HISTORIC CENTRAL BHUTAN TOUR 9 NIGHTS/10 DAYS.

Trip Overview

Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Bhutan with the Historic Central Bhutan Tour. This 9-night, 10-day expedition offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes of this enchanting Himalayan kingdom. The tour begins in Paro, where you'll also get greetings by the sight of the iconic Taktsang Monastery, perched precariously on a cliffside. Explore the charming streets of Paro town and immerse yourself in the local traditions and crafts. Journeying onward to Thimphu, Bhutan's capital city, you'll also encounter a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Admire the majestic Tashichho Dzong, a fortress-monastery housing government offices and religious chambers. Gain insights into Bhutan's history and culture at the National Folk Heritage Museum and the Textile Museum. Traversing the picturesque Dochula Pass, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas. Discover the ancient temples and monasteries of Punakha, including the grand Punakha Dzong, standing at the confluence of two rivers. Next, delve deeper into Bhutan's spiritual realm as you venture to the Gangtey Valley, home to the Gangtey Monastery and a thriving population of endangered black-necked cranes.

Traversing Bhutan's Heritage and Spirit: A Journey through Trongsa to Bumthang

The tour then leads to Trongsa, where the historic Trongsa Dzong, with its commanding presence, narrates tales of Bhutanese royalty. Explore the Ta Dzong, a watchtower turned museum, showcasing the nation's fascinating past. Wrapping up the expedition in Bumthang, the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, you'll also encounter an array of ancient temples and sacred sites, each holding its unique significance. Engage with friendly locals and partake in their customs, experiencing a harmonious blend of Buddhism and Bhutanese way of life. Throughout the journey, relish the region's natural beauty, from verdant valleys to snow-capped peaks, pristine rivers, and lush forests. Each day brings new insights into Bhutan's captivating history and traditions, while the serene surroundings provide ample opportunities for reflection and rejuvenation.

Conclusion and Summary

The Historic Central Bhutan Tour is also an unforgettable odyssey, leaving you with cherished memories of a land where ancient culture and untamed nature coexist in perfect harmony, providing a soul-stirring experience that will remain etched in your heart forever.

Trip Highlights

Explore the iconic Paro Dzong, steeped in history and architectural grandeur.
Trek to the awe-inspiring Taktsang Monastery, perched precariously on a cliffside.
Visit the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples.
Marvel at the massive Buddha Dordenma Statue in Thimphu.
Discover Bhutan’s governance at the majestic Tashichho Dzong.
Pay homage at the National Memorial Chorten, a symbol of Bhutanese spirituality.
Take in panoramic views of the Himalayas from Dochula Pass.
Wander through the ancient Punakha Dzong, an architectural masterpiece.
Trek to the serene Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten in Punakha Valley.
Visit the quaint Gangtey Monastery, a spiritual sanctuary in a picturesque valley.
Explore the Gangtey Nature Trail, offering glimpses of Bhutan’s natural beauty.
Uncover the history of Bhutan’s monarchy at Trongsa Dzong.
Immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture at the Yathra Weaving Center in Bumthang.
Witness traditional weaving techniques passed down through generations.
Marvel at the grandeur of Jakar Dzong, a symbol of Bumthang’s heritage.
Seek blessings at Jambay Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples.
Visit the Kurjey Lhakhang, a sacred site associated with Guru Rinpoche.
Experience the serene ambiance of Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery.
Interact with locals and immerse yourself in rural life during village walks.
Depart with memories of Bhutan’s rich history, culture, and natural splendor.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro and Transfer to Hotel

Arrive at Paro International Airport.
Meet and greet by your tour guide and transfer to your hotel.
After some rest, visit the Paro Dzong, one of the most impressive and well-known dzongs in Bhutan.
Explore the National Museum (Ta Dzong), which houses an impressive collection of Bhutanese artifacts and artwork.
Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 2: Paro Sightseeing

After breakfast, hike to the Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), Bhutan’s most famous monastery perched on a cliff.
After the hike, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan.
Enjoy the evening exploring the local markets and shops in Paro town.
Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 3: Paro to Thimphu

Drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan.
En route, stop at the Tamchog Lhakhang Iron Bridge for a photo opportunity.
Upon arrival in Thimphu, visit the Buddha Dordenma Statue, one of the largest Buddha statues in the world.
Explore the Tashichho Dzong, the seat of Bhutan’s government.
Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 4: Thimphu Sightseeing

Begin the day with a visit to the National Memorial Chorten, built in memory of Bhutan’s third king.
Visit the Changangkha Lhakhang, an ancient temple overlooking Thimphu valley.
Explore the Folk Heritage Museum and the Textile Museum to learn about Bhutanese culture and traditions.
In the evening, stroll around Thimphu town and interact with locals.
Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 5: Thimphu to Punakha

Drive to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan.
En route, stop at Dochula Pass to enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Visit the Punakha Dzong, located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.
Take a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Fertility Temple.
Overnight stay in Punakha.

Day 6: Punakha Sightseeing

Explore Punakha Valley further with a hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, offering stunning views of the valley.
Visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Take a leisurely walk through the surrounding villages to experience rural life in Bhutan.
Overnight stay in Punakha.

Day 7: Punakha to Gangtey

Drive to Gangtey, a beautiful valley in central Bhutan.
Visit the Gangtey Monastery, one of the oldest and largest Nyingma monasteries in Bhutan.
Explore the Gangtey Nature Trail, offering breathtaking views of the valley and opportunities for birdwatching.
Overnight stay in Gangtey.

Day 8: Gangtey to Trongsa

Drive to Trongsa, the ancestral home of Bhutan’s royal family.
Visit the Trongsa Dzong, the largest dzong in Bhutan and an architectural masterpiece.
Explore the Ta Dzong, a museum dedicated to the history of the monarchy and the Wangchuck dynasty.
Overnight stay in Trongsa.

Day 9: Trongsa to Bumthang

Drive to Bumthang, known as the cultural heartland of Bhutan.
En route, stop at the Yathra Weaving Center to witness traditional Bhutanese weaving techniques.
Visit the Jakar Dzong, the largest dzong in Bhutan’s central region.
Explore the Jambay Lhakhang and Kurjey Lhakhang, two of the oldest temples in Bhutan.
Overnight stay in Bumthang.

Day 10: Departure from Bumthang

Transfer to Bumthang Airport for your onward journey or return flight home, concluding your Historic Central Bhutan Tour.

Price Includes

Cost Includes:

Accommodation: Cost of staying in hotels or guesthouses throughout the tour.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner as specified in the itinerary.
Transportation: Cost of transportation including airport transfers, inter-city transfers, and sightseeing trips in a private vehicle.
Tour Guide: Services of a professional tour guide fluent in English (or other specified languages) for the duration of the tour.
Entry Fees: Entrance fees to museums, monuments, dzongs, temples, and other attractions mentioned in the itinerary.
Permits: Cost of permits required for visiting certain restricted areas or national parks.
Taxes: Government taxes and service charges on accommodation and meals.
Trekking Equipment: Rental cost of trekking equipment if applicable (e.g., walking sticks, trekking poles).

Price Excludes

Cost Excludes:

Airfare: Cost of airfare for traveling to and from Bhutan.
Visa Fees: Bhutanese visa fees (Bhutan operates on a ‘daily tariff’ system for tourists which includes visa fees, but this may vary).
Travel Insurance: Personal travel insurance covering medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen circumstances.
Additional Meals: Meals not mentioned in the itinerary, snacks, and beverages.
Personal Expenses: Expenses for optional activities, souvenirs, laundry, phone calls, and other personal expenses.
Tips: Gratuities for tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
Optional Activities: Cost of optional activities not included in the itinerary, such as hot air balloon rides, river rafting, or spa treatments.
Additional Costs: Any additional costs incurred due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, natural disasters, or political unrest.