Bhutan Mountain Journeys

11 Day(s)

Bhutan Mountain Journeys: Unveiling the Himalayan Mystique Embark on an unforgettable odyssey through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Bhutan with Bhutan Mountain Journeys, a transcendent expedition that promises to unravel the Himalayan mystique like never before. Nestled amid the Eastern Himalayas, Bhutan offers a breathtaking vista of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and ancient monasteries, all enveloped in an aura of spiritual serenity. Day 1-3: Arrival in Paro and Thimphu Immersion Touch down in Paro, a picturesque valley, and breathe in the crisp mountain air. Begin your journey with visits to ancient temples, including the renowned Taktsang Monastery, precariously perched on a…

Bhutan Mountain Journeys: Unveiling the Himalayan Mystique

Embark on an unforgettable odyssey through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Bhutan with Bhutan Mountain Journeys, a transcendent expedition that promises to unravel the Himalayan mystique like never before. Nestled amid the Eastern Himalayas, Bhutan offers a breathtaking vista of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and ancient monasteries, all enveloped in an aura of spiritual serenity.

Day 1-3: Arrival in Paro and Thimphu Immersion

Touch down in Paro, a picturesque valley, and breathe in the crisp mountain air. Begin your journey with visits to ancient temples, including the renowned Taktsang Monastery, precariously perched on a cliff face. Traverse to Thimphu, Bhutan’s vibrant capital, where modernity harmonizes with age-old traditions. Explore bustling markets, immerse in Bhutanese art at the National Institute of Zorig Chusum, and pay respects at the grand Tashichho Dzong.

Day 4-7: Trek to the Kingdom’s Heart – Punakha and Wangdue

Venture on a thrilling trek to Punakha, crossing through magnificent rhododendron forests and quaint hamlets. Behold the splendor of Dochula Pass, adorned with 108 chortens, and marvel at the panoramic Himalayan views. In Punakha, visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, situated at the confluence of two rivers. Delve into Bhutan’s rich history and spirituality as you explore ancient monastic wonders.

Day 8-10: Enchanting Bumthang – The Cultural Heartland

Fly to Bumthang, the cultural heartland of Bhutan, renowned for its pristine beauty and sacred monasteries. Hike to the auspicious Kurje Lhakhang and Jambay Lhakhang, believed to sanctify and bless all who visit. Engage with friendly locals, and witness the vibrant Bumthang Nimalung Festival (depending on travel dates), a captivating celebration of Bhutanese culture and religious traditions.

Day 11-13: Into the Land of the Black-necked Cranes – Gangtey and Phobjikha

Journey to Gangtey, an untouched valley, home to the endangered Black-necked Cranes during winter. Traverse through enchanting landscapes, arriving at the revered Gangtey Monastery. Delight in the unspoiled beauty of Phobjikha, a glacial valley renowned for its biodiversity and tranquility.

Day 14-16: Pristine Haa Valley and Return to Paro

Descend to the pristine Haa Valley, a hidden gem tucked away from the mainstream tourist trail. Encounter timeless Bhutanese villages and immerse yourself in rural life. Conclude your journey back in Paro, visiting the National Museum and savoring the local delicacies.

Conclusion and Summary

Bhutan Mountain Journeys offers a life-changing experience, connecting you with the soul-stirring beauty of the Himalayas and the spirituality of Bhutanese culture. With experienced guides and a deep respect for the environment and local communities, this journey will leave an indelible mark on your heart and mind. Come, discover the enigmatic allure of Bhutan with us.

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Trip Highlights

						DISCOVER THE CULTURE AND RELIGIOUS TRADITIONS
MAGICAL SCENERY OF TAKTSANG MONASTERY (TIGER NEST)
HAVE YOUR PHOTO TAKEN IN TRADITIONAL BHUTANESE DRESS
TASTE THE TRADITIONAL FOOD OF BHUTAN, EMA DATSHI ALSO CALLED CHEESE CHILLY.
MAGICAL SCENERY OF MOUNTAINS AND HILLS.

					

Itinerary

Evening visit to Paro market and town.

Overnight at the hotel in Paro.

After breakfast, visit to Ta Dzong (National Museum) which used to be watchtower for Paro Dzong in the olden days.

Then we walk down a hillside trail to Rinpung Dzong.

Afternoon, we visit to Drukgyel Dzong and Kyichu Lhakhang.

Overnight at the hotel in Paro

After a hearty breakfast, we set off for Thimpu, the modern capital city of Bhutan. En route, we meet Chuzom at the entrance to the Paro valley where the Paro and Thimpu rivers meet. We visit Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress of the kingdom, shortly before reaching Thimpu.

After reaching Thimpu, we visit the National Memorial Chorten, majestic Tashichhodzong, the Handicrafts Emporium and the main shopping area.

Overnight at the hotel in Thimpu

In the morning, we go to visit the National Library, the Institute for Zorig Chusum (the centre for learning 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan), the National Institute of Traditional Medicine and the National Textile Museum.

After lunch, we drive to Punakha which is 3 hours drive from Thimpu. En route, we stop at Dochu-la pass (3,088m) for refreshments.On a clear day, there will be breathtaking mountain views from this spot.

Upon arrival at Punakha, we check into the hotel. In the evening we visit Punakha Dzong, a 17th century fortress.

Overnight at the hotel in Punakha

After breakfast, we drive to Gangtey via Wangduephodrang. We will stop there to visit Wangduephodrang Dzong stretched along a spur at the confluence of two rivers. We will also visit a local village house to gain insight into the lifestyle of the local people.

Then drive up a winding mountain road through oak and rhododendron forest and over a high pass down into the Phobjikha valley.

In the evening, we take a stroll around Gangtey village and Gompa.

Overnight at guest house or camp under the stars

In the morning, we explore Phobjikha valley which is also the

the winter home of black necked cranes, migrating from the Tibetan plateau.

After lunch, drive to Tongsa, crossing Pele-la pass (3,300m). Evening visit to Tongsa market.

Overnight at the lodge in Tongsa

Early morning we visit to Tongsa Dzong, a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture. Also we visit Ta Dzong (National Museum) which used to serve as a watchtower for Paro Dzong in the olden days.

After lunch, we proceed to Bumthang. Bumthang is the religious heartland of the nation.

Dinner and overnight at the lodge in Bumthang

Bumthang is common name given to a group of four valleys- Chumey, Choekhor, Tang and Ura with altitudes ranging from 2,600 to 4,000m. Bumthang is also a home to many ancient Buddhist temples and monasteries.

We will also visit Tamshing Lhakhang which contains interesting and ancient Buddhist wall paintings.

Later, we will visit Jakar Dzong, ‘the castle of the white bird’, the administrative centre of the region.

In the afternoon, we will visit Kurje Lhakhang, one of the most sacred places in Bhutan as Guru Rimpoche (reincarnation of Sakyamuni Budha) used to meditate there.

Overnight at the lodge in Bumthang

After an early morning visit to Bumthang’s market, we will set off on the 7 hour drive back to Thimpu. The drive will be through mountains and passes with beautiful scenaries.

On arraival at Thimpu, we check into the hotel.

Dinner and overnight at the hotel in Thimpu

Free in the morning for shopping and leisure.

After lunch, 2 hours drive to Paro

Overnight at the hotel in Paro

After breakfast, drive to the airport for departure

What's Included

English Speaking local Bhutanese guide throughout the trip
All transport by private vehicle
Accommodation throughout the tour including breakfast & dinner
Lunch at tourist standard restaurants
Bhutan Visa and Tourism Development Fund (TDF) Charge
Entry fees to listed sites

What's Excluded

Meals other than specified in the itinerary
Expenses of personal nature such as bar bills, mineral water, laundry
Insurance – your travel insurance must provide cover against personal accident, medical expenses, emergency evacuation and expatriation (including helicopter evacuation for trekking itinerary only) and personal liability. We recommend that it cover cancelation curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects
Tips and gratuities
Any other services which are not mentioned as included
Additional Expenses which may arise due to circumstances beyond control of RMT such as landslides, strikes, flight cancellation or flight delays etc.

Trip Information

A short journey into the little-known Himalayan Kingdom. Visit the architectural wonders and spiritual centers of Paro and the nation’s capital, Thimphu to experience a little of the country’s incredible natural beauty. A trip sure to tempt you back for more.

A mere mention of the country invokes various images of monks, monasteries, yaks, Buddhist art, festivities, traditions, and smiling faces. Catch a glimpse of this secluded wonder, get insights about their culture, and admire how Bhutanese follow ancient ways of living with a touch of modernity.

Mountain Journeys in Bhutan is the road back to undisturbed nature. Nowhere in the Himalayas is the natural heritage more rich and varied than in Bhutan. The kingdom has also been referred to as the ‘Valley of Medicinal Herbs‘. The kingdom is also one of the leading countries in environmental conservation. Over 70% of Bhutan’s area is still under forest cover. Many parts of the country have been declared wildlife reserves, and are the natural habitats of rare species of both flora and fauna. In mountain journeys, we take you back to primitive wilderness that still exists in the mountains of Bhutan.

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