TRIP HIGHLIGHTS -:
Ema Datshi – Bhutan’s Signature Dish
Experience the essence of Bhutanese cuisine with Ema Datshi, a fiery blend of fresh chilies and creamy local cheese (Datshi). This iconic dish, enjoyed in every home and eatery, comes in delightful variations—enhanced with green beans, mushrooms, potatoes, or even wild ferns. Some versions swap cow cheese for yak cheese, adding a rich, smoky depth.
Momos – The Himalayan Dumpling
Soft, steamed or fried Tibetan-style dumplings, Momos are a Bhutanese favorite. Stuffed with succulent pork, beef, or a vegetarian mix of cabbage and cheese, they are best enjoyed with a side of fiery chili sauce.
Phaksha Paa – Fiery Pork Stew
A hearty pork dish, slow-cooked with red chilies and radish, offering a perfect balance of spice and tenderness.
Jasha Maru – Zesty Chicken Delight
A spicy minced chicken dish, simmered with tomatoes, garlic, and aromatic spices, traditionally served with Bhutan’s signature red rice.
Suja – Butter Tea Tradition
This salty, buttery tea is a staple in Bhutanese households, offering warmth and energy, especially in colder regions.
Ara – Bhutan’s Indigenous Brew
Made from fermented rice or maize, Ara is a local spirit enjoyed during festivals and social gatherings, often served warm with egg or butter.
Thimphu Weekend Market – A Cultural Feast
For an authentic local experience, visit Thimphu’s bustling weekend market (Thursday–Sunday). Farmers from across Bhutan gather here to sell fresh organic produce, herbs, incense, textiles, and local delicacies, offering a true taste of Bhutanese life.
DAY-: 1 ARRIVAL IN PARO
As your flight descends into Paro, the towering Himalayas, including the sacred Gangkar Puensum, reveal Bhutan’s untouched beauty. Below, emerald valleys, whitewashed monasteries, and golden rice terraces create a mesmerizing landscape.
Your Authentic Bhutan Tours guide warmly welcomes you, leading a scenic drive through pine-covered hills to Thimphu. A traditional Bhutanese lunch introduces you to flavors like Ema Datshi and Jasha Maroo.
Our journey begins at the National Memorial Chorten, where devotees murmur prayers, followed by a visit to the Buddha Dordenma, a 51.5-meter golden statue offering sweeping valley views. As dusk falls, Tashichho Dzong, Bhutan’s political and spiritual center, glows in golden light.
An evening stroll through Thimphu unveils a blend of tradition and modern vibrance—markets, handcrafted treasures, and butter tea. Finally, a cozy boutique hotel welcomes us for a comforting Bhutanese dinner, marking the start of an unforgettable adventure.
DAY :- 2 THIMPHU STAY
After breakfast, we begin exploring Thimphu, blending tradition and modernity. At the Post Office, create a personalized Bhutanese stamp to send home. Next, visit a traditional papermaking workshop, where artisans craft Deh-sho paper using ancient methods. At the Weaving Center, watch women skillfully create intricate textiles.
Lunch is served at a local restaurant before visiting Drupthop Dewachen Nunnery, a peaceful sanctuary founded in 1976. At the Takin Reserve, encounter Bhutan’s unique national animal, a symbol of local folklore.
In the afternoon, experience rural life at a traditional farmhouse, where we learn to cook Bhutan’s signature dish, Ema Datshi (chili & cheese), along with Pasha Paa (dried pork and turnip leaves). We enjoy our homemade meal with farm-fresh red rice. For a deeper connection, an overnight farmhouse stay offers an authentic glimpse into Bhutanese life and hospitality.
DAY -: 3 THIMPHU TO PUNAKHA
After breakfast, we embark on a scenic drive to Punakha/Wangdi, ascending through forests of pine, hemlock, spruce, and rhododendron. At Dochula Pass (3,150m), enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the Eastern Himalayas, framed by 108 chortens and fluttering prayer flags.
Descending into the lush Punakha Valley, we stop at Chimi Lhakhang, the revered “Temple of Fertility”, perched on a hilltop. Lunch awaits at a charming restaurant in Lobesa.
In Punakha, explore the majestic Punakha Dzong, Bhutan’s most stunning fortress, set at the confluence of two rivers. Later, drive through picturesque countryside to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten viewpoint, offering a serene escape amidst terraced rice fields.
Spend the evening at leisure, soaking in the tranquility of Punakha. Dinner and overnight stay at a comfortable hotel in Punakha.
DAY -: 4 PUNAKHA TO BHUMTHANG
After a hearty breakfast, embark on a mesmerizing journey to Bumthang, crossing the majestic Pelela and Yotongla passes. Along the way, pause at Chendebji Chhorten, a 19th-century stupa built to subdue an evil spirit, its design reminiscent of Kathmandu’s Swayambhunath. In Trongsa, delve into Bhutan’s rich history at the Tower of Trongsa, where sacred relics and royal artifacts narrate the country’s past.
The road winds through lush rhododendron, conifer, and oak forests before revealing the breathtaking Chumey Valley, the first of Bumthang’s four valleys. As Jakar Dzong emerges in the distance, the road descends into Chamkhar, a serene landscape of cultivated fields and traditional homes. End the day with an authentic Bhutanese farmhouse stay, where the warmth of local hospitality, a traditional dinner, and the rustic charm of village life immerse you in Bhutan’s timeless culture.
DAY -: 5 BHUMTHANG SIGHTSEING
Bumthang, the spiritual heart of Bhutan, unfolds its timeless charm as we explore its sacred sites. Our day begins at Kurjey Lhakhang, where the revered body imprint of Guru Rinpoche is enshrined within an ancient temple. Next, we visit Tamshing Lhakhang, a 1501 monastery founded by Terton Pema Lingpa, the legendary treasure revealer.
A scenic drive takes us to Tang Valley, where the mystical Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake) holds centuries-old legends. Lunch will be a delightful affair—either a cozy farmhouse meal or a scenic hot picnic lunch. In the afternoon, we pay homage at Jambay Lhakhang, a 7th-century temple steeped in history.
As the day winds down, we indulge in a traditional hot-stone bath, followed by an immersive culinary experience—learning to prepare Bumthang Khuley and Puta. The rich flavors of Bhutanese cuisine will linger, perhaps inspiring new dishes to recreate back home.
DAY -: 6 BHUMTHANG TO PHOBJIKHA
After breakfast, we embark on a journey to the untouched beauty of Phobjikha Valley, a glacial haven and winter sanctuary for the rare black-necked cranes. Nestled on the fringes of Black Mountain National Park, this conservation area offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s pristine wilderness. A delightful lunch en route fuels us for the day’s explorations.
Arriving in Gangtey, we visit the revered Gangtey Goenpa Lhakhang, a spiritual heart of the Nyingma tradition, exuding tranquility. Then, we set off on the Gangtey Nature Trail, a gentle hike through pine forests and rolling meadows, unveiling breathtaking valley panoramas.
As twilight sets in, we retreat to our cozy hotel in Phobjikha, where a special culinary treat awaits—Phobjikha’s famous potato dishes, a regional delicacy. Savoring the rich, earthy flavors, we immerse ourselves in the valley’s warmth and simplicity, making this night in Bhutan’s hidden paradise truly unforgettable.
DAY-: 7 PHOBJIKHA TO HAA VALLEY
After breakfast, we set off on a scenic drive back to Paro, descending through Wangdue Valley before ascending through forests of pine, hemlock, spruce, and rhododendrons. At Dochula Pass (3,150m), we pause to admire the breathtaking panorama of the Eastern Himalayas, framed by 108 stupas and fluttering prayer flags. A peaceful lunch at Dochula Café or en route sets the tone for the journey ahead.
Continuing to Haa, Bhutan’s least-visited yet most culturally preserved valley, we embrace its rustic charm with an overnight camping experience, a stay at a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse, or a cozy hotel.
The evening unfolds with a culinary immersion in a local home, where we prepare Hoentey (steamed buckwheat dumplings with cheese and dried turnip leaves), savor Suja (butter tea), and indulge in the beloved Ema Datshi (chili cheese)—a perfect blend of tradition, warmth, and authentic Bhutanese hospitality.
DAY-: 8 HAA TO PARO
After breakfast, we explore Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple) and Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple), two sacred sites deeply rooted in Bhutanese mythology. Immersing ourselves in the serene beauty and spiritual ambiance, we then take a leisurely stroll through Haa town, experiencing its untouched charm and local way of life.
Next, we embark on a scenic drive to Paro, stopping at Chelela Pass (3,988m)—Bhutan’s highest motorable pass. Here, we enjoy a picnic lunch amidst breathtaking mountain views, with colorful prayer flags dancing in the wind. A short hike to the pass’s summit rewards us with panoramic vistas, and on clear days, glimpses of Mount Jomolhari and Mount Jichu Drake.
Upon arrival in Paro, we unwind with a relaxed stroll through the town, soaking in its vibrant culture and traditional architecture. The day concludes with a delightful Bhutanese dinner and a peaceful overnight stay at a charming hotel in Paro.
DAY-: 9 PARO SIGHTSEING
After breakfast, we drive to Ramthangka, the starting point for our Tiger’s Nest Monastery hike. A pony ride takes us to the Taktshang Cafeteria, offering breathtaking views of this sacred cliffside monastery, perched 900m above the valley floor. Those who wish can continue the 1.5-hour hike up to the monastery, while others can relax at the cafeteria and admire the stunning landscape. Lunch is served here, amidst the serenity of the mountains.
Descending, we visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. The temple radiates a profound spiritual presence.
As the day winds down, a leisurely stroll through Paro Valley reveals its timeless beauty. Finally, we retreat to Le Méridien Paro, where a delightful Bhutanese dinner awaits, marking the perfect end to an extraordinary day.
DAY-: 10 DEPARTURE FROM PARO
After a hearty Bhutanese breakfast, we embark on our final drive to Paro International Airport. As the journey through this mystical land comes to an end, your guide and driver will bid you a warm farewell, reflecting on the unforgettable memories created along the way.
With hearts full of experiences and spirits touched by Bhutan’s beauty and serenity, we wish you a safe and pleasant journey to your next destination.
Thank You & Tashi Delek!