10-Day Central Bhutan Cultural Tour
10-Day Central Bhutan Cultural Tour
Embark on a transformative journey through Bhutan's sacred valleys, ancient monasteries, and vibrant traditions. This 10-day expedition offers an in-depth exploration of the Land of the Thunder Dragon, blending cultural immersion with serene natural beauty.
Itinerary
Cultural Sightseeing Tour
9 Nights / 10 Days
Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu
- Warm welcome at Paro International Airport
- Scenic drive to Thimphu along river valleys
- Optional stop at Tamchog Lhakhang
- Check-in at hotel and welcome dinner
- Evening orientation walk around Thimphu
- Overnight: Thimphu
- Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Discover Thimphu’s Spiritual Heritage
- Visit Buddha Dordenma – the world’s tallest sitting Buddha
- Explore National Memorial Chorten
- Choice of visits:
- Traditional Arts School (Zorig Chusum)
- Textile Museum
- Changangkha Lhakhang or Takin Reserve
- Stroll through local craft market and heritage shops
- Visit Tashichho Dzong, Bhutan’s grand fortress-monastery
- Overnight: Thimphu
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha via Dochu La Pass
- Scenic ascent to Dochu La (3,100m) for Himalayan views
- Visit 108 Memorial Chortens
- Stop at Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple)
- Visit Punakha Dzong – Bhutan’s most beautiful fortress
- Cross Punakha Suspension Bridge for panoramic valley views
- Overnight: Punakha
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 4: Punakha to Phobjikha – Valley of the Black-Necked Cranes
- Morning hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
- Drive to Phobjikha Valley, a glacial valley known for its beauty and biodiversity
- Visit Gangtey Monastery
- Leisure walk through the Crane Observation Trail (seasonal)
- Enjoy warm hospitality at a traditional farmhouse or lodge
- Overnight: Phobjikha
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5: Phobjikha to Trongsa – Gateway to Central Bhutan
- Depart Phobjikha and drive to Trongsa
- Visit Chendebji Chorten en route
- Explore the majestic Trongsa Dzong – ancestral seat of Bhutan’s monarchy
- Visit Ta Dzong (Watchtower Museum) for a glimpse into royal history
- Overnight: Trongsa
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 6: Trongsa to Bumthang – Spiritual Heart of Bhutan
- Scenic drive to Bumthang Valley
- Stop at roadside cafés with waterfall views
- Visit Kurjey Lhakhang – sacred site of Guru Rinpoche’s body imprint
- Visit Jambay Lhakhang – one of Bhutan’s oldest temples (7th century)
- Overnight: Bumthang (Jakar)
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 7: Bumthang – Explore Tang Valley
- Day excursion to Tang Valley, a quiet and historic region
- Visit Mebartsho (Burning Lake), a revered pilgrimage site
- Explore Tang Ugyen Choling Palace and its rural heritage museum
- Optional visit to Tang Nunnery
- Return to Jakar and enjoy local cuisine or try Red Panda Beer
- Overnight: Bumthang
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 8: Bumthang to Paro (via Domestic Flight or Scenic Drive)
- Option 1: Take a short domestic flight to Paro (weather-dependent)
- Option 2: Return by road via Trongsa and Wangdue (full-day drive)
- Check-in at hotel in Paro
- Leisure time or short walk around Paro town
- Overnight: Paro
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 9: Hike to the Famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang)
- Early morning hike to Paro Taktsang, Bhutan’s most iconic landmark
- Stop for tea at the halfway viewpoint café
- Return to Paro for lunch
- Visit Kyichu Lhakhang – one of Bhutan’s oldest sacred temples
- Optional hot stone bath in the evening (extra charge)
- Overnight: Paro
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 10: Departure from Paro
- Free time depending on flight schedule
- Transfer to Paro International Airport
- Farewell from Adventures Journey
- Meals: Breakfast