Best of Bhutan- Spiritual, Cultural and Nature

Day 01: Enter the Kingdom of Bhutan (Paro - Thimphu-55km/1.5hours)

Experience the breathtaking views of the high Himalayan peaks as you fly into Paro valley (2,200 meters) where you can get the first glimpse of this magical country. After the visa formalities at Paro airport, you will be received by your private guide with a white scarf of auspiciousness and drive to Thimphu.

• On the way, stop at the invigorating Tachog Lhakhang (the Iron Chain Bridge), a temple located across the famous iron chain bridge built over the meandering Pa Chhu (Paro River). Devour yourself to the revitalizing ambience of the cool-sweeping breeze and bright colored prayer flags. The whole set up a feast to the eye.
• Stop at Wangsisina to offer 108 butter lamps

• Drive up to Buddha Dordenma at Kuenselphodrang and catch the vibrant Buddha Dordenma statue in the early morning sunrise. Apart from the serenity of the place the view of the Thimphu city from this mountain is gorgeous.

• Today you will follow the trail which was once a busy thoroughfare connecting Thimphu and Punakha. From the Buddha Dordenma descend towards Tshelumaphey/ Debsi along the trans-Bhutan trail (many use it as a biking trail as well). Following the trail enjoy the view of Babesa and South Thimphu. Exit at Tshelumaphey/ Debsi. (Estimated time: 1 to 1 and half hours).

Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu

Day 02: Monastic Experience

Embark on a delightful journey to the northern end of Thimphu valley and relish the picturesque countryside scenery. Begin your day with a visit to Pangri Zampa, a monastery of historical grandeur transformed into a captivating astrology school.

Then, continue your adventure by taking a scenic hike to Dodeydra, immersing yourself in the tranquil beauty of nature leading to the hidden hilltop of Dodeydra monastery. As we ascend, we are greeted by breathtaking vistas and a profound sense of tranquility that permeates the surroundings.

Learn more about Dodeydra monastery here:

https://www.bhutaninbound.com/blog/2020/10/04/bhutan-monks/.

Immerse yourself in the sacred realm of Dodeydra Goempa, where you can meet and pray alongside monks. Share a serene evening prayer and dine with the monks. If you're up for it, engage in a Dharma discussion with the monks. Embark on an extraordinary journey of connection and spirituality.

During your stay, you can indulge in the following experiences:

• Hoist Prayer Flags: Raise vibrant prayer flags, infusing the atmosphere with your aspirations and spreading positive energy.
• Engage in sacred rituals like Incense Offering, Wine Offering, and Butter Lamp Offering, immersing yourself in profound wisdom.
• Attend Dharma talk in a private meeting with the abbot (Khenpo) of Shedra.
• Receive a transformative spiritual cleansing bestowed by a Lama,

Please note, some masters may require an English translator.

Overnight: Dodeydra Monastic Stay

DAY 03: Journey to Golden Punakha Valley (71 Kms/2-3 hours)

Rise early to the sound of morning bell summoning the monks for Morning Prayer. Begin your day by participating in Morning Prayer with the assembly of monks at the Dodeydra Monastery .

After a good breakfast take a pleasant journey to Punakha valley. Witness the mountains unfold its magic as you drive from Thimphu to splendid Punakha.

On the way stop at Dochula Pass 3,100 meters above sea level to admire the Mountain pass marked 108 Chortens (Buddhist Shrines). Enjoy the mesmerizing panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks over a cup of hot coffee or tea at the cafeteria.

If skies are clear, the high Himalayan peaks towards the north east will be revealed in all their glory. On a clear day, the following peaks can be seen from this pass (left to right): Masagang (7,158m), Tsendegang (6,960m), Terigang (7,060m), Jejegangphugang (7,158m), Kangphugang (7,170m), Zongaphugang (7,060m) a table mountain that dominates the isolated region of Lunana, and finally, Gangkar Puensum, the highest peak in Bhutan at 7,497m.

You may hoist consecrated prayer flags here and offer herbal incense sticks while wishing for good fortune and peaceful life; as well as well-being of all sentient being. Traditional wisdom holds that prayer flags and incense offering ought to be flown at mountain passes for auspiciousness and good luck.

Wind up your way to Wolokha Nunnery. A little drive further takes you to Laptshakha village to Leki Om Homestay, a traditional Bhutanese farm-house offering grand view of Punakha valley. It is an opportunity to discover the real Bhutanese farmer living in villages for an authentic experience. You can even explore their fields and other villages nearby.

Enjoy an organic farm-to-table meal prepared by the hostess Aum Leki. You can try your skills in cooking Bhutanese dishes or learn the art of making butter tea or just relax by taking in the view of the Punakha valley. It is an opportunity to discover the real Bhutanese farmer living in villages.

If time permits exploring the quaint Nobgang & Talo village

Overnight: Leki Om Homestay in Punakha

Day 04: Explore the Golden Punakha valley- the ancient capital of Bhutan

Today, the whole day is dedicated to explore the verdant Punakha valley located at 1,200 meters, making it comparatively warmer and the preferred winter place amongst the Bhutanese.

After a healthy breakfast, drive along the Mo Chu (Female River) to Nyizergang in the North. Walk uphill from the footbridge to the most elaborately built Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten; a fascinating temple built by the Queen Mother. The fresh glacial river and lush valley amid elevated mountains is spectacular view to capture.

Following a picnic lunch by the River at Zomlinghtang, a short drive through the valley floor leads to the grand Punakha Dzong, the palace of Great Bliss located magnificently between the Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River).

Later walk across farmhouses and rice paddies through the village of Phallus to reach Chimi Lhakhang better known as the fertility temple. It is a popular pilgrim site for couples hoping to start a family.

Overnight at authentic homestay/hotel

Day 05: Journey to the Glacial Splendor of Phobjikha valley

After the morning breakfast drive to Gangtey.

On the way, we will stop for a while to view the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong. Built in 1638, Wangdue Dzong is dramatically perched on the spur of a hill and overlooks the confluence of the Tsang Chu and Dang Chu rivers.

On arrival visit the Gangtey monastery which was founded by Pema Thinley, the grandson of Pema Lingpa. It was established in the year 1613 and the same year he became the First Gangtey Trulkus (Re-incarnation).

Later have lunch at the restaurant designated by Company

After a good lunch begin your hike down the Gangtey Monastery through the pine forests. It offers you beautiful landscape of the Phobjikha Valley. Phobjikha valley is without doubt one of the beautiful valley. The hike will take you about 2 hours to 2 and half hour. Meet your driver waiting for you at the other end of the road. You will drive from here to The Black Necked Crane Information Center. The center is well equipped with the Powerful Telescope and it has the best view for spotting birds if you are in the right time.

Rest of the day soak in the tranquil environment of Phobjikha valley at your luxurious stay at Gangtey Lodge

Overnight:  Stay at Gangtey Lodge Luxury Stay

Day 06: Gangtey  to Paro

Retrace your steps back over the Dochu La (Pass) for a second chance to view the Himalayan mountain ranges.

Wind through the Wang and Paro river valleys to Paro. Upon arriving, take an enchanting hike to the ancient Zuri Dzong. The view of the Paro valley and Paro Dzong from this spot is truly magical.

Duration of drive: 3 to 4 hours (126km)

Overnight: Overnight at hotel in Paro

Day 07: Sangchen Choekor – Bumdra

Trek Begins:

Hike from Sang Choekor Buddhist College (2,800m) to Yak Pasture below Bumdra Monastery (3,800m). The adventure begins with an early morning drive up to the Sang Choekor to meet our ponies and while they are being loaded, we may pay our respects at the College. The initial 1–2-hour ascent of a ridge can be steep at times but in the cool shade. We will reach a clearing with prayer flags and enjoy a spectacular view of both the Paro and Do Chhu valleys.

About 1-2 hours walk away is the Chhoe Tse Lhakhang (temple); which nestles at the side of the mountain. The trail continues and when we reach the last steep elevation, we will see a temple overlooking the views of Paro airport and the snow-capped Himalaya. After another 20 minutes of climbing through ruins and fluttering prayer flags, we hike into the ancient forest for about 40 minutes before we reach a wide meadow with sacred Chortens and prayer flags. We will spend a night at Bumdra Monastery Camp. The place has awesome view of the Himalayas.

Later visit Bumdra monastery. Bumdra means the cave of One Hundred Thousand Dakinis. Dakinis are female emanation of wisdom. Buddhist practitioners visit this place to get blessed and to enter into meditation retreat.

Overnight:  Bumdra Camp

Day 08: Bumdra Trek Ends At Tiger’s Nest

After a hearty breakfast in the jaw-dropping landscape, it is time to either head straight back into the valley or linger awhile soaking up the view and perhaps hang some prayer flags of our own. Eventually, we have to drop back into the ancient pine and rhododendron forest on the monks’ zigzagging trail. After 1-2 hours of descent, we catch glimpses of the golden roofs of temples below and soon come upon the first of many on our way back from the wilds.

The path snakes across the mountainside between the monasteries and temples before reaching the gardens of Zangdopelri (Heaven on Earth) from which you can bravely peer over the edge and straight down onto the ornate roofs Taktsang in the cliff far below. An hour later and we are at the gates of Taktsang looking across the gorge a steep descent to a waterfall then ascent on steps and you are passing into the Tiger’s Nest itself.

It is one of the most sacred sites in Bhutan it offers breathtaking views to those energetic enough to make it to the top.

After the hike relax your muscles with healing traditional hot stone bath and game of local archery.

Overnight: At hotel in Paro

Day 09: Departure

Your drop to the Paro International Airport will be arranged according to your flight schedule. Our team will drop you to the airport and bid you farewell.