Experience the charm of Bhutan with the 7-Night Amankora Journey, where luxurious accommodations at Aman Kora Lodges immerse you in the scenic valleys of Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro. This exclusive tour offers a perfect balance of cultural exploration, breathtaking landscapes, and serene day hikes. Adapt the journey to focus on either cultural discovery or deeper exploration of Bhutan’s tranquil countryside.
Package Details:
– Duration: 7 Nights / 8 Days
– Destinations Covered: Thimphu, Dochu La, Punakha, Paro
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Paro and Scenic Transfer to Thimphu
Arrive at Paro International Airport, where your Bhutan adventure begins. After completing visa formalities, you’ll be warmly greeted by your guide, who will accompany you on a scenic drive to Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu. The route offers glimpses of lush forests, scattered monasteries, and hilltop temples. Once in Thimphu, embark on a leisurely walk around the city, visiting museums and cultural sites. Conclude the day at Amankora Thimphu, where luxury and tranquility await.
– Drive Time: 1.5 hours (55 km)
– Overnight: Amankora Thimphu
Day 2: Discover the Thimphu Valley
Today, explore Thimphu, Bhutan’s cultural hub and the seat of the royal government. Start the morning at an astrology academy, where you’ll gain insight into Bhutan’s unique spiritual practices. Continue on an invigorating walk to Cheri Goemba, one of Bhutan’s oldest monasteries, and join monks in a hilltop incense offering ceremony. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Tashichho Dzong and browse the Authentic Bhutanese Craft Bazaar, where traditional crafts await.
– Overnight: Amankora Thimphu
Day 3: Journey from Thimphu to Punakha
Depart Thimphu and ascend the picturesque Dochu La Pass, adorned with prayer flags and Buddhist shrines. Pause here to take in sweeping views of the eastern Himalayas before continuing to Punakha, Bhutan’s ancient capital and winter residence for the highest Buddhist leader. Visit the Sangchen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery and the village of Talo, then enjoy lunch with a local family. End the day relaxing at Amankora Punakha’s infinity pool overlooking rice terraces.
– Drive Time: 3-4 hours (74 km)
– Overnight: Amankora Punakha
Day 4: Exploring Punakha’s Sacred Sites
Start the day with a hike along the Mo Chhu River, meandering through rice paddies to reach a chorten (stupa) built by Bhutan’s queen mother. Enjoy a picnic on the riverbanks, then visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, renowned for its traditional architecture and significance in Bhutanese history. Conclude with a visit to the 15th-century Fertility Temple, a sacred site associated with Bhutan’s “Divine Mad Monk.”
– Overnight: Amankora Punakha
Day 5: Scenic Drive to Paro
After breakfast, journey from Punakha to Paro through lush valleys and terraced landscapes. Check into Amankora Paro, nestled among pine trees, and explore the valley’s spiritual sites, including ancient temples and stupas. End the day with a cultural performance or a prayer flag printing session, celebrating Bhutan’s artistic heritage.
– Drive Time: 5 hours (126 km)
– Overnight: Amankora Paro
Day 6: Cultural Immersion in Paro
Explore Paro’s deep history, beginning with the National Museum, which houses relics dating back to 4000 BCE. Visit Kichu and Dumtseg temples, and later, embark on a gentle hike to Dzongdrakha Monastery, perched above the Paro Valley. Discover local legends at nearby stupas before enjoying a relaxing afternoon.
– Overnight: Amankora Paro
Day 7: Trek to the Legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Today, embark on a memorable hike to Taktsang Monastery, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest. The challenging trek rewards you with stunning views as you approach this iconic 8th-century monastery, perched dramatically on a cliff. Return to Amankora Paro to unwind after this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
– Overnight: Amankora Paro
Day 8: Departure from Paro
Bid farewell to Bhutan as you transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure. This journey through Bhutan’s mesmerizing landscapes and cultural heritage will leave you with unforgettable memories of the kingdom’s natural beauty and serene spirituality.
Note: This itinerary is customizable to match your preferences both before your journey and while on tour in Bhutan.