“Hidden Gems of Western Bhutan: A 9-Day Village Odyssey"
9 days
8 nights
GRADE Easy
None
Brief Itinerary
Duration: 9 days 8 nights
Locations: Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey, Sha Kothoka
Highlight: World’s tallest bronze Buddha statue, souvenir shopping at Paro and Thimphu towns, Fertility temple (Chimi Lhakhang temple), Punakha Dzong, Trek to Iconic Tiger Nest, Ta Dzong (National Museum). Top-notched service and an experience to remember.
Bhutan, the land of the Thunder Dragon, is consistently ranked as one of the most exotic travel destinations offering a unique travel experience. It is one of the last remaining Buddhist kingdoms in the world. Steeped in the Himalaya’s mystical landscape and culture, the country has one of the most progressive and sustainable tourism policy that seeks to balance the need of improving the country’s economic prospects with the critical need to safeguard its fragile environment and culture. The result is the admission in the country of only a limited number of highly conscientious travellers through progressive regulatory and taxation policy. Travellers to Bhutan enjoy a unique experience in 4WD vehicles and are guaranteed the highly renowned and authentic Bhutanese hospitality in rural and natural setting together with the comfort of modern tourist amenities. Guests will also enjoy the exclusive services of our well trained and experienced personal guides and drivers. Amazing mountainous landscape, unique Buddhist architecture, religious festivals and warm and friendly people are some of the major attractions. To experience all of these and more, please book STT’s 8 days Bhutan Remote Village Safari Trip. You will be mesmerized by the beautiful remote countryside that this trip takes you to.
Day 01: Arrival in Paro/Transfer to Thimphu- 1:30 hours (47.1 km) drive
On the flight to Paro, if flying from Delhi and Kathmandu, a spectacular view of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and other famous Himalayan peaks, including the sacred Jhumolhari and Mount Jitchu Drake in Bhutan can be seen. The flight to international airport in Paro is most spectacular and thrilling as one approaches the tiny airstrip through the Bhutanese foothills and the landing.
On arrival in Paro, after completion of airport formalities, our representative/guide will be there to receive you and proceed to Thimphu which will take about an hour and half. The route will follow the Paro River until Chuzom from there the drive will bend towards Thimphu River taking you to the heart of capital city Thimphu. You will pass through scenic and picturesque village of Bondey, Shaba, Isina, etc until you enter the welcome gate in Thimphu. Enroute to Thimphu, stopover at Tachongang Lhakhang (temple) on the other side of Paro River depending upon your arrival time.
Chuzom- Meeting point of two rivers (Thimphu & Paro) this is tri junction of highway leading to Thimphu, Paro and Phuentsholing into three directions. Enjoy the lovely picture of beautiful portrait our King and Queen placed at chuzom which is welcoming to all who visits Bhutan. Overnight in Thimphu, altitude 2400m.
Day 02: Thimphu Sightseeing
After breakfast, sightseeing in Thimphu valley, the quaint Thimphu city is the capital city of Bhutan also the seat of government. It is also home to Bhutan’s royal family, the civil service, and foreign missions with representation in Bhutan. Many internationally funded developments projects headquarters are also located here.
The full day sightseeing will include visit to the iconic landmark below:
-*Buddha Dordenma
*National Memorial Chorten
Folk Heritage and Textile Museums
* Institute for ZorigChusum
* Handicrafts Emporium
For off-road experience- We will reduce the visits in the afternoon and right after lunch visit Jimina and Tsaluney, a small 14th century temple, where the Guru Rinpoche (saint) is said to have meditated. The off-road trip in 4WD will take us on a rural road outside the capital city, and into ancient villages that have seen historic trade caravans and government missions, including contacts with British India and Imperial China. 2 hours one way.
Day 03: Thimphu – Punakha- 2 to 3 hours (85Km) drive
Transfer to Punakha (1300m) & Tour of Punakha (3hrs/76kms). We take the mountainous highway in 4WD to the historical capital of Bhutan. Along the way, highlights include visit to rural villages and temples of wondrous mystics.
On the way, visit to the Chimi Lhakhang; the auspicious fertility monastery constructed in 1499 dedicated to the “Divine Madman”, Lam Drukpa Kinley, who was an eccentric monk from the 16th century tales abound on his flamboyant unique teachings through amusements. It is widely believed that childless couples can visit this temple to pray for better fertility to conceive the child. There are stories and incidences that many visitors dream came true however one must truly need to believe and follow the lama’s instruction. The hike though the lovely villages of Mesina gives truly amazing experience. Enjoy the gentle walks from the road head.
Overnight in Punakha, altitude 1350m.
Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight at Hotel. ***
Day 4 to Day 8 contact us for more details.
Day 9: Depart Paro
After your breakfast, on the last day of the trip, we will bid a fond farewell to this beautiful Himalayan country for your onward destination. We hope by now you have made close friends and kept beautiful memories of Bhutan in your photos! And we look forward to seeing you again in this beautiful land of endless Enchantments.
Important Note: Sightseeing can be customized according to your time, budget and preferences. Write to ‘Ser-Yoed’ Tours and Travel for more details of the travel itinerary
