8 Days In-depth Western and Central Bhutan Tour

Welcome to Bhutan, the land of the “thunder Dragon”. We’re sure you must get amazed at the stunning vista of majestic Himalayas, esp. the lofty Mt. Jumolhari and Jichu Drake Peaks during your flight. However, they are only a small appetizer. Upon your arrival in Paro internatonal airport, our Bhutan guide and driver will be expecting you and later transfer you to your hotel.

After a brief rest at your hotel, in the afternoon, with time permitting, we may visit the Kyichu Lhakhang (also known as Kyerchu Temple), the oldest and most beautiful temple in Bhutan. Surrounded by the fields, flowers and hills, Kyichu Lhakhang is home to the eight-year-old Buddha statue of Sakyamuni, historic relics, elaborate paintings and numerous Buddhist scriptures, etc. And Later explore the Paro Rinpung Dzong. Located at the suburb of Paro City, Rinpung Dzong is a fortress built in the 17th Century to protect Paro valley, which offers you picturesque scenery and a sense of inner peace.

Stay overnight in Thimpu

As the capital city of Bhutan, Thimpu is devoid of stereotyped skyscrapers and huge traffic. Instead, surrounding by rolling mountains, Thimpu is known for its picturesque Bhutan dzong, fresh air and loveable local people. Today’s tour begins with a visit to Late King's Memorial Chorten, and explore the National Library, Folk Heritage Museum and Hand-made Paper Factory, and the School of Arts and Crafts, where you will have a panoramic view of Bhutan history and learn more of textile and the handicraft making in the most traditional way.

Of course, the highlight comes as we tour the Tashichho Dzong (Thimpu Dzong), the most beautiful Bhutan dzong as well as the headquarters of Bhutan government.

Stay overnight in Thimpu

The new day begins with tasty Bhutanese breakfast. After that, we will travel northeast to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan. On the way, we will stop at scenic Dochu La Pass (3,100m) for refreshing tea. The perfect vintage point brings you the unobstructed vista of Great Himalayas.

After lunch at Wangduephodrang (1,350m), we keep driving to Punakha, which used to the capital of Bhutan. You will explore the world-renowned Punakha Dzong, widely believed to be the most beautiful Bhutanese Dzong, built at the confluence of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu Rivers. Never miss the Punakha festival around mid-Feb if you come at the right time.

Stay overnight in Punakha

The long drive takes you past the pastoral scene and treeless region in Wangdue and crosses the Black Mountain via Pele la (3240 m) mountain pass till reaching Mangde Chhu Valley. Situated on a steep slope above river gorge, Trongsa is arguably the central hub of Bhutan, with awe-inspiring vista. We will visit the Trongsa Dzong, which dominates the skyline of Trongsa region.

Stay overnight in Trongsa

Leave Trongsa for Wangdue Region; we will enter Gangtey Valley and descend to the western ridges of the Black Mountains. For its diverse wildlife, such as, black-necked cranes, muntjacs, wild boars and Himalayan black bears, Gangtey Valley is protected as a heaven for a variety of fauna and flora. You will see more traditional ways of living that dates back to years ago.

You may take a stroll in enchanting Phobjikha Valley and visit Gangtey Monastery, the only and the biggest Nyingmapa monastery in Bhutan. Finally, we will drive back to Wangdiphodrang.

Stay overnight in Wangdiphodrang

Say farewell to the charming pastoral scene in Wangdiphodrang Valley. We drive all the way back to Paro. In the afternoon, we head to National Museum of Bhutan, which looks like a round watchtower. You can trace back to the ancient Bhutan history and explore the diverse wild lives as well as splendid local culture and arts. Then we drive to visit Drukgyel Dzong, where you can enjoy the enchanting village lying at its foot.

Stay overnight in Paro

Getting up in the fresh morning, we’ll start today’s trek to Taktshang Goemba (also known as Tiger's Nest).Standing on the cliff of Paro Valley, Taktshang Goemba (3120 meters) is the landmark of Paro as well as the holiest temple in Bhutan. It’s said that Guru Padmasambhava (also known as Guru Rinpoche) had flied here on the back of a tigress and meditated in the caves on the cliffside for three months. From here, you can catch a panoramic view of Paro Valley.

After lunch, you may opt for a stone bath or enjoy free exploration nearby.

Stay overnight in Paro

Today, our tour guide will transfer you to Paro International Airport for your next destination. Tour service end.

(Optional: As a professional Himalayan travel agency, we can also help you plan journey to Nepal and Tibet from Bhutan.)