14 Day Bhutan Tour
Discover the Best of Bhutan: A 14-Day Cultural and Natural Expedition
Overview
After exploring Bhutan's capital, Thimphu, head east to begin your forteen-day journey on the Trans Bhutan Trail. Follow the Divine Madman Trail and immerse yourself in the surrounding towns. Before exploring the royal capital of Bumthang and the lovely Ura Valley, go to the Trongsa Dzong (fortress) in the same route as garps (messengers) would have done centuries ago. Hike to the famous Tiger's Nest Monastery to round out your visit.
Itinerary
Experience the breathtaking views of the Himalayas during your flight to Paro, where you will be welcomed by cool, fresh air and a representative from our team. From there, we will transport you to the charming city of Thimphu, you will have the opportunity to experience the unique blend of modernity and Bhutanese tradition that the city has to offer. With elevations ranging from 2,248 metres (7,375 feet) to 2,648 metres (8,688 feet) above sea level,
In the afternoon, we’ll visit Buddha Point, where you’ll find the iconic Buddha Dordenma statue standing 51 meters tall and adorned with 125,000 miniature statues. This gilded bronze statue was created to celebrate the 60th birthday of His Majesty the Fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. Your next stop will be the Memorial Chorten, a bustling Tibetan-style stupa built in 1974 and one of the busiest religious sites in Thimphu.
After a day of exploring, you’ll be treated to a delicious dinner at one of the many excellent restaurants in the city, accompanied by your guide. The rest of the evening is yours to do as you please. Enjoy a relaxing overnight stay at your hotel in Thimphu.
After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, get ready to embark on an exciting journey to the Dochula Pass, located east of the capital city. At an altitude of 3,100 metres (10,200 feet), you will be awed by the spectacular views that are especially clear during certain times of the year. As you reach this sacred mountain pass, it’s customary to offer incense as mountain passes are considered scared in Bhutan.
While at Dochula, take time to visit the Druk Wangyal Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to the Fourth King Gyalpo Jigme Singye Wangchuck, and marvel at its unique blend of modern and ancient art techniques. Also, don’t miss the Druk Wangyal Chorten, known as the ‘108 Chortens’, and nearby meditation caves.
From Dochula, follow the ‘Divine Madman Trail’ into the adjacent valley, retracing the footsteps of the legendary Drukpa Kuenley, who arrived in Bhutan from Tibet in the 16th century. On arrival at Thinleygang, relish a picnic lunch and visit the Thinleygang Lhakhang, where the central monastic body stays overnight during their two-day journey from Thimphu to Punakha.
End your day on a memorable note by joining a local Bhutanese family for a homestay experience in Thinleygang.
Trek Distance: 10.5 kilometres (6.52 miles)
Estimated Trek Duration: 5 hours
Elevation Gain: 50 metres (164 feet)
Starting Elevation: 3,114 metres (10,217 feet)
Ending Elevation: 1,811 metres (5,942 feet)
Maximum Elevation: 3,114 metres (10,217 feet)
Embark on an exciting adventure after breakfast as you say goodbye to your gracious hosts in Thinleygang and hop on your vehicle to begin your journey towards the Pelela Pass. This famous pass, towering at 3,402 metres (11,162 feet) above sea level, is considered the boundary between west and central Bhutan. Here, you’ll find local artisans selling beautiful yak-hair products by the roadside.
Once at Pelela, you’ll rejoin the Trans Bhutan Trail and descend through picturesque meadows, keeping an eye out for the scattered yak herder camps in the valley. A traditional farmhouse in the village of Rukubji will serve as your lunch stop, where you’ll enjoy a hot meal before visiting the Kuenzang Choling, also known as Rukubji’s village Lhakhang (temple). The temple, built over 300 years ago by Lama Tshendhen Duelwa, is unique because it’s not built on a ridge with a valley view, but rather on an extended plateau close to two rivers. The temple was built on top of a snake-demoness which the Lama subdued at the location. Rukubji is also known for its fascinating local language, Ngyen-Kye, a mix of other Bhutanese dialects and even some English words, spoken only by a few households.
Later in the day, return to the Rukubji campsite where you’ll enjoy a relaxing hot stone bath and a hot shower before indulging in a sumptuous, organic dinner sourced from the local area. Retire to your comfortable camp for the night and recharge for another day of adventure.
Trek Distance: 10 kilometres (6.21 miles)
Estimated Trek Duration: 5 hours
Elevation Gain: 300 metres (984 feet)
Starting Elevation: 3,402 metres (11,162 feet)
Ending Elevation: 2,735 metres (8,973 feet)
Maximum Elevation: 3,402 metres (11,162 feet)
Embark on a delightful trekking adventure today, beginning with a hearty breakfast at camp. Afterward, you will set off to rejoin the trail, ascending gently through a forest before descending back down to the village of Chendebji. Here, your campsite will already be set up for you, providing a comfortable spot for you to rest and recharge.
While at Chendebji, visit the Chorten, a magnificent stupa built by Lam Ngedup Tshering Wangchuk to subdue a local demoness and bring peace to the Chendebji Valley. According to legend, the Chorten was built at the point where the three ridges and the three edges of the sky meet, making it a significant spiritual landmark.
At the end of your day, you’ll be treated to a hot shower and a delicious locally-sourced organic dinner at the campsite.
Trek Distance: 12 kilometers (7.46 miles)
Estimated Trek Duration: 5 hours
Elevation Gain: 500 meters (1,641 feet)
Starting Elevation: 2,735 meters (8,973 feet)
Ending Elevation: 2,425 meters (7,956 feet)
Maximum Elevation: 2,867 meters (9,406 feet)
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before you set out on the trail to the village of Panshing. The trail leads through dense forests and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape. As you approach Panshing, you will come across several small villages and farms.
Once you reach Panshing, take a break and enjoy a hot lunch at a local farmhouse. After lunch, visit the Panshing Lhakhang (temple) before continuing on the Trail towards the village of Nabji. The Nabji Trail passes through the Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, home to several endangered species, including the golden langur.
As you approach Nabji, you will see the village from afar – nestled amongst terraced fields and surrounded by lush forests. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by the friendly villagers and taken to your campsite. Enjoy the day with a delicious local dinner.
Trek Distance: 14 kilometres (8.69 miles)
Estimated Trek Duration: 6 hours
Elevation Gain: 200 metres (656 feet)
Starting Elevation: 2,276 metres (7,468 feet)
Ending Elevation: 1,850 metres (6,069 feet)
Maximum Elevation: 2,300 metres (7,546 feet)
Experience the heart of Bhutan on foot as you traverse the Trans Bhutan Trail through Trongsa, the geographical center point of the country. After breakfast at your camp, embark on a short, steep climb out of Tshangkha past the Ugyen Choling and Tshangkha Sheydra before descending towards the National Highway. From the Trongsa viewpoint, you will cross the old cantilever bridge over the Mangde River before heading up the other side of the valley and arriving at the Trongsa Dzong via the Western gate. Enjoy spectacular views of the fortress on the opposite side and recreate the experience of arriving in the city on foot as the garps did centuries ago.
Trongsa is steeped in history and closely linked to the Bhutanese Royal Family. The first two hereditary Kings ruled from Trongsa Dzong, and the crown prince still traditionally serves as the Penlop (Governor) of Trongsa before acceding to the throne. The remainder of the day will be at leisure to relax and explore Trongsa on your own. In the early evening, join your guide for dinner at a local restaurant.
Trek Distance: 15.9 kilometers (9.88 miles)
Estimated Trek Duration: 8 hours
Elevation Gain: 1,421 meters (4,662 feet)
Starting Elevation: 2,276 meters (7,468 feet)
Ending Elevation: 2,375 meters (7,792 feet)
Maximum Elevation: 2,491 meters (8,173 feet)
After breakfast at your hotel before bidding adieu to Trongsa. Hop on a private vehicle to head east towards Yotongla mountain pass, where you will rejoin the Trans Bhutan Trail. From Yotongla, enjoy a pleasant descent through meadows and open forest, followed by a lovely riverside walk towards Geytsa, with the last 4 kilometers offering a breathtaking view of the Geytsa River.
Once you arrive in Geytsa, you will have a unique opportunity to visit a local family in the nearby Chhumey community and learn about the ancient art of weaving with yak wool. Later, visit a local handicraft center before returning to your campsite in Geytsa. Enjoy a hot shower and a mouthwatering, locally sourced dinner.
Trek Distance: 9.5 kilometers (5.9 miles)
Estimated Trek Duration: 4 hours
Elevation Gain: 50 meters (164 feet)
Starting Elevation: 3,425 meters (11,237 feet)
Ending Elevation: 2,891 meters (9,485 feet)
Maximum Elevation: 3,425 meters (11,237 feet
Embark on a historical section of the Trans Bhutan Trail after breakfast at the camp today, which used to be the transfer route of the Royal Family between Trongsa and Bumthang or Kuenga Rabten, where the Second King had his summer residence. From Geytsa, hike through pine forests towards the Kikila Pass, where you will briefly follow the Owl Trek’s path.
Descend gently into the Bumthang Valley from the Kiklia Pass, and enjoy breathtaking views of Jakar Dzong (fortress) along the way. Savor a picnic lunch and a short visit to Chuchi Lhakhang (temple) en route. The locals claim that King Songsten Gampo built the temple in the 10th century as one of the 108 temples across the Himalayan region, although no official records exist.
If time permits, visit the Bumthang Brewery, renowned for producing Red Panda Beer, and the only commercial cheese factory in Bhutan. These two establishments are the legacy of the Swiss Farm development project, which brought European farming and production methods to the Bumthang area.
Tonight you will dine with your guide at a local restaurant.
Trek Distance: 17.5 kilometres (10.88 miles)
Estimated Trek Duration: 7 hours
Elevation Gain: 847 metres (2,779 feet)
Starting Elevation: 2,891 metres (9,485 feet)
Ending Elevation: 2,574 metres (8,445 feet)
Maximum Elevation: 3,544 metres (11,628 feet)
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel before embarking on an exciting journey towards the Lhodrak Karchu Monastery. As you ascend towards the monastery, enjoy the stunning views of Chamkhar town and the Babzur Valley. The monastery, founded in 1984 by Namkhai Nyingpo Rinpoche, is one of the most significant Buddhist sites in Bhutan. Explore the monastery’s two-story building, which houses an impressive assembly hall with towering statues of Guru Rinpoche and a scenic terrace offering breathtaking views of the Chhokhor Valley and Jakar Dzong.
Next, trek down to Babzur village and continue southwards towards the Pema Choling Nunnery. Here, women and girls undertake a nine-year course in the Nyingma Peling Buddhist tradition, known for their unique drum ceremony, “chod.”
Continue your journey towards the sacred Mebartsho, also known as the Burning Lake. The lake is famous for the discovery of several of Guru Rinpoche’s hidden treasures by the great treasure hunter, Pema Lingpa, in the 15th century. Admire the beautiful surroundings and learn about the legend of Pema Lingpa’s discovery.
In the nearby village of Phomdrong, enjoy a delicious and authentic Bhutanese lunch at a local farmhouse. Your host will show you how to make Bumthap Putha, a special type of buckwheat noodle traditional to the Bumthang region.
End your day with a homestay experience at a farmhouse in Phomdrong, where a local Bhutanese family will prepare a traditional Bhutanese dinner for you.
Trek Distance: 15.25 kilometres (9.48 miles)
Estimated Trek Duration: 6 hours
Elevation Gain: 840 metres (2,756 feet)
Starting Elevation: 2,574 metres (8,445 feet)
Ending Elevation: 2,713 metres (8,901 feet)
Maximum Elevation: 3,109 metres (10,201 feet)
Embark on a scenic adventure after breakfast at the homestay, by joining the Trail towards the picturesque town of Ura. You will take a short stroll along the old East-West highway before veering into the lush countryside, where you will catch a glimpse of vast buckwheat fields. Pause for a refreshing picnic lunch near the charming village of Tangsiji, then prepare for a switchback ascent towards the Sheytangla Chorten (stupa). Take in the breathtaking views of the Ura valley from this vantage point before proceeding to descend into the valley towards Ura.
In Ura, visit the Ura Lhakhang (temple), which was built in 1982 and features a towering two-story Guru statue. Locals attribute the valley’s rescue from the spread of chronic leprosy in the past to a human-sized copper Guru statue housed within the temple.
End your day on a high note with a delicious dinner.
Trek Distance: 18 kilometres (11.19 miles)
Estimated Trek Duration: 7 hours
Elevation Gain: 1,182 metres (3,878 feet)
Starting Elevation: 2,713 metres (8,901 feet)
Ending Elevation: 3,139 metres (10,299 feet)
Maximum Elevation: 3,576 metres (11,733 feet)
Experience a day of cultural and historical immersion with a visit to some of Bhutan’s most notable landmarks. After a delicious breakfast, hop on a private vehicle and make your way back to Bumthang. Your first stop is the Jambay Lhakhang, a remarkable temple said to have been built by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in a single day to subdue an ogress forever.
Next, explore the Jakar Dzong, also known as the ‘Castle of the White Bird’. Built in 1549, this grand fortress is Eastern Bhutan’s primary defensive stronghold and the former seat of the First King of Bhutan. Discover unique features such as its 50-meter utse (tower) and a fortified passage with two interconnected walls that provided access to water during a siege.
In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner with your guide at a local restaurant.
Trek Distance: 11.9 kilometers (7.4 miles)
Estimated Trek Duration: 8 hours
Elevation Gain: 1,024 meters (3,360 feet)
Starting Elevation: 3,139 meters (10,299 feet)
Ending Elevation: 3,472 meters (11,392 feet)
Maximum Elevation: 3,878 meters (12,724 feet)
After breakfast at your hotel, board your vehicle for a transfer from Bumthang to Punakha. En route, stop in the town of Trongsa. Enjoy a tour of Trongsa Dzong (fortress), which was first built by Ngagi Wangchuck as a small meditation room in 1541, after he discovered self-manifested hoof-prints belonging to the deity Pelden Lhamo on the same spot. Trongsa, which means ‘new village’ in the local dialect, soon sprung up around the site. The Dzong (fortress) was built in its present form in 1644 and then enlarged again at the end of the 17th century. It is home to some 450 district monks who spend their winters in Trongsa and their summers in Bumthang. You will visit a selection of the Dzong’s 23 lhakhangs (temples), before heading to the Trongsa Ta Dzong (watchtower), which now houses the interesting Royal Heritage Museum.
On arrival in Punakha, there may be some time for sightseeing, including a tour of the Dzong (fortress), which was built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in around 1637 at the confluence of the Phochhu (male river) and the Mochhu (female river). Arguably, it is the most beautiful Dzong in the country. The Dzong guards Bhutan’s most treasured relic, the Rangjung Kharsapani, an image of Chenresig kept away from the public in the utse (tower). It has survived Tibetan invasions, numerous fires, floods and a glacial lake burst. The Dzong served as the capital and seat of the Bhutanese Government until the early 1950s; and the coronation of His Majesty the First Druk, Gyalpo Ugyen Wangchuck, took place here. The building currently serves as the winter residence for the monastic body.
The day will end with dinner at a local resturant.
Embark on a scenic journey after breakfast, traveling west along the National Highway towards Thimphu. A stop at Dochula Pass allows for a final walk on the Trans Bhutan Trail, which takes you towards Thimphu. The Trail traverses orchards, strawberry fields, and market gardens, and passes through dense forests and across meadows before arriving at Hongtsho. In Simtokha, visit the Simtokha Dzong – Bhutan’s first fortress built for administrative and monastic residents. It is also the oldest dzong to have survived as a complete structure, boasting fine murals, carvings, tapestries, and chapels.
From Simtokha, continue the journey to Paro by vehicle, and check in at your hotel. Later, join your guide for dinner.
Trek Distance: 15.5 kilometers (9.63 miles)
After breakfast this morning, head northwest out of Paro by private vehicle for a visit to the iconic Taktshang Goemba, more commonly known as the ‘Tiger’s Nest Monastery’. Precariously perched on a sheer cliff face 900 metres (2,950 feet) above the Paro Valley floor, the Tiger’s Nest is undoubtedly Bhutan’s most famous religious building. It is built on the site where Guru Rinpoche is said to have arrived on the back of a tigress when he came to subdue the local demon, Singye Samdrup. After subduing the demon, Guru Rinpoche is said to have meditated in a cave here for three whole months.
The Monastery is only accessible by foot via a one and a half to two hour hike up the valley side. The trek offers spectacular views from the ridge and passes a small chorten, a basic monastery, and a waterfall on its way.
Once you have reached the Tiger’s Nest, you will have a chance to visit the cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated, as well as the extensive network of Lhakhangs (chapels) which house images, murals, chortens, and a holy spring. You may also wish to make a diversion to the attractive Machig-phu Lhakhang (temple) on the way back down to the access road.
After the visit, you will head back to your hotel in Paro, where you will be able to relax for the remainder of the day or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs.
In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your guide at a nearby restaurant.
Today is your departure day. After enjoying your breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to the airport for your international flight. We hope you had an enjoyable and memorable time in Bhutan and look forward to welcoming you back in the future.
Price
Travel Services (Accommodations, Meals, Activities) *
$4755.00
Bhutanese Sustainable Development Fee *
$910.00
Bhutanese Visa Fee *
$40.00
Total
$5705.00
Cancellation Protection (Optional)
$243.00
In Additional
We offer some of the excursions or activities accessible to travelers that are not included in the trip fee such as:
- Ara ceremony
- Wedding ceremony
- Village homestay experience
Our Popular Tour
This tours are designed to help our customers get the best experience possible from their visit to our facility.
14 Day Bhutan Tour
Hike to the famous Tiger's Nest Monastery
Overview
After exploring Bhutan's capital, Thimphu, head east to begin your forteen-day journey on the Trans Bhutan Trail. Follow the Divine Madman Trail and immerse yourself in the surrounding towns. Before exploring the royal capital of Bumthang and the lovely Ura Valley, go to the Trongsa Dzong (fortress) in the same route as garps (messengers) would have done centuries ago. Hike to the famous Tiger's Nest Monastery to round out your visit.
Itinerary
Price
Travel Services (Accommodations, Meals, Activities) *
$4755.00
Bhutanese Sustainable Development Fee *
$910.00
Bhutanese Visa Fee *
$40.00
Total
$5705.00
Cancellation Protection (Optional)
$243.00
In Additional
We offer some of the excursions or activities accessible to travelers that are not included in the trip fee such as:
- Ara ceremony
- Wedding ceremony
- Village homestay experience
Our Popular Tour
This tours are designed to help our customers get the best experience possible from their visit to our facility.
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