BHUTAN EXPERIENCE ITINERARIES

Itinerary 1 (Offbeat and Hiking based): 8D/7N

Day 1 / Arrival, Paro (2,250m /7,382ft) to Thimphu (2,320m/7,656ft): 55km,1.5 hrs

As we fly into Bhutan we get spectacular views of the Himalayas. At the airport, we will be greeted by a representative. We will drive to Thimphu. In the afternoon, we will visit Tashichoee Dzong(a fortress of Glorious Religion). We will then stroll down the main street. Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 2 / Thimphu - Tango Hike (1hr)

After breakfast, we will drive for about 15 min to the base of Tango Monastery. And then we will start our hike to Tango Monastery (a University for Buddhist studies). Along the foot path we can see many phases written on the rocks, trees by the monks of Tango monastery. After lunch, we will visit Buddha point (a giant statue - 169ft, on the hill), traditional medicine centre, School of Arts and craft, Folk heritage museum, Takin Zoo. If time permits, a visit to the archery stadium (archery is Bhutan's national game), and trying hands on the sport or catching a tournament could be added to the itinerary as an offbeat activity. Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 3 / Thimphu to Punakha (1,250m/4,125ft): 75 km, 2-3 hrs

After breakfast drive to Punakha, the old capital town of Bhutan. Stop enroute at Dochula pass (3,150m) where we can see the Himalayan Range, if the sky is clear. After the hike we will drive to Punakha. We will then visit Punakha Dzong, the second oldest fortress of 17th century. We will stop at Metshina Village and take a 20- minute walk through the rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, a fertility temple dedicated to the Devine Madman or Lama Drukpa Kuenley. The barren couples will be blessed with child, if they visit the temple and pray from their heart. Overnight stay in Punakha.

Day 4 / Punakha to Haa (2,600m/8,580ft) Via Thimphu, 184 km, 6hrs

After breakfast we will drive to Haa. we will take a scenic drive through Rhododendron, Oak, Pine forest to Dochula before we arrive Thimphu. We drive en-route confluence traversing  on the slope of the mountain. We can take a scenic picture of Dobji DZong and we further drive passing through many villages along the road to Haa. On reaching Haa, we will stroll around the main street of Haa town. Overnight at homestay in Haa.

Day 5 / Haa valley excursion with hike (2.5 hrs) to Jamtoe Goenpa (3,230m/10,659ft)

After breakfast we will hike to Jamtoe Goenpa for about two and half  hours. We will cross the Haa chu (river) and climb up through the Pine and oak forest. As we  ascend we will get an amazing view of Haa valley. We will visit Jamtoe Goenpa and drive down to the valley. If time permits, we can take a walk through Yangto Village. Overnight at homestay in Haa.

Day 6 / Haa to Paro: 2.5 hrs, 63 km - Kila Goemba hike

After breakfast we will drive to Haa through the Pine, Rhododendrons and coniferous forest. We will host prayer flag at Chele la(3898m/12863ft) Pass, with an amazing view of Paro valley on one side and Haa valley on other. We will hike to Kila Goemba ascending for first 15 mins to the chorten and then the trails takes us through the oak and Pine forest. We can get a spectacular views of Paro valley, Mt. Jhomolhari (73,14m) and Mt. Jichu Drakey (6,898m). Kila Goemba is the oldest nunnery in country and presently  about 40 nuns lives there. Then we drive to Paro for an overnight stay in hotel. If time permits, we can stroll around the main street of the town.

Day 7 / Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (5 hrs)

After breakfast, we hike for 4 -5 hours to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery, which is Bhutan’s most famous monastery situated at 3,180 meters. In 8th century Guru Rinpoche (spiritual master) is said to have flown on the back of a tigress to meditate in a cave where Taktsang Monastery now stands. Lunch will be served in the Cafeteria Restaurant, located about halfway up the mountain. After having explored the monastery, we hike down to the valley. Later in the evening, we will visit farm house for a typical Bhutanese dinner and a traditional hot-stone bath. Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 8 / Final departure

After breakfast, you will be driven to the airport. Or drive to Phuentsholing and then Bagdogra.

Itinerary 2 (Classical Jeep Safari): 8D/7N

Day 1 / Arrival, Paro (2,250m /7,382ft) to Thimphu (2,320m/7,656ft): 55km,1.5 hrs

The flight into Bhutan takes you the great Himalayas, offering you the most 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 the Ta Dzong. Assistance upon arrival at Paro airport and drive to Thimphu. Upon arrival check in at the hotel. Rest of the time at leisure to discover the Capital on your own. 
Overnight stay in Thimpu.

Day 2 / Thimpu

After breakfast visit the Memorable Chorten dedicated to the 3rd King of Bhutan, The Textile Museum & Folk Heritage Museum that provides a fascinating insight into the Bhutanese material culture and way of life. Drive to the 15th century Changakha Lhakhang spectacularly localted on the spur. The Takin Sanctuary near the lhakhang will give the visitor a chance to glance at the National animal of Bhutan, Takin. Also visit the school of Arts and Crafts and the National Library which holds a vast collection of ancient Buddhist texts and manuscripts, some dating back several hundred years, as well as modern academic books mainly on Himalayan culture and religion. Evening visit the Tashichho Dzong; the main secretarial building which houses the throne room of His Majesty the King of Bhutan and also the head seat of Chief Abbot of Bhutan. Overnight stay in Thimpu.

Day 3 / Thimphu to Punakha (1,250m/4,125ft): 75 km, 2-3 hrs

After breakfast depart for Punakha. The view over the Himalayan panoply at Dorchula Pass at 10,500 feet is one of the most spectacular sights in all Bhutan. Added is the 108 chortens (small stupas) making it a visual delight. Retrace back towards Punakha and visit Chimi Lhakhang. Take the picturesque walk through the paddy field to reach the Chhimi Lhakhang, the Temple of the Devine Mad Man, Drukpa Kuenley. Further drive to Punakha, and visit the most beautiful Dzong in Bhutan built in 1637 by Shabdrung, the spiritual and temporal ruler of Bhutan prior to the present dynasty. It is an old capital, which still serves as the winter residence of the monk body. The first King, Ugyen Wangchuck, was crowned here in 1907. It is now the winter residence of the Central Monastic Community and administrative headquarters of Punakha district. Overnight stay in Punakha.

Day 4 / Punakha to Haa (2,600m/8,580ft) Via Thimphu, 184 km, 6hrs

After breakfast we will drive to Haa. we will take a scenic drive through Rhododendron, Oak, Pine forest to Dochula before we arrive Thimphu. We drive en-route confluence traversing  on the slope of the mountain. We can take a scenic picture of Dobji DZong and we further drive passing through many villages along the road to Haa. On reaching Haa, we will stroll around the main street of Haa town. Overnight at homestay in Haa.

Day 5 / Haa valley excursion with hike (2.5 hrs) to Jamtoe Goenpa (3,230m/10,659ft)

After breakfast we will hike to Jamtoe Goenpa for about two and half  hours. We will cross the Haa chu (river) and climb up through the Pine and oak forest. As we  ascend we will get an amazing view of Haa valley. We will visit Jamtoe Goenpa and drive down to the valley. If time permits, we can take a walk through Yangto Village. Overnight at homestay in Haa.

Day 6 / Haa to Paro: 2.5 hrs, 63 km

After breakfast retrace the steps back towards Dochula Pass and Simtokha to drive towards Paro. Upon arrival check in at the hotel. Visit the National Museum, which houses and impressive collection of fine arts, paintings, bronzes, textiles, jewellery and handicrafts sections as well as galleries of stamps for which the Country is very popular. Also visit the Rinpung Dzong, the Fortress of the Heap of Jewels, built in 1645 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. It is an imposing square fortress, representative of typical Dzong architecture, with a central tower and courtyards housing the administrative (Dzongkhag) and has a community of about 200 monks. A hike down the moderate slope to the cantilever bridge, one of the finest specimens in Bhutan with its shingle roof and two guard-houses at each end. Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 7 / Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (5 hrs)

After breakfast drive 20 minutes to the end of the valley to Drukgyel Dzong from where one can see the towering peak of Jomolhari (7,316m, 24,003 ft). This mountain, also revered as a powerful goddess, forms the border with Tibet and provides magnificent background to the ruined Drukgyel Dzong and village. Drive to Rumthangka and have the glorious view of Taktsang. The hike is optional. Taktsang Monastery, clinging on the steep rock, is one of the holiest temple in Bhutan. It is believed that Guru Rinpoche flew on the Tigress back and meditated here. The trek to the temple through the pine tree and sweet aroma of the air is indeed a very special and memorable event. The return hike will take about 05-06 hours. On the way back, visit Kyichu Temple (built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gompo in the 7th century). Rest of the time free for souvenir shopping in the small town of Paro. Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 8 / Final departure

After breakfast, you will be driven to the airport. Or drive to Phuentsholing and then Bagdogra.

Itinerary 3 (Culture & Adventure: Offbeat & Popular - Driving, Hiking & Cycling ): 10D/9N

This itinerary is an perfect way to explore known and offbeat places of Bhutan driving, hiking, cycling while camping and staying in authentic homestays/hotels interacting much closely with the locals and experiencing the culture.

Day 1 / Paro airport

Arrival at Paro by Druk Air. The flight offers beautiful views of the Himalayan mountain ranges and the geographical terrain of the Kingdom of Bhutan. If weather is clear, one can get fantastic views of the mountains and provides an excellent opportunity for photographers to capture shots from the plane. On arrival at Paro Airport, visa formalities will be completed and designated staff will welcome you at airport for transfer to Hotel. As you drive through the valleys, you will notice that the beauty of Paro valley is embellished by clusters of quaint farm houses. Bhutanese farm houses are very colorful, decorative and traditionally were built without the use of a single nail. All houses follow the same architectural pattern. Check into hotel, refresh, and have lunch. After lunch take a ride to Drukgyal Dzong the upper part of Paro valley. In the early 1954, Drukgyal Dzong was almost completely destroyed by fire and today only the ruins remain.(14kms, 50mins drive -1 ½ hrs bike ride). Then ride down towards National Museum located above Ringpung Dzong where an intriguing collection of artefacts serves as a great introduction to the rich culture and heritage of the Kingdom. The National museum is called Ta Dzong (Watch Tower) over looking the Paro valley.(16kms,20mins drive - 40 mins ride). On the way back to hotel, visit a local village and have dinner at host house or at a local restaurant. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 2 / Paro Valley Exploration (Day Hike to Taktsang Monastery)

Start the day early and drive towards Tiger’s Nest or Taktshang Goempa which is one of Bhutan’s most revered monuments. It literally hangs off the face of a cliff 2,950 ft / 900 m above the valley floor. The legend states that Guru Rinpoche flew into Bhutan on a mythical tigress and meditated in a cave before bringing Buddhism to Bhutan. The Taktsang Goempa is built around the cave, which is opened to public once a year at the 30th of the 5th month of the Bhutanese calendar. The four-hour round trip hike offers spectacular views of the Goempa and the valley below. Horses or mules can be arranged on request to help lighten the journey at an additional cost.15 minute drive to the base, 2 hour walk one way. Difficulty level – Moderate Return back downhill and have a relaxed leisurely lunch at the hotel. After Lunch drive towards Thimphu or you can either ride from Chunzom to Thimphu which is 32kms,2 hours ride. Check into the Hotel and refresh.

Day 3 / Drive to Ta-Dzong & trek to Jele Dzong

Start with early breakfast and take a short trekking day, so you can relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Paro valley. The hike is gradually uphill through pine forest. Camp will be next to a Dzong which was renovated recently. There is very interesting stories about the Dzong. Camp at 3100 meters. Walking time 4/5 hours. Halt at camp for dinner and rest.

Day 4 / Jele dzong to Jangchulakha

Today the trek begins uphill through huge rhododendron trees. The trail then follows the ridge, making many ups and downs, along the one side of the ridge to the other, heading towards north east to our camp at Jangchup Lakha (3,780m) yet another yak pasture. En route you are likely to see or hear some monal pheasants, and if the weather is clear, you will be rewarded with the breathtaking views of the mount Jhomolhari and its associates. Overnight Camp at Jangchuplakha (3,780m).

Day 5 / Jangchulakha to Jigmelangtsho

This morning, we have a short steep climb through the forest of junipers that starts right from the camp Once the steep climb is done, the trail gets level for a while and then it goes gradually up and down through the thicket of dwarf rhododendrons leading ultimately to Jangchu La (4180m) before you make a big drop to the camp at Jimilangtsho Lake (3,880m). The name of this lake means Sand Ox Lake, named for a bull that emerged from the lake and joined the cattle of a family that uses the area as a summer grazing ground. The lake is also known for its giant sized trout. Overnight: Camp at Jimilangtsho (3,880m).

Day 6 / Jigmelangtsho to Phajoding

The trail takes you through dwarf rhododendron shrubs passing two lakes. After passing the second lake ascend gradually. From the top you can enjoy the majestic view of Mt.Gangkar Punsum, 7520 meters, highest mountain in Bhutan. Then gradually straight for one and half hour till the steep descend to Phajoding camp at 3500 meters. At night you can see Thimphu city glittering in a bowl shaped valley. Overnight at camp.

Day 7 / Drive to Thimphu.

Have your morning breakfast and walk down towards main road where your vehicle will come to pick you. Then we drive to Thimphu. While there, we visit the King's Memorial Chorten (built in memory of the third King of Bhutan who reigned from 1952-1972) the Memorial Chorten built in honor of the Third King of Bhutan. As the name denotes this National Memorial Chorten was consecrated on July 28, 1974 in memory of the Third King. Chorten, sputa literally means ‘Seat of Faith’ and Buddhists often call such monuments, the ‘Mind of Buddha’. Treat yourself with the extraordinary depiction of Buddhist teachings in the form of paintings and sculptures. Check in to the hotel Bhutan, refresh and have lunch. After Lunch visit Tashichhoe-Dzong which is a beautiful fortress where the Monastic Body resides, The “Fortress of the Glorious Religion” was initially erected in 1641 and rebuilt by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in the 1962 and consecrated in 1969 by Je Yonten Tharchin, Thri Zur Thinley Lhundup and Dorji Lopen Nyizer Tulku.Tashichhodzong houses some ministries, His Majesty’s secretariat, and the central monk body. Dzong courtyard, one is surrounded by beautiful architectural structures housing various temples. Evening take a bicycle ride to the Buddha statue located on top of the hill overlooking the capital just in time for sunset. In the area below the statue you can hang your flags for the benefit of all sentient beings, and then sit down and watch the sun set over Thimphu town and listen to the flags fluttering in the breeze. Very romantic and a beautiful way to end an eventful day! Dinner and overnight at Hotel.

Day 8 / Transfer to Punakha

Start the day early for a dramatic drive over the high mountain pass of Dochu La pass and on to the Punakha Valley. Sights on the way include one of Bhutan’s first fortress monasteries, the 17th century Simtokha Dzong, and ancient wall paintings at the Hongtsho Goemba monastery and the newly built “Druk Wangyal Khangzang Chortens”, a unique cluster of 108 Namgyal Khangzang Chortens that spiral up to a main monument Chorten. This is a tribute and monument to the selfless service and visionary leadership of His Majesty the King. The journey continues over the 3,050m mountain pass where on a clear day, towering Himalayan peaks are clearly visible. Take a short ride across rice paddies takes you to Chimmi Lhakhang, a fertility temple dedicated to Drukpa Kuenley who was a Tibetan Buddhist saint known popularly as the Divine Madman. The Drukpa was infamous for his colourful and sometimes outrageous adherence to the Buddhist faith and he built a chorten on the site in the 14th century which has long been a pilgrimage site for childless couples. Drive towards hotel, check in to hotel and have lunch. After lunch take a ride to the Punakha Dzong, The Punakha Dzong is considered one of the most important and also one of the most beautiful Dzongs in the Kingdom. It was built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in 1637, and was the seat of the government every winter until Thimphu was established as the permanent capital in 1955. It is still the winter residence of the Dratshang (Central Monastic Body). Take time to admire the impressive, colorful and detailed artistry of the surroundings, including huge statues of Buddha, Guru Rinpoche and Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, as well as paintings of one-thousand Buddha’s. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 9 / Transfer to Paro

Start the day with breakfast and drive towards Paro Have a lunch on the way at Thimphu,from Thimphu you can either ride bicycle towards Paro or drive. Check into hotel, have a dinner and unwind your last stay.

Day 10 / Departure

After breakfast drive to the airport.

Itinerary 4 (Culture & Adventure: Offbeat & Popular - Driving, Hiking ): 8D/7N

This trip comprises of day hikes and journey to explore the nature trail and discovers different floras and faunas which make you feel much connected to nature. You will visit three Major cities/towns of Bhutan and culture sites and heritage.

Day 1 / Arrival, Paro (2,250m /7,382ft) to Thimphu (2,320m/7,656ft): 55km,1.5 hrs

As we fly into Bhutan we get spectacular views of the Himalayas. At the airport, we will be greeted by a representative. We will drive to Thimphu. We will stroll down the main street. Overnight at the Hotel in Thimphu.

Day 2 / Thimphu

After breakfast, we will drive or hike to Tango Monastery. After lunch, we will visit traditional medicine centre, School of Arts and craft, Folk heritage museum, Takin Preserve Centre - see the rare Takin national animal of Bhutan. Visit to the archery stadium (archery is Bhutan's national game), and trying hands on the sport or catching a tournament could be added to the itinerary as an offbeat activity. In the evening, we will visit Tashichoee Dzong (a fortress of Glorious Religion).

Day 3 / Thimphu to Punakha (1,250m/4,125ft): 75 km, 2-3 hrs

We will spend the first half in Thimphu exploring the city, we will visit Buddha point (a giant statue - 169 ft, on the hill) and then head off to Punakha, the old capital town of Bhutan. Stop enroute at Dochula pass (3,150m) where we can see the Himalayan Range, if the sky is clear.  On reaching Punakha, we will visit Metshina Village and take a 20- minute walk through the rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, a fertility temple dedicated to the Devine Madman or Lama Drukpa Kuenley. The barren couples will be blessed with child, if they visit the temple and pray from their heart. Overnight stay in Punakha.

Day 4 (Option 1) / Punakha. (Excursion to Gangtey). 3 hour drive one-way to Gangtey.

Today, we will take an excursion to Gangtey.
Gangtey is a beautiful place of rolling hills and green meadows surrounded by snowcapped mountains. It is at an altitude of 3000m. From Gangtey, one can closely view the picturesque Black Mountain ranges as well as the beautiful Phobjikha valley. Gangtey Gonpa is perched atop a small hill that rises from the valley floor. The Monastery is surrounded by a large village inhabited mainly by the families of the 140 Gomchens (Lay Monks). The Gangtey Gonpa is the only Nyingmapa Monastery on the western side of the Black mountains and is also the biggest of its kind. Gangtey is also the winter home for the famous Black Necked Cranes who migrate here from Tibet during the winter months. At Gangtey, you can visit the Gangtey Monastery and the Black Necked Crane center. Later back to Punakha. Overnight stay in Punakha.

Day 4 (Option 2) / Punakha. Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten.

A half a day excursion - driving and hiking to the beautiful monastery.

Day 5 / Punakha to Paro (2,195m/7,200ft), 127 km, 3.5 hrs. 

After breakfast, we will visit Punakha Dzong, the second oldest fortress of 17th century. We will also do the white water river rafting in the Female river that is passing by the Punakha Dzong. Its quite a beautiful sight indeed. Rest of the day we will explore Punakha. In the afternoon, we will drive to Paro. Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 6 / Paro

Today we will explore Paro. We will visit the Ta Dzong, the National Museum and the Rinpung Dzong [Paro Dzong]. We will also do a farm visit, learn about local Bhutanese culture, explore the fields and have a meal with the family the typical Bhutanese way. After the visit, we will take the leisurely downhill walk to cross the typical Bhutanese Cantilever Bridge, one of the finest specimens in Bhutan with its shingle roof and two guard-houses at each end. At the other end of the bridge will be our car and further drive to Hotel. Overnight stay at the hotel in Paro.

Day 7 / Paro: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (5 hrs)

After breakfast, we hike for 4 -5 hours to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery, which is Bhutan’s most famous monastery situated at 3,180 meters. In 8th century Guru Rinpoche (spiritual master) is said to have flown on the back of a tigress to meditate in a cave where Taktsang Monastery now stands. Lunch will be served in the Cafeteria Restaurant, located about halfway up the mountain. After having explored the monastery, we hike down to the valley. Later in the evening, we will visit farm house for a traditional hot-stone bath and a typical Bhutanese dinner and . Overnight at the hotel in Paro.

Day 8 / Final departure. Paro to New Delhi

After breakfast, you will be driven to the airport.

Please Note:

Restricted Area Permit is required to visit Punakha / Wangdue from Home Ministry of Bhutan. No charge will be applicable for this permit. Please bring 2 passport size photographs and Voter ID card or Passport of each person, including children. This special permit is given only after guest has entered Bhutan. Permits are not issued on Saturday, Sunday & Govt. holidays. | Adults must carry original & valid Passport or original Voter ID card. Children must carry original & valid Passport or original birth certificate & school photo ID card. | Remember to carry sufficient woollens, including hand gloves. | Please check with your mobile service provider for charges related to Bhutan. | Indian can carry Indian Rs 100 and 500 currency notes, but not more than Rs. 25,000. Few ATMs in Thimpu and Paro. | Tobacco & Tobacco products are banned in Bhutan. | Do not bring any plant or agricultural product out of Bhutan. It is illegal. |Credit cards are accepted in selected establishments in Bhutan.

How to reach Bhutan from India? / 1. By Road

Drive from Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station to Phuentsholing, the entry point for Bhutan. 166 km, 5 hours. You could stay here for the night or drive onwards towards Paro, which is another 160km or 5 hours drive.

How to reach Bhutan from India? / 2. By Air

You could fly in to Bhutan (Paro) from New Delhi or Kolkata in Druk Air or other airlines. These flight cannot be booked online and could be done so through some travel companies only. Please do let us know and we could book it for you.