From East to West Bhutan
Itinerary
Days 1-3 – Tea time in Darjeeling
Take the legendary toy train in Darjeeling, nestled in the shadow of Kanchenjunga, one of the highest mountains in the Himalayas. A mostly Tibetan tangle of steep, ramshackle streets and market stalls, it has an atmosphere all of its own. You’ll amble through the emerald tea fields, watch a scenic sunrise from the tip of Tiger Hill and visit beautiful, remote Buddhist monasteries. You will then be transferred overland by your driver and taken into Phuentsholing, Bhutan. On arrival at Phuentsholing, you’ll be met by your English‐speaking guide and driver who will help you with the formalities before you get taken to your hotel for the night in Paro.
Days 3-5 – Winding trails to Tiger’s Nest
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! From Paro, you will then be transferred to the airport, where you will embark on a domestic flight to Bumthang.
Days 5-8 – Uncover the legends of Bumthang
Bumthang is the cultural and spiritual heartland of Bhutan. The journey takes around seven hours, but you’ll travel along some of Bhutan’s most scenic passes, covered in prayer flags fluttering in the wind and make quite a few stops along the way. During your stay in Bumthang, you’ll visit the impressive Jakar Dzong, see young monks practice their debating skills, and if you’re lucky, you might witness one of the colourful festivals the region’s famous for.
There are many interesting monasteries and festivals in the region that are well worth a visit, so have a chat with your guide to see what’s going on during your stay. You can also take a trip to Burning Lake, a sacred part of the mountain river and a beautiful spot to relax. This region is also ideal for day hikes during which you can visit numerous remote temples. On the last day of your stay you’ll drive to the Ura Valley, one of the most unusual villages in Bhutan. After your time in Bumthang is up, your private guide and driver will take you to your next destination, Phobjikha Valley.
Days 8-9 – Swooping cranes in sweeping valleys
Visit one of the most beautiful valleys in the whole of the Himalayas, home to the black-necked crane. These celestial birds settle here between November to February. You’ll stay in a charming mid-range hotel on the edge of the valley. As the morning mist slowly rolls away and the rising sun sparkles off the morning droplets of dew, you’ll get the feeling of being somewhere truly special. After your night in Phobjikha, you will be taken to your cosy hotel in Punakha.
Days 9-11 – Warm welcomes & the mighty Dzong
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 11-12 – A taste of Thimphu
It’s time to hop in your private car again, for your final stop in 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!
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.
Accommodation
