cheapest bhutan tour packages
6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS
Tour Introduction:
For better part of last century, Bhutan remained in glorious isolation, denying to the outside world, the glimpses into its rich culture, tradition, religion and social-political structure thus adding to its deepening enigma from the capital, Thimphu, temperate valley – which house many attractions modern as well as historical. After visiting these attractions, we drive east and pause for substantial period at Dochula Pass.
The pass that separate Thimphu and Paro valleys with Punakha. Savoring the astounding surroundings and peaks of eastern Himalayas. We move downhills and stops at sub-tropical agrarian Punakha/ Wangdue valley, the former winter capital of the Kingdom. Thereafter we retrace back and visit emerald -green temperate valley of Paro and at the end hike up to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) monastery -the cultural icon of the country.
Day 1
Arrive in Paro – Thimphu (55 Km/1.5 hr.)
Flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular journeys in the Himalayas. Upon arrival in Paro airport, pass through immigration, baggage collection and exit where you are met by guide or driver. Afterwards begin drive to Thimphu, which takes around 1hr from the airport. Enroute stop to visit Tamchog Lhakhang, a private temple that is dedicated to the 13th century saint Thangthong Gyalpo, the bridge builder. This temple is located across the river. In order to get to the temple, one must cross an iron chain bridge, one of the few remaining of the many that Thangthong Gyalpo built. It is also a good location to take pictures.
Continue drive and pass through Chuzom, the confluence of Thimphu & Paro rivers.
On arrival in Thimphu, check-in hotel. Relax and recover from the journey. Later begin an exploratory walk in and around Thimphu town, visiting Clock Tower Square area and Local crafts market. You can browse and buy Bhutan’s fine traditional crafts such as textiles, Thangka painting, masks, jewellery and other local materials.
Overnight in Thimphu.
Day Highlight(s):
Tamchog Lhakhang
Chuzom Bridge crossing by walk
Visit to ABC Bazaar (Authentic Bhutanese Crafts Market)
Clock Tower Square Area
Day 2
In Thimphu
The capital of Bhutan also has most things to see for visitors. A full day tour of Thimphu’s cultural sites and monuments will include National Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma, The Jungshi handmade paper factory and Simple Bhutan, a living museum and studio encapsulating the cultural heritage of the Bhutanese people. Continue visiting more sights of Thimphu namely; Motithang Takin Preserve, National Institute of Zorig Chusum (also known as Painting school, where students undergo a 6-year training. Course in Bhutan’s 13 traditional carts & craft), a short drive up to a viewpoint for aerial view of the capital, its suburbs and Tashichho Dzong. There are other attractions like Changangkha monastery, Simtokha Dzong, Textile museum, Druk Wangyal Lhakhang, Farmer’s Market (more vibrant during the weekends), and others which can be visited as per available time or based on your interests.
Overnight in Thimphu.
Day Highlight(s):
National Memorial Stupa
Buddha Dordenma Statue (Giant Buddha Point)
Jungshi Paper Factory Tour
Simply Bhutan – country’s first living Museum
Motithang Takin Preserve
Thimphu Dzong from Viewpoint
National Institute for Zorig Chusum Tour
Day 3
Thimphu – Punakha/Wangdue (85 Km/2-3 hrs.)
The drive from Thimphu to Punakha across spectacular Dochula takes about 3hrs. From Thimphu, road climbs up to Dochula pass (3,050m), where you have opportunity to view the peaks of the eastern Himalayas. Descend into Wangdue/Punakha valley. Punakha-Wangdue valley is lower (about 1450m above sea level) and it enjoys sub-tropical climate. Visit Richengang village, unique for cluster of houses connected with each other, followed by short walk to visit Chimi Lhakhang temple, dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley (1455 – 1529), popularly known as ‘the divine madman, a folk hero and a cultural icon around whom countless yarns of facts and fiction, stories and legends have been spun. Later visit the impressive Punakha Dzong, built at the confluence of two major rivers in Bhutan, the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu, which converge in this valley. It is an especially beautiful sight on sunny days with sunlight reflecting off the water onto its white-washed walls. On the way to the hotel, stop to visit the township of Punakha at Khuruthang.
Overnight in Punakha.
Day Highlight(s):
Panoramic Dochula Pass
Chimi L’hakhang Temple
Punakha Dzong
Optional:
Visit to Wangdi-Richengang Village
Day 4
Punakha to Paro (130 Km/3-4 hrs.)
In the morning, drive short distance through the idyllic countryside and walk short distance uphill to Khamsum Chorten on Nyenzangang hill. The views from here of the terraced rice fields, dotted with traditional houses, the river and the valley surrounded by mountains is amazing! Return drive to Thimphu retracing Dochula Pass, lunch could be planned on the way. After descending into Thimphu, continue short drive to Paro. The popular attractions within Paro include visiting Rinphung Dzong, National Museum, temples of Kichu and Dungtse, visiting local home and the stroll around the township.
Overnight in Paro.
Day Highlight(s):
Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
Crossing Suspension Bridge
Photo stop at Rinphung Dzong viewpoint
Visit to National Museum
Optional Activities:
River Rafting/ Kayaking in one of Punakha rivers (1.5-2hrs.)
Day 5
Paro Valley (Taktsang Hike)
Drive to the trail head and hike to famous Taktsang (tiger’s nest) monastery (3120m/10,200ft). Visible from afar, this magical monastery clings to a vertical granite cliff 1,000 feet above the valley floor. It is one of the most amazing and important pieces of architecture in Bhutan. If for some reason, you are not able to hike, your Guide can arrange other interesting alternatives. You can also hire pony for the uphill part, till the first viewpoint & cafeteria but you must be able to walk back downhill. While some will probably not make it all the way to the monastery, however it is worth even to try getting till the first viewpoint. Return to Paro, where we may have more time for stroll around the town.
Overnight in Paro
Day Highlight(s):
Hike to the Tiger’s Nest
Optional:
Excursion to Chele La Pass (highest motorable road in Bhutan) – about one & half hour drive from Paro valley floor and offers beautiful sights along the way. On a clear day, there are spectacular views of Mt. Jumolhari, Jichu Drake and adjoining peaks to the North West, as well as the view of Haa Valley.
Day 6
Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Paro airport in time for your departure flight.
Tour Cost Details: (Indian Nationals with valid Passport/Voter Id Card).
Per Person: Rs 28,000 /-