Arrival and Paro

The flight into Paro offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas – the perfect way to start your trip after your visa formalities. You will be met by our representative,  who will brief you on the traffic rules and safety. We will be heading towards Haa via Chele la. Chele La is the highest motorable pass in Bhutan. On a clear day, you can get a panoramic view of the Himalayan Mountains, including Mount Jumolhari and the picturesque Paro valley. While in Haa, you will be staying with a Bhutanese family and experiencing the traditional and authentic Bhutanese way of living. 

Distance covered: 70km/2.5 hours

Haa to Thimphu

The first part of the morning will be spent on bringing you closer to the unique culture of Bhutan with a village excursion, meeting with the locals and interacting with them. After lunch, head to Thimphu

Distance covered: 109 km/approx. 3 hours. 

Thimphu

Today, you will explore the sights of Thimphu. We will begin with a visit to Memorial Chorten and ride to Kuenselphodrang to view the Buddha statue overlooking the capital. Also visit Takin Zoo, the national animal and the country’s most endangered animal – the Takin.  Visit the Nunnery and experience a different way of life and the serene atmosphere of the Buddhist convent and Painting school.  After lunch, we will stop in at the Post Office Museum to see Bhutan’s award-winning stamps. Walk to the Centenary Farmer’s Market and explore around. It is the market where villagers from within and neighbouring districts bring their agricultural produce to sell.

In the evening, visit Tashichho Dzong, a stunning medieval fortress that shows a glimpse of what life must have been like here centuries ago.

Punakha

Drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass (3050m), where you will witness 108 small Chortens (stupas). On a clear day, one can enjoy the most spectacular views of Bhutan’s Mountain ranges. Continue to Punakha. Visit Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang

Distance covered: 73 km/approx: 3 hours.

Punakha to Gangtey

After breakfast, we will ride to the north of Punakha, where we will visit the most beautiful Khamsum Yuelley monastery, perched on a hill. It is about a 45-minute easy hike to the monastery. After lunch, ride to Gangtey. Gangtey is a glacial valley and home to the black-necked cranes, which migrate from the harsh winters of the Tibetan plateau. The endangered birds are seen from the 1st week of November until February.

Distance covered 78 kms/approx 3 hours. 

Gangtey to Bumthang

After breakfast, we will do a short walk on the vast expanse of the valley and visit Gangtey Monastery, the only monastery of Nyingmapa tradition in central Bhutan. We will then proceed to Bumthang. En route, we will stop at Trongsa for lunch and a short sightseeing.

Distance covered 188kms/ approx 5 hours. 

Bumthang.

Today, we will do a ride to Tang, which is approximately 3 hours away from Bumthang. Visit the Ogyenchholing museum and ride to Mebar Tsho, which is also known as the burning lake. Overnight in Bumthang.

Ride to Thimphu

Today’s journey is going to be a long and scenic one.  This scenic drive offers ample opportunities for photography along the way. We will make a few stops in between the rides.  Upon reaching Thimphu in the late afternoon, you will have some time to settle into your hotel or explore the local area.

Distance covered: 266kms/ approx 8-9 hours. 

Paro Taktsang Hike.

Ride to the trail route of Taktsang Monastery, from where you will hike to the Monastery for about 3 hrs. Taktsang Monastery, famously known as Tiger’s Nest, is one of the most iconic and photographed places in Bhutan. The cafeteria has a beautiful viewpoint from which the Taktsang Monastery is visible. Visit Kyichu Lhakhang and offer prayers. Kyichu is one of the oldest and sacred monasteries in Bhutan.

Distance covered 65kms/1 hour

departure

This morning, your guide will bid you farewell for your trip back home. We hope that you carry the best memories of your trip to Bhutan.