15 Day Discover Bhutan: West to East Expedition
Tour Highlights
Tour fact
Duration:15 days 14 nights
Grade: Moderate
Season:Mar,april,May,
Sep,Oct,Nov.
Places:Paro,Thimphu,Gangtey,
Punakha,Bumthang,Mongar,
Lhuentse
Accommodation
Plan:3 star hotel
Options: 4 or 5 star hotel
Day 1: Paro to Thimphu
Kuzuzangpo la! Warm Welcome to Bhutan! Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, your guide will greet you warmly as you exit the arrival hall. To ease into the altitude, we’ll follow a relaxed schedule today. We begin with a scenic one-hour drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, where you'll check into your hotel and take some time to unwind.
Later, we visit the iconic National Memorial Chorten, a sacred stupa built in 1974 to honor Bhutan's Third King, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Here, you can join local devotees as they circumambulate the stupa, immersing yourself in the serene and spiritual atmosphere of this beloved landmark.
In the evening we have time to relax and settle into our hotel before getting together for an informal meet-and-greet over dinner.
Day 2: Thimphu to Punakha
From Thimphu we head to Punakha, via Dochula Pass (3100m elevation), the site of 108 stupas built by Bhutan’s Queen Mother in memory of Bhutanese and Indian soldiers who died in 2003. On a clear day, the view from here is spectacular, over the forests below to the snow-capped Himalayan Mountains.
We then descend to Punakha Valley, at 1200m elevation, where we visit the majestic and beautiful Punakha Dzong. Located where the rivers Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu meet, this stunning example of ancient Bhutanese architecture is the second oldest and second largest of Bhutan’s Dzongs. Completed in 1637, it served as the country’s capital from 1637 to 1907. Today, it is the winter residence of Bhutan’s Monastic Body and home to some of our most sacred ancient relics.
In the afternoon We then visit Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple), built in 1499 by Lama Ngawang Chogye on a hill blessed by the 15th century Buddhist leader Drukpa Kinley (the Divine Madman).
Day 3: Punakha to Bumthang
We leave Punakha and travel to Bumthang.Our route passes through beautiful forest landscapes and breathtaking mountain views. On the way we will host the Wind-Horse Prayer Flags and chant prayers to overcome your life’s obstacles and to fulfill your aspiration dreams.
By early evening we reach Bumthang in Central Bhutan. Bumthang is the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, with many religious relics and histories found here. This region is home to some of our oldest Buddhist temples and monasteries, such as Jambay Lhakhang, and many Guru Rinpoche sacred sites which remain undisturbed in pristine nature. It is here that Buddhism was first introduced in the 8th century by the Indian Tantric master, Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) and later many important Tibetan masters and Tertons (treasure-discoverers) lived and practiced in this sacred region.
Visitors are also attracted to Bumthang's scenic beauty and biodiversity, with its broad gentle valleys and forests of native pines. It is an ideal place to practice meditation, surrounded by the blessings of ancient masters and relax in its peaceful natural environment.
Day 4: Bumthang
Today, with joy and a spiritual spirit, we visit Jampal Lhakhang, the Temple of Maitreya. Built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, this ancient monastery is one of Bhutan's oldest. It was constructed to subdue a giant demoness and dispel obstacles to the spread of Buddhism in the region.
Next, we visit Kurje Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's most sacred sites. Here, Guru Rinpoche meditated for three months in a cave, subduing a powerful local deity and leaving his sacred body imprint as a symbol of Buddhism's introduction to Bhutan. A monastery was later built to honor and preserve this holy site. Behind it stands a tall cypress tree, believed to have sprouted from Guru Rinpoche's walking stick. At Kurje, we admire its majestic statues, intricate paintings, and ancient sacred ornaments. Nearby, we visit the Kurje Holy Spring, where its healing waters are believed to cleanse negative energy and promote physical well-being.
If weather permits, we will arrange a delightful picnic lunch by the riverside, surrounded by peace and tranquility. After lunch, we visit Tamshing Monastery, built by the revered treasure revealer, Terton Pema Lingpa. Next, we visit a nearby traditional weaving center to witness the intricate process of weaving Bhutan’s national dress. Bumthang is especially renowned for its unique woolen patterns called yatra. Afterward, we head to the Swiss cheese factory, where we can observe the production of both local and European-style cheeses, a delightful fusion of tradition and modernity.
We conclude our tour with a visit to Kharchu Monastery, a vibrant center of spiritual learning. Here, you can witness the monks engaging in lively debates and chanting, offering an inspiring glimpse into their daily practices and dedication to the Dharma.
Day 5: Bumthang to Mongar
Early morning, after breakfast, we begin our journey eastward to Mongar, passing through the breathtaking Phrumseng La Pass, the highest motorable pass in Bhutan. Here, you’ll witness stunning alpine vegetation and panoramic views of the mountain range.
As we descend, we arrive at the quaint village of Sengor, a charming spot where many travelers stop for lunch. After enjoying a hearty meal, we continue our journey, descending further into lush tropical forests. The scenic drive offers captivating views of cascading waterfalls and the unique beauty of Bhutan's diverse natural landscapes, making this an unforgettable experience.
As we descend further, we are greeted by the sight of the authentic rural villages of Eastern Bhutan, where people live a simple lifestyle, harmoniously blending farming with the beauty of nature. The journey takes us to Lingmethang, a warmer region characterized by charming landscapes adorned with chir pine forests.
From Lingmethang, we begin our ascent to Mongar town, which serves as the main administrative center of the region. This vibrant town offers a mix of traditional Bhutanese culture and modern conveniences, welcoming us with its unique charm.
Day 6: Mongar to Lhuntse
Day 7: Lhuntse to Gyalpozhing
Day 8: Gyalpozhing to Bumthang
In the morning, we will drive back to Bumthang, stopping at the picturesque Ura Village to admire its stunning valley and traditional charm. Along the way, we will visit the sacred Burning Lake (Mebar Tsho), where Terton Pema Lingpa discovered hidden treasures. Here, we will take a moment for prayers and a short meditation to connect with the spiritual energy of this revered site.
Finally, we arrive in Bumthang town, where you can unwind from the long journey and enjoy a delightful dinner, reflecting on the day’s serene experiences.
Day 9: Bumthang via Tharpaling Monastery
Today, we visit Tharpaling Monastery, located at 3,600 meters, overlooking the serene Chumey Valley in Bumthang. Founded by Longchenpa (1308–1363), the great Dzogchen master and philosopher, this sacred site exudes tranquility and offers breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding pine forests. Along the way, we stop at Chumey village, renowned for its intricate handwoven yatra, showcasing delicate woolen patterns unique to the region.
After visiting the monastery, we take a short walk to Chodrak, a sacred site where Guru Rinpoche meditated. Here, we pause for a moment of silent meditation, connecting deeply with the spiritual energy of the place. We then continue to Zambala Temple, where we relax and immerse ourselves in the peaceful surroundings. For those seeking more exploration, a hike to Longchenpa’s holy seat on the hilltop offers a stunning panoramic view of the monastery and the picturesque Chumey Valley below.
Day 10: Bumthang to Gangtey
We depart Bumthang for Gangtey, stopping en route to visit the historic Trongsa Dzong, built in 1543. Once the seat of power for Central and Eastern Bhutan, this impressive fortress was home to the first and second kings of Bhutan. The Dzong houses 25 temples dedicated to Tantric deities, a 17th-century watchtower (Ta Dzong), a traditional printing shop, and a museum honoring the Wangchuck Dynasty. During winter, it becomes home to about 200 monks.
Our destination, Gangtey, lies in the picturesque Phobjikha Valley, known for its breathtaking wilderness and as the winter habitat of the endangered Black-necked Crane (Grus nigricollis). We visit Gangtey Sangngak Choling Monastery, founded in 1613 by Gyalse Rinzin Pema Thinley, the first Gangtey Tulku. A vital center of the Nyingmapa School and the Pema Lingpa tradition, this monastery has been beautifully restored, providing accommodations for monks and retreat facilities. Here, we engage in meditation and offer prayers in this serene spiritual site.
Afterward, we enjoy a leisurely walk along the scenic Gangtey Nature Trail, which offers stunning views of the Phobjikha Valley. For an authentic experience, we can stay at a local homestay, immersing ourselves in the village lifestyle and enjoying traditional Bhutanese cuisine.
Day 11: Gangtey to Thimphu
In the morning, we take a serene nature walk around Gangtey Valley, an open valley known for its breathtaking beauty and rhododendron blooms in spring. Afterward, we drive back to Thimphu, stopping for lunch at a local restaurant. On the way, we ascend to Dochula Pass, where we enjoy a nature walk and a short meditation amidst the peaceful forest.
Finally, we arrive in Thimphu, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the town, shop for local souvenirs, and relax for the evening.
Day 12: Thimphu
In the morning, we visit the towering Buddha Dordenma at Kuenselphodrang, overlooking Thimphu town. Inside this majestic statue, we explore the shrine housing a collection of over a hundred thousand smaller Buddha statues. Afterward, we take a peaceful walk around the site, soaking in the serene surroundings.
Next, we visit the Folk Heritage Museum to explore and experience the traditional rural Bhutanese lifestyle. We also have the opportunity to participate in Bhutan's national sport, archery, for a fun and cultural experience. Later, we head to the craft market, where you can browse and purchase unique Bhutanese souvenirs to take home.
Day 13: Thimphu to Paro
In the morning, we drive to Paro, stopping along the way to visit Tachog Lhakhang, a temple built by the renowned Tibetan Buddhist master Thangtong Gyalpo, famous for constructing iron chain bridges.
We will then proceed to Paro Valley, known for its open landscapes, monasteries, temples, and sacred sites. Our next visit will be to Jangtse Dumtseg Lhakhang, a unique chorten-shaped temple built by the 14th-century master Thangtong Gyelpo. This temple is renowned for its historical significance in subduing the evil spirits that caused harm and disease to the local community. It is a sacred site where people have long sought protection from negative forces.
In the afternoon, we visit Paro Rinpung Dzong, also known as the "Fortress of Jewels." This striking 15th-century architectural masterpiece, situated at the edge of Paro Town, now serves as the administrative center of Paro.
Next, we head to the nearby Ta Dzong, originally built in 1649 as a watchtower. In 1968, it was converted into the National Museum of Bhutan, housing an extensive collection of antiques, art, textiles, weapons, and household items that offer an insightful glimpse into Bhutan's rich history and culture.After dinner, we will gather for a brief talk on the significance and history of Tiger's Nest (Taktsang).
Day 14: Paro – Hike to Taktsang
The Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang), the most iconic landmark and holy site in the Kingdom, is located 900 meters above the Paro Valley. It was first built in 1692 at the site of a cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated in the eighth century. Legend says that Guru Rinpoche flew there on a tigress and meditated in the cave for three years in order to subdue evil demons residing within it. The cave has been considered a sacred site ever since and many famous saints have made pilgrimage there. Located approximately 10 km north of Paro town at 3,100 meters altitude, Taktsang is reached after an approximately two and a half hour hike through beautiful, shady pine forests.
We end the day with a visit to Kyichu Lhakhang, a beautiful seventh-century Buddhist temple, one of the oldest in Bhutan. According to legend, a giant demoness laid her body across the Himalayas to prevent the spread of Buddhism. Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo built 108 temples throughout the region and around her body to pin her down, with Kyichu Lhakhang built to hold down her left foot.In the evening there is time for shopping in Paro and we gather for our farewell dinner.
Day 15: Departure
Boarding your morning flight from Paro International Airport, we bid a heartfelt farewell to this enchanting Himalayan kingdom. As you leave with cherished memories of Bhutan’s beauty, culture, and warmth, we wish you a safe journey and look forward to welcoming you back to Druk Yul – the Land of Endless Enchantments. Tashi Delek!
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