Journey Off the Beaten Path

1. Day 1 Paro Airport – 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 Chuzomsa and the three stupas, and the Tamchhog Lhakhang are some of the interesting sights as you travel from Paro to Thimphu.

   Spend some time in the property settling into your new surroundings. Afternoon, you shall be taken for your first foray into this Hidden Kingdom. This afternoon in the Thimphu Valley shall allow you to acclimatize to the air at this altitude, as well as getting yourself introduced to this Kingdom.

   Stroll around Clock Tower Square, Craft Bazaar and the Kaja Throm”, the new local market built as per the command of the His Majesty. In the evening visit impressive Tashichho Dzong (Fortress of the Glorious Religion) which houses the Throne Room and the Offices of His Majesty the King as well as the Je Khenpo, seniormost religious authority of Bhutan.

   Welcome dinner with your Bhutanese Hosts. Overnight in hotel.

2. Day 2 Thimphu ▾

   • 2,300 m Altitude of Thimphu

   The day starts with a 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.

   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. Then visit the Zorig Chusum (The National Institute for 13 Traditional Arts and Crafts of Bhutan) and the Royal Textile Academy.

   The day ends witnessing an Archery Match at the Changlimithang stadium. A traditional Cultural Show before dinner. Dinner and overnight in hotel.

3. Day 3 Thimphu – Punakha/ Wangduephodrang ▾

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

   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 valley. Enjoy breathtaking views of the 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.

   Dinner and overnight in hotel.

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 Dinner and overnight in hotel.

5. Day 5 Punakha – 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 your Hotel in Gangtey/ Phobjikha 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 hotel.

6. Day 6 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 hotel.

7. Day 7 Gangtey – Trongsa - Zhemgang ▾

   • 165 km Driving distance
   • 5 hr Driving time
   • 1,320 m Altitude of Zhemgang

   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. Drive to Zhemgang, locally known as Kheng. This district is considered as one of the most inaccessible districts in the country at the same time the region is blessed with incredibly rich biodiversity.

   Its lush forests are home to 22 endangered animal species including the Golden Langur. The drive through the winding road amongst lush green vegetation shall be peaceful yet adventurous to many. On the way visit the Kuenga Rabten Palace, the winter palace of the Second King.

   Drive further till you reach Zhemgang with many beautiful stops. The main town of Zhemgang consists of few houses and you can enjoy a stroll through the small market and visit the traditional style house and shops. Overnight at your Eco Lodge or Camp at Dangkhar village in Zhemgang.

8. Day 8 Explore Zhemgang (Nearby Villages) ▾

   You will spend the day visiting the three main villages of Dangkhar, Trong and Dakpai located in and around the main town. The Trong village consisting of traditional centuries old houses are being preserved as a heritage village and the small village still has intact old structures and pathways.

   You can visit some of the houses, interact with the villagers and visit their farmlands and vegetable gardens. Dinner and overnight at your Eco Lodge or Camp at Dangkhar village in Zhemgang.

9. Day 9 Zhemgang to Duenmang ▾

   • 60 km Driving distance
   • 2 hr Driving time
   • 218 m Altitude of Duenmang

   Drive on the Trongsa – Gyelephu Highway till you reach Tingtibi. Explore the settlement along the highway including a visit the Tangma handmade factory and the Tingtibi Zangtopelri. Drive further till you reach the Gomphu village. From there walk downhill for about 2 hours till you cross the Mangdue Chhu / River and reach Duenmang Hot Springs.

   There are many ponds of varying degrees of water temperature, and you can spend the rest of the evening at the hot spring. Dinner and overnight in camp or guesthouse.

10. Day 10 Duenmang Hot Springs ▾

    • 218 m Altitude of Duenmang Hot springs

    Relax, enjoy and explore the various hot spring pools with different medicinal and healing properties. Dinner and overnight in camp or guesthouse.

11. Day 11 Duenmang Hot Springs - Pantang ▾

    • 35 km Driving distance
    • 40 min Driving time
    • 239 m Altitude of Pantang

    Hike back to the road point at Gomphu and then drive through Rendaybee village till you reach Pangtang. You will enjoy this safari like drive through the serene and beautiful nature. Overnight at your eco lodge in Pantang. The camp is located on the right bank of Mangdue chhu overlooking Pangtang settlements and the river itself.

    Dinner and overnight in Eco Lodge or Camp.

12. Day 12 Pangtang, Bhudashi & Goshing Villages ▾

    Enjoy the full day excursion of the rural villages of Pangtang, Bhudashi and Goshing. Walk to the three villages and visit their community schools and Basic Health Units. Visit some traditional houses and their farmlands, interact with the villagers and with your guide as your translator you can listen to their stories and legends of the places.

    Dinner and overnight in Eco Lodge or Camp.

13. Day 13 Pangtang – Panbang Satellite Town ▾

    • 45 km Driving distance
    • 1 hr Driving time
    • 239 m Altitude of Panbang

    Panbang is lies at an elevation of 155 meters above sea level and has a temperate highland tropical climate with dry winters. It is only 13 kms from the Indian border. Drive through rural villages of Shilintoe and Repati. Explore the villages.

    You shall also come across the popular twin water fall on the way. Dinner and overnight in guest house or camp.

14. Day 14 The Royal Manas National Park ▾

    The Royal Manas National Park is one of oldest and most biologically diverse protected areas in Bhutan. Established in 1966, it spans over 1,057 square kilometers and is renowned for its rich biodiversity, blending subtropical and tropical ecosystems.

    The park serves as a crucial habitat for various endangered species, including the Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, one-horned rhinoceros, and the golden langur, a primate species endemic to Bhutan and neighboring regions. The park’s diverse landscape, ranging from lowland tropical forests to alpine meadows, supports a wide variety of flora and fauna, making it a vital area for conservation.

    Additionally, Royal Manas is connected to other significant conservation areas in Bhutan and India, creating a vast transboundary network that facilitates wildlife movement and ecological balance. Besides its ecological significance, Royal Manas National Park also holds cultural importance for the local communities, who live in harmony with the park’s natural resources, practicing sustainable agriculture and traditional livelihoods.

    The park is a symbol of Bhutan’s commitment to environmental preservation, aligning with the nation’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness, which emphasizes the balance between development and environmental conservation. Dinner and overnight in guest house or camp.

15. Day 15 Panbang to Bjoka ▾

    • 60 km Driving distance
    • 2 hr 15 min Driving time

    After an early breakfast you can either hike for about 6 hours to reach Bjoka village, enjoying the landscape and walk OR you can drive through the farm road to Bjoka and spend the day exploring Bjoka village. Bjoka is one of the most remote and lease developed of all the places in Zhemgang.

    The unique feature of Bjoka is the production of handmade cane and bamboo products which is the main source of livelihood of the people. Items like the bangchung (round tiffin-like plates) and small storage containers are made and sold off to the other parts of Bhutan.

    In the past when there were no roads (till 2014) people had to walk for 4 – 5 days to reach Bjoka from the main town of Zhemgang. Dinner and overnight in a village house in Bjoka.

16. Day 16 Bjoka – Pantang - Gomphu ▾

    • 70 km Driving distance
    • 2 hr 30 min Driving time

    From here on you will drive back to Gomphu. The whole of afternoon is kept for relaxation or rest. Dinner and overnight at the Eco lodge or camp in Gomphu.

17. Day 17 Gomphu - Zhemgang ▾

    • 65 km Driving distance
    • 2 hr 30 min Driving time
    • 1,320 m Altitude of Zhemgang

    Continue drive to Zhemgang and overnight at the Eco Lodge in Dangkhar village.

18. Day 18 Zhemgang - Bumthang ▾

    • 160 km Driving distance
    • 4 hr 30 min Driving time
    • 1,320 m Altitude of Bumthang

    After breakfast drive to Trongsa. Lunch at Trongsa. 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. Settle into the serene atmosphere at your hotel in Bumthang.

19. Day 19 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.

    Explore the Chamkhar Town before settling down in your hotel.

20. Day 20 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. Dinner and overnight in hotel.

21. Day 21 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 hotel. 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 in hotel.

22. Day 22 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. Dinner and overnight in hotel.

23. Day 23 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.

    Farewell Dinner with your Bhutanese hosts.

24. Day 24 Departure ▾

    “Journey Off the Beaten Path” comes to an end with a drive to Paro airport and farewell

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