Day 1 Arrive Paro By Flight
You will be met at Paro airport and transferred to the hotel for check in and lunch. Once you have settled in you can visit the National Museum and Paro Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most impressive and well-known dzongs, and perhaps the finest example of Bhutanese architecture.
Dinner and overnight at Paro in Hotel.

Day 2 Paro
This morning you will walk up to the Taktsang Goemba, known as the Tiger’s Nest monastery, a quintessential Bhutan experience. This hike takes you up to 3100m so hiking boots are recommended! Lunch will be served in teahouse on your return and then you will visit the ancient ruins of Drukgyel Dzong situated at the end of the Paro valley. If time permits you can also visit 7th century Kyechu Lhakhang and Dungtse Lhakhang. Dinner and overnight at Paro in Hotel.

Day 3 Paro – Bumthang By Flight
You will take the early morning domestic flight to Bumthang, and from there drive to Tang Valley where you will meet the horses. After lunch you will have an afternoon ride to the nearby village, where you will have a chance to meet some locals and visit their homes before returning to the guesthouse for the night. Dinner and overnight in Tang in Farm House.

Day 4 Bumthang – Kunzangdra Horse Ride
After breakfast you’ll head to the stables to start your ride. Today you’ll pass through villages and open fields before riding up into the pine forests. There might be a few places where you need to dismount and lead the horses, depending on the terrain. Enjoy a picnic lunch along the way before reaching the campsite near Kunzangdra. There is a temple and hermitage on the cliff (Kunzangdra Monastery), founded by Pemalingpa in 1488, which you can explore before dinner.
Tonight you will sleep in tents at 3200m and take in the night skies.

Day 5 Kunzangdra – Padselling Horse Ride
Today you will ride through the forests and hillsides as you make your way towards Padselling. You will be staying in the monastery here tonight which is set high up in the mountains, next to a village, with incredible views. You’ll have the chance to explore the local village before returning to the monastery for dinner. On occasion tonight’s accommodation may be in tents.

Day 6 Padselling – Bumthang Horse Ride
This morning you will have a relaxing ride as you make your way downhill. You will be mainly following village roads and trails which provide some great opportunities for a few canters. After visiting Dorjibi village, you will leave the horses behind and take a short drive to the hotel in nearby Jakar. In the evening you can wander around and explore the town of Jakar with your guide. Overnight at Bumthang in Hotel.

Day 7 Bumthang Horse Ride
Today you will ride through some of the local villages, giving you the chance to meet and talk to the very friendly local people as you pass by their homes. As you ride between the villages you are likely to see the farmers ploughing and tending their potato fields. As you meander through the countryside, there are more opportunities to trot and canter as well. Camping overnight, or you will stay in a local homestay with a Bhutanese family.

Day 8 Local Village Horse Ride
After breakfast you will set out on a long ride as you head out for your final day on the saddle. You follow a mountain trail up to the summit of PhaPha at 3600m, where colourful prayer flags hang from branches. You will cross a 3000m pass as you head back towards the stables. Today you will ride through more local villages, giving you the chance to practice any local words or phrases you might have picked up along the tour. Once back at the stables you’ll say goodbye to the horses before heading to a local guesthouse. You can relax in a traditional hot stone bath with a glass of local wine before dinner. Overnight in Farm House

Day 9 Punakha By Road
After breakfast you drive to Punakha, the old capital city, passing through the Trongsa valley. You’ll stop in Trongsa and visit the National Museum and the magnificent Trongsa Dzong, the birthplace of Bhutan’s hereditary monarchy. You continue on, crossing Pele La pass at 3400m, before descending down to valley floor at 1200m in Punakha. Overnight at Punakha in Hotel.

Day 10 Punakha – Thimphu By Road 80 Kms. / 4 hrs. appx.
This morning you will visit Punakha Dzong, ‘The Place of Great Happiness’, built in between two rivers. Afterwards you drive north to make the short hike to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, a unique example of this traditional Asian architecture built as a magical tool but the Queen Mother. After lunch you drive to Thimphu, the capital city and visit Tashi Chodzong, the seat of government and monastic body and Memorial chorten. Overnight in Thimphu in Hotel

Day 11 Thimphu – Paro By Road 56 kms. / 1 hr. appx.
In the morning you can visit the sights of Thimphu such as the largest Buddha, painting school, Indigenous hospital, vegetable market, etc. before driving back to Paro in the afternoon. Overnight in Paro in Hotel.

Day 12 Depart Paro By Flight
After breakfast you will be transferred to the airport for your flight.

Non riders are welcome to join the tour, and will be driven to each new site during the riding portion of the tour.

Please note: All itineraries are given for your guidance only and it may be altered on the ground and in accordance with the prevailing conditions by the organising team.

Day 01: Arrival and sightseeing in Paro (2,250m/7,382ft)
As our flight nears Bhutan, we can enjoy amazing views of the Himalayas including the sacred Jumolhari and Jichu Drake peaks. At the airport, you will be greeted by a representative who will take you to the hotel. Today, we will visit Rinpung Dzong which was built in 1646 and now houses the district Monastic Body and government administrative offices of Paro Dzongkhag. We will also visit Kichu Lhakhang, the oldest temple in the country and Ta Dzong, once a fortified lookout tower but has now been changed into the National Museum. The museum has a wide assortment of ancient paintings, armors, philatelic displays and a “field of Buddhas”, which helps one visualize while meditating. Overnight in Paro.

Day 02: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery then return to Paro
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. 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 floor and drive back to Paro. Overnight in Paro.

Day 03: Trek starts: Paro to Shana (2,870m/9,413ft): 17km,5-6 hours
The trek starts from Drugyal Dzong at 2,580m with a downhill walk on a wide trail. The trail climbs gently through well-maintained rice terraces and fields of millet. The route later enters an area of apple orchards and forests. Soon the valley widens and we reach the army post of Gunitsawa at 2,810m. This is the last stop before Tibet. We will camp a little further from Shana Zampa, at the meadows surrounded by trees. Overnight camping.

Day 04: Shana to Sio Thangkha (3,750m/12,300ft): 20km,6-7 hours
The trail follows Pa Chhu (Paro River), ascending and descending through pine, oak and spruce forests. Hot lunch will be served after crossing the bridge towards the left side of the river. After lunch, we will follow the river again and climb up through the rhododendron forests. We cross the bridge for the last time before reaching our campsite.Overnight camping.

Day 05: Sio Thangkha to Jangothang (4,040m/13,251ft): 19km,5-6 hours
Our path ascends for a while until we reach an army camp. We will then follow the Paro River above the tree line enjoying stunning views of surrounding peaks. Hot lunch will be served inside a yak herder’s camp. A short walk into the valley will take us to our camp at Jangothang. From here, the view of Mt. Jumolhari and Jichu Drake peak are superb. Overnight camping.

Day 06: Jangothang to Dhumzo via Bonte La pass: 16 km,6 – 7 hours
Jangothang to Dhumzo(3,800m/12,464 ft)via Bonte La pass: 16 km,7 hours

The trail heads north to the last settlement in a valley and drops to the Paro River, crossing it on a wooden bridge. Walk up to the Tshophu Lake (4,380m), which is inhabited by ruddy-shel ducks. We will come across a second lake after a climb across a slope to a crest. Then, we will descend into a hidden valley and climb on a steep trail to Bonte La pass at 4,890m. After crossing the pass, our trail descends, crisscrossing through yak trails down to the Dhumzo River. After walking downstream for a while, we reach our camp. Overnight camping.

Day 07: Dhumzo to Thombu Shong (4,180m/13,710ft): 11km, 4-5 hours
The trail climbs around 100m over a ridge, and then drops to another stream. After crossing this stream, the trail heads up a hillside dropping into a small valley before emerging onto a ridge. Here the route turns south, ascending past few huts to Takhung La Pass (4520m). A short descend will bring us to Thombu Shong village with few yak herder’s huts. Overnight camping.

Day 08: Thombu Shong to Thimphu (2,320m/7,610ft):Trek ends: 13km,5 hrs
Climb out of the valley to Thombu La Pass at 4380m, and then drop gradually to about 4000m. The trail then makes a steep descent, moves down the ridge before reaching the helipad at Gunitsawa . Our vehicle will be waiting for us here to drive us to Thimphu. In the evening, we can stroll through the streets of Thimphu and absorb the lifestyle of the people. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 09: Sightseeing in Thimphu
In the morning, we visit Memorial Chorten (built in memory of the third King of Bhutan who reigned from 1952-1972), nunnery temple, mini zoo to see Takin, the national animal of Bhutan. Today, we also visit other landmarks of Thimphu including the National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Bhutanese traditional painting school, folk heritage museum, the majestic Tashichho Dzong and the traditional paper factory. However, some of the landmarks are closed in the weekends (Saturdays and Sundays). Therefore, if we are in Thimphu during the weekends, we explore the Weekend Market instead. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 10: Final Departure
Today we bid farewell to the tiny Himalayan kingdom and her friendly people. Druk Air generally departs in the early morning to avoid adverse weather conditions. Therefore, we will be taken to the airport in Paro after breakfast.

Day 01 : Arrive Paro (Bhutan) by Flight
The flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular in entire Himalayas. Whether flying along the Himalayan range from Kathmandu or over the foothills from Kolkatta, the journey offers fascinating views and an exciting descent into the Kingdom. Bhutan’s first gift, as you disembark from the aircraft will be cool, clean fresh mountain air. After immigration formalities and baggage collection, you will be met by our representative, and afterwards transfer to the hotel.

Afternoon visit includes:
Ta Dzong: An ancient watchtower, which now houses the National Museum of Bhutan.

Paro Rinpung Dzong: Literally meaning ‘Heap of Jewels’, built in 1646. Some of the scenes in the film Little Buddha (1993) were filmed in this Dzong.

Kyichu Lhakhang: This temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temple in Bhutan. The Tibetan King, Songtsen Gompo, to consecrate the entire region of Himalaya, in the 7th century miraculously built 108 temples. Kyichu Lhakhang is considered to be one of them.

In the evening walk around Paro town and valley at your own pace.
Overnight at the hotel in Paro. (Altitude 2,280m)

Day 02: Paro
After breakfast, drive to ruins of the Drukgyal Dzong: It was here that the Bhutanese finally defeated the invading Tibetans and drove them back. Peak of Jumolhari ‘Mountain of the Goddess’ can be seen on a clear day from here (7,314 m).

birding in bhutanThe valley of Paro is mainly Blue Pine Forests and not so favourable for bird life but the woodlands around the Drukgyel Dzong area will provide us a good indication of the great variety that is to come in the next few days. Some of the common species that can be seen in this area include, Black-faced laughing thrush, Chestnut-crowned laughing thrush, Brown Parrot bill, Chestnut-tailed Minla, Common Kestrel, Kalij Pheasant, White-collared Blackbird, Grey-backed Shrike. The more elusive birds that we may just locate are some marshland species such as the Black-tailed Crake and the Solitary Snipe.

Later, we will enjoy an excursion to Taktsang Monastery, one of the holiest monasteries in Bhutan, which was burnt down in 1988 but is now fully restored. Birds that can be seen in the valley here include Blue Whistling Thrush, Hodgson’s and Blue-fronted Redstart, Hoopoe, Rufous Sibia, White-collared Blackbird, Rufous-breasted Accentor, Long-tailed and Grey-backed Shrikes, and Yellow-billed Blue Magpie.

Taktsang, the ‘Tiger’s Nest’ Monastery, appears to cling magically to the sheer rock face 915m above the valley. Legend has it that the Guru Padma Sambhava, riding a flying tiger, landed on the cliff when he came from Tibet in the 8th century. There he, and later his follower Dubthok Singye, meditated in a cave around which, 300 years ago, the monastery was built to celebrate his arrival. We will take our time here and are likely to spend most of the time in this wonderful setting and its surrounding forests. On our way up, we will make regular birding stops while enjoying the scenery.

Overnight at the hotel in Paro. (Altitude 2,280m)

Day 03: Paro – Chelela Pass – Thimphu (121km, Approx 4 hours drive)
Early morning embark on a fascinating journey to Chelela pass (3,780m). The road winds upwards through blue pine forests which slowly changes to higher elevation conifers such as spruce, hemlock, silver fir, juniper and finally at the summit the vegetation is mainly dwarf rhododendrons and open alpine meadows. Apart from fascinating views of Paro and Haa valley, from Chelela, we also get fantastic views of the sacred Mt. Jhomolhari (7,314m) and the adjacent Jichu Drake (6,797m).

The quest for the day will be the incredibly majestic Monal Pheasant which is one of the most colourful and strikingly patterned of all the world’s many pheasants. Here, the other typical species include Eurasian Sparrowhawk, Grey Nightjar, Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, Spotted (or Eurasian) Nutcracker, Long-tailed Minivet, Coal, Grey-crested and Rufous-fronted Tits, Black-faced Laughingthrush, White-browed Fulvetta, Rufous-vented Yuhina, Rufous-gorgeted Flycatcher, Buff-barred Warbler, Red-flanked Bluetail, Blue-fronted Redstart, Long-tailed Thrush, White-collared Blackbird, Mrs Gould’s Sunbird, Oliver-backed Pipit, the huge Collared Grosbeak, White-winged Grosbeak, and White-browed and Dark-rumped Rosefinches. With a bit of luck we will find some Altai Accentors lingering in their winter quarters.

After lunch, proceed to Thimphu, the modern capital town of Bhutan, en route taking a short stop at Chuzom, the confluence of Paro and Thimphu rivers.

Later at the afternoon, in Thimphu, visit :

Trashichho Dzong (Fortress of the Glorious Religion): A Doom (Blue Stone) Dzong was built on the hill above Thimphu in 1216 the lama Gyalwa Lhanampa. A few years later Lama Phajo Drugom Shigpo, who brought the Drukpa Kagyu lineage to Bhutan, took over Dohon Dzong. Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal (The one who unified the country) acquired the Dzong in 1641 from the descendants of lama Phajo and renamed it as Trashi Chhoe Dzong. The Dzong is the seat of the national government and the central Monastic Body, including the summer residence of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot of Bhutan) at present.

King’s Memorial Chorten: continuously circumambulated by people, murmuring mantras and spinning their prayer wheels. Construction of this landmark was the idea of Bhutan’s third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk (‘the father of modern Bhutan’) who has wished to erect monument to world peace and prosperity. Completed in 1974 after his untimely death, it serves both as a memorial to the Late King and as a monument to peace.birding in bhutan

Evening, exploratory walk around Thimphu main street, visiting the government-run Handicrafts Emporium and local crafts bazar, to browse through example of Bhutan’s fine traditional arts. Here you can buy hand-woven textiles, thangkha paintings, masks, ceramics, slate and wood carvings, jewelry, interesting items made from local materials.

Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu. (Altitude 2,320m)

Day 04 : Thimphu / Gangtey (150 km, Approx 5 hours drive)
Early morning embark on a Bird watching tour of Thimphu valley. Relatively dry, the Thimphu valley is surrounded by fine stands of Blue Pine and temperate evergreen forests. The increasing human settlement has pushed birding spots at least 10 kilometers further and now the ideal areas for birding are around the stream near Motithang and in and around Begana and Cheri villages.

Some of the bird species here include :
Blyth’s leaf Warbler, Black earned Kite, Blue whistling Thrush, Brown Parrotbil, Common Myna, Common Sandpiper, Common Kestrel, Eurasian Hobby, Fire tailed Sunbird, Greater short toed LarkGolden spectacled Warbler, Grey backed Shrike, Hodgson’s Redstart, Laughing Thrush, Long tailed Minivet, Oriental Skylark, Oriental turtle Dove, Oriental white eye, Red rumped Swallow Rufous Sibia, Ruddy breasted Crake, Spotted throated Yuhina, White browned Fulvetta, White capped Redstart, Yellow breasted Greenfinch, Brown Dipper, Black Eagle, Blyth’s Pipit Black browed Tit, Coal Tit, Common Buzzard, Eurasian Hoopoe, Eurasian sparrow Hawk, Grey bush Chat, Grey Wagtail, Grey sided Bush Warbler, Leomn rumped Warbler, Mountain hawk Eagle, Oriental honey Buzzard, Olive backed pipit, Plumbeous water Redstart, Rusty flanked Treecreeper, Red billed Chough, Rock Pigeon Spotted laughing Thrush, Tickell’s leaf Warbler, Whiskered Yuhina, White throated laughing Thrush.

Later in the day drive to Buddha Point (Kuenselphodrang). You can pay your obeisance and offer prayers to the Buddha, the largest statue in the country and then walk around and take a glimpse of the valley.

Then drive to Gangtey across Dochula pass (3,080m) which offers most spectacular view over high peaks of eastern Himalayas.

After lunch stop at Wangdue Phodrang, continue journey eastwards through Black Mountains region. The drive is relatively shorter and there are regular stops for birding and photography along the way. The road finally enters to forest of oak and rhododendron and then broad Phobjikha valley which is one of the few glacial valleys in Bhutan.

We can make a series of brief stops to scan the river channel en route. We may see Pallas’s Gull and Pallas’s Fishing Eagle here and add a number of other species.

Evening explore fascinating Gangtey village.
Overnight at the hotel in Gangtey.(Altitude 3,000m)

Day 05 : Gangtey
The fascinating village of Gangtey sits on the ridge overlooking the large green expanse of the Phobjikha Valley. A large flock of Black-necked Cranes winters here, making this valley one of the most important wildlife reserves in the country.

birding in bhutanWe will check forest edges and explore some of the small patches of cultivation then continue our search in areas of productive forest near the end of our journey; here we will be looking for species such as:

Blood Pheasant, Satyr Tragopan and the majestic Himalayan Monal. Past highlights at this location have included Himalayan Honeyguide, Crested Kingfisher, Tibetan Serin, Short-billed Minivet and Rufous-bellied Bush-robin. Spotted Laughingthrush, Yellowish-bellied Bush-Warbler, Rusty-flanked Treecreeper, White-browed Bush Robin and White-winged Grosbeak

Afternoon visit the Gangtey Gompa: Perched on a small hill that rises from the valley floor, the Gangtey Monastery is the only Nyingmapa monastery on the western side of the Black Mountain’s and also the biggest Nyingmapa monastery in Bhutan. The Monastery is surrounded by a large village inhabited mainly by the families of the 140 Gomchens who take care of the Monastery.

Also visit Black Neck Crane Information Centre. Situated on the edge of the forest and wetland along the main road of Phobjikha valley, the black-necked crane information Centre has an observation room equipped with high power telescope and spotting scopes for catching the best view of the cranes. The centre also offers display information that outline the natural and cultural history of the area. There is a small gift shop, which sells handicrafts produced by the local people.

Overnight at the hotel in Gangtey.(Altitude 3,000m)

Day 06: Gangtey / Punakha (85 Km, Aapprox. 3 hours drive)
After breakfast, drive to Punakha. The road passes through a temperate type of leafy forest where rhododendron and magnolia bloom in March and April, then a semi tropical zone where orange trees, banana trees and cactuses are found in abundance.

Until 1955, Punakha served as capital of Bhutan and still it is winter seat of Je Khenpo, the Chief Abbot.

Before entering Punakha town en route take a short excursion to Chimi Lhakhang: Situated on a hillock in the centre of the valley, this temple is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenley, who in the late 15th century used humour, songs and outrageous behaviour to dramatise his teachings and due to this also known as ‘Divine Madman’. This temple is also known as the temple of fertility. It is widely believed that couples who do not have children and wanting one, if they pray at this temple, they are usually blessed with a child very soon.

After lunch, visit the Punakha Dzong : Built strategically at the junction of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to serve as the religious and administrative centre of the region, Punakha Dzong has played an important role in Bhutan’s history. Damaged by four catastrophic fires and an earthquake, the Dzong has been fully restored by Fourth King.

Later in the evening, visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang nunnery : Perched on a ridge amid pine trees and overlooking valleys of Punakha and Wangduephodrang, gleams the magnificent structures of Sangchhen Dorji LhuendrupLhakhang(Temple). The temple houses a 14-foot main bronze statue of Avalokiteshvara (Chenrigzigchagtongchentong). The temple complex also houses a permanent higher learning and meditation centre for nuns where, apart from religious trainings, it provides life skill training such as tailoring, embroidery, statue making and thangkha painting.

Overnight at the hotel in Punakha / Wangdue. (Altitude 1,300m)

Day 07: Punakha (Tashitang Valley Excursion)
Here, at an elevation of approximately 1,400 metres, it is noticeably warmer than at most of the elevations encountered so far on the tour. As a consequence, bird activity is at its greatest in the cooler early morning. birding in bhutan

We will spend most of the morning birding along a broad track that follows the thunderous Mo Chu River through delightful tracts of broad-leaved forest. The Mo Chu River and its stony banks and islands often harbour many of the special birds that make Himalayan rivers such a joy for birdwatchers. Plumbeous Redstarts and White-capped River Chats feed from boulders, Brown Dippers flash noisily up and down, Blue Whistling Thrushes look rather ungainly, and less demonstrative species such as River Lapwing, the giant Crested Kingfisher, Slaty-backed Forktail and Ibisbill may also be found. We will be focusing on nesting Ibisbill, the very rarely observed and globally threatened White-bellied Heron, River Lapwing, Red-headed Trogon, Grey-headed Woodpecker, Striated Bulbul, the glowing Little Niltava, all three tesias (the Chestnut-headed is a gem), Pygmy Blue-Flycatcher, Pygmy Wren-babbler, the infrequently seen and very striking Rufous-chinned Laughingthrush, Red-faced Liocichla and the stunning Scarlet Finch. The Tashitang Valley is a truly beguiling spot, full of wonderful colours and soul enriching scenery.

In the forest we may see Himalayan Swiftlet, Great Himalayan, Blue-throated and Golden-throated Barbets, Greater and Lesser Yellow-naped Woodpeckers, Maroon Oriole, Ashy and Hair-crested Drongos, and a wide variety of attractive Himalayan flycatchers, leaf warblers, flycatcher-warblers, nuthatches, flower peckers and sunbirds. Among the more unusual forest species recorded here are Bay Woodpecker, Long-tailed Broadbill, Red-headed Trogon, White-gorgetted Flycatcher and Yellow-vented Warbler, perhaps the most stunning of the leaf warblers (of the genus Phylloscopus).

We will then return to Punakha and later in the afternoon explore farther along the river, where we will be on the lookout for Ibis bill and Bar-headed Geese on the surrounding gravel beds, as well as migrants such as the lovely Ruddy Shelduck. This valley is an important migration conduit, and almost anything could turn up. If we are lucky we could also see Great Black-headed Gulls and rafts of northern ducks en route to their breeding grounds in Tibet.

Later in the afternoon, excursion to Talo village, which is scattered along the hill slopes and known for its cleanliness and hygiene among Punakha villages. Talo is the seat of the mind incarnations of the Zhabdrung. Talo Sangnacholing Dzong is built on a plateau and has majestic view of surrounding villages. The beautiful farm houses of the village have its own flower gardens and on the hill slope corns and sweet peas are grown in abundance. Spend time at Nobgang and Talo villages visiting farm houses and meeting families, experiencing Bhutanese rural life.

Also visit Nalanda Buddhist Institute. Locals call this place ‘Dalayna’ and the monks call it Nalanda Buddhist College. The Nalanda Buddhist Institute is a monastic school near the village of Talo, above the Punatsangchu river. Here you’ve opportunity to interact with monks, for knowledge on Buddhism, process of meditation.

birding in bhutanOvernight at the hotel in Punakha / Wangdue. (Altitude 1,300m)

Day 08 : Punakha / Paro (125 Km, Approx. 4 hours drive)
After breakfast, a beautiful hike takes one to the regal Khamsum Yuelley Namgel Chorten (approx. 2 hours round trip walk), 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.

Then drive back to Paro descending down from Dochu La, follow the way back up the dramatic Wang Chhu and Paro Chhu river valleys, before crossing through Paro Town towards the north end of the valley.

En route visit Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress of the country built in 1627 which now houses the School for Buddhist studies.

On arrival in Paro, check into the hotel.

Later in the evening, drive to Lango village to experience rural Bhutanese life. A visit to Farm House is very interesting and offers a good glimpse into the lifestyle of a farmer. Bhutanese farm houses are very colorful, decorative and traditionally built without the use of single nail. All houses follow the same architectural pattern.

Overnight at the hotel in Paro. (Altitude 2,280m)

Day 09 : Depart Paro by Flight
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for flight to onward destination. Our representative will assist you with exit formalities and bid you farewell.

Day 01 : Arrive Phuentsholing (Bhutan)
On arrival in Phuentsholing, met by our representative & after clearing immigration formalities, check in at the Hotel.

This frontier town is a thriving commercial centre, situated directly at the base of Himalayan foothills. It is a fascinating place where different ethnic groups mingle, prominently Indian, Bhutanese and Nepalese.

Later in the day as time permits, visit Zangtho Pelri: Situated in city centre, this small temple represents the heaven of Guru Rinpoche.

Evening explore Phuentsholing town and market.
Overnight at the hotel in Phuentsholing. (Altitude 300m)

Day 02 : Phuentsholing – Paro (175km, approx 5 hours ride)
After breakfast, ride all the way uphill to Paro. 4km ahead of Phuentsholing, stop at Kharbandi Gompa, the beautiful monastery situated in garden of tropical plants and flowers. The monastery contains paintings depicting scenes from the life of Buddha and statues of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and Guru Rimpoche. From the monastery garden there is a splendid view of Phuentsholing town, plains of West Bengal and their tea gardens beyond.

Ride further stopping en route at Gedu University for photos & visit Rinchending Monastery. Later after a short tea break nearby Chukha, resume your journey through a small town of Chimakothi further stopping at Chuzom, the confluence of Paro & Thimphu rivers.

Arrive Paro & check into the hotel. Post lunch, sightseeing in Paro includes :

Ta Dzong : One time watch tower built to defend Rinpung Dozng during inter-valley wars of the 17th century, since 1967 Ta Dzong is serving as the National Museum of the country. It holds fascinating collection of art, relics, religious thangkha paintings and Bhutan’s exquisite postage stamps. motorbike-bhutan

Rinpung Dzong : Literally meaning ‘Heap of Jewels’. Built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal , the first 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. Some of the scenes in the film Little Buddha (1993) were filmed in this Dzong.

In the evening explore local market, Bhutanese textile and handicraft shops around Paro main street.
Overnight at the hotel in Paro. (Altitude 2,280m)

Day 03 : Paro
After breakfast, walking excursion to Taktshang Monastery also known as Tiger’s Nest (approx. 5 hours round trip walk)

Taktshang Monastery : The primary lhakhang was built surrounding Guru Rimpoche’s Meditation cave in the 1684 by Gyaltse Tenzin Rabgay. This incredible monastery clings to the edge of a sheer rock cliff that plunges 900 meters into the valley below. Legend has it that Guru Padmasambhava flew here on the back of a tigress. It is about 5 hours walking excursion however, one feels truly blessed reaching the monastery.

Later take a ride to the base of Drukgyel Dzong, a ruined fortress where Bhutanese warriors fought Tibetan invaders centuries ago. The snowy dome of sacred Chomolhari, ‘mountain of goddess’ can be seen in all her glory from the approach road to the Dzong.

While returning to Paro town, on the way visit the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo. The building of this temple marks the introduction of Buddhism in Bhutan.
Overnight at the hotel in Paro. (Altitude 2,280m)

Day 04 : Paro – Haa Valley – Thimphu (185km, approx 6 hours ride)
We begin our ride today towards Thimphu, making a loop around the Chelela pass and into Haa and then to Thimphu. Climb 35 km from Paro to the Chelela pass. Located at an elevation of 3,988 meters, Chelela is considered to be one of the highest motorable passes in Bhutan. About an hour’s drive along a thickly-forested road, this Pass is a botanical paradise, providing stunning views of the sacred mountain Jomolhari and Jichu Drake. It is also marked by hundreds of prayer flags fluttering in the wind. motorbike-bhutan

Stop for lunch at Haa town and visit Lhakhang Karpo (White temple), established in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gempo and Lhakhang Nagpo (Black temple).

Then continue ride towards Thimphu crossing several villages like Karna, Jyenkana, Bitekha, on the way. The ride is beautiful with little traffic and very scenic as you drive through pine forests. Once you reach the river confluence of Thimphu and Paro, its 31 km to Thimphu on the national highway.

In the evening, if time permits discover, Trashichho Dzong (Fortress of the Glorious Religion): A Doom (Blue Stone) Dzong was built on the hill above Thimphu in 1216 by the lama Gyalwa Lhanampa. A few years later Lama Phajo Drugom Shigpo, who brought the Drukpa Kagyu lineage to Bhutan, took over Dohon Dzong. Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal (The one who unified the country) acquired the Dzong in 1641 from the descendants of lama Phajo and renamed it as Trashi Chhoe Dzong. The Dzong is the seat of the national government and the Central Monastic Body, including the summer residence of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot of Bhutan) at present.
Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu. (Altitude 2,320m)

Day 05 : Thimphu – Punakha & Wangdue (75km, approx 3 hours ride)
After breakfast, sightseeing of Thimphu valley, visiting:

Simply Bhutan : It is a living museum and studio encapsulating the rich cultural heritage of the Bhutanese people.
Changangkha Lhakhang : It is a fortress like temple and monastic school perched on a ridge above Thimphu, south of Motithang. The temple was established in 12th century on a site chosen by Lama Phajo Drugom Shigpo, who came from Tibet. The central statue here is Chenrezig in a manifestation with 11 heads. From temple courtyard, there is fascinating view of Thimphu valley.
Kuenselphodrang : A place for refreshing with a huge statue of Buddha on the top. The area also gives a very good view of the Thimphu valley from the west.

Memorial Chorten : This Chorten was built in 1974, in honour of the Third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, also known as ‘The Father of Modern Bhutan’. It is also a center of worship for the people living in Thimphu and contains many religious paintings and tantric statues.

Later biking to Punakha over Dochula Pass (3,080 m). The pass is marked by huge stupa and 108 Druk Wangyel Choetens. On clear days, it offer magnificent views of the Bhutanese Himalayas. Tea-Stop at the pass. Then resume your journey to Punakha through forests of oak, rhododendron and pine trees.
On arrival in Punakha, check into the hotel.

After lunch, explore Punakha & Wangduephodrang towns by bike and visit Punakha Dzong. This impressive Dzong was built by the Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1637 and built at the junction the Pho Chu and Mo Chu Rivers.

Then ride to road point for a short walking excursion to Chimi Lhakhang : This temple is also known as the temple of fertility and was built by Lama Drukpa Kuenley in the 15 century who is also known as the Divine Madman.
Overnight at the hotel in Punakha / Wangdue. (Altitude 1,300m)

Day 06 : Punakha & Wangdue – Gangtey (85km, approx 3 hours ride)
After breakfast, ride to Wangdue. While in Wangdue, view the restoration work of Wangduephodrang Dzong.

motorbike-bhutanThen continue discovering :
Rinchengang Village : A small clustered village in Wangduephodrang, on a hill opposite to where Wangduephodrang Dzong was built before. It is about 20 minutes hike uphill from the nearest road.

Then biking through Black Mountains to incomparable Gangtey.

While in Gangtey, sightseeing includes :
Gangtey Gompa : Gyaltse Pema Thinley, the grandson and mind reincarnation of Pema Lingpa founded the Temple in 1613, and Tenzin Legpai Dhendup, the second re-incarnation, built the temple. The present Abbot, Kunzang Pema Namgyal is the ninth re-incarnation.

Later explore Phobjikha Valley by bike. The Phobjikha Valley is one of the most beautiful glacial valleys in the Himalayas and the winter place for the endangered Black Necked Cranes. Travelling November through February shall give you the rare opportunity to see the black necked cranes.

Visit the local villages and interact with village folks.
Overnight at the hotel in Gangtey. (Altitude 3,000m)

Day 07 : Gangtey – Trongsa – Bumthang (153km, approx 6 hours ride)
Today’s ride takes us through two major passes: Pelela pass (3300m) and Yutongla pass (3400m).

After breakfast, we’ll ride through Black Mountains to Trongsa at an altitude of 2310 m, with a short stopover at Chendbji Chorten, the stupa patterned on Swyambhunath in Kathmandu. There are lots of bends, beautiful waterfalls and thick forest cover on the way. The landscape around this part of the ride is spectacular.

While in Trongsa, visit:
Trongsa Dzong : One of the most impressive Dzong in Bhutan, built by Chogyal Minjur Tempa, the official who was sent by Zhabdrung to unify Eastern Bhutan. It was enlarged at the end of the 17th century by Desi Tenzin Rabgay. Trongsa Dzong is the ancestral home of the present Royal Family.

Ta Dzong : an ancient watch tower, now converted into classy museum. The chapel inside is said to be dedicated to the Trongsa Penlop Jigme Namgyal.

Then we saddle our motor bike and cross the 3400m Yutongla pass on the way to picturesque Bumthang valley. En route, we’ll stop briefly to visit the valley to visit Yathra weaving centre.

Yathra : is the most famous textile product of Bumthang. The Chumey Valley is known for this beautiful Yathra, woven by the locals. Yathra is a hand woven fabric made from the wool of sheep or Yak. The wool is first spun into threads and then dyed before they are woven into Yathra with beautiful flower patterns and colours. The Yathra cloth is made into scarfs, jackets, table cloths and bags. Most of the women in this valley, especially in Zungye village, earn their lively hood by weaving yathra which is supplied to various towns in Bhutan.motorbike-bhutan
Overnight at the hotel in Bumthang. (Altitude 2,680m)

Day 08 : Bumthang
Bumthang is also known as the Switzerland of Bhutan, the entire valley resembles the Swiss alps but with many monasteries and prayer flags that dot the hills and pine forests. It’s a wide valley and interesting to do local rides, visiting villages and sights of cultural interests.

The visits include :
Jakar Dzong : Literally means the ‘Castle of White Bird’. The current structure was built in 1667. The Dzong is now used as administrative centre for Bumthang valley, and houses the regional monk body.

Lamey Goemba : A large palace and monastery built in 18th century by Dasho Phuntsho Wangdi.

Jambay Lhakhang : Built by King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet. It is one of the 108 monasteries built by him to subdue evil spirits in the Himalayan region. While its present architectural appearance dates from the early 20th century. In October one of the most spectacular festivals, ‘Jambay Lhakhang Drup’ is staged here.

Chakhar Lhakhang : Literally means the ‘Iron Castle’ because the original palace was made of iron and hence the name ‘Chakhar’.

Kurjey Lhakhang : Named after body print of Guru Rimpoche. The complex consists of three temple surrounded 108 chorten wall.
Tamshing Lhakhang : Literally means the ‘Temple of the Good Message’, established in 1501 by Pema Lingpa. Restored at the end of 19th century, the monastery has very ancient religious paintings like 1,000 Buddhas and 21 Taras (female form of Buddhistava).
Tangbi Goemba : Founded in 1470 by Shamar Rinpoche of Kagyupa religious school. The temple has two sanctuaries and a temple of terrifying deities.
Overnight at the hotel in Bumthang. (Altitude 2,680m)

Day 09 : Bumthang – Mongar (196km, approx 7 hours ride)
From Bumthang, we’ll be heading east to the town of Mongar. The ride to Mongar takes about 7 hours with spectacular view en route. We will ride up into the hills above the valley and then past Ura village, before climbing sharpely to the highest point on Bhutan’s motorable road network, Thrumshing-la pass (4,000m).

Visit the Ura Valley, the highest valley in Bumthang and believed by some to have been the home of the earliest inhabitants of Bhutan giving you an insight into how the central Bhutanese live. The cobbled streets of the traditional village of Ura give a medieval feel. The old women of this region still wear sheepskin shawls on their backs which double as a blanket and cushion.

From here, the road gradually descends to the alpine valley of Sengor, with wonderful views of cascading waterfalls and the hills of eastern Bhutan along the way. Vegetation changes from alpine to subtropical with the loss of height, and bamboos and luxuriant ferns overhang the road as we drop down to the valley floor. The descent stops at 700m, where we cross the Kurichu river. We ascend again through pine forests, maize fields and eastern hamlets to reach Mongar town, high on a gentle slope above the valley.

Picnic lunch on the way. The evening ends exploring the Mongar town.
Overnight at the hotel in Mongar. (Altitude 1,620m)

Day 10 : Mongar – Trashigang (96km, approx 3 hours ride)
After breakfast, visit the Mongar Dzong.
Mongar Dzong : This dzong, rebuilt in 1953, is unique as it has two entrances. There are about 60 young monks residing in this dzong. You will see the images of the Buddha of long life, as well as Guru Rinpoche and the Zhabdrung.

Then we’re going to cruise on our bikes to Trashigang via Drametsi. We’ll cross the Korila pass (2490m) and wind our way through refreshing evergreen forests in the Yadi loops. From the Kanglung Chu valley, we’ll ride up to the quiet little mountain town of Trashigang.

Late afternoon explore Trashigang town and visit its Dzong.motorbike-bhutan

Trashigang Dzong : lies on the headland of the dzongkhag that gives us the confluence of the Drangme Chhu and the Gamri Chhu. It was built by Minjur Tempa, Bhutan’s third Desi in the year 1667. The Dzong was once destroyed by fire and then rebuilt in only three years. On the Gorikha (Veranda) are the paintings of the kings and guardians of the four directions.
Overnight at the hotel in Trashigang. (Altitude 1,150m)

Day 11 : Trashigang – Samdrup Jongkhar (180km, approx 6 hours ride)
Today, we’ll tackle the last leg of Bhutan Motorcycle tour, from Trashigang to Samdrup Jongkhar. This road was completed in 1965 and the journey takes about 6 hours. Along the way, pass by Sherubtse College, the only college in country founded in 1978. Riding ahead, reach to Khaling to visit the Blind School and Weaving Centre. Deothang, 80 km from Khaling is the centre of Technical training college and road maintenance head-quarters for the east. From here the road descends fairly rapidly to the plain through a dense tropical forest with an abundance of teak, bamboo and ferns.

Evening explore Samdrup Jongkhar, followed by farewell dinner.
Overnight at the hotel in Samdrup Jongkhar. (Altitude 220m)

Day 12 : Samdrup Jongkhar – Guwahati (Assam, India)
After breakfast, transfer to Guwahati (Assam, India) (110 km, approx 2.1/2 hours drive)  airport for flight to Delhi.
On arrival, transfer to Delhi International airport for flight to onward destination.

Day 1 Arrive Paro By Flight / Paro – Thimphu By Road 56 Kms. / 1 hr. appx.
Welcome to Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Touching down at Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide upon exiting the arrival hall. Today, we will take it easy to acclimatize to the altitude. Drive to Thimphu, check in to the hotel and let’s have your first taste of Bhutanese cuisine and some light sightseeing in Thimphu if possible.

Day 2 Paro
Hike to Taktshang monastery as good acclimatisation for the trek

Drukgyal Dzong – A morning drive, north of Paro valley brings us to the ruins of Drukgyal Dzong. Built in 1647 by the great Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, father and unifier of medieval Bhutan, the Dzong was destroyed by an accidental fire and left in ruins as an evocative reminder of the great victories it was built to commemorate.Explore the ramparts and relive the memories of a glorious past.

Taktsang Monastery – A one hour hike to the cafeteria is also a vantage view whereby you can enjoy the stunning view of the monastery. Prayer flags adorn the cliff and this is also where Guru Padmasambhava landed on the back of a tigress in the 8th century.

Kyichu Lhakhang – After a sumptuous local lunch, we will retrace our steps to visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan.

Day 3 Paro – Haa Via Chelela
Today we will do another acclimatisation hike at Chele La pass. We can also visit Kila Gompa nunnery.

Drive to Haa through Chele La (3,988 m). From the pass, you can see Paro valley on one side and then Haa valley on the other. You can also have a picnic at Chele La if you like to.

In Haa, some sightseeing and then going to katsho village and visiting the Katso Lhakhang. The valley of Haa was only opened to Tourist in 2002 and Haa is the least visited valley in Bhutan due to the lack of Tourist infrastructure. This has helped in keeping Haa the way it has always been, with Bhutanese families living their traditional and simple life.

There are no tourist standard hotels in Haa valley, so we return to Paro for the night.

Day 4 – Trek Day 1: Shana to Soi Thangthangkha
Early in the morning drive about 2 hours through farm road to Shana, where you will start your trek. We ascend through the river valley and beautiful pine and rhododendron forests. Sadly much of the forest has been cut to make way for electricity to be run to Jangothang and Lingshi – the sight of fallen trees is a reminder of the cost of progress. We turn north towards Mount Jomolhari, which can be seen from the top of the valley. Our camp will be at 3680 metres.
Distance 22 km
Time 7-8 hours
Ascent Ascent 770 m, descent 10m
Camp Altitude 3,610m

Day 5 – Trek Day 2: Soi Thangthangkha to Jangothang
The trail continues to follow the river and passes a small army post where the valley begins to widen again. Views of high ridges and snow-capped peaks can be seen on all sides. At this altitude (about 4040 m) it is possible to see yaks and yak herders. Camp is beneath a ruined fortress at the base of Mount Jomolhari.
Distance 19 km
Time 5-6 hours
Ascent Ascent 480m
Camp Altitude 4,080m

Day 6 – Trek Day 3: Rest day at Jangothang
It’s possible to walk to Tsophu (sacred lakes) or hike in various directions: towards Mount Jomolhari and its subsidiary to the west, Jichu Drake to the north and unclaimed summits and ridges to the east.

Day 7 – Trek Day 4: Jangothang to Lingshi
The trail climbs gradually to Nyili La Pass (4680 m). Broad yak pastures can be seen along the length of the route. If the weather is clear, there is an excellent view of Lingshi Dzong as we descend into the Lingshi basin. Tserim Kang and its descending glaciers can be seen at the north end of the valley. We camp in a stone shelter.
Distance 18 km
Time 6-7 hours
Ascent 840 m, descent 870m
Camp Altitude 4,010m

Day 8 – Trek Day 5: Rest day at Lingshi
A day’s excursion to Tsekha (Lahe), the base camp of Jichu Drake mountain where it is possible to see blue sheep and musk deer. (Altitude about 4500 m) If you prefer, you can relax today, explore the village and visit the school. Sadly Lingshi Dzong was badly damaged in a recent earthquake and it will only be possible to visit if renovations works are complete.

Day 9 – Trek Day 6: Lingshi to Shodu
The trail ascends to the Yali La Pass (4820 m), from where Mount Jomolhari, Tserim Gang and Masa Gang can be seen on a clear day. We descend to our campsite which is situated.
Distance 22km
Time 8-9 hours
Ascent 940 m, descent 920m
Camp Altitude 4,080m

Day 10 – Trek Day 7: Shodu to Domshisa
The path follows the Thimphu Chhu (river) and through forests with rhododendrons and waterfalls, before climbing to the ruins of Barshong Dzong. Continue to follow the Thimphu Chu downhill for a couple of hours through dense rhododendron forest before emerging into pastureland at Domshisa where we can camp.
Altitude: 3400 mts
Distance: 17 kms
Time: 7 to 8 hours

Day 11 – Trek Day 8: Domshisa to Dodena and on to Thimphu
From Domshisa we climb for about an hour to a mountain meadow and over a small pass. A new farm road has been built along this stretch, so we have to walk for about 3 hours today along the rough road until we join the original trail just before the end of our trek. From here it is about an hour along the trail to Dodena where a vehicle will be waiting to collect us for the hour’s drive to Thimphu.
Distance: 9 kms
Time: 5 hours

Day 12 Thimphu – Paro By Road 56 Kms. / 1 hr. appx.
After breakafst, sightseeing of Thimphu.
Later, drive to Paro.
Overnight in Paro.

Day 13 Depart Paro
After breakfast, departure transfer to Paro Airport for flight to onward destination.

Day 01 Arrive Paro By Flight / Paro – Thimphu By Road (56 Kms. / 1 hr. appx.)
The flight into Paro on our national carrier, Druk Air, is a befitting introduction to the spectacular beauty of our country. In clear weather, magnificent views of the world’s highest peaks like Gangkar Puensum, give way to the lush green Paro valley as you land. Our guide will warmly welcome & greet you on arrival, and then drive you to the Paro Rimpung Dzong, the center of civil and religious authority in this region.

After this we will have lunch in Paro town. Then we will drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. The drive will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes along the river valley, pass small villages and traditional farmhouses, through peaceful countryside. It’s a small & charming capital city located in the heart of the Himalayas. On reaching Thimphu, visit to Tashi Chho Dzong,seat of the national government and the Central Monastic Body, including the summer residence of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot of Bhutan) and stroll around Thimphu town. Dinner and overnight stay in the hotel, Thimphu.

Day 02 Thimphu (Cycling)
After our breakfast, we will do cycling to Buddha point and visit the Tallest Buddha Statue and then we will cycle through Kuenselphodrang via Depsi till Thimmphu. Then we will ride towards Sangayang and motithang minizoo and come back via Zilukha, giving the opportunity for the perfect view. We will enjoy the ride with views of Thimphu city, through the pristine environment, fresh air and other amazing sights. Lunch will be served at Thimphu.

After lunch we will ride towards Dodedra. Evening at leisure. Dinner and over night stay at hotel Thimphu.

Day 03 Thimphu – Punakha (Cycling)
Today ride begin climbing to Dochula pass where there will be height gain of 670m up the pass. After enjoying the stop at Dochula, then we will have downhill ride to the valleys of Punakhan and Wangdi Phodrang.

At Lobesa, we will visit to Chhimi Lhakhang, the temple of fertility and then the Punakha Dzong, the most beautiful dzong in Bhutan. After this we will ride till the Kabesa village, the viewpoint to Khamsum Yule Namgyel Chhorten. Dinner and overnight stay at Punakha/Wangdi Hotel.

Day 04 Punakha – Thimphu (Cycling)
After our breakfast, we will ride from the left side of Kuruthang town via hotel Pema Karpo and the ride back to Thimphu. Lunch will be served at Dochula pass.

After lunch continue the journey to Thimphu. Evening at leisure and dinner and over night stay at hotel Thimphu. After dinner, we will have the night sightseeing like Thimphu dzong, beautifully illuminating at the night. We may also visit to some night entertain clubs and enjoy with the locals with Bhutan whisky or Bhutan Beer. Be like a local.

Day 05 Thimphu – Paro (Cycling)
After the breakfast, ride back to Paro. Lunch will be severed at Paro. After lunch, you ride towards Drukgyel or in and around Paro valley. Evening stroll around Paro town. Dinner and over night stay at Paro hotel.

Day 06 Paro
we will make a hike to Paro Taktshang Monastery, the most famous and sacred monastery in Bhutan. Taktshang means “TigerNest” named after Guru Rinpoche reportedly flew to this site riding on the back of a flying tigress in the 8th century. We have to walk about 2hours and 30minutes up steep from the road end. The trail climbs through beautiful pine forest, many of the trees festooned with Spanish moss, and an occasional grove of fluttering prayer flags. Lunch will be served at Taktshang cafeteria.

While coming back, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, it is one of the two most sacred and the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in 7th century by Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo (the 33rd Tibetan king, who is also the manifestation of avoloketeshivara, commonly known to Bhutanese as Chenrize). Evening at leisure, dinner and overnight stay at Paro Hotel

Day 07 Depart Paro (By Flight)
After our breakfast, we will drive to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. Our guide and driver will bid you farewell here at the airport. We wish you a very safe and pleasant flight for your onward destinations.

Day 01 Arrive Paro By Flight / Paro – Thimphu By Road (56 Kms. / 1 hr. appx.)
The flight into Paro on our national carrier, Druk Air, is a befitting introduction to the spectacular beauty of our country. In clear weather, magnificent views of the world’s highest peaks like Gangkar Puensum, give way to the lush green Paro valley as you land. Our guide will warmly welcome & greet you on arrival, and then to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. The drive will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes along a river valley, past small villages and traditional farmhouses, through peaceful countryside. It’s a small & charming capital city located in the heart of the Himalayas.

On reaching Thimphu, we will do a short hike, from Kuensel Phodrang to Depsi (South of Thimphu). Before we start the hike, we will visit to Tallest Buddha Statue in the world. Then we will start the hike. The hiking is more or less very easy and plain walk through the forest of Pine, Rhododendron and Oak trees. The hike will take about 1-hour 30 mins. We can see Thimphu city, Thimphu River (Wangchhu) and other adjacent towns through this hike. We can also take some fluttering prayer flags (Lungta) and hang them between two to three trees that will bring fortune, happiness and good health to every one in this world including your enemy.

Evening visit Tashi Chho Dzong, seat of the national government and the Central Monastic Body, including the summer residence of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot of Bhutan) and stroll around Thimphu town. Dinner and overnight stay in the hotel, Thimphu

Day 02 Thimphu
Sightseeing in Thimphu, visit to Memorial Chhorten, built in 1974 in the memory of third king late Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, and the temple inside gives good examples of tantric Buddhist and its philosophy. Mothithang minizoo to see the National Animal of Bhutan (Takin), Zulikha Nunnery, the Thangtong Dewachen nunnery was founded in 1976 by Rikey Jadrel and today it houses the sixty nuns engaged in Buddhist study and practices. Folk Heritage Museum, this Folk Heritage Museum is a showcase, the 19-century farmhouse and the living style of the Bhutanese family. National Library, the National Library was established in 1967 to preserve many ancient Dzongkha and Tibetan texts. Lunch in Thimphu town.

After lunch, visit Paper Factory, were Bhutanese Traditional Papers & paper products are made. Weaving Center produces hand-woven textiles on site and has a selection of cloth and ready-made garments for sale. This is one of the few places where you can watch weavers at work, and then Authentic Bhutanese handicrafts.

Evening we will visit Bhutanese Farm House for dinner and Traditional Hot Stone bath. Over night stay at Thimphu Hotel or we can organize even in Bhutanese Farm House.

Day 03 Thimphu – Punakha / Wangdi
After our breakfast, we will drive to Punakha/Wangdi. The road climbs steeply through forests of pine, hemlock spruce and rhododendrons. At Dochula Pass (3150m) you will have a breathtaking panoramic view of the Eastern Himalayan Mountain ranges. The pass is adorned with 108 small stupas and many kinds of prayer flags. Then the road descends through lush forests to the fertile valley of Punakha & Wangdi Pghodrang.

On reaching Lobesa, we will visit Chhimi Lhakhang, which is located at a hilltop. The temple is known as ‘the temple of fertility’. At Punakha, visit the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan, Punakha Dzong. After this, we will drive till the view point of Khamsum Yule Namgyle Chhorten, passing the beautiful rural landscape. Evening at leisure. Dinner and over night stay at Hotel Punakha/Wangdi.

Day 04 Punakha / Wangdi
Today we will enjoy with White Water Rafting in Punakha either of Pho-Chhu or Mo Chhu River. Dinner and over night stay at hotel Punakha.

Day 05 Punakha / Wangdi – Paro By Road (126 Kms. / 4 hrs. appx.)
After the breakfast we will drive to Paro. The road will ascend up to the great Dochula Pass. On the way back to Paro offers another chance to view the amazing Himalayan ranges. Stop along the way to take photos wherever you find the best spot for the photography. On Tacho Gang, visit Tachogang Lhakhang, founded by Thangtong Gyalpo who was a wonder-working Tibetain saint and builder of Iron Chain Briddges in Bhutan. You have to cross through the iron chain bride designed traditionally. Lunch will be served at Paro.

After lunch we will visit to Paro National Museum, it holds fascinating collections of art, relics, religious Thangka paintings and Bhutan’s exquisite postage stamps and Paro Dziong, the center of civil and religious authority in this region. Evening stroll around the Paro vally town, the valley of surpassing Beauty. Dinner and over night stay at Paro hotel.

Day 06 Paro
Toady we will make a hike to Paro Taktshang Monastery, the most famous and scared monastery in Buddhism world. Taksang means “TigerNest” named after Guru Rinpoche reportedly flew to this site riding on the back of a flying tigress late in the 9th century. We have to walk about 2hours up steep from the road end. The trail climbs through beautiful pine forest, many of the trees festooned with Spanish moss, and an occasional grove of fluttering prayer flags. Lunch will be served at Taktshang cafeteria.

On our way back, drive to the village of Drukgyel and visit the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong, built in 1649 to commemorate the victory over Tibetan invasion and Kyichu Lhakhang, it is one of the two most sacred and the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in 7th century by Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo (the 33rd Tibetan king, who is also the manifestation of avoloketeshivara, commonly known to Bhutanese as Chenrize). Evening at leisure, dinner and over night stay at Paro Hotel

Day 07 Depart Paro By Flight
After our breakfast, we will drive to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. Our guide and driver will bid you farewell here at the airport. We wish you a very safe and pleasant flight for your onward destinations.

Day 01 Arrive Paro
On arrival at Paro International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome & greet you. Then we will drive to Paro town for lunch. After lunch we will visit to Paro National Museum and Paron Dzong. Then we can drive along the Paro river to see which place is good for tomorrow’s fishing. Stroll around Paro town. Dinner and over night stay at Paro Hotel.

Day 02 Paro – Haa   By Road    (64 Kms. / 2 hrs. appx.)
We will do fishing in Paro until lunch time. After lunch we will drive to Haa over Chelela Pass. The pass is the highest pass in Bhutan, where car can take us. On reaching Haa, we will visit Haa Lhakhang Karpo and Lhkhang Nagpo . Evening stroll around the Haa town. Dinner and over night stay at Haa Hotel.

Day 03 Haa – Thimphu   By Road     (104 Kms. / 3 hrs. appx.)
Today we will do Fishing in Haa River until lunchtime. After lunch we will drive to Thimphu. Evening stroll around Thimphu town. Dinner and overnight stay at Thimphu hotel.

Day 04 Thimphu
Sightseeing in Thimphu like visit to Memorial Chorten, built in 1974 in memory of third king Jigme Dorji Wangchuk and the temple inside gives good examples of tantric Buddhist and its philosophy. Mothithang mini-zoo, to see the National Animal of Bhutan (Takin). The Takin (Budorcas Taxicolor) which is the National Animal of Bhutan is attributed to a legend of the animal’s creation in Bhutan in the 15th century by Lama Drukpa Kunley. BBS tower, Nunnery – the Thangtong Dewachen nunnery was founded in 1976 by Rikey Jadrel and today it houses the sixty nuns engaged in Buddhist study and practices. Folk Heritage Museum, this Folk Heritage Museum is a showcase, the 19-century farmhouse and the living style of the Bhutanese family. Lunch will be served at Thimphu restaurant.

After lunch we will visit to tallest Buddha Statue in the world. Then we will start the hike. The hiking is more or less very easy and plain walk through the forest of Pine, Rhododendron and Oak trees. The hike will take about 1-hour 30 mins. We can see Thimphu city, Thimphu River (Wangchhu) and other adjacent towns through this hike. We can also take some fluttering prayer flags (Lungta) and hang them between two to three trees that will bring fortune, happiness and good health to every one in this world including your enemy.

Evening visit Tashi Chho Dzong, seat of the national government and the Central Monastic Body, including the summer residence of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot of Bhutan) and stroll around Thimphu town. Dinner and overnight stay at Thimphu Hoel.

Day 05 Thimphu
Whole day Fishing in Thimphu River.

Day 06 Thimphu – Punakha – Thimphu  (85 Kms / 3 hrs appx) (One Way)
After our breakfast, we will drive to Punakha/Wangdi. The road climbs steeply through forests of pine, hemlock spruce and rhododendrons. At Dochula Pass (3150m) you will have a breathtaking panoramic view of the Eastern Himalayan Mountain ranges. The pass is adorned with 108 small stupas and many kinds of prayer flags. Then the road descends through lush forests to the fertile valley of Punakha & Wangdi Phodrang.

On reaching Lobesa, we will visit Chhimi Lhakhang, which is located at a hilltop. The temple is known as ‘the temple of fertility’. At Punakha, visit the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan, Punakha Dzong. Lunch will be served at Punakha. Then we will drive back to Thimphu. Evening we will visit to Bhutanese Farmhouse for overnight stay and hot stone bath with local drinks.

Day 07 Thimphu – Paro  By Road   (56 Kms. / 1 hr. appx.)
We will drive to Paro and hike to Paro Taktshang Monastery , the most famous and scared monastery in Buddhism world. Taksang means “Tiger’s Nest” named after Guru Rinpoche who reportedly flew to this site riding on the back of a flying tigress late in the 9th century. We have to walk about 2hours up steep from the road end. The trail climbs through beautiful pine forest, many of the trees festooned with Spanish moss, and an occasional grove of fluttering prayer flags. Lunch will be served at Taktshang cafeteria.

On our way back, drive to the village of Drukgyel and visit the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong, built in 1649 to commemorate the victory over Tibetan invasion and Kyichu Lhakhang, it is one of the two most sacred and the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in 7th century by Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo (the 33rd Tibetan king, who is also the manifestation of avoloketeshivara, commonly known to Bhutanese as Chenrize). Evening stroll around the Paro valley town, the valley of surpassing Beauty. Dinner and over night stay at Paro Hotel.

Day 08 Depart Paro
After our breakfast, we will drive to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. Our guide and driver will bid you farewell here at the airport. We wish you a very safe and pleasant flight for your onward destinations.