10 Days Private Tour in Central Bhutan: Explore Culture, History and Natural Beauty

Embark on a 10-day private tour in central Bhutan to immerse yourself in its rich culture, history, and natural beauty. Discover the unique Bhutanese cuisine, explore serene landscapes, and connect with the locals for a joyous experience.

Duration: 10 days
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights

Arrive at Paro International Airport

Paro - Upon landing at Paro International Airport, our English-speaking guide will welcome you and drive you to Thimphu, the capital city.

Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge - En route, visit Tamchog Lhakhang, perched on a ridge with stunning views. Stroll across the bridge amidst a picturesque landscape.

Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten) - Built in 1974 by Her Majesty Ashi Phuntsho in memory of the third King, the National Memorial Chorten is situated in the heart of the capital. Inside, you’ll find numerous paintings of Tantric deities in explicit poses, which may be unsettling to some visitors.

Thimphu Handicrafts Market - Authentic Craft Bazaar; This market in central Thimphu offers genuine Bhutanese arts and crafts, all handmade locally.

Thimphu - Explore downtown Thimphu and visit the archery ground to watch an archery match.

Thimphu Sightseeing

Buddha Dordenma - After breakfast, visit Kuensel Phodrang. The Buddha statue here is located on a hilltop overlooking Thimphu, offering a splendid view of the Thimphu Valley. It’s accessible by road and about 15 minutes from the city center.

Motithang Takin Preserve - Also known as the Mini Zoo, this small natural preserve is home to the Takin, Bhutan’s national animal, a rare goat-antelope species found only in Bhutan. The preserve mimics the Takin’s natural habitat and also houses a few musk deer and barking deer.

National Folk Heritage Museum - This museum showcases a rich collection of equipment, tools, household objects, and artifacts from rural households, providing a glimpse into traditional Bhutanese life. It also organizes regular demonstrations of rural traditions, skills, customs, and habits, along with educational programs for children.

National Institute for Zorig Chusum - Also known as the School of Arts and Crafts, this institute offers a six-year course on the 13 traditional arts and crafts.

Tashichho Dzong (Thimpu Dzong) - Originally constructed in 1216 by Lama Gyalwa Lhanangpa, the Dzong was later expanded by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Known as the “fortress of glorious religion,” it was rebuilt in 1641 and again in the 1960s by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. It now houses the secretariat building, the throne room, and the offices of the King and central monk body.

Thimphu to Trongsa

Dochula Pass - Located at an altitude of 3150 meters, Dochu-La Pass is one of Bhutan’s most famous mountain passes. On clear days, it offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. The pass is also notable for its 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens.

Wangdue Dzong - We will drive past Wangdue Dzong.

Trongsa - Bumthang

Bumthang

Bumthang to Gangtey/Phobjikha

Gangtey Monastery - Also known as Gangtey Gonpa, this significant monastery of the Nyingmapa school of Buddhism was built in 1613 by the first Peling Gyalsé Rinpoche, Rigdzin Pema Tinley, the grandson of the great Bhutanese “treasure revealer.”

Gangtey - Punakha

Chimi Lhakhang Temple - This temple is dedicated to Drukpa Kuenley, known as the Divine Madman for his unconventional behavior. He is considered a symbol of fertility, and many childless couples visit his temple for blessings. The temple is about a 30-minute hike across fields adorned with phallic paintings on houses.

Punakha Dzong - Built in 1637 and named Pungthang Dechen Phodrang (Palace of Great Happiness), this Dzong is beautifully situated between the Pho (male) and Mo (female) rivers. Punakha was Bhutan’s capital until 1955. The Wangchuck Dynasty was established here on December 17, 1907, and the first National Assembly was held in the Dzong in 1953.

Punakha Suspension Bridge - Adorned with colorful prayer flags, this is one of Bhutan’s longest suspension bridges, offering spectacular views of the river and valley.

Punakha - Paro

Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten - A 45-minute hike to this chorten offers picturesque views of rice terraces along the river.

Rinpung Dzong - Visit Paro Rinpung Dzong.

Paro

Paro Taktsang - This wooden structure, perched on a cliff, is said to have been established by Guru Rinpoche, who flew here on a tigress’s back in the 8th century to bring Buddhist teachings to Bhutan. Built in 1692 by Gyalse Tenzin Rabgaye, a reincarnation of Guru Rinpoche, the hike to Taktshang takes about 2-3 hours on a clear, sunny day.

Departure

Paro - Drive to the airport for departure.

What's Included
  • All Meals
  • Monument Fees (Dzongs & Temples) and Museum Fees
  • A minimum of 3 star accommodation certified by the Department of Tourism
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Breakfast
  • A licensed Bhutanese tour guide for the extent of your stay.
  • Bottle of water in the car
  • All transport (transfer & sightseeing)
  • Travel Insurance
What's Not Included
  • Air Transport/Flight
  • Personal Expenses such as Laundry, Tips, etc.
  • Drinks & beverages
  • Visa Fees
  • Sustainable Development Fee
Additional Information

In this tour you will explore central Bhutan which is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the unique culture, try Bhutanese cuisine, and enjoy the serene landscapes. Bhutan is a country with a strong emphasis on Gross National Happiness, so take the time to connect with the locals and experience the joyous atmosphere! also visit most highlighted places like Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

Location
Paro International Airport
Once you arrive at the Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative (Guide) and drive to Thimphu
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
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(1 Rating)
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Giuscolangelo
May 24, 2024
Impeccabile travel agency and driver and tour guide - Extremely attentive and responsive! Dorji (guide) and Urgen (driver) were impeccable and impressive. They made our trip remarkable and unforgettable.exceptional support from OMSHA to design the itinerary. Experience and great recommendations during the tour.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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up to 15 guests
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October 2024
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