Duration: 11 Nights / 12 Days
This 12-day itinerary ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience for senior citizens, combining cultural experiences, scenic beauty, and relaxation in one of the world’s most peaceful destinations.
Tour Highlights:
- Comfortable Travel: The itinerary involves a relaxed pace with comfortable, scenic drives each day. Most journeys are 3-6 hours with regular breaks for rest.
- Leisurely Pace: Extended stays in Thimphu, Punakha, Bumthang, Gangtey, and Paro allow for a relaxed experience. No rushing between locations ensures plenty of time to rest and explore at your own pace.
- Minimal Walking: Most attractions are accessible with minimal walking, ensuring comfort for senior citizens.
- Cultural and Scenic Exploration: The itinerary includes a combination of Bhutan’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, with visits to dzongs, monasteries, and serene valleys.
- Tranquil Destinations: Bhutan’s peaceful, natural environment in places like Gangtey, Haa Valley, and Punakha ensures a calm and relaxing experience.
Day 1: Arrival at Paro – Drive to Thimphu (2 Nights)
- Arrival at Paro International Airport: Your guide will greet you at the airport.
- Drive to Thimphu (approx. 1 hours) along scenic roads with photo stops and rest breaks.
- Check-in to your hotel in Thimphu and take time to relax.
- In the evening, enjoy a light walk around Thimphu town or relax at the hotel.
- Overnight stay in Thimphu.
Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing
- Buddha Dordenma Statue: Visit the giant golden Buddha for beautiful views of the valley. The area is easily accessible and requires minimal walking.
- Memorial Chorten: A peaceful spot where you can observe the daily prayers and rituals. The surroundings are quiet and comfortable for strolling.
- Tashichho Dzong: This iconic fortress-monastery is surrounded by gardens, with easy access and a relaxed pace.
- Overnight stay in Thimphu.
Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha (2 Nights)
- After breakfast, drive from Thimphu to Punakha (approx. 2.5-3 hours). Enjoy scenic views along the way and take breaks as needed.
- Check into your hotel in Punakha and relax.
- If time permits, take a gentle walk around Punakha town or rest at your hotel.
- Overnight stay in Punakha.
Day 4: Punakha Sightseeing
- Punakha Dzong: Visit this magnificent dzong, located at the confluence of two rivers. The grounds are easy to explore, and you can enjoy the stunning views.
- Chimi Lhakhang: A short, leisurely drive and walk to this peaceful fertility temple, set in beautiful surroundings.
- In the afternoon, enjoy some relaxation time or take a stroll in Punakha town.
- Overnight stay in Punakha.
Day 5: Punakha to Bumthang (2 Nights)
- After breakfast, embark on the drive to Bumthang (approx. 4-5 hours), a long but scenic journey. Frequent breaks will be taken to ensure comfort.
- Upon arrival, check into your hotel in Bumthang.
- Overnight stay in Bumthang.
Day 6: Bumthang Sightseeing
- Jakar Dzong: Visit this impressive fortress, offering panoramic views of Bumthang Valley. The area is easy to access and not strenuous.
- Kurjey Lhakhang: One of the most important temples in Bhutan, with a peaceful setting. The walk around the temple is gentle and enjoyable.
- Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake): Visit this sacred lake, famous for its spiritual significance. The walk to the lake is comfortable and scenic.
- Overnight stay in Bumthang.
Day 7: Bumthang to Gangtey (2 Nights)
- After breakfast, drive to Gangtey (approx. 4 hours), stopping along the way for scenic views and breaks.
- Upon arrival, check in to your hotel in Gangtey and relax.
- Overnight stay in Gangtey.
Day 8: Gangtey Sightseeing
- Gangtey Monastery: Visit this important monastery located on a hilltop with stunning views of the Phobjikha Valley. The area is easily accessible with a short walk.
- Phobjikha Valley: Explore the valley, which is famous for its black-necked cranes (in winter) and beautiful scenery. The walk through the valley is gentle and peaceful.
- Enjoy time to relax in the tranquil atmosphere of Gangtey.
- Overnight stay in Gangtey.
Day 9: Gangtey to Paro (3 Nights)
- After breakfast, drive from Gangtey to Paro (approx. 4-5 hours), with scenic stops along the way.
- Upon arrival in Paro, check in to your hotel and unwind.
- In the evening, take a light stroll around Paro town or relax at your hotel.
- Overnight stay in Paro.
Day 10: Paro Sightseeing – Haa Valley & Chelela Pass
- Day trip to Haa Valley and Chelela Pass (approx. 2 hours one way). The drive is scenic, and there will be plenty of breaks for relaxation and photos.
- Chelela Pass: Enjoy the spectacular views of the Himalayan range. It’s a peaceful spot, with easy access and light walking options.
- Haa Valley: A beautiful, serene valley known for its untouched nature. This is a relaxed visit with minimal walking, allowing you to enjoy the natural surroundings.
- Return to Paro by the evening.
- Overnight stay in Paro.
Day 11: Paro Sightseeing
- Paro Rinpung Dzong: Explore this beautiful fortress-monastery overlooking the Paro Valley. The area is easy to walk around and offers great views.
- Kyichu Lhakhang: One of Bhutan’s oldest temples, known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings.
- Optional: Visit the National Museum of Bhutan, or take the rest of the day to relax at your leisure.
- Overnight stay in Paro.
Day 12: Departure from Paro
- Enjoy a relaxed morning in Paro, depending on your flight schedule.
- Transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure.
- Bid farewell to Bhutan, carrying beautiful memories of your trip.