8-Day Bhutan Serene Landscapes Tour
Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Thimphu
- Scenic flight into Paro with views of Everest and the Himalayas.
- Drive to Thimphu (1.5 hours), Bhutan’s peaceful capital nestled in a forested valley.
- Light walking tour along the Wang Chhu River, visit Buddha Dordenma for sunset views.
- Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 2: Thimphu – Dochula Pass – Punakha
- Drive to Dochula Pass (3,100m) for breathtaking 360° views of snow-capped peaks and 108 stupas.
- Gentle forest hike to Lungchutse Monastery through rhododendron forests.
- Continue to Punakha, enjoy riverside serenity and lush valley views.
- Overnight in Punakha.
Day 3: Punakha Valley Exploration
- Visit Punakha Dzong, a masterpiece of harmony between nature and architecture.
- Leisure hike through rice paddies to Chimi Lhakhang, the Fertility Temple.
- Optional: White-water rafting on the Mo Chhu River or a picnic by the riverbank.
- Overnight in Punakha.
Day 4: Punakha – Gangtey (Phobjikha Valley)
- Scenic drive to Phobjikha Valley, a glacial valley and winter home of the black-necked cranes.
- Visit Gangtey Monastery, perched above the sweeping valley.
- Nature trail walk through dwarf bamboo and pine forests.
- Overnight in a cozy lodge with valley views.
Day 5: Phobjikha Valley – Bumthang
- Long but gorgeous drive through central Bhutan’s wilderness to Bumthang.
- Stop for photos and picnic in remote highland scenery.
- Arrive in Bumthang, surrounded by tranquil alpine meadows.
- Overnight in Bumthang.
Day 6: Bumthang Spiritual Landscapes
- Visit sacred sites like Kurjey Lhakhang, Tamshing Goemba, and Jambay Lhakhang.
- Gentle walk along rivers and past farmhouses.
- Optional: Try Bhutanese hot stone bath in the evening.
- Overnight in Bumthang.
Day 7: Flight to Paro – Free Afternoon
- Morning domestic flight back to Paro (if available).
- Free time to rest or explore local handicraft shops.
- Optional: Visit Dzongdrakha Cliff Temples, a peaceful alternative to Tiger’s Nest.
- Overnight in Paro.
Day 8: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang)
- Iconic 3-4 hour hike to the cliffside Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
- Meditate or just take in the majestic views.
- Farewell dinner with cultural show (optional).
- Overnight in Paro or departure.
Tour Highlights
- Serene valleys: Punakha, Phobjikha, and Bumthang
- Gentle hikes and walks in pristine nature
- Sacred sites that blend beautifully with natural surroundings
- Deep cultural immersion without crowds