Best of Bhutan - Discover a mountainous kingdom full of surprises. Explore the forested wilderness, see monasteries teetering on cliff tops and marvel at the skill of archers at a local tournament.
Paro • Thimphu • Punakha • Gangtey • Trongsa • Bumthang • Ura Valley • Wangdue Phodrang
- Itinerary and Tour Map
Day 1 – Arrive Paro – Thimpu
On arrival in Paro, transfer from Paro airport to Thimpu. Witness an archery match in Changlimithang Stadium, subject to match schedule, and visit the Mini Zoo to see the takin, Bhutan’s national animal. Stay two nights in Thimpu. (D)
Day 2 – Thimpu
Visit Tango Monastery today. Take a short drive north to Dodena then hike for about an hour up to the monastic school and retreat, built in the 15th century. Home to a young lama, Tango’s inner courtyard is beautifully painted in bright colours, with views stretching across the Thimpu Valley. (B,L,D)
Day 3 – Thimphu – Punakha
Drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass, stopping if the weather is clear for views of the Himalayas. Visit Punakha Dzong built in 1637 and situated on the Pho Chu (male) and Mo Chu (female) Rivers. In the afternoon visit Khamsung Yulley Namgal Choling Monastery for a hike. Stay one night in Punakha. (B,L,D)
Day 4 – Punakha – Gangtey
Drive to the beautiful valley of Gangtey. Monastries are dotted across the valley on the western slopes of the Black Mountains. In winter, large flocks of endangered black-necked cranes arrive from Tibet. Stay one night in Gangtey. (B,L,D)
Day 5 – Gangtey – Trongsa – Bumthang
Drive to Trongsa to visit the ancestral home of the present Royal Family. Tour Ta Dzong’s ancient watch tower and chapel. Drive on to Bumthang. Stay three nights in Bumthang. (B,L,D)
Day 6 – Bumthang
Visit dzongs and temples of the Bumthang region today, beginning with the Jakar Dzong, said to be the largest in Bhutan. (B,L,D)
Day 7 – Ura Valley excursion
Visit Mebar Tsho, known as the Burning Lake, an important pilgrimage site for the Bhutanese. Make an excursion into the beautiful valley of Ura. Visit Ura Village with its cobblestone streets and medieval atmosphere. (B,L,D)
Day 8 – Bumthang – Wangdue Phodrang
Drive to Wangdue Phodrang. Visit Rinchengang, a village known for its stone masons. Spend time with a Bhutanese family. Stay one night in Wangdue Phodrang. (B,L,D)
Day 9 – Wangdue Phodrang – Paro
Drive on to Paro. After time to refresh, drive up the valley to the ruined fortress of Drukgyal Dzong. Visit Rinpung Dzong, the National Museum and Kichu Lhakhang, built in 659 A.D. Stay two nights in Paro. (B,L,D)
Day 10 – Paro
Take an excursion to view the spectacular Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery. There’s a two hour walk through pine forest to the viewing point of the monastery perched on the edge of a sheer cliff. Afternoon at leisure. (B,L,D)
Day 11 – Depart Paro
Transfer to Paro airport for exit flight. (B) - Make a Booking
- Tour Prices
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Prices are per person, in Australian dollars, valid to Dec 2022. Please confirm prices when booking.
- Price Includes:
- 10 nights in tourist class hotels and guesthouses
- Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
- All transfers and sightseeing by private vehicle with guide
- Entrance fees
- Bhutan visa fee
Depart any day. Surcharges may apply during local holidays and events.
Sole traveller prices apply for one person travelling on their own and staying in a single room. The Single room price applies when two or more people travel together and a single room is required.