Discover the Land of the Thunder Dragon

Itinerary

Itinerary:
Thimphu - Punakha - Homestay - Haa - Paro
Duration:
7 days / 6 nights (flexible)
Price:
from £ 1,545.- per person (excluding flights)

During this short Bhutan highlights itinerary, you’ll really get to know the land of the thunder dragon as you visit the top spots of western and central Bhutan. Walk through the streets of the capital, travel through mountain passes adorned with fluttering prayer flags, through green valleys and past murmuring monks into the Haa valley. Take a hike to the famous Tiger’s Nest; a monastery fortress built on a cliff around 3,000 metres high and let yourself be enchanted in the last Buddhist kingdom of the Himalayas.

Days 1-2 – A taste of Thimphu

Today you’ll travel to your comfortable hotel in Thimphu, reputedly the only capital city without traffic lights. Home to an impressive Trashi Chhoe Dzong which hosts one of the most memorable festivals (tsechus) in the country, Thimphu is a wonderful introduction to the country. With numerous temples, unusual museums and a busy weekend market this town will win you over and keep you busy. Don’t forget to check out the world’s largest sitting Buddha perched atop a hill overlooking the capital – you wouldn’t want to miss the views! After your night in Thimphu you’ll be collected by your guide and driver to travel the roughly 3 hours to Punakha.

It’s time for a glimpse of life in the countryside. After crossing the prayer-flag laden pass of Dochula you’ll arrive amongst the lush greenery of the Punakha Valley where you’ll stay in a small hotel just outside the town. The next day you’ll walk through rice fields and visit one of the most beautiful monasteries in Bhutan, the Punakha Dzong, before spending the night at a local homestay.

The colourful towers and white walls of this characteristic building form a striking contrast to the emerald green scenery and turquoise rivers. Next you’ll travel by car into Bhutan’s countryside, arriving at a local bed & breakfast late in the afternoon. This is where you’ll spend the night. The accommodation is simple and functional and you’ll have your own private room. This is a real opportunity to get a glimpse of Bhutanese village life.

Days 4-5 – Haa! A hidden Shangri-La

You’ll wave goodbye to your friendly hosts to travel by private car with your driver and guide from the Bhutanese countryside to the Haa Valley. Today’s driving time is roughly 6 hours through some incredible countryside.Your journey to the untouched Haa Valley will take you through the Chelila Pass and past the Kila nunnery. You’ll see remnants of a time when this was the main trade route between Tibet and Bhutan. The area is so peaceful and beautiful we would recommend a walk along the banks of the river, with Tibet’s majestic peaks as your backdrop, or a hike up one of the high passes in search of blue poppies.

It’s time to hop in your private car again and let your guide and driver whisk you away to Paro. Today’s drive will take about 2.5 hours.On arrival in the charming town of Paro you’ll be taken to your typical Bhutanese hotel. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the town with your guide, visit the famous (and most impressive) Paro Dzong and try your hand at a spot of archery, Bhutanese national sport. After your first night, you’ll hike up to the spectacular Tiger’s Nest Monastery perched on the side of a 3000m cliff overlooking Paro Valley. In the afternoon, treat yourself to a hot stone bath made with fresh herbs, an authentic Bhutanese spa experience you won’t try anywhere else on earth!

Unfortunately all good things must come to an end and today your Bhutan trip must draw to a close. You’ll be taken to the airport to catch your Druk Air flight. From here you can either connect onto your international flight back to the UK or extend your time in Asia.