Day 1: International flight to Paro, transfer to Thimpu

Upon arrival at Paro Airport, you will be given a traditional welcome. Then Proceed to the hotel for check in.

You'll begin your journey in the serene Paro Valley, which despite recent development projects still retains its rustic charm with farms and quaint hamlets. Your Bhutanese guide will accompany you on the one-hour trip to the capital, Thimphu, nestled in a broad valley between towering peaks and the Wangchu River.

This afternoon, enjoy some simple sightseeing around town. Start at the Memorial Chorten, sparkling in the sunshine with its gilded spires and the gentle chimes of religious bells. This Buddhist centre has an excellent collection of Buddhist statues from around the world. After that, go to Kuensel Phodrang where you will find the Buddha Dordenma, known for being one of the largest statues in the world - it stands at 169 feet (54 metres) tall. When the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely walk along the primary shopping street. There you will encounter folks from every background, monks, businessmen and farmers who have come to trade their goods alike.   Meal Plan: L/D

Day 02: In Thimpu, excursion to Changangkha Lhakhang

Start your day by visiting Changangkha Lhakhang, a temple that looks like a fortress and was built in the 12th century. It is located just up the hill from Thimphu and is where the Institute of 13 Arts and Crafts and the Bhutan School of Astrology are situated. Later on, take a trip to the craft fair, where you can take a look at the local merchandise and handicrafts. Finally, you can head to the post office and museum attached to it, which will take you through the history of the postal system, from early mail runners to Bhutan's prized current stamps. In the evening, go to the 17th-century Tashichho-Dzong, also called the "fortress of the glorious religion." This strong building has the king of Bhutan's throne room.

In the afternoon, hike one hour north of Thimphu to the Lhakhangs (monasteries) of Tango and Cheri. Built in the twelfth century and reconstructed in the fifteenth century, Tango Lhakhang now houses a respected tulku, a spiritual leader thought to be the reincarnation of a past spiritual leader who lived in the nineteenth century. To arrive at Cheri Lhakhang, you will traverse a conventional wooden bridge that crosses the Wangchu River. This monastery was constructed in 1620.   Meal Plan: B/L/D

Day 03: Thimpu-Punakha

After you have your breakfast, drive to the northern part of the Punakha Valley. Walk through picturesque, stepped fields of rice beside the Punakha River. The walk should last about two to three hours. Once you reach the road, cross a small suspension bridge and walk uphill to Khamsum Chorten for an even more stunning view of the valley. Then, walk down to the river and head towards the suspension bridge, where a car will be ready to take you to the magnificent Punakha Dzong. This exceptional architectural wonder sits at the confluence of two rivers.

Day 04: Punakha-Thimpu Valley- Gur; the trek starts

Return to Thimphu Valley and go on to the village of Gyenekha, where the trek begins. Start with a brief descent to the river. Once you've crossed it, ascend until you arrive at a large rocky platform that provides stunning views. After a couple more hours, you'll get to Gur, an area brimming with yak pastures located just below the primary path. You'll sleep in a tent here tonight at an elevation of 10,793 feet (3290 meters).

Day 05: Trek from Gur to Lambatama

Today, you will hike along high ridges, enjoying the rugged charm of the rich alpine flora and fauna. The route meanders through grassy meadows festooned with wildflowers (in summertime) and asparagus (in springtime). The initial mountainous col you traverse reveals an awe-inspiring vista of Kanchenjunga (on the frontiers of Nepal and India), and several peaks of the Bhutanese Himalayas. As you go down the mountain path, you can see the complete Dagala Mountains range, meadows, and yak herder encampments.

After descending into Labatama Valley, you will start to climb slowly through the valley, passing yak herder cabins before reaching Uthso Tsho. Your camping site for the night is located immediately by the lake.

Day 06: In Lambatama, a day to relax and tank energy for the hike tomorrow

Spend today getting used to the altitude and taking it easy in Labatama Valley. You could also visit one of three nearby lakes: Reli Tsho, Hen Tsho or Jama Tsho. If you're interested, you might want to try fishing for trout. Bear in mind that permits are needed for this, so let your local specialist know beforehand.

Day 07: Lambatama to Panka trek

The route for today ascends the western side of Dala Tsho leading up to a peak at 14,829 feet (4520 meters). This spot offers a breathtaking view of the Himalayan range, with notable peaks like Everest, Kanchenjunga, Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, Tshering Gang, Khangbum, Masang Gang, Tsende Gang, and Gangche Ta. Following this, the track descends and goes past some huts where yak herders live, arriving at Doccha Chhu. Subsequently, walk along the river for a bit, which is situated higher up on the slope until you reach Panka. The path has inclines and descents, and you will camp for the night in a tent at an elevation of 13,123 feet (4000 meters).

Day 08: Panka-Chamgang-Paro

Today you will cross a few passes, but none of them require a significant climb. Watch out for various kinds of blue poppy (in summer) and many different birds. Once you've crossed the last pass, Tale La (13,713 feet/4180 meters), you will begin a lengthy descent to Chamgang. Meet your vehicle and drive to Paro, which should take about two hours. The Paro Valley is among the most charming valleys in Bhutan. The streets are bordered by willow trees, and you can observe apple orchards, white-painted farmhouses, temples, graded fields, and wooded hills ascending on both sides.

Once you reach Paro, if you are feeling active, visit a few locations, such as the National Museum and Dumtse Lhakhang Temple, which are reputed to have some of the kingdom's most outstanding murals.

Day 09: In Paro; excursion to the world famous “Tiger’s Nest Monastry”

Enjoy a visit today to Taktsang Goenba, also known as the Tiger's Nest Monastery. It's a steep climb to this impressive monastery, but you'll see it up close once you get there. You could also hike further uphill to Zangdopelri and Ugyen Tshemo to see hidden monasteries and enjoy breathtaking views away from the tourist crowds. Upon returning to the Paro Valley, visit Bhutan's oldest temple, Khyichu Lhakhang, which dates back to the seventh century. Finally, have one last dinner before your trip ends.

Meal Plan: B/L/D

Day 10: Flight back home or your next destination from Paro

Morning breakfast at the hotel.

Our representative will be at your hotel to help you leave, making sure the process is easy and trouble-free. Remember, it's advisable to reach the airport three hours in advance of your flight's scheduled departure time to complete all necessary check-ins and security procedures.

Bon Voyage/Tashi Delek and hope to meet you again! Namaste

IMPORTANT:

If you have any interests or preferences for the sites you want to see during the tour, let us know. We would be happy to pack it in, if possible.

B = Breakfast

L = Lunch

D = Dinner