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Overview:
Embark on an extraordinary 15-day Eastern Bhutan Tour, a captivating journey through the serene landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of Bhutan’s lesser-explored regions. Begin in Paro with a thrilling flight over the Himalayas, then hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest and explore Paro’s enchanting beauty. Traverse to Thimphu, discovering cultural gems and festive traditions. Journey through Punakha’s tranquil landscapes, visit Gangtey, and explore the historic Tongsa Dzong. Delve into the spiritual heartland of Bumthang, witness the grandeur of Mongar and Tashigang, and experience the unspoiled beauty of Haa Valley. Highlights include the Dochula Pass, Punakha Dzong, Gangtey Monastery, and the ancient temples of Bumthang. Immerse yourself in Bhutanese traditions, meet local artisans, and savor the warm hospitality of Bhutan. The tour culminates in a scenic drive via Chela Pass, offering panoramic views of Mount Jumolhari, before bidding farewell to Bhutan’s captivating beauty.
Tour Highlights:
1. Breathtaking flight over the Himalayas with views of Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Makalu.
2. Hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched on a cliff in Paro.
3. Witness sacred dances at Thimphu Dzong and explore Bhutanese cultural heritage.
4. Marvel at the panoramic views from Dochula Pass and visit Punakha Dzong.
5. Discover the glacial beauty of Gangtey and visit Tongsa Dzong’s remarkable fortress.
6. Explore Bumthang’s ancient temples, including Jakar Dzong and Kurje Lhakhang.
7. Journey to Mongar and Tashigang, experiencing the diverse landscapes of eastern Bhutan.
8. Visit the serene Gom Kora temple and explore Tashiyangtse’s cultural treasures.
9. Retrace your steps through lush valleys from Tashigang to Bumthang.
10. Drive to the serene Haa Valley, less-visited and surrounded by alpine forests.
11. Cross Chela Pass for stunning views and hike to Kila Gompa Nunnery.
12. Conclude your journey with a peaceful night in Paro, filled with cherished memories.
Paro International Airport (Google Map)
As you arrive in Paro, be prepared for an awe-inspiring flight with breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, including Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Makalu. Upon landing, breathe in the cool, fresh mountain air as your Bhutan representative welcomes you. After settling in at your hotel, take the afternoon to explore Paro at your own pace. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the lively Paro market. Spend the night at the charming Tenzinling Resort or Metta Resort.
Embark on a picturesque journey through Paro, a valley blessed with traditional charm and beautiful landscapes. After a delicious breakfast, hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest, a monastery perched on a cliff face high above the Paro valley. The trail winds through pine forests and fluttering prayer flags, offering serene surroundings. Marvel at the stunning views and learn about the monastery’s rich history. Enjoy lunch at the Cafeteria near Tiger’s Nest. Later, visit Ta Dzong, Paro Dzong, and other cultural highlights. Return to your hotel for a delightful evening and overnight stay.
After a scrumptious breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Thimphu, the capital city. Admire the idyllic countryside with paddy fields and charming villages along the way. Upon reaching Thimphu, visit the impressive Thimphu Dzong and immerse yourself in the local Festival, witnessing sacred dances dedicated to Bhutan’s protecting deity. Explore the Simtokha Dzong, National Memorial Chorten, and Buddha point to delve into Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage. You might even catch an exciting game of archery at the Changlimethang sports ground. Take a delightful evening stroll through the bustling market area before dinner. Spend the night at the comfortable Hotel Tower or Migmar Hotel.
In the morning, embark on a cultural journey through Thimphu, visiting the National Library, the Institute for Zorig Chusum, and the National Institute of Traditional Medicine. After a delicious lunch, head towards Punakha, crossing the majestic Dochu-la pass. Marvel at the panoramic views of the eastern Himalayas from the pass. Upon reaching Punakha, check into your hotel and visit the historic Punakha Dzong, situated at the confluence of two rivers. Overnight at the tranquil Zhingkham Resort.
After a delightful breakfast, journey towards Gangtey, a picturesque valley known for its glacial beauty and black-necked cranes. Explore the Phobjikha valley, home to rare wildlife and the Gangtey Monastery. In the afternoon, continue to Throngsa, passing through scenic landscapes and visiting the Chendebji Chorten en route. Admire the majestic Tongsa Dzong and check into the comfortable Yangkhil Resort. Indulge in a delicious dinner and rest for the night.
Start your day by exploring the captivating Tongsa Dzong, a remarkable fortress built in 1647 by the Shabdrung. It stands as the grandest dzong in Bhutan. Then, venture to the hillside above the town and visit Ta Dzong, originally a watchtower protecting Tongsa. After a delightful lunch, embark on a scenic 3-hour journey to Bumthang, an enchanting valley known as the spiritual heartland of Buddhism in Bhutan. The road will take you through Yutong-la pass, with its breathtaking views, and the lush Chumey valley. As the soft afternoon light embraces you, arrive in Bumthang for a pleasant stay at Hotel Tashi Yoererling.
Immerse yourself in the wonders of Bumthang, a collection of four stunning valleys—Chumey, Choekhor, Tang, and Ura—each with its own unique charm. Begin your morning with a visit to Kurje Lhakhang, a sacred site where Guru Rinpoche, the patron saint of Bhutan, meditated. From there, follow a scenic road along the river to Jambey Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples. After a delicious breakfast, delve deeper into Bumthang’s heritage as you explore Tamshing Lhakhang, adorned with ancient Buddhist wall paintings. Later, witness the majestic Jakar Dzong, also known as “the castle of the white bird,” and take a leisurely stroll through Bumthang’s vibrant market. Rest and rejuvenate at Hotel Tashi Yoererling.
Continue your adventure as you journey eastward, traversing rugged terrain that offers awe-inspiring vistas. The 6-hour drive to Mongar will treat you to captivating scenery along the way. Pass through Ura village and ascend to the highest point on Bhutan’s motorable road network, Thrumsing-la pass. As you descend, marvel at the cascading waterfalls and lush hills of eastern Bhutan. The landscape gradually changes from alpine to subtropical, and you’ll cross the Kuri Chu river before ascending again through pine forests and charming hamlets. Reach the picturesque town of Mongar, where you’ll visit Mongar Dzong, a testament to Bhutan’s architectural heritage. Enjoy a comfortable night’s stay at Wangchuk Hotel.
Embark on a delightful 3-hour journey covering approximately 96 km to reach Tashigang. The road winds through leafy forests adorned with ferns, offering a refreshing ambiance. Pass through the beautiful Kori-la pass, marked by a charming chorten and a mani wall. As you descend rapidly, the landscape transforms with corn fields and banana groves adorning the hillsides. Experience the famous zigzag road below Yadi, leading you along the Gamri River. Along the way, make a detour to Drametse, where you’ll find the renowned Drametse Nga Chham monastery. Finally, arrive in Tashigang, a vibrant township nestled on a steep hillside above the Gamri River. Explore Tashigang Dzong, perched dramatically at the edge of a rocky outcrop. Rest and unwind at Druk Deojung in Tashigang.
Start your day with a visit to the serene Gom Kora temple, set against the backdrop of a small alluvial plateau overlooking the river. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche subdued a demon here, leaving it trapped in a rock. Continue your journey to Doksum village, where local women engage in traditional Bhutanese fabric weaving. Don’t miss the ancient chain-link swing bridge dating back to the 15th century. As you ascend into the hills, you’ll reach Tashiyangtse, an important center along the ancient caravan routes. Discover the rich craftsmanship of the region as you explore Tashiyangtse Dzong and visit the dazzling white stupa of Chorten Kora. If time permits, witness the Institute for Zorig Chusum, where Bhutan’s traditional arts and crafts are taught. Return to Tashigang for a tranquil evening at Druk Deojung.
Retrace your steps from Tashigang to Bumthang, immersing yourself once again in the picturesque landscapes and charming valleys. Spend a peaceful night at Hotel Tashi Yoererling in Bumthang.
Bid farewell to the enchanting Bumthang and embark on a scenic drive back to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Reflect on your memorable journey and enjoy a comfortable stay at Hotel Tower or Migmar Hotel in Thimphu.
Indulge in a delightful drive after breakfast, taking you to the serene Haa Valley. Nestled in the southwest of Paro, this isolated gem boasts pristine alpine forests and majestic mountain peaks. With its unspoiled beauty and tranquility, Haa Valley remains one of the country’s least visited regions. Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the wooded hills through hiking and mountain biking. Explore the numerous local temples, adding an extra touch of serenity to your visit. Experience authentic Bhutanese hospitality during an unforgettable stay at Kinley Wangchuk Home Stay.
Begin your day by visiting Haa’s mesmerizing Lhakhang Kharpo, a complex where the region’s monk body resides. Discover the captivating Lhakhang Nagpo, one of the valley’s oldest temples, with its legendary tale of auspicious pigeon landings. Continue your journey to Chela Pass, a magnificent motorable route separating Haa and Paro valleys. At an elevation of 3,810 meters, the pass treats you to breathtaking views of Mount Jumolhari, Jichu Drake, and the valleys below. If you’re up for an adventure, embark on a 2-hour hike to Kila Gompa Nunnery, the oldest nunnery in Bhutan, nestled dramatically against cliffs. Conclude your day with a delectable dinner and a peaceful night’s rest at Tenzinling Resort or Metta Resort in Paro.
As your remarkable journey comes to an end, depart from Bhutan with cherished memories of its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes.
There are 19 languages spoken in Bhutan, but the national language is Dzongkha. English is used throughout Bhutan’s education system, so it is widely used and understood.
Bhutan is a year-round destination. There are four seasons: summer (June to August), autumn (September to November), winter (December to February) and spring (March to May). But because of the range of altitudes in the country, and the influence of the north Indian monsoons, the climate is incredibly varied.
In the south, the humid, subtropical climate is fairly consistent year-round, with temperatures between 15oC and 30oC. Central Bhutan, with its temperate forests, has a more seasonal climate, with warm summers and cool, dry winters. The northern regions are much colder during winter. Because of the high altitude, mountain peaks are snowy year-round and the lower reaches remain cool in summer.
In summer, the Indian monsoon season runs from late June or July to late September, mostly affecting the southern regions. Most farming activities take place in the summer, when crops thrive in verdant landscapes.
Autumn, from late September or early October to late November, follows the rainy season. It is characterised by bright, sunny days and some early snowfall at higher elevations. It’s the season of feasts and festivals as farmers reap the fruits of their work.
From late November until March, the crisp, clear and sunny winter sets in, with frost throughout much of the country and snowfall common above elevations of 3,000 metres. The winter northeast monsoon brings gale-force winds at the highest altitudes through high mountain passes, giving Bhutan the name Drukyul, which means Land of the Thunder Dragon in Dzongkha (Bhutan’s national language).
Bhutan’s generally dry spring starts in early March and lasts until mid-April. It is a botanist’s delight, with nature in full bloom. Summer weather commences in mid-April with occasional showers and continues to late June.
Bhutan’s currency is called ngultrum. It’s 1:1 with Indian rupees.
Three different electrical plugs are used throughout Bhutan: the British plug (three square pins, compatible with type G sockets), the European plug (two round pins, compatible with type C socket) and the Indian plug (three thick round pins, compatible with type D sockets). It’s a good idea to bring adaptors for all three.
For telephone calls, Bhutan’s country code is +975. Make sure you add this to the beginning of any number if calling Bhutan from abroad.
You can apply online for a visa by completing this application form, or if you’re travelling with a tour operator, they may apply on your behalf. Read more about the visa here.
Visitors from Bangladesh and the Maldives requiring a visa can apply either online before travelling or in person upon arrival in Bhutan.
There is a one-off fee of US$40 for the processing of your application. This is payable at the same time as your Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), as part of the process of submitting your visa application.
The SDF is USD 100 per night for adults from all countries except for India. Children aged between 6 years and who have not yet turned 12 are eligible to pay USD 50 per night. Children who have not yet turned 6 years old do not have to pay any SDF.
The SDF for Indian nationals (showing a valid Indian passport or Voter ID card) is Nu. 1,200 (or the equivalent amount in Indian rupees) per person, per night. Children aged between 6 years and who have not yet turned 12 are eligible to pay Nu./INR 600 per night. Children who have not yet turned 6 years old do not have to pay any SDF.
Tourists visiting Samtse, Phuentsholing, Gelephu, and Samdrupjongkhar towns for 24 hours need not pay Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) beginning April 14, 2023. The waiver will be enforced for a year. The SDF waiver will only apply for tourists who do not travel beyond the designated zones of border towns. However, SDF will apply for visitors who travel beyond the designated zone of border towns.
Tourists will be charged SDF if they go beyond Gurung Basti in Samtse, and beyond Rinchending Checkpost in Phuentsholing. The designated zone in Gelephu is at Aipoli Bridge and Pinchinna checkpost in Samdrupjongkhar.