Kathmandu – Paro – Thimphu – Punakha – Gangtey – Punakha – Gasa – Thimphu – Paro – Kathmandu
Bhutan; The Himalayan Gem
Bhutan offers a peaceful retreat from the pressures of modern life — a place where spirituality, tradition, and natural beauty blend seamlessly. Whether in everyday life or spiritual practices, there's a sense of calm and contentment among the Bhutanese people that leaves a lasting impression.Tucked away in the heart of the Himalayas, this secluded kingdom remained isolated from the rest of the world for centuries, preserving its deep-rooted customs and cultural heritage. Traditional archery, intricate handicrafts, hearty meals with local cheese, scenic mountain treks, and soothing hot-stone baths are all part of Bhutan’s enduring charm. The country is guided by Buddhist philosophy, with monks living and practicing in majestic temples and Dzongs — fortress-like monasteries that dominate the landscape. Spiritual life is everywhere, symbolized by colorful prayer flags dancing across mountain passes and hillsides. As we travel through Bhutan, we’ll witness breathtaking scenery — towering mountains, rolling green valleys, and peaceful villages. We’ll explore sacred sites, learn about the core principles of Buddhism, and engage with the local way of life. This cultural journey also includes a geological perspective, offering insights into how the dramatic Himalayan terrain was formed and what the land itself reveals about the ancient forces that shaped it.
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Tour Plan
Depart from London Heathrow for Kathmandu, taking an overnight flight with Emirates Airlines or Qatar Airways. Regional Departure also available, please contact us for details.
Meeting assistance on arrival at Kathmandu and transfer to Hotel Tibet International. Afternoon sightseeing in Kathmandu. Overnight Hotel Nepali Ghar. B
Morning sightseeing of Kathmandu. Afternoon at leisure. B
Transfer to Kathmandu Airport for your Flight to Bhutan. A very warm welcome awaits you in Paro. You will be met on arrival by a local representative and escorted in an air-conditioned vehicle to transfer to Thimphu. On the journey from Paro we are introduced to the schists and gneisses that are characteristic of much of Bhutan. These are rocks that have been metamorphosed, that is buried to depths where pressure and heat transform the rock. These metamorphic rocks belong to the so called ‘Greater Himalayan Series’. They display a range of beautiful minerals, including garnets, that are used to determine the metamorphic grade (the degree of heating and ressure that they have endured as a result of burial within the mountain chain). Two nights stay in Thimphu – City Heritage Hotel or similar. B, L, D
Drive northwards through a charming well vegetated valley to visit the Cheri Goemba (small temple). This is accessed by taking a short trek up a winding path. The wildlife and flora of this valley are renowned. A variety of metamorphic rocks are seen in the road cuttings and streams. We return to Thimphu in time to visit the Dzong. Here a local garnet gneiss is utilized as building stone for the massive monastery. Overnight in Thimphu – City Heritage Hotel or similar. B, L, D
Today we travel to Gangtey. Views of the high Himalaya including the Masang Khan (7,200m) to the north are stunning, seen from the Dochu La, a pass at 3,140m elevation. Further east, just short of the Pele La (3,420m), we leave the main east-west route of central Bhutan and head south to our hotel in the wildlife reserve at Gangtey in the Phobjikha valley, the winter roosting ground of the migratory and rare black-necked cranes. On our journey we see large and dramatic exposures of white leucogranites, intruded into gneisses of the local formation, the Chekha Formation. leucogranites (white granites) display large dark-coloured tourmaline crystals. Afternoon, proceed to visit Gangtey Goenpa, a magnificent monastery perched atop a small hill in the heart of the valley. Notably, it's the sole Nyingmapa monastery on the western side of the Black Mountains and also the largest of its kind in Bhutan. Surrounded by a bustling village primarily inhabited by the families of the 140 Gomchens, who dutifully tend to the monastery, Gangtey holds a significant place in Bhutanese religious history. Founded by Pema Trinley, the grandson of the renowned Nyingmapa saint Pema Lingpa, the monastery dates back to 1613 when Pema Trinley became its first Gangtey Tulku. The monastery continues to uphold the religious traditions of Pema Lingpa, attracting devotees and visitors alike. Visit the Shedra to witness the students and monks performing their evening prayers at recently constructed the Kuenzang Chholing Shedra is a Nyingmapa school with over 300 student monks. Overnight in Gangtey – Dewachen Hotel or similar. B, L, D
After breakfast, we embark on a delightful walking excursion along the Gangtey Nature Trail. Beginning from a small hilltop overlooking Gangtey Goenpa, the trail lead us through flower-filled meadows, descending to Semchubara village before winding through enchanting forests and into the expansive valley below. Along the 5.5-kilometer journey lasting approximately two hours, we pass by a chorten and Khewa Lhakhang, immersing ourselves in the serene beauty of Phobjikha valley. After a satisfying lunch, we delve deeper into the enchanting surroundings of Phobjikha valley, renowned as the winter sanctuary for black-necked cranes migrating from the northern arid plains to enjoy the milder climate. The valley's charm is further enhanced by the presence of two meandering rivers, Nakay Chhu (Chhu Naap - black water) and Gay Chhu (Chhu Karp - white water). Our exploration continues with a visit to the Black Neck Crane Information Centre, strategically located on the edge of the forest and wetland along the main road of Phobjikha valley. Equipped with high-powered telescopes and spotting scopes, the centre provides an ideal vantage point for observing the majestic cranes in their natural habitat. Additionally, informative displays offer insights into the area's rich natural and cultural heritage, while a small gift shop showcases locally crafted handicrafts. Overnight in Gangtey – Dewachen Hotel or similar. B, L, D
After breakfast, drive back to Punakha, stopping En route for a short excursion to Chimi Lhakhang. The Chimi Lhakhang, situated on a hillock in the centre of the valley, also known as the temple of fertility. It is widely believed that couples who do not have children and wanting one, if they pray at this temple, they are usually blessed with a child very soon. The trail leads across rice fields to the tiny settlement of Pana, meaning ‘field’. A walk through the village near the temple will give you rare glimpses into the daily life and lifestyle of the villagers. Hike is followed by short drive to Hotel. On arrival check at Meri Puensum Resort or similar. Punakha served as the capital of Bhutan and seat of government until 1955 and still it is the winter seat of Je Khenpo (the chief abbot). Blessed with temperate climate and owing to its natural drainage from Pho Chhu (male) and Mo Chhu (female) rivers, the fertile Punakha valley produces abundant crops and fruits. Located at an elevation of 1300m above sea level, Punakha enjoys mild winters and is popular year-round destination. Afterwards, visit Punakha Dzong or ‘Palace of Great Happiness’, built at the junction of the Pho chhu and Mo chhu rivers in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. This majestic dzong served as both the religious and the administrative centre of Bhutan in the past. It measures some 600 by 240 feet and has a six-story, gold-domed tower. Inside are courtyards and religious statuary that hint at the depth of history and spiritual tradition embodied here. Your guide will illuminate your understanding of this intricate culture that is exotic to us, though long established here. B, L, D
Drive to Gasa, north of Punakha, via Tashitang and continuing upstream along the great Mo Chhu river. We will witness subtropical vegetation and a fertile valley with wild orchards and banana trees. Geologically we will see deformed granites of Cambrian age and whitish marbles. The road continues through gorges, meadows and rice terraces, during which we pass some picturesque villages and houses. Night in well-appointed camp. B, L, D
Gasa is the northernmost district of Bhutan. The settlement of Gasa lies at 2,860m elevation. Here we visit the Dzong, believed to be built in the 1640s as one of the key defence fortresses of the country. It is known for its unique circular shape with three Ta Dzongs (watchtowers). The central one of these is constructed above a cave where a Tibetan saint was believed to meditate back in the 13th century. We look around the picturesque town, visiting the archery ground, teashop and small bazaar, and enjoy the views of the mountains surrounding the town. We get even better views by driving north of Gasa and taking a short trek. If time allows we visit a newly restored water mill at Chhogley Chiwog and see the traditional way of grinding cereal. Night in well-appointed camp. B, L, D
After breakfast we walk down an ancient mule track to the thermal springs that rise to the surface here. The area is famed for these hot springs which are warm and carbonated and reputed to have strong healing properties. Deep faulting in the region allows waters heated at depth to rise to the surface. There will be time for those who wish to bathe and take advantage of the reputed properties of these waters. Drive back to Punakha. Overnight in Punakha – Meri Puensum Resort or similar. B, L, D
Drive to Paro via Thimphu, where we will have a break. We will stay in Paro at the Village Lodge, a delightful traditional hotel, for 3 nights as there is much to see here and in the surrounding area. Overnight in Paro – Paro Eco Lodge or similar. B, L, D
Today we take the road over the Chele La pass to Haa. The Chele La is at an elevation of 3,810m and is our highest point on this trip. It is home to the Bhutanese blue poppy. We will take a short hike around this area and view the Killey Goemba monastery which is perched on the mountain side overlooking the valley. At Haa we visit the Wangchulo Dzong and take a walk up to the Shelkar Drak temple. Return to Paro. Overnight in Paro – Paro Eco Lodge or similar. B, L, D
Today we visit the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktshang Goemba), Bhutan’s most venerated religious site and certainly the monastery with the most spectacular setting. A steep walk through pine forests brings us to this cliff-top monastery. Mule rides are available for those who wish. The monastery is an outstanding example of Bhutanese architecture, much rebuilt after various fires. Back in Paro there may be an opportunity to see an archery competition. Archery is the national sport of Bhutan and involves a number of rituals with dancing and singing. For our final night we will have a bonfire and celebratory dinner with a cultural troupe performing masked and ethnic dances. Overnight in Paro – Paro Eco Lodge or similar. B, L, D
Transfer to Paro Airport for your flight to Kathmandu. Meeting assistance on arrival in Kathmandu Airport and transfer to Nepali Ghar hotel for (similar) for your overnight stay. It is also possible to fly to various points into India instead of Kathmandu-Nepal. Extension Tours for Golden Triangle, Kerala and avialable. Please ask for details. B
Transfer to Kathmandu Airport for your flight to London with Emirates or Qatar Airways. B
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