Festival/Cultural

Bhutan: The Journey to Shangrila - A 2-Week Adventure

Embark on a 2-week journey through the enchanting realm of Bhutan, often referred to as the last Shangrila. Traverse the country from west to east, immersing yourself in Bhutan’s unique culture and natural beauty. Explore historical sites, enjoy spectacular landscapes, and connect with the serene Bhutanese way of life.

Your adventure begins with a mesmerizing flight to Paro, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Chomolhari, and more. Upon landing, you’ll be greeted by the cool, pure air of Bhutan. Our representative will welcome you and escort you to your accommodation in Paro. In the evening, explore Paro’s market and town. Spend the night in a Paro hotel.

Paro is a picturesque valley adorned with terraced paddy fields and traditional Bhutanese architecture. Begin your day with a visit to Ta Dzong, the National Museum, housing a diverse collection of artifacts, from ancient armor to thangka paintings. Descend to Paro Dzong, a 17th-century fortress that now houses a monastic school and government offices.

Continue to Rinpung Dzong, constructed in 1646 to safeguard the valley from Tibetan invaders and now serving as the district administration offices and a monastic community.

After lunch, venture up the valley to Drukgyel Dzong, erected in 1646 to commemorate Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal’s triumph over Tibetan invaders. If time allows, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, a 7th-century monastery. Overnight stay at a Paro hotel.

After breakfast, embark on an excursion to the viewpoint of Taktsang Monastery, also known as the “Tiger’s Nest.” Perched on a cliff 900 meters above Paro valley, this iconic monastery has a rich history. Continue your journey to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, and visit the historic Simtokha Dzong on the way.

Enjoy a full day of exploring Thimphu. Begin with a visit to the National Library, followed by the Arts & Crafts School, renowned for traditional thangka paintings. Explore the Textile and Folk Heritage Museum to discover Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage. Admire the Memorial Chorten, Tashichhodzong, and the Handicrafts Emporium.

Start your day with a tour of Thimphu’s local market and town before heading to Punakha. Cross the Dochula Pass, boasting stunning vistas of the eastern Himalayan peaks on a clear day. Upon arrival in Punakha, visit Punakha Dzong, situated at the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers.

After breakfast, drive to Wangduephodrang and explore Wangdue Dzong, perched on a spur with commanding views. En route to Gangtey (Phobjikha) through oak and rhododendron forests, enjoy the unique landscape of the glacial Phobjikha Valley, a haven for black-necked cranes. Visit Gangtey Monastery, the sole Nyingmapa monastery in western Bhutan.

Spend your morning exploring Phobjikha Valley, a winter sanctuary for black-necked cranes. Afterward, journey to Trongsa, crossing the scenic Pelela Pass. Pause at Chendebji Chorten, an 18th-century Nepalese-style temple, and revel in the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Trongsa.

Discover Trongsa Dzong, perched high atop a mountain, offering panoramic views. Explore Ta Dzong, designed to protect Trongsa and set on a mountain’s edge. Continue to Bumthang, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful valleys and a center of Buddhist spirituality. Pass the Yutong La pass (3,400m) before arriving in Bumthang.

Bumthang consists of four valleys with varying altitudes, and today’s journey includes visits to key landmarks, such as Kurje Lhakhang, Jambay Lhakhang, Pema Lingpa’s Tamshing Lhakhang, and Jakar Dzong.

Continue eastward, through the challenging terrain and stunning vistas. Pass through Ura village and climb to the Thrumshingla Pass (4,000m), the highest motorable pass in Bhutan. Descend to Sengor, known for its cascading waterfalls, and drive through pine forests, maize fields, and eastern hamlets on your way to Mongar.

After breakfast, transfer to the Bhutan border, where an Indian agent will assist you in reaching your next destination

This itinerary may vary based on local conditions and your preferences. It’s designed to provide a comprehensive exploration of Bhutan’s rich culture and natural beauty. Enjoy your journey to Bhutan, the last Shangrila!

After breakfast, drive to Paro Airport for your flight back to your home country, cherishing the superb mountain views as you bid farewell to Bhutan, a mystical kingdom surrounded by guardian peaks.

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Take a peek,

You’ve never seen Bhutan like this.