Central Bhutan Explorer
Overview
Journey beyond the west to the spiritual heartland of Bumthang. Explore ancient temples, lush valleys, and the authentic rural life of central Bhutan. Enjoy local cuisine, cultural immersion, and breathtaking scenery throughout the day.
This itinerary is designed to give you a comprehensive experience of Bhutan's unique culture and stunning landscapes.
Highlights
- Bumthang Valley spiritual sites
- Gangtey Valley & Black Necked Cranes
- Trongsa Dzong Museum
- Burning Lake (Mebar Tsho)
What's Included
- All accommodation and meals
- Domestic flight (optional add-on)
- Private vehicle and guide
- Permits for restricted areas
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival Paro - Thimphu
Welcome back to the Himalayas! Drive to Thimphu. Depending on arrival time, stroll around the Clock Tower Square and observe the mix of monks, business people, and youth in the capital.
Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing
A full day of culture. Visit the Institute for Zorig Chusum to see students learning traditional arts. Explore the Folk Heritage Museum. Head up to the Motithang Takin Preserve to see the unique national animal. Visit the Centenary Farmers Market to see local produce like yak cheese and wild ferns.
Day 3: Thimphu - Punakha
Drive over the Dochula Pass to Punakha. Visit the Punakha Dzong, the second oldest and second largest dzong in Bhutan. It houses the sacred relics of the southern Drukpa Lineage. Walk the suspension bridge. Evening at leisure.
Day 4: Punakha - Phobjikha
Drive east to the Phobjikha Valley. Visit Wangdue Phodrang Dzong (under reconstruction/restoration) en route. Arrive in Gangtey. Visit the Gangtey Monastery and walk the nature trail. The valley is known for its scenic beauty and silence.
Day 5: Phobjikha - Bumthang
A long but spectacular drive (5-6 hours) to Bumthang. Cross the Pele La Pass and stop at Chendebji Chorten. Stop in Trongsa to view the massive Trongsa Dzong, the ancestral home of the Royal Family. Continue over Yotong La Pass to Jakar in Bumthang.
Day 6: Bumthang Cultural Tour
Explore the Choekhor valley. Visit Jambay Lhakhang (7th century). Visit Kurjey Lhakhang, where Guru Rinpoche meditated. Cross the bridge to Tamshing Lhakhang, known for its ancient religious paintings. Visit the Swiss Farm and Red Panda Brewery.
Day 7: Tang Valley Excursion
Drive to the remote Tang Valley. Hike down to Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake), a sacred pool in the river. Visit Ogyen Choling Palace Museum, which offers one of the best insights into the lifestyle of Bhutanese nobility. Picnic lunch by the river.
Day 8: Bumthang - Wangdue
Begin the return journey. Drive back across the passes to Wangdue Phodrang. The changing light on the mountains offers new photo opportunities. Overnight in a hotel in Wangdue.
Day 9: Wangdue - Paro (Tiger's Nest)
Start early to drive back to Paro (3.5 hours). Upon arrival, proceed directly to the base of Tiger's Nest for the hike. (Note: This makes for a busy day, but the site is unmissable). Hike up to the monastery and back. Relax in the evening with a farewell dinner.
Day 10: Departure
Transfer to Paro International Airport. Depart with deep memories of the hidden kingdom.
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