ITINERARY OVERVIEW
DAY 01: ARRIVE PARO – THIMPHU
DAY 02: THIMPHU
DAY 03: THIMPHU – PHOBJIKHA VALLEY
DAY 04: PHOBJIKHA VALLEY – BUMTHANG
DAY 05: BUMTHANG
DAY 06: BUMTHANG – PUNAKHA
DAY 07: PUNAKHA
DAY 08: PUNAKHA – PARO
DAY 09: PARO
DAY 10: DEPART PARO
Discover the highlights of Bhutan's popular western and spiritual central valleys in luxury. Visit Dzongs, temples, monasteries, palaces, and witness Bhutan's ever-changing scenic beauty of forests and himalayan peaks from the comfort of a luxury 4WD. For those with a little less time or are interested in a birds-eye view, we can easily organise helicopter transfers. At the end of the day you will unwind at Taj Tashi, Amankora and Zhiwa Ling Paro resorts, experiencing their first class service and facilties including massage, spa, wellbeing therapies and fine dining. This tour included a night in the stunning Phobjikha Valley, winter home of the endangered Black-Necked Crane. We can also organise a range of add-on options to you provide the most luxurious and unforgettable experience of the Dragon Kingdom.
BHUTAN TOUR DATES:
All of our Bhutan tours are private, tailor-made journeys for independent travel on dates of your choosing. We can easily customise your Bhutan tour to spend more in the places doing the activities that you are interested in. Please click on the 'Tailor-Design This Bhutan Tour' tab above to begin customising this tour to your requirements. This tour can be experienced all year around.
WHAT WE INCLUDE IN OUR TAILOR MADE BHUTAN TOURS:
• Airfares in and out of Bhutan including taxes.
• Bhutan Tourist Tariff Royalty & Visa fees.
• All private excursions and transfers in superior luxury air-conditioned vehicle.
• Local English speaking guide/tour leader.
• Experienced driver.
• Accommodation in luxury hotels and resorts.
• All meals in Bhutan.
• All entrance fees and permits.
NOT INCLUDED:
• All personal expenses such as bars, beverages, laundry, telephone and tips.
• Medical / Travel Insurance.
DETAILED ITINERARY
DAY 01: ARRIVE PARO – THIMPHU
DAY 02: THIMPHU
DAY 03: THIMPHU – PHOBJIKHA VALLEY
DAY 04: PHOBJIKHA VALLEY – BUMTHANG
DAY 05: BUMTHANG
DAY 06: BUMTHANG – PUNAKHA
DAY 07: PUNAKHA
DAY 08: PUNAKHA – PARO
DAY 09: PARO
DAY 10: DEPART PARO
DAY 01: ARRIVE PARO – THIMPHU
You will arrive in Paro either by private jet or in Druk Air Business Class. The flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular mountain flights in the world, with a constantly changing panorama of some of the highest mountains on earth. This beautiful valley is home to many of Bhutan’s oldest monasteries and temples, and the country’s only airport. After being welcomed with “Khadar” (traditional scarf), a BTB representative will provide you with the necessary assistance for completion of all immigration and customs formalities, including the processing of your visa whilst you relax in the airport VIP lounge. You will then be transferred by your deluxe to Uma Paro Resort for lunch at their Restaurant ‘Bukhara’.
After lunch enjoy afternoon sightseeing around Paro transported by luxury 4WD, including a visit to the Ta Dzong Museum housing many religious relics, works of art and handicrafts offering a great orientation into Bhutan’s historical, cultural, and religious past. Next, visit the Rimpong Dzong to see the painting of the great saint Milarepa, considered as the master of meditation by the Bhutanese and believed to have attained enlightenment in a lifetime. Dzong’s are large monasteries and district administrative centres, which were once strategic forts. Afterwards, drive to the capital, Thimphu (1.5 hours). On arrival check into Hotel Taj Tashi, situated in the centre of the capital city. It adopts age-old Bhutanese traditions in its architecture, and offers panoramic views of neighboring mountain peaks. Inside, you will find every modern convenience including a spa, swimming pool and multi-cuisine dining. Before dinner at the hotel there will be an orientation on Bhutanese etiquette by your guide. Overnight at Taj Tashi in Thimphu.
DAY 02: THIMPHU
Enjoy a full day of sightseeing, including a visit to the National Memorial Chorten, completed by the Royal Queen Mother as a memorial stupa for the Third King who passed away in 1972. Continue on to 12th century Changangkha Temple and Zilukha Nunnery. If there is time, you may visit Tashichhodzong, ‘the fortress of the glorious religion’ housing ministries, His Majesty’s secretariat, and the central monk body. Return to Taj Tashi Thimphu for dinner and overnight.
DAY 03: THIMPHU – PHOBJIKHA VALLEY
Transfer to Phobjikha Valley (5.5-6 hrs). Drive by luxury 4WD over the Dochu-La pass (3,100 meters) which on a clear day offers an incredible view of Himalayan peaks before descending into balmy Punakha valley (about 3 hrs total driving time). The drive through the countryside affords a glimpse of everyday life in this most remote of Himalayan kingdoms.
Continue on through the bustling market town of Wangduephodrang, and up winding mountain roads through mixed forests and over high passes before descending down into the wide and picturesque Phobjikha Valley. Phobjikha is one of Bhutan’s few glacial valleys, and chosen winter home of black necked cranes (November - March) migrating from the Tibetan plateau. On arrival check into Amankora Gangtey, positioned on a forested knoll close to the valley floor. The 8 suites combine wood panelling and chocolate brown walls, the traditional bukhari, terrazzo-clad bath, shower and vanity, and day bed. Dinner and overnight at Amankora Resort Gangtey.
DAY 04: PHOBJIKHA VALLEY – BUMTHANG
Following breakfast visit the Phobjikha Sanctuary to view the majestic black necked cranes (Nov-Mar only) and Gangtey Gompa (Monastery), dating back to the 16th century. Afterwards drive by luxury 4WD over the Pele La pass (3,420m) on the Black Mountain range towards Trongsa (4.5 hrs). Enroute visit the beautiful 18th century Chendebji Chorten. Trongsa is the ancestral home of Bhutan’s ruling dynasty. Visit Trongsa Dzong, the largest Dzong in Bhutan and the Ta Dzong museum housing a collection of historical artefacts of the Royal Family.
Continue driving towards Bumthang (2.5 hrs), the spiritual of the kingdom. Bumthang is home to some of Bhutan’s oldest Palaces, Buddhist temples and monasteries. On arrival transfer to the luxurious Amankora Bumthang. The Resort is located between the First and Second King's palace amongst orchards of apples and pears and a glorious aged peach tree planted by the late Queen Mother. After checking in, you will be accompanied to your exquisite, wood panelled guest suites. Enjoy an optional Spa Treatment before dinner. Overnight at Amankora Resort Bumthang.
DAY 05: BUMTHANG
In the morning visit Kurjey Lhakhang, one of the most sacred places in the kingdom where Bhutan’s patron saint Guru Rimpoche meditated and 7th century Jambay Lhakhang. It dates back to the origins of Buddhism in Bhutan and is one of the Kingdoms oldest temples. Return to Amankora Resort for lunch before continuing sightseeing including Jakar Dzong and Tamshing Lhakhang, founded in 1501 by Pemalingpa and containing interesting and ancient Buddhist wall paintings. Overnight at Amankora Resort Bumthang.
DAY 06: BUMTHANG – PUNAKHA
Depart for Punakha stopping along the way at Trongsa for lunch. On arrival, check into to luxurious Amankora Punakha, built around a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse. Facilities include a spa centre housing a yoga/meditation room, tea pavilion and eight suites featuring wood panelled interiors, a traditional bukhari, king-size bed, terrazzo-clad bath, shower and vanities, and day bed. Overnight and dinner at your Amankora Punakha.
DAY 07: PUNAKHA
Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan. Visit Punakha Dzong, the "Palace of Great Happiness" built in 1637 by the Shabdrung, the ‘Unifier of Bhutan’ as predicted by the great Guru Rimpoche (Padmasambhava). It is the winter headquarters of the Je Khenpo and hundreds of monks who move en masse from Thimphu to this warmer location. The three story main temple of the Punakha Dzong is a breathtaking example of traditional architecture with four intricately embossed entrance pillars crafted from cypress and decorated in gold and silver. It was here in 1907 that Bhutan's first king was crowned.
Afterwards return to Amankora Punakha for lunch, followed by an excursion by 4WD or on foot to Yabesa village and hike to through ricefields and up to Khamsum Yueley Namgyal Chorten, built by her majesty the queen Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuk. Perched high on a hill on the bank of the river, the Chorten houses paintings belonging to Nyingmapa Traditions. In the afternoon you have an option of returning to Amankora Punakha for time at leisure, or a short excursion to Chimi Lhakhang, temple of Drukpa Kuenly. He inherited the Divine Madman title since he revolted against the orthodox Buddhism in his time. Overnight and dinner at your Amankora Punakha.
DAY 08: PUNAKHA – THIMPHU – PARO
Drive back to Thimphu by luxury 4WD where you will have an opportunity to visit handicraft and souvenir stores, and enjoy lunch at Taj Tashi. Afterwards proceed to Paro and check into the 5 star Zhiwa Ling Resort Paro, featuring elaborate handcarved wooden cornices and masterful stonework along with Swedish underfloor heating. Guestrooms are beautifully appointed with oak floors, hand-knotted rugs and rich furnishings reflecting the heritage of the country. All rooms afford incredible views over the forests and mountain ranges of Paro. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure with the option of relaxing at The Menlha Spa, the Tea House or Meditation House. Enjoy dinner at the Zhiw Ling Restaurant, with the remainder of the evening at leisure. Overnight at Zhiwa Ling Resort Paro.
DAY 09: PARO
After breakfast hike to Taktsang Monastery. The walk of approximately 2 hours uphill takes you almost a kilometre above the Paro valley floor (for those who cannot hike we will arrange a horse for transfer up to the viewing point). The view of Taktsang Monastery built on a sheer cliff face 900 metres above the valley floor is a spectacular sight. The Monastery is also an important pilgrim site for the Buddhists. The great Guru Rimpoche is said to have flown here on the back of a tigress when he brought the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan in the 8th Century. Refreshments and lunch will be arranged in the tent specifically pitched on the path to Taktsang Monastery.
On the return drive to Paro, visit 7th Century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples constructed by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo. Afternoon is at leisure. Overnight at Zhiwa Ling Resort Paro.
DAY 10: DEPART PARO
Enjoy breakfast at Zhiwa Ling before driving to the airport for flight to your onward destination.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS BHUTAN TOUR
'The Last Shangri-La' Raven Crown Prestige Tour explores all of the highlights of Bhutan's western valleys, as well as the central Bumthang Valley at a relaxed pace using the most luxurious accommodations and services available in the kingdom. Ideal for those who would like to really savour their experience of Bhutan.
• Stay in a boutique range of luxurious resorts and lodges offering every modern comfort.
• Discover some of the most sacred Buddhist monasteries and temples in the Himalaya.
• Indulge in a range of holistic therapies including Ayurveda, massage and facials and meditation.
• Explore Bhutan's central valleys, rich with ancient historical and sacred Buddhist sites.
• Visit many cultural attractions including medieval fortresses (Dzongs), markets and museums.
• Enjoy 5 star cuisine, including an opportunity to sample some of Bhutan's fiery Chilli dishes.
• Spend a night in the beautiful Phobjikha Valley, winter home to the Black-Necked Crane.
• Hike up to the famous Taktsang Monastery, perched on a cliff 900m above the valley floor.
• Marvel at the elaborate and ancient wall paintings and carvings in Dzongs and temples.
• Traverse beautiful landscapes from lush valleys to dense forests.
• Incorporate a Value-Added Option such as a cooking lesson or meditation session with a monk.
For information on locations visited, please click on the tabs below.
Paro (2,250m), the site of Bhutan’s only airport, is set amongst the pastoral beauty of Paro Valley, a broad valley fertile with paddy, wheat, millet, potatoes, apple and seasonal vegetables grown as the main crops. Located close to downtown Paro is the imposing Paro Dzong, also known as Rinpung Dzong, built in 1645 by the Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel (Unifier of Bhutan). Located on a hill behind the Paro Dzong is Ta Dzong, the National Museum housed in an ancient 17th century watchtower and featuring a fascinating collection of art, relics, religious thangkha paintings and Bhutan’s exquisite postage stamps. Another Paro Valley highlight includes the incredible monastery of Taktsang, also known as the Tiger's Nest perched on a sheer rock cliff 900m above the Paro Valley floor. The Tiger’s Nest owes its name to the 8th century saint Guru Rinpoche who, according to myth, visited here mounted on a flying tiger. Other interesting options are the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong with its magnificent views of Mount Jumolhari and 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang.
Bhutan’s capital city of Thimphu (2,350m) is a fascinating blend of the old and the new. Zoning regulations have retained the forms and motifs of Bhutan’s traditional architecture giving the city a wonderful structural harmony. The capital’s most striking visual landmark is Tashichhodzong, the seat of the Royal Government and Central Monastic Body. Semtokha Dzong is the kingdom’s oldest Dzong, whilst The National Memorial Chorten is an important temple completed by The Royal Queen Mother as a memorial stupa for the Third King who passed away in 1972. The Royal School of the Performing Arts, the School of Traditional Painting and the Institute of Traditional Medicine offer visitors an amazing insight into Bhutanese culture. Other attractions include 12th century Changangkha Temple, Drubthob Monastery housing the Zilukha Nunnery, the National Library housing a rare collection of Buddhist scriptures, the lively weekend market and the 169 foot bronze statue of Buddha overlooking the city. Nearby sites include Tango and Cheri Monasteries.
Punakha (1,310m) is Bhutan’s ancient capital, and remains the winter seat of the Central Monastic Body due to its sub-tropical climate. The drive to Punakha from Thimphu travels over Dochu-La Pass, marked by a beautiful scene of 108 Chortens, wind-blown prayer flags and the recently built Druk Wangyal Lhakhang. In clear weather the view of the Himalayas is stunning. The Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel is situated on a triangular spit of land at the confluence of the Mo Chu and Pho Chu rivers. The three story main temple of the Punakha Dzong is a breathtaking example of traditional architecture with four intricately embossed entrance pillars crafted from cypress and decorated in gold and silver. It was here in 1907 that Bhutan's first king was crowned. Other highlights include Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten with its complex Nyingmapa iconography and Chimi Lhakhang, dedicated to Bhutan’s popular saint Drukpa Kuenley, otherwise known as the “divine madman” due to his unorthodox religious teaching.
Wangduephodrang (1,800m), or Wangdue, is a bustling market town located half an hour away from Punakha. Buffeted by afternoon winds, Wangdue is an important gateway to the far flung districts of Eastern Bhutan. The formidable Wangduephodrang Dzong stands strategically perched on a precipitous cliff above the Dang Chhu. Built in 1639, the Dzong held a powerful position during the pre-monarcy days.
Legend has it that Wangdue was once a desert, hence the cacti grown in profusion. But some believe the cacti were planted with a reason to discourage invaders from climbing the steep slope. The Jigme Dorji National Park extends into the northern part while a major portion of the dzongkhag falls under Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park.
Phobjikha Valley (2,900m) is often described as “the most beautiful valley in the most beautiful country in the Himalayas”. It is located in the Black Mountains, the highest of Bhutan’s north-south ridges about 2 and a half hours drive from Wangduephodrang on a spectacular route. Every winter, the rare and beautiful Black-necked Cranes return from Tibet to the safety of this quiet and remote valley. Every November the Black-Necked Crane Festival is held in honour of these majestic birds.
Gangtey, located a few kilometres above the valley has a very interesting 17th century Nyingmapa monastery, the only one of its kind west of the Black Mountain range. Known for its lovely paintings and statues, it is ringed with family houses of the gomchen, the religious laymen who worship the work at the monastery.
Ancestral home of Bhutan’s ruling dynasty, Trongsa is a strategically located town on the east-west route. Trongsa Dzong, built on a spur with a spectacular views of the Mangde River Valley is Bhutan’s largest Dzong and the location of where the institution of Bhutan's monarchy began. The foundations of Trongsa Dzong were laid in the 16th Century and there are now 22 temples in the complex. Overlooking the Dzong is the Ta Dzong museum housing an incredible collection of historical artefacts of the Royal Family including the Raven Crown worn by the 1st King of Bhutan and a range of traditional armour. Nearby there are also a number of impressive palaces built by former Kings including Kuenga Rabten Palace and Yurungchhoeling Palace.
En route to Trongsa is Chendebji Chorten, patterned on Kathmandu’s Swayambhunath Stupa, with eyes painted at the four cardinal points.
Bumthang is the spiritual heartland of Bhutan and distinguished in history as the first place Buddhism was introduced to Bhutan by Guru Rimpoche. Its undulating green valleys are renowned for their natural beauty, historic palaces, numerous temples and important ancient Buddhist sites. Some of these include Kurje Lhakhang, home to a rock featuring the imprint of Guru Rimpoche’s body, 7th century Jambay Lhakhang, one of the Kingdom's oldest temples and the Tamshing Monastery containingsome of the oldest wall paintings in Bhutan.
Other highlights in the Bumthang Valley include the 16th century Ugyen Chholing Palace complex housing a fascinating museum, 14th century Tang Rimochen Lhakhang where Guru Rinpoche meditated and Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake), where some of Guru Rinpoche's treasures were found in the 15th century by the famous treasure discover Pema Lingpa.
