While nature endowed the topography of Bhutan with its special creations in the form of towering Himalayas, meandering rivers and multihued forests, human craftsmanship elaborated it further with excellent architecture and spiritual hubs. Bhutan, which with traces of urbanization seems to have waken up from hibernation, is the new interesting riddle for the travellers from across the world. This is a comprehensive tour that trails through the best-kept secrets of the Himalayan kingdom and ensure the perfect blend of comfort and luxury at different Amankora properties.
Day 01: Paro Airport to Thimphu
Paro Airport is the most convenient international access point in Bhutan. Arrive at the airport and receive a warm welcome from our representative. Driving through the fabulous landscapes, you are led to Thimphu Amankora. After lunch and rest, you will be guided to the attractions like National Monument Chorten, National Library, National Textile Museum and others. Don’t miss the opportunity to stroll through markets selling unique artefacts and handicrafts.
Day 02: Thimphu Sightseeing
Wake up to the beautiful sceneries visible from your room and get ready to visit Trashi Chhoe Dzong. You will be glad to explore impressive arts and crafts at Zorig Chusum School of Traditional Arts (weaving, painting, sculpting, wood carving and more). Be ready for exciting hiking excursions to the Tango and Cheri monasteries in the close vicinity. You will return to the lodge fully contended.
Day 03: Thimphu to Gangtey
The picturesque village of Gangtey taking shelter in the magnificent Phobjikha Valley is your destination of the day. As you pass through Dochula Pass, the breathtaking sights of Himalayan Mountains unfold like a fairytale setting. Visit attractions on the route, including Simtokha Dzong, Wangdue Phodrang Dzong and Hong Tsho Monastery, each representing the architectural brilliance and spiritual fervour of Bhutan. You will reside at Gangtey Amankora surrounded by lush green forests and bamboo plantations.
Day 04: Phobjikha Valley Sightseeing
Abundant of greenery dominating the whole valley creates sights you would love to behold for long. Visit the breeding and preservation centre of black-necked crane, considered sacred in Bhutan. Either follow a trekking route or take a mountain biking trail to enjoy a close encounter with flawless nature. End your day with a visit to the marvellous Gangtey Goemba and retire to the comfort of your room.
Day 05: Phobjikha to Bumthang
The spacious and alluring Bumthang Valley shares space with clean towns and villages and secluded farmhouses rising from lavish foliage. Drive towards the valley which with nearly 30 temples and monasteries is also called Bhutan’s spiritual hub. Explore popular attractions like Chendebji Chorten, Traongsa Dzong, Yotong La Pass and Chhume Valley. Spend some great moments witnessing Yethra, the art of weaving coloured wools before you check in at Bumthang Amankora.
Day 06: Bumthang Valley Sightseeing
Start the day with a visit to the neighbouring Wangdicholing Palace and discover an array of five giant prayer wheels. Later visit Kurjey Lhakhang, the resting place of Bhutan royals. Flocks of pilgrims visit the monastery to pay respect to the body print of Guru Padmasambhava. On your way back, explore Tamshing Lhakhang, known as the origination place for sacred dances and where nearly 100 Buddhist monks live. You will be elated to witness the activities of different cottage industries like butter, honey, emmenthal cheese and breweries in the town’s heart.
Day 07: Tang Valley Sightseeing
The remotest of all Bhutan valleys, Tang blooms with buckwheat and has sheep and yaks roaming all over. Explore Tang Rimochen Lhakhang, Ogen Chhoeling Palace and several other outstanding structures, nestled amidst fascinating landscapes. Retire to your lodge in Bumthang at the end.
Day 08: Bumthang to Punakha
Get ready and drive to Punakha Valley, watching the most invigorating facets of nature the whole way. Check in at Punakha Amankora and enjoy a hike to the famous fertility temple Chimi Lhakhang after some rest.
Day 09: Punakha Sightseeing
Trek to Khamsum Yuley Namgay Chorten in the early morning and later visit Phuntsho Pelri Palace and Punakha Dzong, each exhibiting stupendous glory and architectural grandeur. Choose valley expeditions on foot at your will in the evening.
Day 10: Punakha to Paro
As the day begins, you will drive to Paro Valley, crossing Dochula Pass and feasting on the natural and manmade vistas all around. Check in at Paro Amankora and take some rest. Explore the ancient heritage wealth resting amidst mesmerizing blue pine forests.
Day 11: Paro Valley Sightseeing
National Museum of Bhutan (at Ta Dzong) and Paro Dzong are the destinations for the first half of the day. Later, enjoy a memorable hiking expedition to the cliff which accommodates Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), probably the most astounding Buddhist monastery in the world. A spa session at the lodge is the perfect way to culminate your trip.
Day 12: Departure
Board the flight to your destination at the Paro International Airport.
