BHUTAN THE HIDDEN KINGDOM
12 days | US$7430 | Imperial Active in Bhutan
Distinctive and remote, Bhutan offers some extraordinary experiences. Make your way from the thriving city of Bangkok to marvel at the spectacular Himalayan scenery, imposing dzongs and Buddhist traditions of the 'Land of the Thunder Dragon'. This is a travelling privilege not to be missed. The result allows you an encounter with a stunning, pristine landscape of forest and mountains, a proud, friendly people and a vibrant, living religious tradition.
Day 1 Bangkok fly to Paro and on to Thimphu
Bangkok to Paro (flight) - Fantastic views of the Himalayas on clear days. On arrival to Paro head out directly to Thimphu which takes around an hour and half. Here begin your visit with the memorial temple which depicts the Buddhist teachings in form of paintings and statues. Originally this temple was initiated by the Third King who is known as the “Father of Modern Bhutan”. In the evening stroll through the town at leisure.
Day 2 Thimphu
Visit the temple of the nuns (Changgangkha) from the 12th century and then take a drive to the view point of Thimphu. En route take a look at the Takin (national animal) research centre. Lunch is taken in one of the town restaurants. This afternoon enjoy sightseeing in Thimphu including the Tashichoedzong, which houses the King’s office on the southern wing and the quarters of the kingdom's Je Khempo (chief abbot), and a school for young monks. This structure delights the eye with its balanced proportions and an air of majesty. A great staircase leads into the interior of the dzong.
Interesting cultural visits will commence with the Folk heritage museum which contains the medieval life style of the Bhutanese. Then on to the national library which contains the collections of literature and scriptures. We continue on to the Traditional Medicine Hospital where visitors can watch the preparation of traditional medicines.
Day 3 Thimphu to Punakha
This morning’s drive (2-3 hours) takes you to Punakha over the Dochula pass which is 3050 meters above sea level. On clear days there are amazing views of the snow capped peaks of Bhutan. A magnificent sight is the Dzong, which has been beautifully restored. This is the second of Bhutan’s dzongs. For many years, until the time of the second king, it served as the seat of the government. The small size of Punakha itself is surprising, considering the important role it has played in the history of Bhutan and the fact it was the country’s winter capital for 300 years.
Day 4 Punakha to Gangte
After breakfast enjoy a gradual walk to Chimi Lhakhang. This temple is dedicated to Drukpa Kinley (known as the Divine Madman), a popular lama who brought a change in the orthodox system of the then religion. After lunch enjoy the drive(2 hours) to Gangte on the way visit the Wangdi Prodrang Dzong with its remarkable position commanding nearly a 360° view of the surrounding landscape. The dzong has a rustic charm with two courtyards and a monks’ assembly hall featuring statues of the Past, Present, and Future Buddhas. Have evening tea and take the 2 hours drive to Gangte gompa, home of the endangered cranes in winter. The guesthouse is basic since there is no electricity in this area to protect the cranes but a rustic experience.
Day 5 Gangte to Bumthang
An early start to Trongsa before lunch, en-route visit the Gangte temple. Your journey then turns eastward crossing the Pelila pass at 3300 meters. This pass divides western Bhutan from east with several villages with different dialects. Stop at the village of Sephu whose residents are great weavers of ‘Charu', a coarse fabric from wool. From an impressive view point see the Trongsa, the dzong looks magnificent on the ridge. The interior is a maze of courtyards, passageways, and 23 temples.
Day 6-7 Bumthang
Bumthang is the general name given to four valleys - Chumey, Choeker, Tang and Ura. These valleys are wide and open, and the mountains have relatively gentle slopes, there is a feeling of spaciousness that is unequalled in any other part of Bhutan. Begin your day by exploring the Choekhor and Chumey Valleys. Tamshing Lhakhang contains paintings of the history of the region and is also one of the only places where Pema Lingpa's tradition of religious teachings still continues today.
This afternoon continue on to the Kurjey Lhakhang complex one of the most sacred in Bhutan. The complex is made up of three temples all facing south. During dinner observe “Puta” making, a dish made from buckwheat, something similar to a noodle.
Day 8 Jakar to Punakha
Explore the villages of Chenbji & Rukubji, great farming communities the crops here are mustard, radish, beetroot, buckwheat and wheat.
Days 9 Punakha to Paro
This morning set off towards the Tashithang area and enjoy the natural scenery of sub tropical forests. There are many bird species and orchids in this area as well as numerous farming villages. There may be time for a hike before continuing via the Dochula pass back to Paro.
Day 10 Paro
Enjoy a morning in town and then visit the Ringpong dzong specially to see the painting of the great saint, Milarelpa. Milarelpa is considered as the master of meditation by the Bhutanese and is believed to have attained enlightenment in a lifetime. Walk with your guide to the bridge and see the cantilever wooden bridge still in use. Take a stroll through Paro town to explore before reaching your hotel.
Day 11 Paro
This morning enjoy a hike to the fabled "Tiger's Nest" Taktsang Monastery. The walk takes about an hour uphill till the viewpoint and another hour to the main complex. Initially, Guru Rinpoche visited and meditated in 8th century at this particular site. The Desi Tenzin Rabgye later built the temple in the 17th century. If time permits you can also visit ruined Drukgyel Dzong, the place of historic war between Tibet and Bhutan in 17th century.
Day 12 Paro to Bangkok
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Bangkok the journey concludes at Bangkok airport.
Tour Inclusions
Tripcode: IEBT12D08
Print a copy of this itinerary
Make a booking
If you know the dates you would like to travel then please give us a call or just click below to complete your booking online right now.
Click here to book "Bhutan the Hidden Kingdom"