12 DAYS BHUTAN JOURNEY

Day 1: Welcome to the Kingdom of Bhutan

Upon arrival at Paro international Airport, you will be welcomed by your guide and driven to Thimphu, Bhutan’s charming capital city. Spend the day exploring the city’s blend of tradition and modernity. Overnight in Thimphu

Day 2: Thimphu Cultural Discovery

Begin the day with a visit to the magnificent Buddha Dordenma, one of the largest seated Buddha statues in the world, overlooking the Thimphu Valley. From here, enjoy a scenic hike to Changangkha Lhakhang or opt for the easier Wangditse trail, both offering beautiful views of the valley below. In the afternoon, visit the Takin Preserve Centre, home to Bhutan’s unique national animal, followed by Zilukha Nunnery, a peaceful retreat for Buddhist nuns. Continue to the Postal Museum to learn about Bhutan’s fascinating postal history before concluding the day at the Institute of Astrology, where traditional Bhutanese astrology continues to play an important role in daily life Overnight stay in Thimphu

Day 3: Thimphu- Trongsa

Journey eastward through the spectacular Himalayan landscape. Stop at the picturesque Dochula Pass, adorned with 108 memorial chortens and panoramic mountain views. Continue to Chendebji Chorten, an elegant 18th century Nepali style stupa nestled beside the highway. Enjoy lunch near a scenic waterfall (Willing Water fall café) before arriving in Trongsa. Visit the magnificent Trongsa Dzong, the largest fortress in Bhutan, followed by the Royal Heritage Museum, which showcases the history of Bhutan’s monarchy. Overnight stay in trongsa

Day 4: Trongsa-Barti (Zhemgang)

Todays journey takes you into the subtropical region of Zhemgang. Along the way, visit the traditional Trong Heritage village, where local culture and rural lifestyles remain beautifully preserved and stop at a bamboo handicraft product. Continue to Barti Eco lodge, where you will spend the night surrounded by pristine forests and peaceful natural surroundings.

Day 5: Barti to Pangbang

Drive deeper toward Panbang, Passing dense forests and beautiful landscapes rich inbiodiversity. Stop at the refreshing Panbang Twin Waterfalls before continuing to Panbang Eco Lodge, nestled near the entrance of Royal Manas National Park. Enjoy the tranquil riverside setting and relax amidst nature.

Day 6: Royal Manas National Park Adventure

Experience the rich biodiversity of Royal manas National Park, Bhutan’s oldest protected area. Activities may include wildlife safari, elephant riding, river rafting, fly fishing and birdwatching. The park is renowned for its diverse ecosystems and remarkable wildlife, offering an unforgettable nature experience. Overnight ateco-lodge

Day 7: Pangbang- Trongsa

After breakfast, begin your return journey to Trongsa. Along the way, visit the historic Kuenga Rabten Palace, the former winter residence of Bhutan’s second king, set amidst peaceful countryside. Countinue to Trongsa for an overnight stay.

Day 8: Trongsa to Phobjikha Valley

Drive to the breathtaking Phobjikha valley, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful glacial valleys and the winter home of the endangered Black-necked Cranes. Upon reaching Gangtey, visit the historic Gangtey Monastery, a revered 17th century Nyingma monastery and enjoy a leisurely nature walk through the valley’s wetlands, forests and traditional villages while soaking in its tranquil atmosphere. Overnight in Phobjikha

Day 9: Phobjikha to Punakha

Travel to Punakha, Bhutan’s ancient capital. Visit the stunning Punakha Dzong, widely regarded as the most beautiful fortress in the kingdom, majestically situated at the confluence of two rivers. In the afternoon, hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten. A hilltop temple offering spectacular panoramic views of the Punakha Valley and its terraced rice fields. Overnight in Punakha

Day 10: Punakha-Paro

Drive back to Paro via Dochula Lunch En Route Explore the National Museum of Bhutan, home to an impressive collection of Bhutanese art, culture and history. Alternatively, enjoy the scenic Zuri Trail, offering rewarding views of Ta Dzong and the iconic Paro Rinpung Dzong. Overnight in Paro

Day 11: ; Hike to Tiger Nest

Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery After breakfast, embark on a memorable hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktshnag) Bhutan’s most sacred landmark, dramatically perched on a cliff face approx. 900 meters above the Paro Valley, the most revered pilgrimage sites in the Himalayan kingdom. The hike takes you through beautiful pine forests and provides an opportunity to experience Bhutan’s spiritual heritage and natural beauty. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew to this sacred site on the back of a tigress and meditated here. After exploring the monastery and enjoying the spectacular scenery, relax and explore Paro town, browse local handicraft shops and enjoy a traditional Bhutanese dinner. Return to the hotel

Day 12: Departure

Bid farewell to the kingdom of Bhutan, taking with your memories of ancient monasteries, breathtaking valleys and the warm hospitality of the Bhutanese people.