East Bhutan Tour

14 Days

Overview

Take a fascinating 14-day tour of the ethereal country of Bhutan, which is renowned for its pristine scenery, historic monasteries, and dynamic culture. Every day offers something new to discover and spectacular views to take in, from the tranquil town of Paro to the vibrant capital Thimphu and the picturesque valleys of Punakha and Bumthang. Experience the rich traditions of Bhutan by touring imposing dzongs, ancient monasteries, and other landmarks. The breathtaking climb to the well-known Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched on a cliffside, is the trip’s high point. Prepare yourself for an amazing journey full of friendly Bhutanese hospitality and life-changing experiences.

Highlights

  • At Buddha Point in Thimphu, take in the expansive vistas of the valley and the imposing bronze statue of Buddha.
  • Discover Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan's most exquisite dzongs situated between two rivers.
  • See the tranquil Gangtey Monastery in the breathtaking Phobjikha Valley.
  • Tiger's Nest Monastery: Reaching this famous cliffside monastery is a strenuous but worthwhile climb.
  • Cultural experiences include cheese factories, museums dedicated to textiles, and traditional craft schools.
  • Routes of Interest: The untamed scenery of Eastern Bhutan, the Dochula Pass, and the terraced rice fields.
  • Explore Trashigang and learn about its traditional weaving, old temples, and dzongs.

Itinerary

Arrival in Paro Airport in the evening. Altitude 2300 above the sea level. Warm welcome Happy Bhutan Greetings from local Bhutanese tour guide and drive to the hotel. This is the only country in the world without traffic lights, so amazing.

Visit Kuenselphodrang, the largest open-air newly built 169 feet bronze Buddha Dordhenma Statue called the Buddha Point, largest in the country and offering magnificent view of the entire Thimphu valley & enjoy the view. Visit Takin Zoo, Centenary Farmers Market, Textile Museum and Art & Craft school.

Drive 1 hour to Dochula La Pass 3150m (hike around 30 mins). Visit Druk Wangyel Chortens commissioned by the eldest Queen Mother and walk round the 108 stupas. Enjoy the view of Himalaya, drive 1 hour to Punakha. Visit Chimi Lhakhang which was built in 15th century on the way and visit Punakha Dzong, north of Punakha which is one of the most beautiful Dzong of Bhutan. The Dzong is beautifully located in between one male river & one female river called Pho Chu and Mo Chu.

Visit Gangtey Monastery and hike the natural trail, also visit the Khewang Monastery. One of the most beautiful valleys, enjoy the view.

On the way visit Tsendepji Chorten and after lunch visit Chhoekhor Raptentse Dzong.

Visit Jampa Lhakhang one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. It was built in 7th century by Tibet’s King Songtsen Gampo. Also visit Tamzhing Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang and after lunch visit the cheese factory & Brewery.

Visit Tang Valley and nunnery.

Eastern Bhutan is 205 kilometers away from Bumthang. It is more famous in textile and wildlife the natural habitat. We can also visit Zhongar Dzong.

Morning drive to Trashigang. On the way visit Gom Kora built in the 8th century. Visit Trashigang dzong which was built in 1690 as a fortress practically impregnable by Zhabdung Ngawang Namgyal who unified Bhutan. Visit Radi Valley, which is 18 kilometers to the north of Trashigang, it is a beautiful valley with terraced rice field and well known for dyeing and weaving of textile.

Drive back to Bumthang.

Drive back to Punakha and enjoy the scenery

Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten for 1.5 hours and afternoon drive back to Paro.

Hike to Tiger’s Nest monastery (3200m). On the way lunch at Taktsang Cafeteria. It is Bhutan’s most famous monasteries perched on the side of a cliff 900m above the floor of Paro Valley. It was built by Tenzin Rabgye in 1692. Tiger’s Nest was named because Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) is said to have flown to the site of the monastery on the back of a tigress known as Khandrum Yeshi Tshogey.

See off at Paro Airport

Trip Info

  • Paro
  • 3200m
  • Comfortable drives and domestic flights
  • Mix hotels and farm stays