Discover Bhutan’s Happiness Philosophy
Embark on an 8-night, 9-day journey to understand Bhutan’s unique pursuit of happiness. This tour explores Gross National Happiness principles while offering authentic cultural interactions with locals, farmers, monks, and students. Through school visits, monastic institutions, and intimate community experiences, this trip encourages reflection on what happiness truly means.
Day 1: Arrive at Paro – Transfer to Thimphu (55 km / 1.5 hours)
Your adventure begins with a breathtaking flight to Paro, offering stunning Himalayan vistas and a thrilling descent into the Kingdom of Bhutan. Upon arrival, breathe in the crisp mountain air before meeting your guide. Travel to Thimphu, the capital city, with a stop at Chuzom, where the Paro and Thimphu rivers meet, adorned by stupas in Bhutanese, Tibetan, and Nepalese styles. After checking in, enjoy an evening stroll through Thimphu’s lively streets and markets.
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Thimphu
Day 2: Thimphu – A Day of Cultural Immersion
Start the day with a serene hike to Tango Goemba, a historic monastery and academic haven. After lunch, explore Bhutanese art and craftsmanship at the National Institute for Zorig Chusum and visit the Indigenous Hospital for Traditional Medicines. Continue to the Royal Textile Academy to marvel at Bhutan’s intricate weaving traditions, and, if time permits, visit the Jungshi Paper Factory for an immersive look into traditional papermaking techniques.
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Thimphu
Day 3: Meet the Monks at Dodeydra Monastery
Venture off the beaten path with a hike through pine forests to the hidden Dodeydra Monastery. Interact with monks, participate in prayers, meditation, and unique offerings, or attend Dharma talks. Depending on time and interest, join enriching activities like hoisting prayer flags or cooking meals for the monks.
Overnight Stay: Guesthouse at Dodeydra Monastery
Day 4: Explore Ancient Hermitages
Begin the day with morning prayers and breakfast before visiting a 1,000-year-old hermitage, known for its meditative seclusion. This day-long exploration provides insight into the profound spiritual life of Bhutan’s hermits. Return to the monastery in the evening for dinner with monks.
Overnight Stay: Guesthouse at Dodeydra Monastery
Day 5: Journey to Punakha via Dochula Pass (74 km / 2.5 hours)
After bidding farewell to the monks, descend to Thimphu Valley and drive to Punakha. Stop at Dochula Pass, a stunning viewpoint adorned with 108 chortens, offering panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas. Enjoy a riverside lunch before exploring Sopsokha Village, known for its phallus paintings and the sacred Chimi Lhakhang Temple. Spend the night in a local home, savoring traditional Bhutanese meals and warm hospitality.
Overnight Stay: Homestay in Punakha
Day 6: Discover Phobjikha Valley (75 km / 1.5 hours)
Visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong before traveling to Phobjikha Valley, a serene glacial expanse and winter home to the rare Black-necked Cranes. Stop by the Kunzang Chholing College for Buddhist Studies to offer butter lamps and interact with monks. Later, embark on the Gangtey Nature Trail and visit the Black Necked Crane Center to learn about this endangered species and its harmonious existence with local farmers.
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Gangtey
Day 7: Return to Paro (200 km / 6 hours)
After breakfast, drive to Paro, stopping at Dochula Pass for a coffee break and scenic views. In the evening, join a local family for a traditional dinner and learn how to prepare Bhutanese butter tea. Try your hand at archery, Bhutan’s national sport, for a memorable cultural experience.
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Paro
Day 8: Hike to the Iconic Tiger’s Nest
Set out on an unforgettable journey to the legendary Taktsang Monastery, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest. Perched on a cliff, this sacred site offers stunning views and a sense of spiritual serenity. After the hike, unwind with a traditional herbal or hot stone bath. Spend your evening strolling Paro’s streets and shopping for Bhutanese souvenirs.
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Paro
Day 9: Departure
Bid farewell to Bhutan as you depart for your onward destination, carrying with you the enriching memories and reflections from this Happiness Tour.
Explore Bhutan’s Essence with Oyepedia Travel LLP
Let this unique journey redefine your perspective on happiness and immerse you in Bhutan’s cultural, spiritual, and natural wonders.