Bhutan Tour 10 Nights 11 Days

Detail Itinerary

Day 01Fly from Kathmandu to Paro, then drive to Thimpu (2320m/7610ft) 55Km, 1.5 hours’ driveYour journey begins as you land at Paro International Airport (PBH), often described as one of the most scenic airports in the world. After completing immigration formalities, you will be met by your guide and driven to the capital city, Thimphu. Along the way, you'll make a stop at the picturesque Tamchog Lhakhang, a temple built by the legendary iron bridge builder, Thangtong Gyalpo. The drive offers the first breathtaking views of Bhutan's pristine landscape. Upon arrival in Thimphu, you will check into your hotel and enjoy a welcome dinner and an overnight stay, preparing for the days ahead.

Day 02Thimpu SightseeingYour first full day in Bhutan is dedicated to exploring the cultural gems of Thimphu. You will start with a visit to Buddha Point (Kuenselphodrang), home to one of the largest Buddha statues in the world, offering a panoramic view of the Thimphu valley. Next, you'll head to the Takin Zoo (Motithang Takin Preserve) to see the unique national animal of Bhutan, the Takin. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Bhutanese traditions at Simply Bhutan, an interactive museum, followed by a visit to Zorig Chusum (the National Institute for Zorig Chusum), where students are trained in Bhutan's 13 traditional arts and crafts. The day concludes with a visit to the magnificent Tashichhoedzong (Fortress of the Glorious Religion), the seat of the government and the King’s throne room.

Day 03Drive from Thimpu to Gangtey (2900m/9515ft) 120Km, 4-5 hours’ driveToday marks the start of your journey into central Bhutan. You will drive from Thimphu over the dramatic Dochula Pass (3100m/10170ft), where, on a clear day, you can see a breathtaking panorama of the eastern Himalayan range, decorated by 108 chortens. After descending into the beautiful Phobjikha Valley, your destination is Gangtey. Here, you will visit the majestic Gangtey Gomba, a 17th-century monastery perched on a hill. You will then embark on the gentle Gangtey Natural Trail Hike, winding through the serene valley. The day concludes with a visit to the Black-Necked Crane Centre, dedicated to the conservation of the endangered cranes that migrate here in winter.

Day 04Drive from Gangtey to Trongsa (2300m/7545ft) 120 Km, 4-5 hours’ driveThe journey continues further east across the Pelela Pass (3390m/11120ft), a natural boundary between western and eastern Bhutan. The day's highlight is the historic town of Trongsa. You will visit the impressive Trongsa Dzong (Taa Dzong), a vast fortress strategically located on a spur overlooking the gorge. Later, you will explore the fascinating Trongsa Taa Dzong (Watchtower), which has been converted into a museum showcasing royal artifacts and Bhutanese history.

Day 05Drive from Trongsa to Bumthang (2800m/9185ft) 80 Km, 3-4 hours’ driveToday, you drive to Bumthang, often called the spiritual heartland of Bhutan. You will cross the high Yotongla Pass (3420m/11220ft) before arriving in the picturesque valleys. On the way, you'll stop at the Yathara Weaving Centre to observe the unique and colorful wool weaving characteristic of this region. In Bumthang, you will visit the sprawling Jakar Dzong (The Fortress of the White Bird), followed by two of the most sacred temples: Kurjey Lhakhang, the resting place of Guru Rinpoche’s body print, and Tamsing Lhakhang, a significant Nyingmapa monastery.

Day 06Bumthang SightseeingYour second day in Bumthang is dedicated to its ancient sacred sites. You will visit Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, and the charming Kenchosum Lhakhang. The day includes an excursion to the Tang Valley, a beautiful, remote area. The highlight of the afternoon is a visit to Me Bartsho (The Burning Lake), a sacred site where Pema Lingpa, the great treasure discoverer, retrieved religious relics from the lake.

Day 07Drive Back from Bumthang to Punakha (1300m/4265ft) 215Km, 5-6 hours’ driveToday is primarily a travel day, retracing your steps westward to the warmer, lower altitude of Punakha. The journey provides a different perspective on the landscapes you passed earlier. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel and have the evening free to relax, having traveled back over several mountain passes.

Day 08Punakha SightseeingPunakha, the former capital of Bhutan, offers a day of historical splendor. The morning starts with a visit to the stunning Punakha Dzong (Palace of Great Happiness), arguably the most beautiful Dzong in the country, situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. You will then experience the thrill of crossing the Suspension Bridge, one of the longest in Bhutan, offering spectacular views of the river. The afternoon is dedicated to a short, pleasant walk through paddy fields to Chimi Lhakhang (The Temple of Fertility), a pilgrimage site founded by the eccentric divine madman, Drukpa Kunley.

Day 09Drive from Punakha to Paro (2250m/7385ft) 115Km, 3-4 hours’ driveLeaving Punakha, you drive toward Paro. En route, you will stop at Simtokha Dzong, the oldest Dzong in Bhutan, which was built in 1629, and is still intact and in use. Arriving in Paro, you will visit the stately Paro Dzong (Rinchen Pung Dzong), an imposing fortress that overlooks the Paro Valley. Following this, you will ascend to the Taa Dzong (National Museum), formerly the watchtower for Paro Dzong, which now holds an extensive collection of thangkas, art, and artifacts. The day concludes with a stroll through the quaint Paro Town for some last-minute shopping.

Day 10Hike to the Taktsang Monastery (The Tigers’ Nest) 3120m/10235ftThis is perhaps the most iconic day of your trip: the hike to Taktsang Lhakhang (Tiger's Nest Monastery). This incredible monastery clings precariously to a cliff face 900 meters above the Paro Valley. The Taktsang Day Hike is a challenging but deeply rewarding experience, offering unparalleled views and a profound sense of spiritual accomplishment. You will spend the day on this trek, culminating in a beautiful spiritual experience. Upon returning, you will enjoy a celebratory dinner and your second overnight stay in Paro.

Day 11Fly from Paro to Kathmandu, Arrival in Kathmandu airport: Pick up from the airport and transfer to the Hotel (1335m/4380ft)After breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to Paro International Airport (PBH) for your onward flight to Kathmandu, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your epic 11-day journey through the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
The tour guide or/and our airport representative holding the AUTHENTIC ADVENTURES signboard and group name-list will greet you at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, and transfer you to the Hotel on our private vehicle, which takes about 20 minutes from the airport.
After refreshments, we take an interesting walk around the buzzing streets of Thamel and visit Ason Bazaar to explore the local markets and enjoy a local shopping experience.

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