Peaceful Dragon Tour

Peaceful Dragon Tour

The “Peaceful Dragon Tour” represents an opportunity to immerse oneself in Bhutan’s serene landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual traditions. Whether exploring ancient monasteries, hiking through scenic valleys, or experiencing local festivals, such a tour offers a unique and transformative journey into the heart of Bhutan, fostering a deeper appreciation for its unique identity as the Land of the Thunder Dragon.

Daily Itinerary

1Day 01: Arrive Paro International Airport

After an unforgettable flight giving you an adrenaline rush as you see views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and other famous Himalayan peaks, including the sacred Jomolhari and Mount Jichu Drake, you will land at Paro International Airport. The landing at Paro is considered as one of the most challenging and enthralling experience. At the airport, you will be received by representatives of our company who will escort you to a hotel.

After lunch at hotel, drive to Thimphu. After arriving Thimphu, visit National Memorial Chorten, a stupa dedicated to world peace and honoring the The Late Third King of Bhutan Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Join locals as they circumambulate the chorten, spinning prayer wheels along the way. Then drive to Tashichho Dzong.The impressive fortress-monastery is the seat of the Bhutanese government and also houses the throne room and offices of the King. 

Overnight at the hotel.

2Day 02: Thimphu Sightseeing

After breakfast, drive to Buddha Dordenma Statue (buddha point), a short drive from the city center. The construction started on 2006 and completed in 2015. It was initiated by His Majesty the 4th King Jigme Singye Wangchuck, who wanted to build a giant statue of Buddha to promote peace and happiness. Enjoy panoramic views of Thimphu Valley and explore the temple complex. Drive to The National Institute for Zorig Chusum. It was established in 1971 in Thimphu, Bhutan's capital. The institute offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes both theoretical knowledge and practical training in these traditional arts. Then make a visit National Textile Museum which displays Bhutan's rich textile heritage with exhibits of traditional weaving techniques, costumes, and textiles dating back centuries.

After lunch, visit Changangkha Lhakhang. The temple was established in the 12th century by Lama Phajo Drukgom Shigpo, a Tibetan saint who also founded the Drukpa Kagyu School of Buddhism in Bhutan. It is an important place for local families to bring their newborn babies for blessings and auspicious names. The head lama (abbot) bestows a name upon each child. Drive to Takin Zoo (Takin - The National Animal of Bhutan). Visiting the Takin Zoo provides memorable experience for those interested in Bhutanese wildlife and conservation efforts, offering a glimpse into the cultural and ecological significance of the Takin within the context of Bhutan's rich natural heritage. In the evening, stroll The Centenary Farmers' Market in Thimphu. It offers an authentic glimpse into Bhutanese daily life, showcasing the country's agricultural heritage, culinary traditions, and vibrant community spirit. It's an essential visit for anyone interested in experiencing the cultural richness of Bhutan's capital city.

Overnight at the hotel.

3Day 03: Thimphu - Punakha

Driving from Thimphu to Punakha offers a scenic journey through Bhutan's mountainous landscapes and cultural landmarks. Enroute, stop at Dochula Pass (3,100 meters), about 30 minutes' drive from Thimphu. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the eastern Himalayas on clear days. Take some time to walk around and admire the 108 chortens (stupas) and the Druk Wangyal Lhakhang temple. Continue your journey towards Punakha. On the way visit Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Temple of Fertility. Chimi Lhakhang was built in 1499 by the Tibetan saint Drukpa Kunley. He is affectionately known as the "Divine Madman". Couples who have difficulty conceiving often visit the monastery to seek blessings from the divine power associated with Drukpa Kunley. The monastery is adorned with phallus paintings and sculptures, which are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. Phallus symbolism is common in Bhutanese culture and is considered a representation of fertility and protection.

There are several local restaurants and cafes along the route where you can stop for lunch in one of the local restaurant or a farmhouse. After lunch, visit Punakha Dzong (Fortress) built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal has played a prominent role in the civil and religious life of the Kingdom. It is ancient capital of Bhutan and one of the most majestic dzongs in the country. Admire its stunning architecture, intricate woodwork, and beautiful location at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (father) and Mo Chhu (mother) rivers. Then drive for half an hour and hike to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal chorten. It was built in 2004 by HM The Queen Mother, Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck to promote peace, stability, and harmony in the world and is dedicated to the well-being of the Bhutanese people. The chorten is known for its stunning architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, making it a popular destination for both tourists and pilgrims alike.

Overnight at the hotel.

4Day 04: Punakha Sightseeing

After breakfast, your guide will take you to the rafting spot. Rafting in Punakha is a thrilling and popular adventure activity, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the scenic beauty of Bhutan while navigating the rapids of its rivers. Rafting in Punakha provides stunning views of lush valleys, rice fields, and distant mountain ranges, adding to the adventure. The ideal time for rafting in Punakha is usually from March to April and October to November when the weather is pleasant and river flows are suitable.

After lunch, drive to Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery which is perched on a ridge amid pine trees and overlooking valleys of Punakha and Wangduephodrang, gleams the magnificent structures of Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang(Temple). Interact with the nuns and they love to speak English with visitors and learn about the ways of the world. In the evening, stroll around Kaja Throm located at the site of the old weekend market in Khuruthang, the Punakha Ka Ja Throm was developed as a community and recreation space alongside the Farmer’s Market.

Overnight at the hotel.

5Day 05: Punakha to Phobjikha

Traveling from Punakha to Phobjikha Valley is not just a journey but an opportunity to experience Bhutan’s diverse landscapes and natural beauty. Enjoy the scenic drive and explore the cultural and natural attractions along the way to make the most of your trip.

Depart from Punakha in the morning, ideally after breakfast. Enjoy the scenic drive through Wangdue Phodrang District, known for its dzong and terraced fields. Wangdue Phodrang Dzong was founded in 1638 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan. It served as a vital administrative and strategic center in the region. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant along the route. Continue the journey towards Phobjikha Valley, enjoying views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

Arrive in Phobjikha Valley in the late afternoon or early evening and walk around Gangtey Nature Trail and enjoy the views of impressive natural scenery and visit some of the local homestay for butter tea and to know more about Bhutanese culture and tradition.

Overnight at the hotel.

6Day 06: Phobjikha Sightseeing

After breakfast, drive to Gangtey Monastery (Gangtey Gonpa). This 17th-century monastery is one of the main attractions in Phobjikha Valley and holds significant religious importance. Visitors can attend prayers and interact with monks to gain insights into Bhutanese Buddhism and monastic life. Visit Khewang Lhakhang which offers a serene and culturally enriching experience for visitors interested in Bhutanese Buddhism, architecture, and traditional arts. It represents the spiritual and cultural fabric of Bhutan, reflecting the country's deep-rooted reverence for Buddhism and its unique cultural heritage.

After lunch, visit Black-Necked Crane Center located near Gangtey Monastery, this center provides information about the endangered black-necked cranes that migrate to Phobjikha Valley every winter. We can also learn about the cranes’ behavior, habitat, and conservation efforts through interactive exhibits and displays. In the evening, stroll around the villages and enjoy the beautiful nature of Phobjikha.

Overnight at the hotel.

7Day 07: Phobjikha to Paro

Phobjikha to Paro allows you to experience both the natural beauty and cultural richness of Bhutan.

Leave Phobjikha in the morning after breakfast. Enroute Dochula pass to have tea and coffee. Continue your journey towards Paro. Stop at Simtokha Dzong. It was built in 1629 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the founder of Bhutan, Simtokha Dzong is one of the oldest fortresses in Bhutan. Visiting Simtokha Dzong provides a glimpse into Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage, architectural prowess, and religious traditions. It’s a place where history meets spirituality, offering a serene and educational experience for travelers exploring the Thimphu region.

After lunch in Thimphu, continue your journey to Paro. After arriving Paro, visit Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong) built in 1644 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it serves both as a religious and administrative center. Then visit National Museum Situated above Paro Dzong on a hilltop. Houses a rich collection of Bhutanese art, artifacts, weapons, textiles, and thangkas (religious paintings). Offers panoramic views of Paro valley from its strategic location.

Overnight at the hotel.

8Day 08: Tiger's Nest Hike

After breakfast, hike to Taktshang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery, is a legendary and iconic site in Bhutan, renowned for its spiritual significance and breathtaking location. One of Bhutan’s holiest shrines and an amazing structure that crosses all boundaries of architectural masterpiece. Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) is perched some 1000m/3000ft on a cliff overlooking a valley. It is said that the legendary Indian saint Guru Padma Sambhava, flew from Tibet on the back of a tigress to tame five demons, who were opposing the spread of Buddhism in Bhutan in 746 AD. Taktshang Monastery is the ultimate pilgrim site for all Buddhist especially in Bhutan.

The hike to the monastery takes about 5hours (up and down), and follows an ancient path marked by river powered prayer wheels.

Lunch at cafeteria and towards evening, visit Kyichu Lhakhang built in the 7th century by the Tibetan Emperor Songtsen Gampo, Kyichu Lhakhang is considered one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. It is said to be one of the 108 temples built by him to subdue a demoness that was causing obstacles in the spread of Buddhism in the region. Kyichu Lhakhang in Paro and Jambay Lhakhang in Bumthang are said to be two temples of the 108 temples built by Songsen Goempo over the Himalayan area. Drive back to Paro town and allows yourself to experience the cultural richness and scenic beauty of this Bhutanese town.

Overnight at the hotel.

9Day 09: Farewell

After breakfast, our representatives will bid you farewell to your onward destination.