$5740
This cultural journey takes you through central and eastern Bhutan, providing an immersive experience of Bhutan’s landscapes, traditions, and spiritual heritage. The trip includes a visit to the Brokpa nomadic villages of Merak and Sakteng, where you will witness their unique lifestyle, vibrant traditions, and yak-herding culture. Traveling overland, you will explore fortresses, remote valleys, mountain passes, and Buddhist monasteries along the way.
This 14-day cultural journey combines nature, heritage, and adventure, offering a deep connection to Bhutan’s traditions and unspoiled landscapes—an unforgettable experience for any traveler!
Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will meet your local guide and begin your Bhutan adventure. In Paro, you will visit Rinpung Dzong, a fortress that overlooks the Paro River, and Ta Dzong (National Museum) to learn about Bhutan’s history. You will also visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan.
In the afternoon, you will drive to Thimphu, stopping at Tamchog Lhakhang Iron Bridge, built by Thangtong Gyalpo. Upon arrival, you will visit the Buddha Dordenma, a 51-meter-tall golden Buddha statue, before exploring the Thimphu Craft Bazaar, where you can browse Bhutanese handicrafts and try local delicacies.
Overnight in Thimphu.
After breakfast, you will explore Thimphu, starting with a visit to Tashichho Dzong, Bhutan’s administrative and religious center. You will also visit the National Memorial Chorten, where locals engage in Buddhist prayers.
Later in the morning, you will drive to Punakha, stopping at Dochula Pass (3,100m), where you will see 108 memorial chortens surrounded by the Himalayan peaks.
Upon arrival in Punakha, you will visit Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful fortresses, located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. In the afternoon, you will cross the Punakha Suspension Bridge, one of Bhutan’s longest bridges, before visiting Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple), a sacred site dedicated to Drukpa Kunley, the “Divine Madman.”
Overnight in Punakha.
In the morning, you will continue your journey to Gangtey, passing through dense forests and rolling hills. Upon arrival, you will visit Gangtey Monastery, an important Buddhist site of the Nyingma school.
In the afternoon, you will embark on the Gangtey Nature Trail, a scenic walk that offers breathtaking views of Phobjikha Valley, the winter home of the black-necked cranes.
Overnight in Gangtey.
After breakfast, you will drive to Trongsa, crossing Pele La Pass (3,390m), which marks the entrance to central Bhutan. Upon arrival, you will explore Trongsa Dzong, Bhutan’s largest fortress, which played a key role in the country’s history. You will also visit Ta Dzong (Royal Heritage Museum) to learn more about Bhutan’s royal lineage.
Overnight in Trongsa.
In the morning, you will continue your journey to Bumthang, crossing Yutong La Pass (3,400m). Upon arrival, you will visit Jakar Dzong ("Castle of the White Bird"), which offers panoramic valley views. You will also explore Kurjey Lhakhang, a sacred site where Guru Rinpoche meditated, and Tamshing Lhakhang, known for its ancient murals.
Overnight in Bumthang.
Today, you will begin your journey to eastern Bhutan, passing through Thrumshing La Pass (3,750m), the highest motorable pass on Bhutan’s east-west highway.
Upon arrival in Mongar, you will explore Mongar Dzong, a modern fortress built in traditional Bhutanese architecture.
Overnight in Mongar.
After breakfast, you will drive to Trashigang, passing through dramatic mountain landscapes. Upon arrival, you will visit Trashigang Dzong, which overlooks the Dangme Chhu River.
Overnight in Trashigang.
You will drive to Merak, passing through scenic mountain landscapes. Upon arrival, you will meet the Brokpa people, known for their yak-herding lifestyle and distinct culture. You will visit Merak Lhakhang and witness a cultural performance of Brokpa folk songs and dances.
Overnight in Merak (Local Homestay or Camp).
In the morning, you will trek to Sakteng, passing through the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary. Upon arrival, you will explore Sakteng village, visiting Sakteng Lhakhang, a sacred temple.
Overnight in Sakteng (Local Homestay or Camp).
You will spend the morning exploring Sakteng, before driving back to Trashigang. Upon arrival, you can visit the local markets for handwoven textiles.
Overnight in Trashigang.
You will begin your return journey westward, stopping in Mongar and Trongsa before arriving in Bumthang.
Overnight in Bumthang.
You will drive back to Paro, stopping at Punakha Dzong and Dochula Pass along the way.
Overnight in Paro.
On your final day, you will embark on a hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang Palphug Monastery), one of Bhutan’s most sacred sites. Perched on a cliff 900 meters above the Paro Valley, the monastery is said to be where Guru Rinpoche meditated in the 8th century. The hike takes about 2-3 hours uphill, with stops at viewpoints and a cafeteria halfway up, offering stunning views of the valley and the monastery. After exploring the monastery’s temples and caves, you will learn about its spiritual significance. In the afternoon, descend and enjoy lunch at the cafeteria or a nearby restaurant. Afterward, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, believed to have been built in the 7th century by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo. In the evening, reflect on your journey and enjoy a farewell dinner with traditional Bhutanese music and dance. Overnight in Paro.
On your last day, you will transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure, bidding farewell to the Land of the Thunder Dragon with unforgettable memories.
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