Bhutan: Land of the Thunder Dragon
At A Glance
- Become one of the privileged few to visit this peaceful Himalayan Kingdom.
- Visit ancient fortresses, medieval palaces and monasteries including Tiger’s Nest Monastery: legend says a Guru meditated here after arriving on the back of a tigress!
- Travel with professional Bhutanese guides who will share their knowledge of their country and way of life.
- Walks and hikes mean you’ll enjoy the majesty of Bhutan’s scenery and a pace of life from another era.
- Discover a unique culture committed to preserving tradition while moving into the future while measuring growth in terms of “Gross National Happiness”.
- Visit the Grand Palace and famous Emerald Buddha in Bangkok, Thailand.
Brief Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Bangkok and transfer to the airport hotel. (Novotel Suvarnabhumi Hotel)
Day 2: Paro - fly to Paro, gateway to Bhutan. Visit an ancient Dzong (dzong = fortress) and stroll through town. (B,L,D)
Day 3: Paro - visit various sites in the valley including the ruins of Drugyal Dzong, the unique Dungtse Lhakhang temple, and be guests of a local farmer.(B,L,D)
Day 4 & 5: Thimphu - Drive to Thimphu, capital of Bhutan. Discover ancient sites, meet the national animal - the Takin - stroll the main square, see ancient texts at the National Library, visit the Folk Heritage and Textile Museums and the Royal Botanical Gardens.(B,L,D)
Day 6: Punakha/Wangdi Valleys - observe changing scenery as we drive to Dochu Pass. Walk to the Temple of the Divine Madman.(B,L,D)
Day 7-9: Bumthang - cross a high pass (great views) to the religious heartland of the country. Attend a unique festival at Ura. Enjoy dinner with local doctors & nurses from both modern & traditional hospitals.(3B,3L,3D)
Day 10: Punakha - return to Punakha. visiting remote villages on the way.(B,L,D)
Day 11: Thimpu - scenic hike to a myth-shrouded temple. Drive to Thimpu.(B,L,D)
Day 12: Thimphu & Paro - return to Paro then hike to Taktsang, the famed Tiger’s Nest Monastery (option for non-hikers).(B,L,D)
Day 13 & 14: Bangkok - fly to Bangkok. Tour the sites including the Grand Palace.(2B,1D)
Day 15: Fly home or extend your trip!(B)