Western Bhutan Tour-8 days
The Bhutan Landmark Tour is a comprehensive exploration of the kingdom’s most iconic and culturally significant sites. This journey typically encompasses visits to major landmarks such as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro, the majestic Punakha Dzong, and the capital city Thimphu with its vibrant markets and cultural hubs. Travelers delve into Bhutan’s rich spiritual heritage by exploring ancient monasteries, witnessing traditional festivals, and experiencing the serene ambiance of dzongs. The tour also includes encounters with Bhutanese traditions, art, and crafts, providing a holistic understanding of the country’s unique identity. With a blend of cultural immersion and scenic beauty, the Bhutan Landmark Tour offers a memorable and insightful experience for those seeking a comprehensive exploration of this enchanting Himalayan kingdom.
Tour Highlights
- Important and religious landmarks in Bhutan
- Immersion in Nature Biodiversity
- Local Firm House Experience
- Beautiful Gangtey Nature Trail
- Day Hike to Tiger’s Nest
Tour Outline
- Day 01: Arrival: Paro -Thimphu
- Day 02: Thimphu – sightseeing
- Day 03: Thimphu – Phobjikha
- Day 04: Phobjikha – Punakha
- Day 05: Punakha – Haa
- Day 06: Haa – Paro
- Day 07: Paro – Hike to Tiger’s Nest
- Day 08: Departure
| ARRIVAL / DEPARTURE | Paro, Bhutan | |||||||
| DURATION | 7 Nights / 8 Days | |||||||
| DEPARTURE TIME | 2 Hours before Flight time | |||||||
| WEAR | Comfortable athletic clothing, hiking boots, hat, jacket and sunscreen. | |||||||
| INCLUDED |
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| NOT INCLUDED |
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Arrive in Paro
Distance: 65km (1.5hrs.)
Elevation: 2,250m / 7,382ft.
After landing you will be greeted by your tour guide and driver and will be transferred to capital city, Thimphu, nestled in the heart of Himalayas is the largest city in Bhutan.
Upon reaching check into the hotel for some refreshment and visit the following places;
- Buddha Point where the tallest sitting Buddha Statue overlooking the whole capital city.
- National Memorial Chorten “most religious landmark in Bhutan”. Local people of all ages come to circumambulate reciting prayers.
- Tashichho Dzong, the fortress or monastery housing the seats of monastic body, the throne room and offices of the king, secretariat and some ministries.
- Thimphu Town and Bhutanese Authentic Local Crafts Bazaar.
Overnight in Thimphu
Thimphu – Sightseeing
- After breakfast, drive to Sangaygang to enjoy spectacular views of Thimphu City from another angle.
- En-route, visit Changangkha Lhakang, beautifully located in the middle of the city.
- Post lunch, visit School of Thirteen Arts & Crafts, the primary center of learning for Bhutanese traditional arts.
- The Gayden Lhuendrup Weaving Center to get insight on Bhutan’s national art of weaving.
- Centenary Farmer’s Market (Open: Wednesday – Sunday).
Overnight in Thimphu.
Thimphu – Phobjikha
Distance: 135km (5-6hrs.)
Elevation: 3,000m / 9,843ft.
- After breakfast drive to the land of endangered bird species the Black Necked Crane, the Phobjikha Valley.
- En-route stop by Dochula Pass (3150m) well known for spectacular views of the eastern Himalayan mountain ranges.
- Proceed to Phobjikha and visit Phobjikha visit Gangtey Monastery.
Overnight in Phobjikha
Phobjikha – Punakha
Distance: 78km (3hrs.)
Elevation: 1,200m / 3,900ft.
- Morning explore Gangtey Natural Trail (1.5hr).
- Proceed to Punakha and visit Chimi Lhakhang “temple of fertility”.
- Punakha Dzong, “country’s beautiful fortress”.
- Beautiful traditional suspension bridge.
- Punakha Town.
Overnight in Punakha
Punakha – Haa
Distance: 189km (5-6hrs.)
Elevation: 1,140m / 3,740ft.
- After breakfast drive to Haa. Haa valley is one of the most picturesque places in the Kingdom, spread over an area of 1706 sq. km.
- After reaching check into hotel and visit Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple) and Lhakhang Nakpo (Black temple).
- Haa town.
Overnight in Haa.
Haa – Paro
Distance: 70km (2.5hrs.)
- After breakfast drive back to Paro. En-route, explore Chelela Pass (3900mts).
- After reaching Paro check intot he hotel and visit Bhutan National Museum built in the 17th century to guard the Paro Dzong.
- Visit Paro Dzong “fortress of the heap of jewels”.
- Visit a local farm house for an experience of an authentic Bhutanese lifestyle and local hospitality. Lunch at the farm house with the family who lives here.
- Paro Town.
Overnight in Paro.
Paro – Hike to Tiger’s Nest
Elevation: 3,120m /10,240ft.
Walking Hour: 4 – 5hrs.
- After breakfast Hike to Tiger’s Nest which clings beautifully on the cliff overlooking Paro Valley.
- Later in the afternoon visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred shrines of the Kingdom dating back to the 7th century.
- Evening relax at the hotel or free to explore further.
Overnight in Paro.
Departure
After breakfast transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey.