An Exquisite Expedition to Bhutan

1. Day 1 Paro Airport – Dewa by Post Card, Thimphu ▾

   • 50 km Driving distance
   • 1 hr 15 min Driving time
   • 2,300 m Altitude of Thimphu

   On your journey to Paro, shall give the panoramic views of the Himalayas are sensational, including the Everest and other famous Himalayan Peaks. The approach through the Bhutanese foothills and the landing, including a few steep turns to land at the tiny airstrip of Paro becomes more exciting as you enter Bhutan.

   On arrival, you will be received by your Bhutanese guide with “Tashi khadar”, then drive to Thimphu. Driving through the well-maintained road between Paro to Thimphu shall be a great experience. The barren mountains, the Paro River (Pa Chhu) joining the Thimphu River (Wangchhu) at Chuzomsaa and the three stupas, and the Tamchhog Lhakhang are some of the interesting sights as you travel from Paro to Thimphu.

   Special Check in with Warm Welcome and welcome drinks at Dewa by Post Card After Lunch, you may relax in your personal verandah, with beautiful view and cool breeze, a time for yourself. The location of the property in a quaint rural place, gives you good options for a tranquil walk around the property.

   Or you may choose to spend your time at the swimming pool. A private traditional cultural show before dinner. Dinner and overnight at the Dewa by Post Card.

2. Day 2 Thimphu ▾

   A private breakfast by the Riverside or a private breakfast in the hotel Balcony (Subject to Weather conditions). After breakfast drive to Thimphu city and explore the city and sights around the city. Visit the National Memorial Chhorten. This Chhorten was built in the honor of the Third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, also known as “The Father of Modern Bhutan”.

   Built in 1974 in a typical Tibetan style, the Chorten is also a center of worship for the people living in Thimphu. Circumambulating the chorten can be a great experience and a good way to earn merits as per Buddhist beliefs and a good way to start your day with prayers.

   Then drive to Kuenselphodrang, a place for refreshing with one of the largest statues of Buddha Dordenma. The place gives a breathtaking view of the Thimphu Valley and has a picnic spot, biking and hiking trail. Finally visit the “Simply Bhutan”.

   It is also a living museum, and a photo studio aimed at preservation and promotion of culture involving Bhutanese youth as the core group. A typical Bhutanese lunch at the ‘Simply Bhutan restaurant’. After lunch visit the Government Post office and make personalized stamps.

   Post a card to your hometown. This could be a good memory of Bhutan. Then visit the Takin Preserve Centre. Takin is the National Animal of Bhutan. Visit Changangkha Monastery. Towards evening visit the “Ka ja Throm” This recently established market is a place not to be missed.

   The market is built near the Centenary Farmers Market as this old market undergoes renovation. Fresh Fruits and Vegetables, cereals, animal products and flowers are sold here. In addition, there are fast food stalls and a small Dinosaur Park for kids.

   Brief descriptions and information on the creatures are displayed on wooden placards for the intellectually curious. With its location by the side of the Wangchhu River, the place is worth a visit. Walk through the traditional bridge to visit a small handicraft marketplace (Subject to weekends).

   Explore the Thimphu City Norzin Lam Area for a while and then drive to Dewa by Post Card. Dinner with your Bhutanese Hosts. Overnight at Dewa by Post Card.

3. Day 3 Thimphu – &beyond, Punakha ▾

   • 76 km Driving distance
   • 2 hr Driving time
   • 1,250 m Altitude of Punakha

   Start your day with a drive to Dochula Pass. You shall first see the Simtokha Dzong and then the winding roads leads you through blue pine forests and the villages of Hongtsho (2890m) and Yusipang. The local villagers sell apples, walnuts, dried cheese in this area.

   The road climbs through the forest till you reach the Dochula Pass (3150 m), the highest point between Thimphu and Punakha valleys. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the higher Himalayas, explore the 108 Druk Wangyel Chhortens and then visit the Druk Wangyel Lhakhang.

   Descend to the subtropical lush and beautiful valley of Punakha. The terraced rice fields, the meandering river and the beautiful villages shall welcome you as you reach Punakha. Visit Chimi Lhakhang. Also known as the temple of fertility, the temple was built by Lam Drukpa Kuenley. the revered ‘Divine Madman’ and Buddhist ‘crazy wisdom.’ A lot of graphic phallus paintings and crafts might surprise you in the nearby areas.

   Visit the Punakha dzong at the junction of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu River. Addition to its appealing looks this Majestic Dzong stands six stories high. Walk over the one of the country’s longest suspension bridges and enjoy the breathing views, soothing breeze and a beautiful experience. &Beyond Punakha River Lodge is the first &beyond owned all-inclusive lodge in Asia.

   Tucked deep in the lush green Punakha Valley and draped on the banks of the Mo Chu River, is a spectacular lodge, currently offering six intimate luxury tents, a one-bedroom suite (the River House), and a two-bedroom suite (the Family Suite), enveloped by vast expanses of verdant paddy fields and dense clusters of forested hills.

   The lodge has been created in the traditional Bhutanese architectural style and is in perfect harmony with the surrounding terrain. Dinner and overnight in &beyond Punakha.

4. Day 4 Punakha Valley ▾

   Start your day with a Hike to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chhorten. An hour of walk after crossing the suspension bridge and through the rice fields takes you to magnificent views and the Chhorten, beautifully crafted in traditional Bhutanese style.

   With the intricate design and sculptures, the temple was built by Bhutanese craftsmen which took 9 years. The craftsmanship of Bhutanese artists is amazing. The 360-degree views of the Punakha valley’s rice fields and the shimmering river shall ensure that the sweating was worth.

   An hour of rafting on the Mo Chhu shall bring you near the Punakha Dzong. A Picnic lunch at the Banks of the Mo chhu. Finally Spend some time with the Nuns at the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery. Explore the Khuruthang town for a while on the way back to &beyond Punakha.

   Once inside the &beyond Punakha make yourself comfortable among the undisturbed nature and the priceless experience the property has to offer. Dinner and overnight in &beyond Punakha.

5. Day 5 Punakha and Wangdue Valley. ▾

   After a leisure breakfast, drive to Chorten Ningpo was founded in the mid-late 18th century by Jigme Sengye, the 18th Druk Desi (secular ruler) of Bhutan, who held office from 1776-88. This revered figure is renowned for his unorthodox teachings and profound impact on the Bhutanese people.

   The temple was built to house a sacred relic of Guru Rinpoche, reinforcing its spiritual significance. The chorten is home to a magnificent statue of Maitreya (the future Buddha) and images of the great lamas of the Drukpa lineage. The great oak tree outside the monastery is said to have grown out of the blazing log that the ‘Divine Madman’ threw (the tree’s bark is still black from where it was burnt).

   Start your Hike to Kabji Hoka Tsho. The hike is of medium difficulty with few stretches of uphill climb. Walk along the irrigation channel to the lake. An array of lush flora and soothing chirps of birds. When you get to the lake, a little walk leads down to the water, where you get some of the best views of Kabji Hoka Tsho in its serene and pristine surroundings.

   Though the lake is hidden amidst the thick vegetation, it’s amazing to see the vast area surrounding the lake. (Hiking to this place during the summertime is not advisable due to slippery irrigation Channels and leeches specially for urban hikers.) In the afternoon, explore the villages in upper Punakha Valley.

   And try white water rafting in the Mo chhu. Drive back to hotel and simply relax at the hotel enjoying what the property has to offer. Dinner and overnight in &beyond Punakha.

6. Day 6 Pemako Punakha – Six Senses, Gangtey ▾

   • 80 km Driving distance
   • 2 hr 30 min Driving time
   • 3,000 m Altitude of Phobjikha/ Gangtey

   After breakfast discover the Drinchengang Village. Previously known as Rinchengang Village, it is a captivating village known for its remarkable cluster of interconnected houses. It is situated on the opposite hill, overlooking Wangdue Phodrang Dzong.

   The residents are said to be descendants of the artisans and craftsmen who came from India and Nepal to build the Dzong. It is considered one of the oldest clustered villages in Bhutan. Visit the Wangduephodrang Dzong overlooking the convergence of the Dangchhu and Punatsangchhu Rivers.

   The dzong was initially built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in 1638. Drive along the slopes of bare hills following the river (Drang Chhu) until you reach Chuzomsa, (the confluence of the Dang Chhu and the Pe Chhu). After crossing the bridge, the road goes uphill through pine forests often encountering small villages, where women spinning yarns on their porches, older men idling their time and children frolicking around could be the most common sights.

   Explore the Lawala Pass. A few Photographs are must here. Drive down along the pine forest till you reach Six Senses, Gangtey. Which has all suites with Phobjikha Valley-facing, panoramic view and private outdoor balcony equipped with daybeds as well as binoculars for bird watching.

   There is also a two-bedroom villa with its own private spa treatment facilities designed to pamper and relax. The architectural design draws on the local hemlock wood and ashlar stone. Interiors are warm and cozy with log fires and beautiful hand-woven rugs which depict the endangered cranes.

   In the afternoon, relax at the property enjoying the breathtaking views the property has to offer in one of the most beautiful Glacial valleys in the Himalayas. Dinner and overnight in Six Senses, Gangtey.

7. Day 7 Gangtey/ Phobjikha Valley ▾

   Start your day with a breakfast with views. Visit the Gangtey Goemba overlooking the large green expanse of the Phobjikha Valley. Gyaltse Pema Thinley, the grandson and mind reincarnation of Pema Lingpa founded the Temple in 1613, and Tenzin Legpai Dhendup, the second re-incarnation, built the temple.

   Hike the Gangtey Nature Trail. The trail starts at the 17th century Gangtey Monastery. The two-hour gentle trek lets you get immersed in the beautiful Phobjikha valley. Visit the Khewang Lhakhang and interact with the young monks. Explore the nearby villages for a while.

   Picnic Lunch in the Phobjikha Valley. After lunch drive towards the villages of Kilkhorthang and Remeachin. Visit the Nelung Dreachagling Nunnery and the villages around. Witness farmers working in the field and enjoy taking photographs in this beautiful Glacial valley.

   On the way back visit the Black Necked Crane Information Centre, a place for recreation with crane watching equipment (binoculars, spotting scopes) and reference books. Dinner and overnight in Six Senses, Gangtey.

8. Day 8 Longtey hike ▾

   Difficulty Level: Moderate Walking time: 4 hr Attraction: Longtey village & Kumbu village After an early breakfast, embark on the Longtey Hike. Start by walking downwards following the path to the right of the road. The path will lead through bush bamboo towards a small cluster of village houses.

   There are beautifully colored rhododendron forests on both sides of the valley, and in the winter months, yaks graze in the area. Continue straight through the village upwards until you reach the start of mystifying old-growth rhododendron forest.

   The last part through the forest is slightly steeper uphill until you reach the pass with impressive views of the Gangtey Goemba, the Shedra, the lodge and the rest of the valley down below. Before you continue the path as it slopes down the valley towards the idyllic Kumbu village.

   It is possible to get picked up from here, or you may continue down to the Shedra or all the way down to the valley. In the evening, relax at the hotel. Dinner and overnight at the Six Senses Gangtey,

9. Day 9 Gangtey – Six Senses Bumthang ▾

   • 160 km Driving distance
   • 4 hr 15 min Driving time
   • 2,800 m Altitude of Bumthang

   Today your journey goes deeper into the Kingdom of Bhutan amidst breathtaking views, beautiful landscapes and interesting experiences. Visit the Chendebji Chorten, built in the style of the great Boudhanath Chorten of Nepal. Further near Trongsa, stop at a place across on the other side of the Trongsa Dzong, where you get a perfect view of the Dzong.

   Photograph the Dzong. While in Trongsa, visit Trongsa Dzong, the most impressive Dzong in Bhutan. The Dzong was built by Chogyal Minjur Tempa, the official who was sent by Zhabdrung to unify Eastern Bhutan and enlarged at the end of the 17th century by Desi Tenzin Rabgay.

   Trongsa Dzong is the ancestral home of the present Royal Family. The first two hereditary kings ruled Bhutan from this Dzong. Continue your journey with a stoppage at Yotongla, the highest peak between Bumthang and Trongsa and then the Chhumey village, known for Yathra Textile.

   It is the most famous textile product of Bumthang. The Chhumey Valley is known for the beautiful Yathra woven by the locals. Yathra is a hand-woven fabric made from the wool of sheep or Yak. The wool is first spun into threads and then dyed before they are woven into Yathra with beautiful flower patterns and colors.

   The Yathra cloth is made into scarves, jackets, tablecloths, bags, etc. Most of the women in this valley, especially in Zungye village earn their lively hood by weaving Yathra which is supplied to various towns in Bhutan. Your today’s journey ends on arrival at Six Senses Bumthang.

   Settle into the serene atmosphere at the ‘Forest Within a Forest’ surrounded by blue pine trees and adjacent to the rushing Chamkhar Chhu river. Dinner and overnight in Six Senses Bumthang “Forest Within a Forest”

10. Day 10 Bumthang Valley ▾

    Your day starts with a visit to the Jakar Dzong, literally meaning the Castle of White Bird. The current structure was built in 1667. Visit the Wangdichholing Palace which was the home to the First and Second Kings of Bhutan. Continue your day’s sightseeing with visits to Jambay Lhakhang and Kurjey Lhakhang.

    Picnic Lunch in a quaint setting in the Chhoekhor valley. After lunch, visit the Tamshing Lhakhang and the Könchogsum Lhakhang. As you reach Bathpalathang, visit the cheese and apple juice/wine making factory. Taste the Locally made red panda beer here.

    Before going back to the Six Senses Bumthang, explore the Chamkhar Town. Dinner and overnight in Six Senses Bumthang “Forest Within a Forest”

11. Day 11 Bumthang Valley ▾

    After breakfast, drive towards Tang Valley. On the way visit the Membar Tsho, also known as “The burning Lake”. It is one of the most sacred sites in the region and relates to the famous treasure revealer, Terton Pema Lingpa. Further in Tang visit the Ugyenchholing Palace.

    The Palace now houses the family Museum and was restored in the 19th century. The Palace contains the historic items of Tshokey Dorji (the then Trongsa Penlop (Governor)) and his household. Visit the Tang Rimochen Lhakhang, located in a sacred place of Guru Rinpoche.

    In front of the temple is a rock which bears the body print of the Guru Rinpoche and two Khandoms (female celestial being). This site got its name from the tiger stripe markings on the cliff. Return to the lodge for a traditional hot stone bath (Dotsho).

    This has been practiced in Bhutan for centuries as a medicinal soak. Many Bhutanese believe that the bath helps in curing joint pains, helps in relaxing and other medical problems. River stones are heated and then put in water to heat the water; sometime medicinal herbs are added to the water before it is ready for the soak.

    (Advance reservations and additional costs may be applicable) Dinner and overnight in Six Senses Bumthang “Forest Within a Forest”

12. Day 12 Bumthang to Paro Airport ▾

    In the morning, drive to Bathpalathang Airport of Bumthang. Take a short flight to the Paro Airport to be received by your guide at the Paro Airport. Drive to the Amankora Paro. Drive to Aman kora Paro, a luxury property hidden in thick pine the 24-suites, with walls clad in wood and black steel paneling, contrast rustic elements with contemporary design.

    Amenities include king-size beds, traditional wood-burning stoves and banquette window-seats, while bathrooms featured terrazzo-clad bathtubs, twin vanities, a separate shower and toilet. Relax among the quaint settings of the property till you enjoy a hearty and satisfying lunch at the property.

    After Lunch visit the Paro Rinpung Dzong. Finally Visit the Paro National Museum, which displays a collection of fascinating Bhutanese relics. Explore the Paro Town. Visit Coffee shops, handicraft shops and interact with the locals. Dinner and Overnight at the Amankora, Paro.

13. Day 13 Paro Valley ▾

    • 2,280 m Altitude of Paro

    Your Day starts with an early morning Hike to Taktshang Monastery, one of the most wonderful and significant monasteries in Bhutan. Also known as the Tiger’s Nest, the hike shall be accompanied with stories of Guru Rinpoche, who arrived on the spot where the monastery is located on the back of a flying tigress somewhere in 8th century.

    Reaching the top shall enlighten you on why the Monastery is an iconic pilgrimage for visitors to the Kingdom of Bhutan. Visit Kyichhu Lhakhang, a 7th-century temple nearby with two magical orange trees that bear fruit throughout the year. Drive to a local farmhouse for lunch with a Bhutanese family.

    Try the traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath, National Dress and Archery here. You shall also have an opportunity to witness the daily life in a village in Bhutan. Drive back to the Hotel. Explore the property, enjoy a peaceful time all by yourself within the property.

    Dinner and Overnight at the Aman kora, Paro.

14. Day 14 Paro Valley with Chelela Pass ▾

    In the morning drive to Chelela Pass which is the highest point between the Paro and the Haa Valley. At approximately 45 km from the Paro Town, the Chelela Pass lies at an altitude of 3988 m and is the one of the highest motorable roads in Bhutan.

    The drive from Paro to Chelela would be through a winding road over the dense pine forest, the view is spectacular. As we ascend further to higher elevation the vegetation changes to conifer such as spruce, juniper, hemlock, silver fir and finally at the summit, the vegetation is all open alpine meadows.

    The Pass is decorated with colorful prayer flags. You can choose to hang some prayer flags or offer incense here. On a clear day the views are beautiful. After a while Hike to Kila Goemba. The trail, spanning approximately 9-12 kilometers, meanders through alpine meadows and rhododendron forests, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks and valleys.

    The hike concludes at the serene Kila Goenpa Nunnery, a centuries-old cliffside retreat home to Buddhist nuns. This journey, marked by natural beauty and cultural significance, provides hikers with a unique blend of adventure and spiritual tranquility.

    On the way back visit the Namgay Artisanal Brewery. Check out the varieties of made in Bhutan beers. Set in a traditional Bhutanese style, the place is beautifully located overlooking the Paro valley. This place brews different flavors of Bhutanese Beer to suit one’s palette.

    The outdoor setting of Namgay Artisanal brewery is equally awesome. Take a tour in the beer producing house. They mainly produce Indian Pale Ale, Apple Cider, Wheat beer, Dark ale, and red rice lager. Finally visit the Drukgyal Dzong, with a picturesque village nestling below.

    The dzong was initially built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646 to commemorate the victory of Bhutanese over the allied Tibetan-Mongolian forces. It was destroyed by fire in 1951 and was in ruins for a long time until reconstruction process was initiated in the year 2016 under the Command of His Majesty the King of Bhutan.

    Dinner and Overnight at the Aman kora, Paro.

15. Day 15 Aman Kora Paro – Paro Airport ▾

    “An Exquisite Expedition to Bhutan” comes to an end with a drive to Paro airport and farewell.

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