Bhutan Cultural Tour to Bumthang with Burning Lake Visit

In the morning, you will visit Tashichho Dzong, the administrative and religious center of Bhutan. Then, you will visit the National Memorial Chorten, a sacred stupa for Buddhist prayers. You will also visit the Institute for Zorig Chusum, where you can watch artisans create traditional Bhutanese arts. Finally, you will head to the Motithang Takin Preserve to see Bhutan’s national animal, the takin.

In the afternoon, you will drive to Punakha, stopping at Dochula Pass (3,100 meters), where you’ll see 108 memorial chortens and enjoy views of the Himalayan range.

Overnight in Punakha.

In the morning, you will visit the Punakha Dzong, the most beautiful fortress in Bhutan, located at the confluence of two rivers. Afterward, you will enjoy a scenic walk across the Punakha Suspension Bridge, one of Bhutan’s longest bridges.

In the afternoon, you will visit Chimi Lhakhang, the Fertility Temple, dedicated to Drukpa Kunley, the “Divine Madman.” Then, you will take a short hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, where you will be treated to a stunning viewpoint.

Overnight in Punakha.

In the morning, you will depart for Trongsa, a scenic drive of 5–6 hours (129 km). You will cross Pele La Pass (3,390 meters), marking the entry to central Bhutan.

In the afternoon, you will explore Trongsa Dzong, the largest fortress in Bhutan, which once served as the seat of power for the Wangchuck dynasty. Then, you will visit Ta Dzong (Royal Heritage Museum), which showcases artifacts from Bhutan’s royal history.

Overnight in Trongsa.

In the morning, you will drive to Bumthang (68 km, 2.5–3 hours) at an altitude of 2,800 meters. During the journey, you will pass through Yutong La Pass (3,400 meters), which offers stunning landscapes.

In the afternoon, you will begin exploring Bumthang, starting with Jakar Dzong ("Castle of the White Bird"), a fortress with panoramic valley views. Then, you will visit Kurjey Lhakhang, a temple where Guru Rinpoche meditated. Finally, you will visit Tamshing Lhakhang, home to ancient murals and a spiritual retreat center.

Overnight in Bumthang.

In the morning, you will visit Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake), a sacred site where Pema Lingpa, a great Bhutanese saint, discovered hidden Buddhist treasures.

In the afternoon, you will visit Jambay Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest monasteries, built in the 7th century. Afterward, you will head to Kenchosum Lhakhang, a peaceful temple with deep spiritual significance. Later, you will visit the Swiss Cheese & Red Panda Brewery to enjoy locally made Bhutanese cheese and beer.

Overnight in Bumthang.

You have the option to either take a quick scenic flight to Paro (35 minutes), offering breathtaking aerial views of Bhutan’s valleys, or drive overland via Trongsa and Punakha, with an overnight stay in either town if needed.

In the evening, you will visit Paro Town, explore traditional handicraft shops, or relax in a local café.

Overnight in Paro.

In the morning, you will embark on a 4–5-hour hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), Bhutan’s most iconic monastery, perched on a cliff 900 meters above the Paro Valley. You will learn about Guru Rinpoche, who meditated here in the 8th century.

In the afternoon, after the hike, you will have the option to enjoy a relaxing traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath to soothe your muscles. You may also choose to explore Paro’s local markets.

Overnight in Paro.

In the morning, you will transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey.