10-day Bumthang Cultural Tour

After breakfast, Tango Buddhist Institute: Set around 14 kilometers away from the city center, the Tango Buddhist Institute is a place of serenity set in the picturesque valley of Thimphu. The temple can be reached through a hike (1 hour approximately) through the scenic mountains and alpine woods, which is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Thimphu. On the way visit The Choki Traditional Art School in Thimphu, Bhutan, is a remarkable institution dedicated to preserving Bhutan’s traditional arts and crafts and Pangri Zampa – Astrology College and seek and find out your astrology birth chart.

Royal Takin Preserve also known as the Mini Zoo by many is a small natural preserve for the Takin – Bhutan’s national animal.

Lunch at the Folk Heritage Restaurant in Thimphu offers a delightful opportunity to savor authentic Bhutanese cuisine in a traditional setting. Located next to the Folk Heritage Museum, the restaurant complements the cultural experience with its unique ambiance and carefully curated menu.

The Folk Heritage Museum is a restored 19th-century traditional Bhutanese farmhouse, providing visitors with an authentic glimpse into the rural lifestyle of Bhutan.

After breakfast, drive to Trongsa which is (5 hours approx). The drive is scenic with beautiful landscapes and villages along the way. On the way, stop over the Dochu-La pass (3,100 meters), which on a clear day offers an incredible view of Himalayan peaks snowclad mountains from the pass. The beauty of this place is further enhanced by the Druk Wangyel Chorten – 108 stupas.

Stop at Pelela Pass and look around the roadside strolls where locals sell handwoven textiles.

And visit Chendebji Chorten. In Trongsa, visit Trongsa Dzong, the largest dzong situated on a spur, a wild rocky area, with the scenic backdrop of the Mountains provides a strategic location to control Bhutan for centuries and it was the seat of the Wangchuck dynasty  who effectively ruled over much of eastern and central Bhutan. On the way Bumthang visit Yathra Weaving Center in Chumey valley.

After breakfast, visit visit Ta Dzong, located in Trongsa, Bhutan, is a historical watchtower that has been converted into a museum. It stands as an important landmark in Bhutanese history and offers a unique perspective on the country’s cultural heritage.

On the way Bumthang visit Yathra Weaving Center in Chumey valley. After lunch in Bumthang, visit Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan and walk to Kurjey Lhakhang and Tamshing Monastery. Later visit Panda Beer Brewery and try local beer.

Hike up through the scenic mountains and alpine woods to 15th Century Kuenzangdra Monastery with a spectacular view of the valley.

After breakfast, excursion to  Tang Valley, nestled in Bhutan’s Bumthang district, is a hidden gem known for its serene landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Ogyen Choling Palace Museum: A historical mansion turned museum, showcasing Bhutanese heritage.
Tang Rimochen Lhakhang: A revered temple with unique rock formations and spiritual significance.

When coming back visit the Pema Choling Nunnery. Have Picnic lunch and head back to Bumthang.

Overnight in Bumthang.

Drive back to Gangtey 5 hours approx. Phobjikha valley is also the winter home of Black Necked Cranes that migrate from the arid plains in the north (Tibetan plateau) to pass their winter in the milder and lower climate. Phobjikha is one of Bhutan’s few glacial valleys and offers incredible scenery. In Gangtey visit Gangtey Monastery also known as Gangteng Monastery or Gangtey Gonpa, is a prominent Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in the Wangdue Phodrang District of Bhutan. Upon reaching Gangtey, explore the valley by cycling through the villages and soaking in the stunning views of Phobjikha Valley.

And visit Ta Dzong, located in Trongsa, Bhutan, is a historical watchtower that has been converted into a museum. It stands as an important landmark in Bhutanese history and offers a unique perspective on the country’s cultural heritage.

After breakfast, hike Gangtey Nature Trail, which is one and a half hours and visit Gangtey Monastery dating back to the 17th century. This monastery, perched on a hilltop, offers breathtaking views of the Phobjikha Valley. 

And drive back to Punakha, do river rafting (extra cost), visit Chimi Lhakhang, temple of Fertility blessed by Lam Drukpa Kuenley, who is known as the Divine Madman for his eccentric behaviors. He is also considered a symbol of fertility and many childless couples go to his temple for blessing. 

After breakfast 45 minutes hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel chorten with the picturesque view of the rice terraces along the river. Khasum Yulley Namgyal is a beautiful chorten located on a ridge at Kabesa Gewog in Punakha overlooking several villages. It is a 30-minute drive from the Khuruthang Town and a 45-minute uphill hike from the base of the hill through suspension bridge and rice fields.

Then visit Punakha Dzong, one of the majestic fortresses which is located between Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River). Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan. Then visit the longest suspension bridge across the dzong.

After lunch, drive to Paro (3 and half hrs). 

In Paro, visit Chencho Weaving Center in Paro Town, a locally-run weaving center showcases the intricate art of traditional Bhutanese weaving, offering visitors a chance to witness skilled artisans at work and stroll around Paro downtown for shopping or a cup of coffee.
Namgay Artisanal Brewery: Did you know Bhutan has some of the most reputed and highly enjoyed brews? Well, if you are a beer lover and want to taste some of the finest brews, you must visit the Namgay Artisanal Brewery in Paro Valley.

Overnight in Paro

Taktsang Monastery: The wooden structure built amazingly, stands bravely on a cliff. It is said that the great Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tigress and set up this monastery when he brought the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan in the 8th Century. From the road, the hike toward Taktsang follows an uphill route and returning back takes approximately 5-6 hours at an average walking pace on a clear, sunny day.

Later we welcome you to visit Bhutanese homes for dinner with them and experience their hospitality. A visit gives you an interesting glimpse into the lifestyle of Bhutan. And try the Hot Stone Bath. A Bhutanese hot stone bath is the perfect way to relax and wind down after a long day of sightseeing and is also believed to have numerous health benefits.

In the morning drive to Paro airport for departure to your onward destination.