Mystic Valleys of Bhutan- A Journey Through Soulful Landscapes
per person
Discover the serene beauty and spiritual depth of Bhutan on this 6-day journey through its most enchanting valleys and sacred sites. From the vibrant capital Thimphu to the tranquil wetlands of Gangtey, the historic riverside Punakha Dzong, and the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro,…
Discover the serene beauty and spiritual depth of Bhutan on this 6-day journey through its most enchanting valleys and sacred sites. From the vibrant capital Thimphu to the tranquil wetlands of Gangtey, the historic riverside Punakha Dzong, and the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro, this itinerary offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and heritage. Ideal for first-time visitors, this well-paced tour brings you close to Bhutan’s unique traditions, majestic landscapes, and warm hospitality – making it a truly enriching Himalayan experience.
Day 1 - Paro - Thimphu
Arrival in Paro & Transfer to Thimphu (55 km / 1.5 hrs)
Morning:
• Arrive at Paro International Airport – stunning Himalayan views during descent
• Meet & greet with representative and begin drive to Thimphu
• En route stop at Chuzom – confluence of Paro & Thimphu rivers with Tibetan, Nepalese & Bhutanese stupas
• View Tschogang Lhakhang – “Temple of the Excellent Horse”
Afternoon:
• Check-in at hotel in Thimphu
• Rest and refresh
Evening:
• Stroll around Thimphu Main Street and Market
• Visit Local Crafts Bazaar – traditional Bhutanese arts & souvenirs
Overnight: Thimphu
Day 2 - Thimphu - Gangtey
Thimphu to Gangtey (150 km / 5 hrs)
Morning:
• Breakfast and check-out
• Scenic drive via Dochula Pass (3,080m) – 108 stupas and panoramic Himalayan views
• Stop at Wangdue Phodrang – explore local market, known for bamboo and slate products
Afternoon:
• Continue drive through forested terrain to Gangtey Valley (Phobjikha)
• Check-in at hotel
Evening:
• Leisure walk and enjoy serene, open landscapes of the glacial valley
Overnight: Gangtey
Day 3 - Gangtey - Punakha
Gangtey to Punakha (75 km / 3 hrs)
Morning:
• Breakfast and check-out
• Walk the Gangtey Nature Trail (5.5 km, ~2 hours) – easy and scenic forest walk
• Visit Gangtey Goempa – the largest Nyingmapa monastery in western Bhutan
Afternoon:
• Drive to Punakha and check-in at hotel
• Visit Punakha Dzong – stunning riverside fortress and winter residence of monastic body
Evening:
• Visit Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility) – walk through village and rice fields (~1.5 hrs round trip)
Overnight: Punakha
Day 4 - Punakha - Paro
Punakha to Paro via Thimphu (120 km / 4.5 hrs)
Morning:
• Drive back toward Paro via Thimphu
• Stop at Simply Bhutan – interactive cultural museum showcasing Bhutanese life
Afternoon:
• Check-in at hotel in Paro
• Visit Ta Dzong (National Museum) – Thangkhas, relics, and ethnographic artifacts
• Walk to Rinpung Dzong – historic fortress with stunning Buddhist murals
Evening:
• Leisure time in Paro town
Overnight: Paro
Day 5 - Paro
Paro – Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery & Local Sightseeing
Morning:
• Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) – Bhutan’s iconic cliffside monastery (~5 hours round trip)
Afternoon:
• Visit Drukgyel Dzong – ruined fortress with views of Mt. Chomolhari
• Visit Kyichu Lhakhang – 7th-century temple, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred sites
Evening:
• Optional: Traditional hot stone bath or leisure time at hotel
Overnight: Paro
Day 6 -Paro - Departure
Departure from Paro
Morning:
• Early breakfast and transfer to Paro International Airport
• Assistance with departure and farewell from Bhutan
