Bhutan Unbound

🧭 Tour Overview:

“Bhutan Unbound” is a carefully curated 8-day itinerary offering a rich tapestry of Bhutan’s culture, nature, and outdoor adventures. Explore iconic dzongs, hike to sacred monasteries, walk across dramatic valleys, and unwind with local hospitality. A short trek through the forested mountains of Phobjikha or Paro adds a touch of wilderness, while activities like fishing, farmhouse stays, or a custom visit to Haa Valley ensure the experience is tailored to your pace and preferences. Whether you’re seeking serenity or a hint of adrenaline, this journey is your window into the real Bhutan.

🗓️ Day 1: Arrive in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu (1.5 hrs)

Welcome to Bhutan! Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with a traditional white scarf and driven to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital nestled between pine-covered hills.

En Route Stop:

• Tamchog Lhakhang – Cross the iconic iron suspension bridge and visit the 15th-century temple

In Thimphu:

• Buddha Dordenma – Towering 169-foot Buddha with panoramic views
• Memorial Chorten – Sacred site where locals engage in daily prayer
• Evening walk along Norzin Lam, visiting the local craft market and shops

Optional Add-On: Enjoy live music or local beer tasting in one of Thimphu’s cozy bars

Overnight: Boutique hotel in Thimphu
Meals: Lunch, Dinner

🗓️ Day 2: Thimphu Cultural Immersion & Flexi Activities

Morning Highlights:

• Zorig Chusum Institute – Discover Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts
• Takin Preserve – See Bhutan’s unique national animal
• Folk Heritage Museum – Learn about rural Bhutanese life and architecture

Afternoon Options (Choose One):

• Archery & dart experience with locals
• Visit a handmade incense or paper workshop
• Guided hike to Wangditse or Sangaygang Viewpoint (easy 1–1.5 hrs)

Evening Highlight – Dinner with a Bhutanese Family:

• Share stories and taste home-cooked dishes in a traditional Bhutanese home

Overnight: Thimphu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

🗓️ Day 3: Thimphu – Dochula Pass – Punakha

Scenic Journey to Punakha (3 hrs):

• Stop at Dochula Pass (3,100m) to view 108 chortens and Himalayan peaks
• Tea stop at Druk Wangyal Café with mountain views

In Punakha:

• Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple) – 15-minute village walk to the temple of Drukpa Kunley
• Punakha Dzong – Bhutan’s most picturesque fortress at the confluence of two rivers

Optional Activity:

• Cross the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan
• Try riverbank fishing (available on prior request and subject to season)

Overnight: Riverside hotel or traditional lodge in Punakha
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

🗓️ Day 4: Punakha – Phobjikha Valley via Wangdue (2.5–3 hrs)

En Route Stop:

• Explore Wangdue Phodrang Town – known for slate and bamboo crafts

In Phobjikha:

• Visit the serene Gangtey Monastery, the main spiritual center of the valley
• Begin a short guided trek on the Gangtey Nature Trail (~2 hrs) through forests, meadows, and villages

Evening Experiences:

• Optional visit to Black-Necked Crane Information Centre
• Relax at your eco-lodge or experience a local farmhouse stay

Overnight: Eco-lodge or homestay in Phobjikha
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

🗓️ Day 5: Phobjikha Valley Exploration + Optional Short Trek

Adventure Options (Customize Based on Interest):

• Longer trek to Kumbu Village or Sha Chhu Valley (moderate, 3–4 hrs)
• Visit local schools or monk hostels for meaningful interactions
• Try nature photography or join a volunteering activity (on request)

Leisure Option:

• Relax at your lodge and enjoy the peaceful glacial valley with birdwatching and storytelling with hosts

Overnight: Phobjikha
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

🗓️ Day 6: Phobjikha – Return to Paro (5–6 hrs)

Scenic Drive Back to Paro:

• Stop for photos and tea en route
• View terraced rice fields and winding rivers along the way

In Paro:

• Kyichu Lhakhang: One of the 108 temples built by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo
• Paro Dzong & Cantilever Bridge – Explore this ancient fortress guarding the valley

Evening:

• Try a traditional hot stone bath and local farmhouse dinner

Overnight: Heritage hotel or farmhouse in Paro
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

🗓️ Day 7: Paro – Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang)

Highlight of the Tour – Taktsang Monastery Hike:

• Duration: 4–5 hrs round trip
• Trail: Lush pine forests, sacred caves, cliffside views
• Option for horse ride (first half only)

Afternoon:

• Visit Ta Dzong (National Museum) if time permits
• Free time to explore Paro town – cafes, art stores, or bookshops

Optional Add-On:

• If guests prefer, this day can also feature a custom visit to Haa Valley (requires early departure and prior coordination)

Farewell Dinner: Enjoy cultural music or masked dance at a local venue (on request)

Overnight: Paro
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

🗓️ Day 8: Departure from Bhutan

After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport. Your guide will assist with check-in and bid you farewell. Carry back the peaceful rhythm of Bhutan and stories for a lifetime.

Meals: Breakfast
End of Tour – Tashi Delek!