TOUR HIGHLIGHTS -:
This immersive Bhutan experience blends breathtaking landscapes, cultural exploration, and spiritual encounters. Begin in Thimphu, the capital city, where traditional monasteries, vibrant markets, and hidden cafés offer a glimpse into Bhutanese life. Travel to Punakha, known for its majestic dzong and serene valley views. Explore the remote Haa Valley, an untouched region rich in local traditions and natural beauty.
The adventure continues with high-altitude trekking, from the sacred Bumdrak Monastery to the legendary Tiger’s Nest. Each day brings encounters with Bhutan’s deep-rooted Buddhist heritage, whether through monastery visits, cooking classes, or meditation sessions. A perfect balance of culture, cuisine, and nature, this journey offers an authentic and unforgettable experience in the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
Day 1: Arrival in Thimphu – Culture & Cuisine
Arrive at Paro International Airport and drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s charming capital. Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese street-food experience with fresh momos and spicy ezay. Explore Thimphu’s cultural sites, including Buddha Dordenma and the Folk Heritage Museum. Stroll through the Craft Bazaar, discovering local textiles and handicrafts. In the evening, enjoy a private Bhutanese banquet with home-cooked specialties like ema datshi and phaksha paa. Meet Shellie Froidevaux, who will share insights into Bhutanese cuisine. Savor traditional beverages such as suja and ara while immersing in Bhutanese hospitality. Settle into your hotel, preparing for the journey ahead.
Day 2: Journey to Punakha – Temples & Tastes
Begin the day at Buddha Dordenma for a peaceful morning, followed by a nature walk through pine forests. Enjoy a curated picnic breakfast by Chef Tashi, featuring Bhutanese buckwheat pancakes and butter tea. Drive to Punakha, stopping at Dochula Pass for panoramic Himalayan views. Visit a local rice farm and learn the art of making puffed rice cakes. Arrive in Punakha, where the valley’s warmer climate welcomes you. In the evening, enjoy a comforting meal at Raven’s Restaurant, featuring Bhutanese curries and lentil stew. Unwind and prepare for the cultural discoveries ahead.
Day 3: Punakha – Dzongs, Farmhouse Feast & River Walks
Start the day with a visit to Punakha Dzong, a stunning fortress at the confluence of two rivers. Marvel at its intricate murals and sacred relics. Travel to a private farmhouse for an authentic Bhutanese feast, featuring farm-fresh dishes like hoentay and ema datshi. Engage with local farmers and artisans, learning about Bhutan’s rich textile traditions. Later, take a scenic walk through lush rice paddies and cross Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge. Enjoy the peaceful river views before returning to the hotel for a relaxing evening, reflecting on the day’s cultural and culinary experiences.
Day 4: Phobjikha – Monasteries, Wildlife & Mountain Passes
Start the morning with a birdwatching walk, spotting Himalayan species along the riverside. Visit a local market to select fresh ingredients for a picnic lunch. Drive through rhododendron forests, stopping at Lawa La Pass to see nomadic yak herders. Arrive in the glacial Phobjikha Valley, home to the endangered black-necked cranes. Visit Gangtey Monastery, a 17th-century Buddhist center, and witness monks engaged in prayer. Explore the peaceful valley, absorbing its untouched beauty. End the day with a cozy stay in Phobjikha, surrounded by pristine nature and Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes.
Day 5: Phobjikha – Village Life & Nature Walks
Visit a potato farming village, interacting with locals and learning about rural Bhutanese life. Share printed photos from previous visits with local children. Sit with a village family, sipping butter tea and listening to their stories. Participate in a cooking demonstration of ema datshi with Chef Tashi, using fresh valley ingredients. After lunch, embark on the Gangtey Nature Trail, a gentle walk through bamboo forests and open fields. Observe black-necked cranes in their natural habitat. As the sun sets, return to the hotel for a peaceful evening, reflecting on the beauty of Phobjikha.
Day 6: Return to Thimphu – Hidden Cafés & Cultural Gems
Drive back to Thimphu, stopping for tea and mountain views at Dochula Pass. Upon arrival, explore hidden cafés serving local delicacies like buckwheat cookies and butter tea. Visit the National Textile Museum to learn about Bhutan’s intricate weaving traditions. Spend the afternoon at the bustling Centenary Farmers Market, sampling fresh produce and unique snacks. In the evening, enjoy a special Bhutanese hot stone bath, a traditional healing practice. Dine at a local restaurant featuring seasonal farm-to-table dishes, then unwind at your hotel, preparing for the next day’s culinary adventures.
Day 7: Exploring Thimphu – Market, Monastery & Cooking Class
Start the morning at the lively weekend market, where farmers sell organic vegetables, yak cheese, and handcrafted spices. Visit a traditional paper-making factory to see artisans at work. After lunch, explore the sacred Tango Monastery, set in a tranquil forested valley. Return to Thimphu for a private cooking class with Chef Tashi, learning to prepare authentic Bhutanese dishes like suja and puta noodles. Savor your creations in a cozy setting, paired with homemade ara. Spend the evening strolling through Thimphu’s charming streets, enjoying the city’s relaxed ambiance.
Day 8: Journey to Haa via Chele La Pass – Picnic & Village Life
Drive to Haa Valley, stopping at Chele La Pass, Bhutan’s highest motorable point, for a breathtaking picnic with views of the Himalayas. Explore Katsho Village, visiting its traditional farmhouses and Katsho Lhakhang, a serene temple steeped in history. Learn about Haa’s unique culture, which has remained largely untouched by tourism. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon walk through barley fields, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Return to Paro for an evening of relaxation at your hotel, preparing for the upcoming treks.
Day 9: Trekking to Bumdrak Monastery – Sacred Peaks & High-Altitude Campsite
Begin the trek from Sangchoekor Buddhist College, ascending through blue pine forests to reach Bumdrak Monastery at 3,800 meters. Along the way, enjoy sweeping views of the Paro Valley. Upon arrival, explore the sacred site, known for its angelic footprints and spiritual energy. A warm picnic lunch awaits on the temple’s terrace, surrounded by fluttering prayer flags. Settle into the high-altitude campsite, where the crisp mountain air and serene surroundings create a magical overnight experience.
Day 10: Bumdrak to Tiger’s Nest – Spiritual Descent & Iconic Monastery
Wake up to a stunning sunrise over the Himalayas before beginning the descent through ancient rhododendron forests. Stop at the mystical gardens of Sangtopelri before reaching Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliffside. Explore this sacred Buddhist site, absorbing its peaceful energy. After a fulfilling morning, descend further to the valley floor, where a vehicle will take you back to your hotel in Paro. Enjoy a well-earned evening of rest, reminiscing about the incredible trek.
Day 11: Paro – Dzongs, Farm-to-Table Dining & Traditional Arts
Visit Paro Dzong, a stunning fortress overlooking the valley, followed by a walk across the iconic wooden bridge. Explore a local farmhouse, where you’ll join a family for a farm-to-table cooking experience, learning to make dishes like hoentay and khule. After lunch, try your hand at traditional Bhutanese archery, the national sport. In the afternoon, unwind at a spa, indulging in a traditional hot oil massage. As the trip nears its end, enjoy a farewell dinner featuring a curated tasting menu celebrating Bhutan’s rich culinary heritage.
Day 12: Departure – Final Blessings & Farewell
On the last morning, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, to receive a final blessing for safe travels. Spend a peaceful moment in its serene courtyard, reflecting on your journey. Before heading to the airport, enjoy a light breakfast with fresh mountain tea. Transfer to Paro International Airport for departure, carrying memories of Bhutan’s landscapes, flavors, and warm hospitality.
