Hidden Kingdom of Bhutan
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Duration 9 nights / 10 days
About This Tour
Embark on an enriching journey through Bhutan, exploring its cultural landmarks, serene valleys, and spiritual heritage. From the gateway town of Phuntsholing to the remote and sacred Bumthang Valley, this tour offers a complete Bhutan experience. Discover ancient monasteries, dramatic mountain passes, and traditional Bhutanese life, while enjoying scenic drives across the Himalayas.
Tour Plan
Arrive at Bagdogra Airport or NJP Railway Station, where you will be warmly greeted and assisted before proceeding by road to Phuntsholing, the gateway town to Bhutan. Upon arrival, complete immigration formalities and check into your hotel. If time permits, enjoy a leisurely walk around the town and visit the serene Zangdopelri Monastery, reflecting Bhutanese spiritual life. Overnight stay at hotel in Phuntsholing.
After breakfast, begin your scenic drive to Thimphu, passing through lush landscapes, Gedu College, and the beautiful Chukha Valley. Upon arrival, explore the capital city with visits to Buddha Dordenma, one of the tallest Buddha statues in the world, and the Memorial Chorten, built in honor of Bhutan’s third king. Continue to the Takin Preserve to see Bhutan’s unique national animal, followed by visits to the National Library and the Institute for Zorig Chusum, where traditional arts are taught. If time allows, visit a local weaving center and later stroll through Thimphu town. Overnight stay at hotel in Thimphu.
After an early breakfast, drive towards the beautiful Phobjikha Valley. En route, cross the scenic Dochu La Pass (3,088 m), adorned with 108 stupas and offering stunning Himalayan views on clear days. Stop to visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, located at the confluence of two rivers. After lunch, continue your journey to the tranquil Phobjikha Valley, known for its vast open landscapes and as the winter habitat of black-necked cranes. Overnight stay at hotel in Phobjikha.
After breakfast, drive towards Bumthang, the spiritual heart of Bhutan. En route, visit Chendebji Chorten, built in Nepalese style, and continue to Trongsa to explore the impressive Trongsa Dzong, Bhutan’s largest fortress. After lunch in Trongsa, proceed through scenic mountain roads to Bumthang Valley. If time permits, take a relaxed walk around the town. Overnight stay at hotel in Bumthang.
Spend the day exploring Bumthang Valley, home to some of Bhutan’s most sacred monasteries. Visit Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, followed by Kurje Monastery, associated with Guru Rinpoche, where you may also enjoy a peaceful meditation session. Continue to Tamshing Monastery, known for its ancient religious paintings. In the afternoon, visit the mystical Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake) and Jakar Dzong, overlooking the valley. Overnight stay at hotel in Bumthang.
After breakfast, begin your return journey to Punakha, retracing scenic mountain routes. Upon arrival, visit the famous Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Fertility Temple, reached via a pleasant walk through rural farmlands. Overnight stay at hotel in Punakha.
After breakfast, enjoy a short hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, located on a hilltop offering panoramic views of the Punakha Valley. After lunch, drive back to Thimphu via Dochu La Pass. En route, visit Simtokha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s oldest fortresses. Later, explore the local craft bazaar for authentic Bhutanese handicrafts. Overnight stay at hotel in Thimphu.
After an early breakfast, drive to Paro and proceed directly to the base of the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktshang). Enjoy a rewarding hike (approx. 4–5 hours round trip) to this sacred monastery perched dramatically on a cliffside. The hike offers spectacular views and a deeply spiritual experience. After descending, check into your hotel in Paro. Overnight stay at hotel in Paro.
After breakfast, explore Paro Valley with visits to Ta Dzong (National Museum), Rinpung Dzong, and the sacred Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples. After lunch, drive back to Phuntsholing for your overnight stay.
After breakfast, transfer to Bagdogra Airport or NJP Railway Station for your onward journey, carrying unforgettable memories of Bhutan’s culture, landscapes, and spiritual charm.
