Western Bhutan Tour

Western Bhutan Tour

A Western Bhutan tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the country’s cultural and natural wonders, providing a memorable journey through its enchanting landscapes and centuries-old traditions. A Western Bhutan tour typically encompasses the cultural heartland of the country, showcasing its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant traditions. Here’s an overview of what you can expect from a Western Bhutan tour, which often covers destinations like Paro, Thimphu and Punakha.

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. Our company representatives will receive you at the airport and drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan (1 hour). Enroute Tamchog Lhakhang as it is conveniently located on the highway between Paro and Thimphu. The temple is believed to have been founded by Thangtong Gyalpo, a legendary Tibetan saint and iron chain bridge builder which still stand today. Tamchog Lhakhang features traditional Bhutanese architectural style with intricate woodwork and murals depicting Buddhist teachings and legends.

On arrival you will be taken to your hotel for a check-in and short rest. In the evening, visit National Memorial Chorten, built in memory of the Father of Modern Bhutan, Late Third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. A stupa dedicated to world peace. 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 Sighseeing

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.

Lunch at Simply Bhutan. Simply Bhutan aims to showcase and preserve Bhutanese culture, providing visitors with insights into the country's rich heritage. It offers a glimpse into traditional Bhutanese architecture, lifestyle, arts, and crafts. Drive to Changangkha Lhakhang. The temple was established in the 12th century by Lama Phajo Drukgom Shigpo, a Tibetan saint who played a significant role in spreading Buddhism in Bhutan. Changangkha Lhakhang is considered a protective temple, offering blessings and protection to the local community, particularly newborn babies and their families. In the evening, explore Craft Bazaar where you can shop for Bhutanese handicrafts such as textiles, paintings, woodwork, and other souvenirs. It's an excellent place to interact with local artisans.

Overnight at the hotel.

3Day 03: Thimphu - Punakha Sightseeing

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 - Paro

After breakfast, as you travel towards Paro, pass through Dochula Pass again, enjoying the panoramic views of the Himalayas and the 108 stupas. Have coffee or tea with light snacks from cafeteria. Enroute visit Simtokha Dzong. It was built in 1629 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Simtokha Dzong stands as a testament to Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage and religious traditions, offering visitors a glimpse into the country’s history and architectural prowess. It continues to play a vital role in both religious and educational spheres, making it a significant site to visit in Bhutan.

After lunch in Thimphu, drive to Paro and visit Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong). A fortress-monastery overlooking the Paro Valley. Admire its stunning architecture, intricate woodwork, and beautiful paintings. Then visit National Museum of Bhutan (Ta Dzong). After visiting the dzong, head to the Ta Dzong, located above the Paro Dzong. It houses a fascinating collection of Bhutanese art, relics, religious thangkas (scroll paintings), and historical artifacts.

Overnight at the hotel.

5Day 05: Paro - Tiger's Nest Excursion

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.

6Day 06: Departure from Paro

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