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Eastern Bhutan Tour: Experience Village Life in Bhutan

When most people think about Bhutan, they picture the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery or the busy streets of Thimphu. However, the less-explored Eastern Bhutan contains an array of hidden jewels waiting to be uncovered. Therefore, in this travel blog, we will take you on an incredible tour and uncover the mysteries of this wonderful region. So, prepare to experience Eastern Bhutan’s rich culture, stunning scenery, and friendly hospitality. Hereafter, you will find eastern Bhutan’s most popular tourist destinations include Mongar, Trashigang, Pema Gatshel, Merak Sakten, Trashiyangtse, and Bumdeling National Park. Include these destinations on your Eastern Bhutan tour itinerary to experience true village life in Bhutan.

Bhutanese

Lifestyle in East

The people of the East are well known for their hospitality. Regardless of how basic their rural lives are, they greet each visitor with a warm smile. Even if you happen to go into a stranger’s home, they will not allow you to leave without offering you a cup of locally brewed wine (Ara).

Time required to explore Eastern Bhutan

A two-week Eastern Bhutan tour package provides ample time to explore the country’s culture, history, and rural way of life. However, if you don’t have much time, you can cut it down to about 8 days by flying domestically.

Places to Visit in Eastern Bhutan

Trashigang

Trashigang is about 600 kilometres away from Thimphu. As it is a thriving community with a rich cultural history. So, begin your day with a visit to Trashigang Dzong, a 17th-century stronghold located on a rock above the Drangme Chhu River. Therefore, explore the lively market, which sells local handicrafts and fresh fruit. It is well-known for its lovely villages, as well as its weavers.

Trashigang

Highlights:

  • Trashigang Dzong,
  • Trashigang Market
  • Radhi, Merak, and Sakten village
  • Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary

What to Do in Trashigang:

  • Experience the rural life of Bhutan.
  • Try a local homestay.
  • Visit the wildlife sanctuary.
  • Moreover, meet the semi-nomadic ethnicity of Bhutan (Brokpa) and study their culture.

Recommended stay: 2–3 days.

Trashiyangtse

Trashiyangtse, roughly a 3.5-hour drive from Trashigang, is also known as the Eastern home of the famed Black-Necked Crane. Also, it shares a border with Arunachal Pradesh, India. Travel to Trashiyangtse, since it is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and traditional handicrafts.

Trashiyangtse

Highlights:

  • Trashiyangtse Dzong,
  • Chorten Kora
  • Institute for Zorig Chusum

What to Do in Trashiyangtse:

  • Attend the Chorten Kora Festival.
  • Take part in the Gomphu Kora Festival.
  • Visit the Bomdeling Wildlife Sanctuary.

Recommended stay: Day excursion.

Mongar

Drive to Mongar, a picturesque village set in the Alps. Mongar, which has towering cliffs and gorges as well as dense conifer forests, is well-known for its weavers, distinctive textiles, and fabrics. It is also a popular destination for Bhutan birding excursions. While Buddhism is widely practised in this area, Bon practices are also common. So, for your information the Kharpud (ceremony held to appease local deities and spirits) is an exciting event to observe.

Mongar

Highlights:

  • Drametse Monastery
  • Mongar Dzong

What to do in Mongar:

  • Birding, particularly in the Sengor-Yongkola-Lingmithang area.
  • Afterward Attend the Drametse Festival.

Recommended stay: One night

Pema Gatshel

Travel to Pema Gatshel. As Pema Gatshel is recognized for its rich nature and peaceful atmosphere.

Cangmy-Yega

Highlights:

  • Chimoong Lhakhang.
  • Nature treks and village visits

What to Do in Pema Gatshel: 

  • Visit Chimoong Lhakhang.
  • After that Enjoy nature treks and village visits.

Recommended stay: One night.

Merak Sakten:

Since it is the home of the Brokpa People, Merak Sakten is one of Bhutan’s most isolated districts, renowned for its distinct nomadic lifestyle. Moreover, the journey itself is an adventure, taking you through tough terrain and picturesque scenery.

Merak Sakten

Highlights:

  • Camping at Merak.

What to do in Merak Sakten:

  • Communicate with the Brokpa People
  • Also, explore the distinct culture and traditions of Merak Sakten.

Recommended stay: One night.

Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary

Bumdeling National Park is a refuge for nature lovers, with diverse flora and wildlife, including the endangered Black-necked Crane.

Highlights:

  • Singye Dzong
  • Risumgonpa
  • Kholong Chu

What to do in Bumdeling National Park:

  • Watch Ludlow’s Bhutan Swallowtail Butterfly
  • Then, bird watching in Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Henceforth, Nature walks and wildlife spotting

Recommended Stay: One Night

eastern bhutan tour

The Ideal Time to Visit Eastern Bhutan

Most of Eastern Bhutan lies at lower altitudes. Thus, the late spring and summer months are very hot and humid. However, this is an excellent season for bird watching in the woodlands. It is advised to avoid travelling during the monsoon season, which runs from May to August, as rains tend to destroy the already poor road infrastructure. Therefore, late February to mid-March is an ideal time to visit. As it offers pleasant weather, low-season crowds, exciting festivals, and spring blossoms. For additional information and to schedule your Eastern Bhutan tour, here’s Bhutan Inbound. Experience a remarkable experience in Eastern Bhutan, where old traditions and breathtaking natural beauty await.

 

Google Reviews

Jenny ChuaJenny Chua
5 stars5 stars5 stars5 stars5 stars

In Nov 24, we had the privilege of exploring Bhutan with the guidance of an exceptional tour guide, Kinlay Dorji & Jigme Tshering from Bhutan Best Inbound Tour agency and I couldn’t be more impressed with the experience. From the moment we arrived, they ensured every detail of our trip was perfectly planned and executed, making it truly stress-free and enjoyable. Their deep knowledge of Bhutan’s history, culture, and traditions was remarkable, and they shared stories and insights that brought the country’s rich heritage to life. Whether we were visiting iconic landmarks like the Tiger’s Nest Monastery or strolling through serene villages, their passion for Bhutan was evident and contagious. What truly stood out was their dedication to providing personalized service. They were always attentive to our needs, ensuring we were comfortable, well-fed, and immersed in the beauty of Bhutan. Their warm hospitality, patience, and ability to adapt to our preferences made the journey unforgettable. If you’re planning a trip to Bhutan, I cannot recommend this tour guide enough. They truly go above and beyond to ensure you experience the heart and soul of the Land of the Thunder Dragon. An absolute five-star experience!

Reviewed on: 1/14/2025

Terri KimTerri Kim
5 stars5 stars5 stars5 stars5 stars

Our first time in Bhutan couldn’t have been as amazing & memorable as it was without the wonderful team behind Bhutan Best Inbound Tour who were with us every step of the way. We decided (very last minute) to go to Bhutan with only weeks to spare. I decided to go with Bhutan Best Inbound Tour based on online reviews, responsiveness (via WhatsApp), and reasonable pricing. Because our trip was short (5 days/4 nights) and we already rushed to book our flights/accommodations, we were mainly looking for a dedicated tour guide/driver to explore Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro. Deki, who planned our itinerary, was responsive and accommodating to all my inquiries and requests. She answered my questions, and put my mind at ease when it came to our visas. She was lovely to work with, and made us feel prepared before our trip. But what she couldn’t have prepared us for was how amazing Bhutan would be and how much we would love our trip. We arrived at Paro International Airport early in the morning, and were greeted outside with white scarves by our guide and our driver who were patiently waiting for us. Our guide, Phub, was fantastic. Not only was he like a walking encyclopedia about his country, the culture, and Buddhism, he was personable and so funny. He was also quite the photographer, capturing the best angles and even directing us on how to pose. Phub was also very flexible with our daily schedule, and accommodating to our requests, which we appreciated immensely. He also shared tips & tricks that only locals would be privy to, which made this trip much more intimate and fulfilling than if we decided to go without a tour guide. I HIGHLY recommend a tour guide if you are thinking of going to Bhutan for the first time. We had two drivers, both very humble and excellent drivers. I felt very safe in the car despite impatient drivers, the occasional cow and dog, and landslides. On our day trip to Punakha from Thimphu, a landslide extended our trip by an hour each way, but our driver was patient and made sure we were comfortable. The breathtaking views (and company) made the delays worth it. We were so fortunate to have such wonderful drivers who prioritized our safety. From the kindness of the people to the delicious food, from the beautiful weather to the rich culture, and of course, Tiger’s Nest (which left us breathless, both figuratively and literally), Bhutan is truly a special country that left us with so many beautiful memories. We plan to visit Bhutan again, and when we do, we can’t wait to work with Bhutan Best Inbound Tour for all our needs. If you’re looking for a tour guide, I highly recommend reaching out to Bhutan Best Inbound Tour for a seamless experience

Reviewed on: 12/24/2024

Suresh KaruSuresh Karu
5 stars5 stars5 stars5 stars5 stars

I had an amazing 7 nights 8 day trip to Bhutan, Phub my guide and driver Nima made it a memorable vacation. They were professional , kind and always helpful , also their local knowledge made it an experience unforgettable to me. The hotels they choose had excellent service, the cook made my favourite dish Idli. The home stay hostess was always smiling and kind. They also had the best price for the tour package.If I ever return to Bhutan I would choose them again Hands down .

Reviewed on: 9/30/2024

Charles VrtisCharles Vrtis
5 stars5 stars5 stars5 stars5 stars

Everything about my experience in Bhutan was outstanding from start to finish! It is very serene, stunningly beautiful, and its people are exceptionally kind and welcoming! Of course, had I not chosen the right tour operator, I might have left with different feelings. Fortunately, I selected Bhutan Best Inbound Tour. From the start, my experience with them was smooth and seamless. Deki, my contact in arranging the logistics, could not have been more responsive and helpful. She made everything so easy, including arranging for a visa. And, I cannot say enough good things about my guide and driver. They really made my experience in Bhutan so wonderfully memorable. I felt completely comfortable and safe with the driver, Jigme. Not only that, he always had a smile on his face. My guide, Tenzin (“Tax”] Loday was great. He was prompt, reliable, and very engaging. He is now my Bhutanese brother! His love for his country shows, and his clear and helpful explanations about its history and sites could not have been better. Thank you Bhutan Inbound Tour!

Reviewed on: 3/30/2024

Brian NYCBrian NYC
5 stars5 stars5 stars5 stars5 stars

Huge thanks to Bhutan Best Inbound Tours for an amazing experience in magical Bhutan! My guide Phub is a true expert who taught me so much about the history and culture of Bhutan, and he took perfect care of me each and every place we visited. Our driver Lobzang got us to all of our destinations safely and on time, and they made a great team, always keeping me smiling and in awe of the beauty of bucket list Bhutan. Everything was smooth from start to finish, the hotels were all excellent and comfortable, and I highly recommend Bhutan Inbound and my friends Phub and Lobzang to anyone planning a trip to stunning Bhutan!

Reviewed on: 10/14/2023

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