Trip Overview

Trip Highlight

Paro: Visit Bhutan’s iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Paro Dzong, and Kyichu Lhakhang.
Thimphu: Explore the capital’s cultural treasures, including Dzongs, craft centers, museums, and traditional workshops.
Punakha: Discover the majestic Punakha Dzong, walk the suspension bridge, and enjoy river valley scenery.
Gangtey/Phobjikha Valley: Witness black-necked cranes and explore Gangtey Gompa in a serene alpine valley.
Trongsa: Learn about Bhutan’s royal history at Trongsa Dzong and admire panoramic mountain views.
Bumthang: Visit the sacred Bumthang valleys, including Jakar, Tang, and Ura, home to ancient temples and monasteries.
Wangdiphodrang: Explore the dzong, local market, and surrounding scenic mountains.
Himalayan Passes: Travel across Dochu La Pass and Yotong La Pass, enjoying stunning Himalayan vistas.
Museums & Culture: Immerse in Bhutanese arts, crafts, and history at National Museums, craft workshops, and monasteries.
Nature & Wildlife: Experience pristine valleys, birdwatching, and rural landscapes, with opportunities to spot yaks and migratory birds.
Hiking & Adventure: Optional hikes, including the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, provide adventure and spiritual insight.
Authentic Experiences: Interact with local communities, learn about traditional lifestyles, and enjoy Bhutanese cuisine.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu
Arrive at Paro International Airport and enjoy breathtaking Himalayan views en route. If time permits, visit Kyichu Lhakhang and Paro Dzong before driving to Thimphu, Bhutan’s serene capital, for check-in and an evening at leisure.
Day 2 : Thimphu Sightseeing
Explore Thimphu’s cultural and spiritual treasures, including Memorial Chorten, National Library, Drubthob Nunnery, Folk Heritage Museum, and handicraft centers. Observe traditional arts and crafts at workshops, see weavers, goldsmiths, and painters at work, and stroll through local markets.
Day 3 : Thimphu – Punakha
Drive via Dochu La Pass, enjoying spectacular Himalayan vistas. Stop at Wangduephodrang for lunch, then continue to Punakha to visit the stunning Punakha Dzong, located at the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers, and explore its intricate architecture and tranquil surroundings.
Day 4 : Excursion to Gangtey – Trongsa
Journey through central Bhutan’s scenic valleys to Phobjikha Valley, home of black-necked cranes. Visit Gangtey Gompa, perched on a hilltop, then drive past yak herders, rural villages, and Chendebji Chorten, stopping for lunch en route, before reaching Trongsa for overnight stay.
Day 5 : Trongsa – Bumthang
Visit Trongsa Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful fortresses, overlooking the Mangde Chhu Valley. Continue over Yotong La Pass, descending through forests and villages to Jakar, the main town in Bumthang, and check in for overnight stay.
Day 6 : Bumthang (Jakar Valley)
Explore Bumthang’s spiritual landmarks, including Jakar Dzong, Jambay Lhakhang, Chakhar Lhakhang, and Kurjey Lhakhang, admiring ancient murals, sacred relics, and the serene valley surroundings.
Day 7 : Bumthang – Tang Valley
Visit Membartsho (Fire Lake), Tang Rimochen Lhakhang, and Ogyen Choling Palace. Depending on preference, explore the area by jeep or take a short pilgrimage-style trek, returning to Jakar in the late afternoon.
Day 8 : Bumthang – Ura Valley
Discover Ura Valley, one of Bhutan’s oldest villages, with traditional homes, local farms, and opportunities for birdwatching and gentle walks amidst the pristine valley landscape, enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
Day 9 : Bumthang – Wangdiphodrang
Drive approximately 7–8 hours to Wangdiphodrang, stopping at Chendebji Chorten for lunch. Upon arrival, visit Wangdi Phodrang Dzong and the local marketplace, before checking in for overnight stay.
Day 10 : Wangdiphodrang – Paro
Travel back to Paro along winding mountain roads. Visit Paro National Museum (Ta Dzong), Drukgyel Dzong, Rinpung Dzong, and a traditional farmhouse. Enjoy spectacular views of Mount Jumolhari and the surrounding Paro Valley.
Day 11 : Paro – Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Hike to the famous Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched on a cliff overlooking Paro Valley. Spend the afternoon visiting any remaining sites or enjoying leisure time in the town before the final overnight stay.
Day 12 : Departure
Transfer to Paro Airport for your onward flight, reflecting on twelve days of spiritual, cultural, and natural experiences across the Kingdom of Bhutan.

Trip Cost Inclusion

Arrival & Departure Transfers: All ground transport in a private vehicle, including airport and hotel transfers.
Accommodation: Comfortable lodging throughout the tour.
Sightseeing & Visa: All entrance fees to museums, monuments, and sites as per itinerary.
Meals: Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the tour.
Transportation: All ground transportation in a comfortable private vehicle as per the itinerary.
Guide: Licensed, experienced, and friendly English-speaking Bhutanese professional guide.
Staff Wages & Allowances: All Bhutanese staff salaries, allowances, food, equipment, and clothing.
Water: One bottle mineral drinking water will provide during the tour.
Government Taxes: All government taxes, permits, and official expenses.

Trip Cost Exclusion

International Airfare: Flights to/from Paro (we can assist with flight bookings – please contact us at sales@adventurefriendship.com).
Bhutanese Tourist Visa fee.
Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance (covering trip cancellation, medical emergencies, evacuation, etc.).
Personal Expenses: Laundry, phone calls, internet, beverages (soft drinks, alcohol, beer), and other personal expenses.
Filming & Special Permits: Fees for filming, drone use, or special camera permits.
Tips: Gratuities for guide and driver (tipping is customary and appreciated).
Optional & Extra Services: Any additional activities, services, or expenses not mentioned in the itinerary or under “What’s Included.”
Private/Customized Trips: For tailor-made itineraries or private group tours, please contact us.