Best of Bhutan

On the first day, our guide will meet you at Paro airport and transfer you to Thimphu city. During the 1.5 hours driving time, we will catch the beautiful scenery of the Iron Bridge in Tamchog Lhakhang. After settling in Thimphu, you will be transferred to the National Memorial Chorten built in memory of Bhutan's 3rd King and it is also a favorite place for local people to circumambulate. The next destination is the Buddha Dordenma Statue, which is a gigantic Buddha made of bronze and gilded in gold. Later we will see Bhutan's national animal, the Takin, in the Motithang Takin Preserve. Then we turn to the Zilukha Nunnery and finally the day ends at Tashichho Dzong. Also called Thimphu Dzong, it is the largest religious building in Bhutan and the present King's office and administrative center. At night, you will be treated to a hearty dinner with authentic Bhutanese cuisine at the Folk Heritage Cafeteria. 

Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Tashi Yoedling or similar

The whole morning will be spent in Tango Monastery, the most important religious school in Bhutan. It takes about 1.5 hours hiking up to the monastery, and the scenery en route is really spectacular. The afternoon visit is scheduled for you to learn much about Bhutan's culture, history and local people's life. You will visit the Thirteen Traditional Arts and Crafts School and the Folk Heritage Museum, before continuing to the National Library and the Traditional Paper Making Factory. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Tashi Yoedling or similar

Today our trip will extend to Punakha, the previous capital city. After breakfast, we will drive you to Punakha and stop at Dochula Pass, where you will have a coffee break, observe the grand 108 stupas (sacred structures) and appreciate the stunning view of the Himalaya Mountains if it is a clear day. Later we will turn to Chimmi Lhakang, which is a temple dedicated to the Devine Madman and people come here to pray for children. Continue the trip to Punakha Dzong, a large and spectacular Bhutanese architecture, located at the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu Rivers. It was the religious and administrative center of Bhutan until 1950 when the capital moved to Thimphu. After that, you will be guided to visit the nearby Suspension Bridge, which is the longest bridge in Bhutan.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Lobesa Lodge or similar

Today we will get to Gangtey/Phobjikha valley after a morning transfer. As one of the few glacier valleys in the country, the Phobjikha is a wonderful place for tourists to observe the pretty black-necked cranes in winter. Pay a visit to the Rinchengang Village and admire the majesty and grandness of Gangtey Monastery whilst trekking along the scenic Gangtey. Afterwards, please take a good rest in the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Dewachen or similar

After breakfast, a morning's hike across Gangtey Nature Trail would add more fun to this holiday. You will be amazed at the tranquility and picturesqueness of the surroundings including layer upon layer of mountains and distinctive dwellings of locals during the 45 minutes hike excursion. Then, after a close contact with the cranes at the Black-necked Crane Information Centre, we will go to Gangtey Primary School, where you can get a warm welcome from the lovely children. At last, we return to Paro in around 5 hours. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tashi Namgay Resort or similar

This morning we will conduct a 2-hour hike up to Taktsang (Tiger's Nest). Perched about 900 meters (3000 feet) above Paro Valley along the cliff, the Taktsang would impress you deeply by its unique architectural scale and exquisite decorations. It also provides a superb position for overlooking the graceful Paro Valley involving green pines and verdant cypresses, golden rice fields as well as tranquil villages. 

After lunch, a visit to Bhutan's oldest temple - Kyichu Lhakhang follows. Later, this best Bhutan tour will be rounded off by a fun time of the hot stone bathing in the Aum Chencho Farm House.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tashi Namgay Resort or similar

Your vacation ends when our guide and driver pick you up at the hotel and see you off at the airport. Bon voyage!

Meals: Breakfast