of Haa became Ap Chundu. Later in the afternoon drive to Paro same way back. The drive will be under 3 hours.


Chelela pass
Excursion: Chele la (pass), at an elevation of 3,988 metres, is considered to be one of the highest drivable passes in Bhutan. About an hour's drive along a thickly-forested road is this pass, a botanical paradise. The pass provides stunning views of the sacred mountain Jomolhari and Jichu Drake. It is also marked by hundreds of prayer flags fluttering in the wind. Here, visitors can see cascades of wild roses; purple and yellow primulas; and swathes of deep blue iris covering the forest floor. The top of the pass blooms with rhododendrons in a variety of colours-pale pink, deep pink, burnt orange, mauve, white and scarlet.

Tiger's Nest Temple - Taktshang Hike whole - Drukgyel Dzong - Kyichu Lhakhang

Day 11: Paro

Tiger's Nest Temple - Taktshang Hike whole
Excursion: One of the most famous of Bhutan's monasteries, the splendid Tiger's Nest is perched on the side of a cliff, 900m above the Paro valley floor, and with its somewhat perilous appearance (it's perfectly safe) is considered iconic to local people. It is said that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery and in the caves around it; hence its name, 'Tiger's Nest'. This site has since been recognized as a most sacred place and is visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime. A fire in 1998 severely damaged the main structure of building, but this Bhutanese jewel has since been restored to its original splendour. It is a truly stunning sight and a must-see on visiting this very sacred country. The hike can feel difficult at first, but when in view of this gorgeous building you will hopefully feel the energy to carry on! The views are worth it. Distance Approx: 7KM Time: 4 hours total Elevation: 3200m


Drukgyel Dzong
Excursion: This Dzong, with a delightful village nestling at its foot, was built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to commemorate his victory over the Tibetan invaders. Historically and strategically this Dzong withstood all its glory and was featured in a 1914 video by National Geographic magazine. The glory of Drukgyel Dzong remained even when its was destroyed by fire in 1951. On a clear day, one can see the commanding view of Mount Chomolhari from the village below the Dzong.


Kyichu Lhakhang
Excursion: It is one of the oldest and most sacred shrines of the Kingdom, dating back to the 7th century (the other is Jambey Lhakahng in Bumthang). The lhakhang complex is composed of two temples. The first temple was built by Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century and in 1968, H.M. Ashi Kesang, the Queen Mother of Bhutan, built the second temple in its original pattern.

At leisure in Paro - Departure from Bhutan - transfer from hotel in Paro to Paro airport. - Departure from Bhutan - transfer from hotel in Paro to Paro airport.

Day 12: Paro

At leisure in Paro
Excursion: At leisure in Paro. Wander down the main street and take in the traditional wooden buildings.


Departure from Bhutan - transfer from hotel in Paro to Paro airport.
Other Transfer: Check out from hotel and transfer to Paro Airport for your onward journey.