Bhutan Cultural And Village Hikes Tour-In essence, this journey is designed to offer a well-rounded and authentic experience of Bhutan. It allows you to engage with the people, nature, and culture of this unique Himalayan kingdom without the need for strenuous trekking, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply seeking a meaningful travel experience, this tour is bound to leave you with unforgettable memories of Bhutan.
Exploring Bhutan through the “Village Hikes and Cultural Tours” offers a unique and authentic experience that allows you to connect with the country’s people, nature, and culture in a meaningful way. Here are some key aspects of this journey:
Engaging with Locals: One of the highlights of this trip is the opportunity to interact with Bhutanese locals, including monks, nuns, and host families. This provides a deeper understanding of their way of life, traditions, and spirituality.
Scenic Hikes: While not requiring strenuous trekking, you’ll still get to explore Bhutan’s beautiful landscapes through short hikes on ancient forest trails. The breathtaking views and serene surroundings make for a memorable experience.
Cultural Immersion: The tour takes you to remote villages and cultural sites, providing insights into Bhutanese culture and heritage. You’ll have the chance to witness traditional ceremonies and rituals.
Local Cuisine: Trying local food is an essential part of the journey. Bhutanese cuisine offers a unique blend of flavors, often featuring rice, vegetables, and chili peppers. This culinary experience adds to your understanding of Bhutanese culture.
Traditional Hot Stone Bath: Enjoying a traditional hot stone bath is a cultural and relaxation experience rolled into one. It’s a unique way to unwind and rejuvenate after your daytime adventures.
Creating Lasting Connections: Spending a night with a host family is a highlight of the journey. It provides a genuine and personal connection with the Bhutanese people, allowing you to learn from them and share your own experiences.
Suggested Tour
Day 1 : Arrive & drive to Thimphu (1 Hours Drive / 55 Km)
Upon arrival, you will be welcome by our representatives and transferred to Capital city Thimphu. Sightseeing includes visits to Memorial Chorten, Tashi Choe Dzong, the seat of government. Overnight at Thimphu in Hotel
Day 2 : Thimphu Guided Heritage and Cultural Tour
In the morning drive north of Thimphu to make Hike to tango about 2 hours. The hike is through mostly oak trees. You have the option to walk the old trail or a series of steps which have been made recently. This hike will take you to a beautiful monastery. Upon return visit a to local village of Kabisa Or Babina, which gives the first glimpse of Bhutanese village life. Later in afternoon we will tour some interest sights in capital, where we will visit Folk Heritage Museum, Textile Academy, Colorful Farmer’s Market and Changlimithang ground for opportune moment to spectate Archery in progress.
Day 3 : Thimphu-Punakha/Wangdue/Gangtey Approx. Alt: 2900 m. Dist. 3.33 hours, 128 KM.
Driving uphill to Dochula Pass at 3,100 meters in Bhutan offers a breathtaking experience with its panoramic views of the Bhutanese peaks. It’s a popular stop for travelers to take in the scenery, explore the park, and perhaps even go for a short walk to stretch their legs.
As your journey continues towards Punakha and Wangdi valley, you’ll pass through the Pelela Pass, which is known for its stunning vistas. From there, you’ll take a side diversion road into the Phobjikha valley. This hidden and beautiful valley is a protected wildlife conservation area within Jigme Singye National Park.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Phobjikha valley is that from mid-October to March, it becomes the winter home for rare black-necked cranes that migrate from the Tibetan Plateau. These elegant birds are considered sacred in Bhutan and hold a special place in the hearts of the Bhutanese people. Witnessing these cranes in their natural habitat is a unique and heartwarming experience for any nature lover.
After a day of exploring and taking in the natural beauty and wildlife of Phobjikha valley, you’ll spend the night in a hotel in the area, likely enjoying some local cuisine and a cozy atmosphere. This journey through Bhutan offers not only stunning landscapes but also a chance to connect with the country’s rich natural and cultural heritage
Day 4 : Gangtey-Punakha/Wangdue (Approx.2 Hrs/ 75 KM.)
Your proposed itinerary for a day in Gangtey and Punakha sounds like a wonderful way to explore the rich cultural and natural heritage of Bhutan. Here’s a breakdown of your plan:
Morning at Gangtey Gompa: Begin your day with a visit to Gangtey Gompa, one of the oldest Nyingma monasteries. Located atop a hill, it offers a picturesque setting with panoramic views of the surrounding valley and mountains. Take your time to explore the monastery, soak in its spiritual ambiance, and learn about its history.
Nature Trail and Crane Watching: After visiting the monastery, embark on a nature trail that encircles the winter roosting grounds of the black-necked cranes. This is a unique opportunity to observe these majestic birds in their natural habitat.
The 2-hour walk along the footpath will allow you to appreciate the natural beauty of the area and spot other local wildlife and flora.
Explore Local Villages and Nature Information Center: If the cranes are not in residence during your visit, you can explore the nearby local villages. Interact with the locals, learn about their way of life, and perhaps even sample some traditional Bhutanese cuisine.
Visit the Nature Information Center to gain insights into the local ecosystem, wildlife, and conservation efforts in the region.
Afternoon Drive to Punakha & Wangdi: In the afternoon, drive back to Punakha and Wangdue, enjoying the scenic beauty of the landscape along the way.
Visit Ewakha Village and Chimi Lhakhang: Stop at Ewakha village and take a short walk to visit Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the “Fertility Temple.” This temple is famous for its phallus symbols and is associated with the “Divine Madman” Lama Drukpa Kunley. It’s an interesting cultural experience.
Evening Visit to Punakha Dzong: Conclude your day with a visit to Punakha Dzong, an architectural marvel located at the confluence of the Pho and Mo Chu rivers. Explore this impressive fortress-like monastery, known for its stunning design and historical significance. Spend the night in a hotel or a traditional Bhutanese farm house, enjoying the comfort and hospitality of your accommodation
Day 5 : In Punakha & Wangdue- Guided Tour and Village Hikes
Exploring Talo village and Nobgang village in Bhutan sounds like a wonderful cultural experience. Here’s a suggested itinerary for your visit:
In the Morning Start Early, Begin your day early to make the most of your time exploring these villages.
Drive to Talo Village: Leave from your accommodation and drive up the hilly road to Talo Village. Bhutan’s landscape is stunning, so make sure to enjoy the scenic drive along the way.
Explore Talo Village: Upon arrival in Talo, take a leisurely walk through the village. You can interact with the locals and soak in the atmosphere.
Visit To Local Bhutanese Home– Seek out one or two homes where you can meet with the Queen mothers of Bhutan or other locals. Enjoy some traditional Bhutanese tea with them and engage in conversations to learn about their daily life, culture, and traditions.
Explore Vegetable and Flower Gardens: Don’t forget to visit the vegetable and flower gardens. Bhutan is known for its lush landscapes, and you can appreciate the vibrant colors and varieties of plants.
Lunch Break: Depending on the timing, have a local Bhutanese lunch at a nearby restaurant or continue with a packed lunch.
In the Afternoon Drive to Nobgang Village, After lunch, head to Nobgang Village, which is the home of the Queen mothers of Bhutan. This village is known for its unique charm and hospitality.
Interaction with locals and Tea Break : Similar to Talo Village, here, too, you can visit homes, enjoy tea, and engage in conversations with the locals. Learn more about their daily life, and you might even have the chance to see traditional Bhutanese crafts.
Village Hike to Punakha Dzong: If you’re up for some physical activity, consider taking a village hike to Punakha Dzong from Nobgang. The hike offers beautiful views and a deeper understanding of the area’s geography.
Evening (Optional):
Visit Richengang Village: If time permits and you’re still feeling energetic, you can visit Richengang Village near Wangdue. The journey from Nobgang to Richengang may take some time, so make sure it fits within your schedule.
Cultural Experiences: In Richengang Village, you can explore more of Bhutanese culture, interact with locals, and perhaps even witness traditional ceremonies or performances.
By late afternoon or early evening, start heading back to your accommodation, reflecting on the wonderful cultural experiences you’ve had throughout the day .Overnight at Punakha in hotel/Farm House
Day 6 : Punakha-Thimphu-Haa Valley (Approx 5 hours, Dist. 177 KM)
After early breakfast, drive back across Dochula pass to Thimphu and continue your drive through least traffic road, and beautiful landscapes to Haa Valley. (Optional you can make beautiful hike to Lungchutsi Monastery Hike) Along the way, we will make stops in several villages. After our arrival in Haa, we will visit Chebri village and drive up the dirt road to Tachu Goempa village. Your accommodation in Hatoey village is in a traditional Farmhouse converted to a modern lodge. Tonight, you will be provided traditional hot stone bath, and you try Ara, a local Bhutanese Liquor as a part of this Bhutanese experience. Overnight at Haa in lodge
Day 7 : Haa-Paro (Approx. 2 Hrs / 62 KM)
On the way to Paro, stop at Chele la pass, the highest motor-able road in Bhutan. Just below the pass, from pas you can hike and visit Kila gompa nunnery, a cluster of cliff-hanging homes for nuns. Upon arrival in Paro, the rest of the afternoon is for visiting local villages and visit Kyechu and Dungtse Lhakhang. Overnight at Paro in hotel/ Farm House
Day 8 :In Paro-Hike to Takstang (Approx. 2 Hrs One Way Trek)
Our Bhutan Village tour culminates with the hike to famous Taktsang (Tigers nest) monastery. Options are available for hiring riding pony/mules till the view-point. Upon return, freshen up at the hotel and visit the town area, for a final stroll and a farewell dinner. Overnight at Paro in hotel/ Farm House
Day 9 : Departure
Then transfer to the airport, time for departure flight out of Paro
