Treasure of Bhutan 

11 Days / 10 Night

Day 1: Airport to Thimphu (one hour drive)

After landing to Paro international airport meet with our local representative that’s yourtour guide and driver and they will transfer you to Thimphu. Thimphu is the capital and largest city of Bhutan. Located in the western part of the country, it is situated in a valley along the banks of the Wang Chhu River. Thimphu is the political and economic center of Bhutan and houses the royal family, government offices, and the National Assembly.

The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, including traditional Bhutanese architecture and customs. Notable sites include the Tashichho Dzong, a fortress and monastery that serves as the seat of the government, and the Buddha point the gigantic statue of lord Buddha Sakya Muni.Thimphu is a hub for commerce, tourism, and culture. It has a growing service sector and is home to several markets and shops selling traditional Bhutanese handicrafts.

The city hosts several educational institutions, including the Royal University of Bhutan. Thimphu is experiencing rapid development, with new infrastructure projects and modernization efforts. Thimphu is one of the few capitals in the world without traffic lights. Instead, traffic is
managed by policemen at key intersections. The city also upholds Bhutan's philosophy of Gross National Happiness, focusing on sustainable development and cultural preservation.

Check in the designated hotel and prepare for the sightseeing to following places if the time
permits you as official sightseeing timing is from 9am to 5 pm except Tashi choedzong the
capital fortress that’s after office hours (5pm onwards)

• Buddha point – the largest statue of lord buddha
• Memorial chorten – the stupa built in the memory of 3 rd king of Bhutan who was referred as father of modern Bhutan
• Thimphu city- acclimatize yourself walking in the main city and don’t miss out to see the police man diverting the traffic in the replacement of traffic light as Thimphu city is without traffic light

Overnight Stay in Thimphu

Day 2: Thimphu-Thimphu (local sightseeing in thimphu)

After breakfast at hotel move on for day long sightseeing within capital to following places

• Simtokha Dzong- Dzong means fortress in Bhutanese language which serve the purpose of administration and religious matter in every district of Bhutan and simtokha is the first fortress built by the Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel the first unifier of Bhutan
• Textile museum- This is the academic and exhibition institution which showcase and preserve the textile diversity originated in Bhutan
• Handmade paper factory- the place where practice of indigenous paper called desho is manufactured from the bark of alpine daphine tree
• Kaja throm – the market built under the command of 5 th king to promote local products like vegetables, handicraft products, agricultural products and food stalls. Interacts with local vendors and experience the market life in Bhutan
• Takin preserve center- mini zoo that is established to preserve the Takin the national animal of Bhutan which is seen only in few parts of world.
• Changlimithang- visit this place to witness the national game of Bhutan that’s Archery. The players shoot with Bow and arrow made from bamboo with the target range of 140 meter away, the shooting of compound bow and arrow is also practical now with the introduction of new innovation
• Tashichoedzong- the office of secretariat of the king and summer residence of central monastic body. Its open to tourist only after 5pm, so please coordinate timing with your tour guide accordingly

Overnight Stay at Thimphu

Day 3: Thimphu – Punakha (2 hour drive)

After breakfast check out from hotel and proceed journey to Punakha the old capital city. Punakha valley is known for its historical significance, natural beauty, and cultural richness. It served as the capital of Bhutan until 1955 and remains an important center for Bhutanese tradition and governance.

Punakha is located in the western part of Bhutan, approximately 72 kilometers from Thimphu. Punakha Dzong also known as the “Palace of Great Happiness” is one of Bhutan’s most impressive and historically significant fortresses. It is the winter residence of the monastic body, including the Je Khenpo (the chief abbot of Bhutan). The dzong is renowned for its stunning architecture, intricate woodwork, and beautiful location at the river junction. It is a key site for major national events and religious ceremonies. And there is also lots of sites of interest to be visited, which will be detailed in your trip itineraries.

The region enjoys a subtropical climate, making it one of the warmer areas in Bhutan. This climate supports agriculture, with rice, fruits, and vegetables being the primary crops grown in the fertile valley.

Punakha is known for its traditional festivals, especially the Punakha Tsechu and Punakha Drubchen. These festivals feature vibrant masked dances and dramatizations of historical and religious events, attracting both locals and tourist. Punakha valley is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Bhutanese culture, history, and natural beauty.

After reaching to Punakha visit following places

• Chimmi Lhakhang – the fertility temple blessed by great master known as devine mad-man
• Punakha Dzong – built in seventeenth century by Zhabdrung and it initially served as first capital of Bhutan

Overnight stay at Punakha

Day 4: Punakha – Trongsa (Approximately 4 hrs drive)

Today you are going to travel to the central part of Bhutan Trongsa. Trongsa, is a significant historical and cultural town in Bhutan. It holds a special place in Bhutan’s history and continues to be an important administrative center. Trongsa Dzong is one of the largest and most impressive dzongs in Bhutan. Built in 1648 by Chogyal Minjur Tempa, the third Desi (secular ruler), under the direction of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it served as a crucial seat of power. It played a significant role in unifying the country and was the traditional seat of the Wangchuck dynasty before they became the royal family of Bhutan.Both the first and second kings of Bhutan ruled from Trongsa, and the crown prince traditionally holds the title of Trongsa Penlop (governor of Trongsa) before ascending the throne.

Situated in central Bhutan, Trongsa is strategically positioned on the east-west highway, making it a natural hub connecting the eastern and western parts of the country. The town is perched on a ridge overlooking the Mangde Chhu (river), offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

Taa Dzong originally built as a watchtower for Trongsa Dzong, it has been converted into a museum dedicated to the history of the monarchy in Bhutan. The museum provides insights into the royal family’s history and displays various artifacts.The landscape around Trongsa offers

On the way stop at Pelela pass located at the height of 3400mtrs above sea level and followed by Chendebji Chorten

After reaching to Trongsa make a visit to Trongsa dzong the biggest and longest fortress in the country in terms of structure.

Overnight stay at Trongsa

Day 5: Trongsa – Bumthang (2 hours drive)

After check out from the hotel please begin your journey to Bumthang. Bumthang is one of the most culturally and historically significant regions in Bhutan. It is often referred to as the spiritual heartland of the country due to its many ancient temples and sacred sites. Bumthang is located in central Bhutan and consists of four main valleys: Chokhor, Tang, Ura, and Chhume. The region is known for its beautiful landscapes, with rolling hills, fertile farmland, and dense forests.The area sits at an elevation of about 2,600 to 4,500 meters (8,530 to 14,760 feet), resulting in a cool climate that supports agriculture and livestock farming.

Bumthang is home to some of Bhutan’s oldest and most revered monasteries and temples, including Jambay Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang, Tamshing Lhakhang, and Kenchosum Lhakhang. These sites are important pilgrimage destinations for Buddhists.The region is closely associated with Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), who is credited with bringing Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th century. Many sacred sites in Bumthang are linked to legends about his life and teachings.

Jambay Lhakhang Drup is one of the most famous festivals in Bhutan, featuring traditional mask dances and rituals that attract visitors and pilgrims from across the country and abroad.

Bumthang is known for its unique woolen products called Yathra, woven by local artisans using traditional techniques. The valleys of Bumthang offer excellent opportunities for trekking and hiking, with trails that take you through picturesque landscapes and charming villages.The area is also rich in biodiversity, with several protected areas and forests that are home to various species of flora and fauna.Bumthang offers a deep dive into Bhutanese culture, spirituality, and natural beauty, making it an essential stop for anyone traveling to Bhutan.

Make a sightseeing visit to following places

• Jamba Lhakhang- the oldest temple built in 7 th century
• Kurje Lhakhang- the initial place blessed by Guru Rinpochoe in 8 th Century
• Tamzhing – the world UNESCO heritage site
• Jakar Dzong- fortress of bumthang
• Chamkhar Town- Down town of bumthang
• Red panda beer tasting – if guest is interested Overnight stay at Bumthang

Day 6: Bumthang – Tang valley (1 hours)

Today you are going to drive to one part of bumthang called as Tang valley to visit ancient museum and heritage home built in 14 th century connecting history with great Buddhist master and political leaders. With the main building strictly turned into the museum, the building adjacent to main structure is developed to heritage home which offers visitors with luxury room with the essences of old tradition.

On the way to Tang valley make a short visit to

• Burning lake- the river pool from which the great treasure revealer Pema Lingpa discovered Buddhist treasures for the continuity of essences of the philosophy of Vajrayana tradition of Buddhism

Overnight stay at a heritage home in Tang

Day 7: Tang valley – Phobjikha Valley (6 hours)

After breakfast you will embark on journey to phobjikha valley. Phobjikha Valley, also known as Gangtey Valley, is a stunning glacial valley located in central Bhutan. It is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. The valley is surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan mountains. Phobjikha Valley is famous for being the winter habitat of the
endangered black-necked cranes, which migrate from Tibet. The cranes arrive in late October and stay until early March.

Gangtey Monastery is one of the main attractions in the valley. It is an important religious site for the Nyingma school of Buddhism and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The valley is home to several traditional Bhutanese villages, where visitors can experience
the local lifestyle and culture.

There are several trails around the valley for hiking and nature walks, allowing visitors to explore the beautiful landscapes and observe wildlife. The annual Black-Necked Crane Festival, held in November, celebrates the arrival of the cranes and features cultural performances, dances, and traditional music.

Overall, Phobjikha Valley is a must-visit destination for those interested in nature, wildlife, and Bhutanese culture. Its serene environment and the presence of the majestic black-necked cranes make it a truly special place.

Overnight stay in Phobjikha

Day 8: Phobjikha – Phobjikha

Explore every corner of phobjikha valley by making visit to following places

• Gangtey monastery- biggest monastery of nyingmapa tradition of Buddhism in the western part of Bhutan
• Gangtey nature trail – This is the short and best hike in the middle of blue pine forest and passing through the villages
• Crane center – information about the blacked necked crane

After Lunch

• Shechen nunnery- the Buddhist institution where Bhutanese women leads an ascetic life
• Phobji Gewog- explore the extreme remote parts of Phobjikha driving through the villages and interacting with locals in their farms

Overnight stay at Phobjikha

Day 9 : Phobjikha – Paro (5 hrs Drive)

Today you are going to return to Paro. Paro is a picturesque district located in the western part of Bhutan, known for its stunning natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural heritage. The town is home to Bhutan’s only international airport, Paro Airport, which is considered one of the most challenging airports to land at due to its location in a deep valley and the surrounding peaks. The airport connects Bhutan to several international destinations.

Paro is a popular destination for tourists due to its cultural sites, natural beauty, and outdoor activities such as trekking, birdwatching, and exploring traditional Bhutanese villages.

The iconic tiger’s nest monastery is perched on a cliffside about 3,000 meters above sea level in the northern side of Paro. It is one of Bhutan’s most famous landmarks and a significant pilgrimage site.

Apart from being home to those spiritual sites, Paro is also an agricultural region with rice, potatoes, and apples grown as the main crops. The fertile valley supports farming, which is a significant part of the local economy. The down town of Paro maintains its traditional charm with traditional Bhutanese houses, dress, and customs. The Paro Tsechu festival is a major cultural event that attracts locals and tourists alike, featuring masked dances and religious rituals.

explore the following places in Paro;

• National museum/ Ta Dzong- The initial structure was built as the watch tower to protect Paro fortress from the Tibetan invasion and local threats in seventeeth century. But during the time of our third king it was converted to National museum to protect and preserve the artifacts of Bhutan.
• Kyichu Lhakhang – oldest temple built in seventh century
•  Rimpung Dzong- The administrative and religious center of Paro
• Local market- The Paro down town is best market for the souvenirs shopping if one is interested

Overnight stay at paro

Day 10 : Paro – Taktshang Execursion (6 hrs hike)

Dedicated your whole day to make hiking excursion to the most iconic place in Bhutan that’s to tiger’s nest. The picture and commentaries you have read will not do the justices rather gather all your motivations and make present their, so that you will have just wow feeling. Leisure time after hiking

Overnight stay at paro

Day 11 

Finally, your tour is coming to an end so our team will ensure the necessary services for the airport drop and see off you

                                                                                                           Tashi Delek
                                                                                                            Thank you