11 Nights EX-PARO

Tour Highlights

• Arrival and departure via Paro International Airport with scenic drives.
• Guided sightseeing in Thimphu, Punakha, Bumthang, Gangtey and Paro.
• Visit to iconic sites like Buddha Dordenma, Memorial Chorten and traditional craft centers.
• Explore sacred temples including Jamba Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang, Tamshing Lhakhang and Kyichu Lhakhang.
• Spectacular drive via Dochu La Pass with views of the Eastern Himalayas.
• Spiritual hike to Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang Monastery) in Paro.
• Excursion to the serene Haa Valley and high-altitude Chele La Pass.
• Immersive experiences in Phobjikha Valley and Gangtey Gompa.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1
Arrival in Paro & Drive to Thimphu

• Arrive at Paro International Airport, where you’ll be greeted by your local representative.
• Drive to Thimphu (approx. 1 hour), enjoying beautiful valley and mountain views en route.
• Check in at your hotel in Thimphu and relax after your journey.
• Optional (time permitting): Visit Tashichho Dzong, a stunning fortress-monastery that houses the government offices and the summer residence of the monastic body.
• Visit the Memorial Chorten, an iconic stupa built in memory of the Third King of Bhutan, a focal point for daily worship and reflection.
• Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 2
Thimphu Sightseeing – Museums & City Highlights

• Visit the Folk Heritage Museum to experience traditional Bhutanese rural life in a restored 19th-century house.
• Explore the Traditional Handmade Paper Factory and see the age-old process of making paper from daphne bark.
• Visit the Painting School (National Institute for Zorig Chusum) and observe students learning Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts.
• Discover Bhutan’s textile heritage at the Textile Museum, showcasing weaving techniques, royal garments and traditional patterns.
• Meet Bhutan’s national animal at the Takin Reserve, and learn about this unique species and its significance.
• End the day with a peaceful walk at Centenary Park, along the Wang Chhu River, with landscaped gardens and relaxing viewpoints.
• Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 3
Thimphu Sightseeing – Spiritual & Cultural Highlights

• Visit the majestic Buddha Dordenma, one of the largest Buddha statues in the world, overlooking Thimphu Valley.
• Explore Changangkha Temple, a 12th-century temple perched on a ridge, dedicated to Avalokiteshvara and offering panoramic views of the city.
• Shop for authentic handicrafts, textiles and souvenirs at the National Emporium and nearby shops.
• Leisure time in Thimphu to stroll, café-hop or explore on your own.
• Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 4
Thimphu to Punakha via Dochu La Pass

• Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and prepare for a scenic transfer.
• Drive to Punakha Valley, Bhutan’s former winter capital, known for its mild climate and lush landscapes.
• Stop at the iconic Dochu La Pass, adorned with 108 memorial chortens, offering views of the Eastern Himalayas on clear days.
• Visit the historic Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.
• Explore Khuruthang town and its vibrant local markets.
• Overnight stay in Punakha.

Day 5
Punakha to Wangdue Excursion & Return

• Visit Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility), built by Lama Drukpa Kunley in 1499, renowned as a pilgrimage site for fertility blessings.
• Enjoy a gentle 20-minute walk through scenic rice fields and the village of Pana to reach the temple.
• Admire the temple’s serene architecture, prayer wheels and slate carvings.
• Continue to Wangdue Phodrang Dzong area, overlooking the Punatsangchhu river and offering insight into regional history.
• Explore Wangdue town, known for its cleanliness, local shops and chance to interact with residents.
• Drive back to Punakha and relax at your hotel.
• Overnight stay in Punakha.

Day 6
Punakha to Bumthang via Trongsa

• Drive towards Bumthang, passing through the scenic heart of central Bhutan.
• Visit the imposing Trongsa Dzong, dramatically dominating the surrounding valley.
• Explore the Royal Wangchuk Museum, located in the watchtower, dedicated to the Wangchuk dynasty and featuring royal memorabilia.
• Continue your journey through stunning landscapes to reach Bumthang.
• Check in at a local lodge and unwind.
• Overnight stay in Bumthang.

Day 7
Bumthang – Spiritual Heartland of Bhutan

• Visit Jamba Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, believed to date back to the 7th century.
• Explore Kurjey Lhakhang, a sacred site where Guru Rinpoche meditated; his body imprint is said to be preserved on a rock.
• Discover Tamshing Lhakhang, known for ancient wall paintings and its association with Terton Pema Lingpa.
• Visit Jakar Dzong, the largest dzong in Bhutan, with commanding views over the Bumthang valley.
• Stop at the local Swiss cheese factory to see cheese production and enjoy tastings.
• Optional: Visit the revered Burning Lake, an important pilgrimage site linked to religious treasures found underwater.
• Overnight stay in Bumthang.

Day 8
Bumthang to Gangtey (Phobjikha Valley)

• Drive to Gangtey in the scenic Phobjikha Valley, known for its pristine nature and wide glacial valley.
• Visit Gangtey Gompa, one of Bhutan’s oldest monasteries, recently renovated and rich in spiritual significance.
• Explore Phobjikha Valley and experience traditional rural Bhutanese lifestyle in this tranquil setting.
• Overnight stay in Gangtey at a local guesthouse or lodge.

Day 9
Gangtey to Paro via Wangdi

• Drive from Gangtey to Paro, with scenic stops along the way.
• Visit Paro Rinpung Dzong, a fortress-monastery overlooking Paro valley, famed for its architecture and murals.
• Explore the National Museum to learn about Bhutan’s culture, history and natural heritage.
• Visit Drukgyel Dzong, the “Fortress of Victory”, offering historical insights and picturesque views.
• Pay respects at Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the most sacred and oldest temples in Bhutan.
• Browse local handicraft shops in Paro for souvenirs and traditional crafts.
• Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 10
Paro Sightseeing – Tiger’s Nest Hike

• Embark on a hike to the legendary Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched dramatically on a cliffside at about 10,000 ft.
• Enjoy panoramic views of Paro Valley and a deeply spiritual atmosphere at this revered pilgrimage site.
• Descend and return to Paro town, with time to rest and relax at your hotel.
• Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 11
Paro – Haa Valley & Chele La Pass Excursion

• Drive to the tranquil Haa Valley, known for its pristine beauty, traditional architecture and rich cultural heritage.
• Visit local temples and monasteries and interact with villagers to experience authentic rural life.
• Continue to Chele La Pass (3,988 m / 13,084 ft), one of Bhutan’s highest motorable passes, offering sweeping Himalayan views.
• Enjoy moments of serenity amidst high mountain landscapes and prayer flags fluttering in the wind.
• Return to Paro in the evening to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.
• Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 12
Departure from Paro

• Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.
• Transfer to Paro Airport for your onward flight.
• Bid farewell to Bhutan, carrying warm memories from the Land of the Thunder Dragon.

Inclusions

Note: Rates are valid for Indian passport holders only.

• Assistance on arrival at the airport.
• Accommodation on twin-sharing basis as per the listed hotels and room categories.
• Transportation and sightseeing as per the detailed itinerary.
• Daily buffet breakfast and dinner at hotels.
• English-speaking guide during sightseeing in Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey and Bumthang.
• Bhutan E-Permit charges included in the cost.

Exclusions

• Lunch on all days.
• Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee – INR 1,200 per person per night (extra).
• 5% GST on the total invoice amount.
• Flight fare of any kind.
• Entrance / monument visiting fees.
• Bank charges for payment transfers.
• Any alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages.
• Personal expenses such as shopping, laundry, phone calls, etc.
• Gratuities (tips) to guide and driver.
• Outdoor activities such as cycling, river rafting, motorbiking, horse riding, cultural programs and sports.
• Anything not specifically mentioned under “Inclusions” will be charged additionally.