Day 01│Arrive Paro.
Paro Elevation: 2,240 m
- Welcome to Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Touching down at Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide upon exiting the arrival hall and you will transfer to Hotel.
- Today, we will take it easy to adapt to the altitude. Let’s have your first taste of Bhutanese cuisine.
- Evening take a stroll around Thimphu city.
Day 02│Thimphu only.
Thimphu Elevation: 2,230 m
Driving Distance: 56 km|1hr
- Morning drive to BBS Tower for fascinating view of Thimphu valley and later visit mini zoo, Anim Dratshang (nunnery), National Library, Handmade Paper factory & Memorial Chorten (stupa)
- Afternoon, as the time permits, visit to School of Arts & Crafts, Textile & Folk Heritage Museum, Zangtho Pelri Lhakhang (Temple) and Handicrafts Emporium
Day 03│ Thimphu to Phobjikha.
Phobjikha Elevation: 3000m
- Morning drive to Phobjikha taking a short stop at Dochula pass that heralds the most enchanting views of Bhutan.
- Against the backdrop of western slopes of the Black Mountains in Wangdue Phodrang,lies the bowl-shaped Phobjikha valley that offers breathtaking views of vast expanses of green fields. It is home to the endangered black-necked crane that migrates to this area during winters. Phobjikha valley also called Gangtey, is one of the few glacial valleys in the Kingdom of Bhutan.
- Explore Phobjikha Valley.
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Day 04│ Phobjikha valley sightseen.
Gangtey Goemba is located atop a hill providing a magnificent view of the entire Phobjikha valley. It is a very significant site related to Saint Pema Lingpa, the reincarnation of Guru Rinpoche who introduced Buddhism in the country and uncovered its treasures. It also houses one of the largest halls in Bhutan. It is said that the Black Cranes circle the monastery three times when they arrive and three times when they leave. The prominent festivals are the Gangtey Tsechu and the Black Necked Crane festival (in which young children dress up as the cranes to welcome their arrival).
- Black Necked Crane Information Centre, Phobjikha Valley
Ornithologists or anyone with a keen interest in birds might find this place most suitable. The Black-necked Crane is an indigenous species of the Himalayan Region. They migrate from Tibet to Bhutan in late autumn each year.
Situated on the eastern side of the Phobjikha Valley, the 15th-century Khewang Lhakhang is said to have been built by Tibetan sculptors in Tibetan style. Inside there are 3 statues of past, present and future Buddhas. On the third day of the ninth month of the lunar calendar, this monastery has its own festival in which the locals themselves dance. It is advised to follow proper clothing etiquette.
- A word of caution:Tourists are expected to dress respectably and modestly while visiting temples and other religious institutions. Shoulders must also be covered inside religious establishments. Since shoes are to be removed before entering a religious building, it is advisable to wear socks. Photography may also not be allowed at all places. It is advisable to ask the authorities beforehand.
Day 05│ Phobjikha / Punakha.
Punakha Elevation: 1,242
- After breakfast drive to Punakha. On the way visit Chimi Lhakhang, situated on a hillock in the center of the Lobesa valley, is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenley, who in the late 15th century used humor, songs and outrageous behavior to dramatize his teachings and due to this also known as ‘Divine Madman’.
- This temple is also known as the temple of fertility. It is widely believed that couples who do not have children and wanting one, if they pray at this temple, they are usually blessed with a child very soon. It is about 30-minute walk across field from the road to the temple or you can drive directly to temple.
Day 06│ Punakha Festival.
- After breakfast drive back to Punakha and afternoon visit Punakha Dzong, a massive structure built at the junction of two rivers. Punakha was Bhutan’s capital until 1955, and Punakha Dzong still serves as the winter residence of the central monk body
- Transfer to the rafting site for rafting experience.
- Wangduephodrang visiting Dzong and local market. The district of Wangduephodrang is also famous for its bamboo products, slate and stone carvings
Day 07│Punakha Shula Temple trek 8 hours.
- After breakfast drive 5 minutes to Chayel then trek start to Shula Temple and on the way back visit Khamsum temple standing regally on the hill above the Punakha valley, Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten is a classic example of gorgeous traditions and architecture of Asian country.
Day 08│Punakha / Haa Valley.
- After breakfast, drive to Haa valley on the way lunch and overnight in local home stay where you will get more chance to interact with house owner and understand the Bhutanese traditions and cultures.
Day 09│Haa Valley to Paro Valley Chelela Pass.
- The isolated Haa valley lies southwest of the Paro valley, hidden behind the high ridge of the Chele La. Despite easy access to Tibet, the remote valley has always been off the major trade routes and continues to be on the fringes of tourism.
- Excursion of Haa valley
- Then slowly drive Paro via Che le la Pass one of the highest vantage points, 3,800 meters.
Day 10│Paro Tiger Nest Hike.
- After Breakfast proceeds to Taktsang Palphug Monastery more famous as Paro Taktsang is a Buddhist temple complex which clings to a cliff, 3120 meters above the sea level on the side of the upper Paro valley, Bhutan.
- The Taktsang Palphug Monastery is one of the most famous touristic destinations of the country and the cultural icon of Bhutan.
- Visiting the Paro Taktsang Monastery is an unforgettable experience and to its unique location and the views of surrounding majestic mountains and emerald green valleys. If time permits will stroll Paro town in the evening.
Day 11│Depart/ Farewell/Paro
Depending on the flight schedule our representative will escort you to the airport for your onward flight destination.
Accomodation
The accommodation is certified by Tourism Council (TCB) and hotel Association of Bhutan. (HAB)
Transportation
A Good condition sightseeing vehicle will be allocated for the tour to ensure smooth travel. Depending on the no of tourists traveling, our agent shall reserve the right to best assign the vehicle as given below;
2 Pax – Santa Fe, Creta, Tucson etc
4 – 6 Pax – Santa Fe, Creta / Hi ace bus will be most comfortable
8 Pax and above – Coaster Bus
Tourist Guide
A skilled and highly experience guide certified by Guide Association of Bhutan (GAB) and Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) will be allocated to lead the tour throughout.