Duration: 9 Nights / 10 Days
This 10-day itinerary is designed with a relaxed, senior-friendly pace, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience in Bhutan with plenty of opportunities for cultural immersion, scenic exploration, and rest.
Tour Highlights:
- Comfortable Travel: The tour features short to moderate drives each day (maximum 5 hours) with scenic breaks and photo opportunities to ensure a relaxed journey.
- Leisurely Pace: Extended stays in Thimphu, Gangtey, Punakha, and Paro allow plenty of time to rest, explore at your own pace, and avoid feeling rushed.
- Minimal Walking: Most attractions are easily accessible with minimal walking required, ensuring comfort for senior citizens.
- Cultural and Scenic Exploration: Enjoy Bhutan’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage without strenuous activities, including visits to Punakha Dzong, Gangtey Monastery, Haa Valley, and Kyichu Lhakhang.
- Tranquil Destinations: Bhutan’s peaceful environment, particularly in Gangtey and Punakha, ensures a relaxing experience with opportunities for quiet reflection.
Day 1: Arrival at Paro – Drive to Thimphu (2 Nights)
- Arrival at Paro International Airport: Your guide will meet you upon arrival.
- Drive to Thimphu (approx. 1 hours), enjoying scenic views along the way.
- Check in to your hotel in Thimphu and relax.
- Enjoy a relaxed evening exploring Thimphu town or resting at the hotel.
- Overnight stay in Thimphu.
Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing
- Buddha Dordenma Statue: Visit the giant golden Buddha statue for panoramic views of Thimphu Valley. This is an easy and leisurely visit.
- Memorial Chorten: A peaceful stupa with minimal walking required. It’s a great spot to observe local rituals and enjoy serenity.
- Tashichho Dzong: A beautiful fortress-monastery set amidst lush gardens, accessible by a short stroll.
- Overnight stay in Thimphu.
Day 3: Thimphu – Drive to Gangtey (2 Nights)
- After breakfast, drive to Gangtey (approx. 3-4 hours). The scenic drive will have regular stops for breaks and photo opportunities.
- Upon arrival in Gangtey, check into your hotel and relax in this peaceful valley.
- Overnight stay in Gangtey.
Day 4: Gangtey Sightseeing
- Gangtey Monastery: Visit the monastery that offers breathtaking views of the valley. The site is easily accessible and provides a serene atmosphere.
- Phobjikha Valley: Take a relaxed walk or drive through the valley to explore the beauty of the area, famous for being a winter habitat for the endangered black-necked cranes.
- Enjoy the peaceful environment of Gangtey, with plenty of time for relaxation and reflection.
- Overnight stay in Gangtey.
Day 5: Gangtey – Drive to Punakha (2 Nights)
- After breakfast, drive to Punakha (approx. 3 hours), with stops along the way for comfort and scenic views.
- Upon arrival, check into your hotel in Punakha and relax.
- In the evening, you may take a light stroll around Punakha town or rest at the hotel.
- Overnight stay in Punakha.
Day 6: Punakha Sightseeing
- Punakha Dzong: Visit Bhutan’s most iconic dzong, located at the confluence of two rivers. The grounds are easy to walk around, and you can enjoy the peace and beauty of the structure.
- Chimi Lhakhang: A short drive and a relaxed walk to this fertility temple, surrounded by beautiful fields and peaceful countryside.
- In the afternoon, relax at your hotel or explore Punakha town.
- Overnight stay in Punakha.
Day 7: Punakha – Drive to Paro (3 Nights)
- After breakfast, drive to Paro (approx. 3 hours), enjoying the scenic journey with plenty of stops for rest and photos.
- Upon arrival in Paro, check in to your hotel and relax for the evening.
- Overnight stay in Paro.
Day 8: Paro Sightseeing – Haa Valley & Chelela Pass
- Day trip to Haa Valley & Chelela Pass (approx. 2 hours one way). The drive is comfortable, with plenty of stops for breaks.
- Chelela Pass: Enjoy spectacular views of the Himalayas. The area is easily accessible with moderate walking opportunities, ideal for a relaxed experience.
- Haa Valley: Known for its untouched natural beauty, Haa Valley offers a calm and peaceful experience with minimal walking involved.
- Return to Paro by evening.
- Overnight stay in Paro.
Day 9: Paro Sightseeing – Paro Rinpung Dzong & Kyichu Lhakhang
- Paro Rinpung Dzong: Explore this beautiful fortress-monastery with stunning views of the Paro Valley. The walk around the dzong is easy, and you can enjoy the scenery.
- Kyichu Lhakhang: One of Bhutan’s oldest and most important temples, offering a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
- Optional: Visit the National Museum of Bhutan or enjoy some free time in Paro town.
- Relax for the rest of the day, with a gentle walk around town or simply unwind.
- Overnight stay in Paro.
Day 10: Departure from Paro
- Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a relaxing morning in Paro.
- Transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure.
- Bid farewell to Bhutan, filled with beautiful memories.