Bhutan Insight Tours 11Nights 12Days

Your second day in Bhutan is packed with cultural exploration and visits to significant landmarks in the charming town of Paro.  Begin your day with a wholesome breakfast at your hotel in Paro, preparing you for a day of cultural immersion. Your first stop is Ta Dzong, which houses the National Museum of Bhutan. This unique circular building was originally a watchtower and has been transformed into a museum that showcases Bhutan's rich cultural and historical heritage. After visiting the museum, take a leisurely walk down the trail to reach Rinpung Dzong. This stunning fortress monastery boasts a long and captivating history, and its architectural beauty is a testament to Bhutanese craftsmanship.

In the afternoon, venture to Drukgyel Dzong, a historical fortress that once served as a strategic defence against Tibetan invasions. Although the dzong now lies in ruins, it holds a powerful place in Bhutanese history and offers splendid views of the surrounding landscapes.  In the evening, explore Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan. This serene temple, dating back to the 7th century, is a place of deep spiritual significance and features beautiful architecture and religious relics. Return to your hotel in Paro for a restful night, reflecting on the rich cultural experiences you've had during the day.

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On your third day in Bhutan, you will travel from Paro to Thimphu, the vibrant and modern capital of the country. After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Thimphu, which serves as the contemporary capital of Bhutan. The journey takes you through picturesque landscapes and offers glimpses of Bhutan's natural beauty. En route to Thimphu, make a stop at Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress in Bhutan. This historic structure now houses the School for Buddhist Studies. Explore the dzong's architecture and its role in Bhutanese education and culture.

In the afternoon, visit the Memorial Chorten, a serene stupa built in memory of Bhutan's third King. It holds great religious and traditional significance and is known for its architectural beauty and spiritual ambiance. Continue your exploration by visiting Tashichhodzong, an impressive fortress-monastery that serves as the seat of Bhutan's government. It's also the summer residence of the Chief Abbot. Explore the Handicrafts Emporium, where you can find a wide assortment of beautifully handcrafted products, including textiles, jewelry, and traditional Bhutanese handicrafts. Visit the Textile and Folk Heritage Museum, offering valuable insights into Bhutan's textile traditions and folk culture.  Return to your hotel in Thimphu for a comfortable night's rest.

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On the fourth day of your Bhutan journey, you will explore Thimphu in the morning and then embark on a scenic drive to Punakha in the afternoon.  After breakfast, we will go sightseeing in Thimphu.

National Library: Begin your day with a visit to the National Library, which houses a vast collection of ancient Buddhist texts, manuscripts, modern academic books, and printing blocks for prayer flags.

Painting School (Zorig Chusum): Next, head to the Painting School, also known as Zorig Chusum, famous for its traditional thangka paintings. Witness skilled artists at work, creating intricate religious artworks.

Traditional Medicine Institute: Learn about Bhutan's rich herbal medicine tradition at the Traditional Medicine Institute, where herbal medicines are prepared, and the art of herbal medicine is taught.

In the afternoon, begin your journey to Punakha. At an elevation of 3,050 meters, this pass offers enchanting views of the Bhutanese Himalayas. On a clear day, you can witness panoramic vistas of various peaks and mountains. Continue your drive to Punakha, the old capital of Bhutan. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and settle in.

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After enjoying your breakfast, you will embark on a scenic drive to Gangtey via Wangduephodrang. This journey covers approximately 70 kilometers and should take around 3 hours, offering you the opportunity to witness the natural beauty and cultural treasures of Bhutan. Your first stop will be at the majestic Wangduezhong.

Dzongs are distinctive Bhutanese fortress-monasteries that serve as administrative centers and places of worship. Wangdue Dzong is known for its grandeur and architectural splendor. After visiting the dzong, you can wander through the local market in Wangduephodrang. Bhutanese markets are colorful and bustling, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the local people.

As you continue your journey towards Gangtey, you will pass through dense forests of oak and rhododendron trees. Upon arriving in Gangtey, spend your evening taking a leisurely walk around Gangtey village. This charming village offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Bhutanese rural life.  Visit GangteyGoenpa, which is the only Nyingmapa monastery in the region. Nyingmapa is one of the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism.  For the night, you have the option to camp under the stars, immersing yourself in Bhutan's pristine nature, or stay at a guesthouse, where you can enjoy the comforts of modern amenities while still being close to the natural surroundings.

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Begin your day with an early morning exploration of the picturesque Phobjikha Valley. This valley is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and is particularly famous for being the winter home of the Black Necked Cranes. These graceful and rare birds migrate to Bhutan from Tibet during the winter months, and if you're lucky, you might get to witness their elegant dance in the open marshes. After your morning adventure, enjoy a delicious lunch in a local eatery, savoring Bhutanese cuisine and refueling for the journey ahead.

In the afternoon, embark on a scenic drive to Trongsa, covering approximately 120 kilometers. This drive will take around 4.5 hours as you traverse the stunning Bhutanese landscape. Along the way, you will cross the Pele la Pass, which stands at an elevation of 3,300 meters above sea level. Upon reaching Trongsa, settle into your accommodations for the night. Trongsa is a historic town in Bhutan known for its impressive Trongsa Dzong, perched on a hilltop and overlooking the Mangde Chhu River.

In the evening, take a stroll to the bustling Trongsa market. Bhutanese markets are not only places for shopping but also provide an opportunity to immerse you in the local culture. You can interact with the friendly locals, browse through handicrafts, and sample some regional delicacies. This visit will give you a taste of daily life in Trongsa.

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After breakfast start your day by visiting two significant cultural landmarks in Trongsa:

Trongsa Dzong: Explore the magnificent Trongsa Dzong, an architectural masterpiece and one of the most impressive dzongs in Bhutan. This fortress-monastery is strategically perched on a hilltop overlooking the Mangde Chhu River. You can admire the intricate woodwork and vibrant murals, and learn about its pivotal role in Bhutanese history. Trongsa Dzong was instrumental in the unification of Bhutan under the Wangchuck dynasty.

Ta Dzong (Watchtower Museum): Next, visit Ta Dzong, which once served as a watchtower to defend Trongsa Dzong and the surrounding region. Today, it functions as a museum that offers insights into Bhutan's rich cultural and historical heritage. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, religious relics, and exhibits that provide a deeper understanding of Bhutan's past.

The afternoon will be spent on a scenic drive to Bumthang, covering a distance of approximately 68 kilometers. This drive should take around 3 hours, allowing you to relax and soak in the changing landscapes as you move farther east. Upon your arrival in Bumthang, check into your hotel and take some time to rest and refresh. After settling in, you can spend the evening at your leisure. You might want to take a peaceful stroll around the hotel's surroundings.

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Bumthang is a region of immense religious significance, and today's itinerary will immerse you in the rich spiritual heritage of Bhutan. Start your day by visiting Tamshing Lhakhang, a sacred temple with a fascinating history. It was built by the renowned Treasure discoverer Pema Lingpa, who is a revered figure in Bhutanese Buddhism. After exploring Tamshing Lhakhang, proceed to Jakar Dzong, the administrative centre of the Bumthang Valley. Dzongs in Bhutan serve as both fortresses and monastic centers.

In the afternoon, visit Kurje Lhakhang, one of the holiest and most sacred places in Bumthang. It's named after the "kurje" or body print of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) believed to be left in the rock face.  Next, explore Jampa Lhakhang, an ancient monastery dating back to the introduction of Buddhism in Bhutan. This sacred site is believed to have been constructed during the same period as Paro Kyichu Lhakhang, Lhakhang Karpo, and Lhakhang Nagpo in Haa. After a day filled with spiritual and cultural exploration, return to your lodge in Bumthang for a restful night.

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Begin your day by exploring the vibrant Bumthang market, where you can witness the hustle and bustle of local trading and experience the authentic Bhutanese way of life. After you visit the market, embark on a scenic drive from Bumthang to Wangduephodrang. This journey covers a significant distance of approximately 205 kilometers, and it's estimated to take around 7 hours. During your drive, you will stop for lunch at one of the famous restaurants in Trongsa town. This will be a perfect opportunity to savor Bhutanese cuisine and take a break from the road. After arriving at Wangduephodrang we will transfer you to the hotel.

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Today's journey takes you from Wangduephodrang to Paro, covering a distance of approximately 77 kilometers, which should take around 3 hours by road. Start your day by visiting Chimi Lhakhang, located on a hillock in the centre of the valley in Punakha. This temple is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenley, also known as the "Divine Madman," and is famously known as the temple of fertility.

In the afternoon, you will continue your journey by driving towards Paro, which is known for its picturesque landscapes and historical attractions. Upon reaching Paro, you can check into your accommodation for the night. Depending on your preferences and energy levels, you may choose to explore some of Paro's attractions, such as the Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong), the National Museum of Bhutan, or simply wander around the town to soak in the local atmosphere.

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Begin your day early to embark on an exciting excursion to Haa Valley. This picturesque journey will take you through some of Bhutan's most stunning landscapes. Start by driving towards Haa via Chele-la pass. After traveling 4 kilometers, the road to Haa diverts from Bondey village. As you continue your drive, you'll pass through blue pine and rhododendron forests, experiencing the natural beauty of Bhutan. After approximately 45 kilometers of driving, you will reach Chele-la Pass, which stands at an elevation of 4200 meters. From this vantage point, you'll be treated to clear views of Mount Jomolhari and Jichu Drakey.

In the afternoon Continue your drive for another 22 kilometers to reach Haa Valley. Upon arrival in Haa, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the scenic surroundings, taking in the serene atmosphere of this remote valley. Visit Lhakhang Karpo, also known as the White Temple, followed by a visit to Lhakhang Nagpo, the Black Temple. The central shrine in Lhakhang Nagpo is said to resemble the one in Lhasa Jowo, Tibet. These temples are believed to have been constructed during the same period as Jampa and Kyichu Lhakhangs, showcasing the rich history and culture of the region.

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After breakfast, you'll be transferred to the airport for your onward journey.

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Ø  The tour package typically includes accommodation for 11 nights, meals, transportation, guided tours, and entry fees to attractions mentioned in the itinerary.

Ø  Accommodations range from comfortable hotels to traditional Bhutanese guesthouses, offering a mix of modern amenities and cultural experiences.

Ø  We provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner featuring a variety of Bhutanese and international cuisines, allowing you to savour the local flavours.

Ø  The ideal times are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is pleasant, and festivals are celebrated.

Ø  Essentials include layers of clothing for varying temperatures, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera to capture the diverse landscapes.

Ø  Altitude sickness can be a concern in certain areas. We recommend gradual acclimatization and staying hydrated to minimize any discomfort.

Ø  Yes, it is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or evacuation.

Ø  The itinerary typically includes visits to monasteries, dzongs, scenic drives through the mountains, cultural performances, and optional hikes to viewpoints.

Ø  Yes, visitors to Bhutan require a visa, which will be arranged by us as part of the tour package.

Ø  Wi-Fi availability may vary depending on the location, but most accommodations and some tourist spots offer Internet access.

Ø  Yes, please inform us in advance of any dietary restrictions or preferences, and we will make arrangements accordingly.

Ø  Yes, there are opportunities to shop for traditional Bhutanese handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs in local markets and craft shops.

Ø  Group sizes are usually kept moderate to ensure a personalized experience and minimize environmental impact.

Ø  Our cancellation policy varies depending on the timing of your cancellation and may involve fees. Refer to our terms and conditions for detailed information.