Bhutan Bumthang Valley Tours 9Day 8Night

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Arrive at Paro Airport (Receive by Driver and Drive to Thimphu) -(50KM/1Hrs)-Will do sighteeing if time available
3 stops
1
Buddha Dordenma
The Buddha Dordenma Statue, towering 169 feet (51.5 meters) high, is one of the largest Buddha statues in the world and a defining landmark of Thimphu Valley. Seated majestically atop Kuensel Phodrang hill, it overlooks the capital city, symbolizing peace and prosperity for Bhutan and the world. Constructed of bronze and gilded in gold, the statue houses over 125,000 smaller Buddha images, each carefully crafted and consecrated. Commissioned to commemorate the 60th birth anniversary of the Fourth King, it fulfills a centuries-old prophecy foretelling the construction of a large Buddha to bestow blessings throughout the region. Surrounded by serene walking paths and panoramic views of the valley and mountains, the site offers visitors a profound sense of spiritual calm and awe-inspiring beauty, making it a must-visit attraction in Thimphu.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
2
Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten)
The Memorial Chorten in Thimphu is one of Bhutan’s most prominent religious landmarks and a symbol of peace and devotion. Built in 1974 in memory of His Majesty King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the Third King of Bhutan, it reflects the country’s deep spiritual heritage. Unlike other chortens that enshrine relics inside, this one represents the king’s mind of compassion. The whitewashed stupa, topped with a golden spire, stands surrounded by prayer wheels and devotees who circumambulate it daily while chanting prayers and spinning the wheels. The interior contains beautifully painted mandalas, statues, and images depicting tantric teachings and deities. The chorten serves as a vibrant center of spiritual life for locals, especially the elderly, who gather to pray and meditate. Both a place of worship and a monument of remembrance, the Memorial Chorten embodies Bhutan’s harmony between monarchy, faith, and community.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
3
Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge
Tachog Lhakhang : Tachog Lhakhang (Temple of the Hill of the Excellent Horse) is a small 15th-century temple. It was built by the legendary Tibetan saint Thangtong Gyalpo, who also constructed the famous iron suspension bridge beside it. located on Thimphu-Paro Highway way.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
Day 2
Drive from Thimphu to Bumthang via Trongsa(Sightseeing at Trongsa)
4 stops
4
Pele La
Pele La Pass, standing at an altitude of about 3,300 meters, is one of Bhutan’s most scenic and significant mountain passes, marking the traditional boundary between western and central Bhutan. Located on the highway between Wangdue Phodrang and Trongsa, it offers travelers breathtaking panoramic views of the snowcapped Himalayan peaks, including Mount Jhomolhari on clear days. The pass is adorned with colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind, symbolizing peace and harmony, and a white chorten that adds to its spiritual ambiance. Surrounded by alpine vegetation, rhododendrons, and dwarf bamboo, the area is also home to grazing yaks during summer. Pele La serves as a perfect photo stop and rest point, allowing visitors to soak in Bhutan’s pristine mountain beauty and the sense of serenity that defines its highland landscapes.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
5
Chendebji Chorten
Chendebji Chorten, located along the scenic Trongsa–Wangdue highway, is one of Bhutan’s most distinctive and revered stupas. Built in the 18th century by Lama Shida, a Tibetan lama, it was modeled after Nepal’s famous Swayambhunath Stupa. The large whitewashed structure is adorned with painted eyes on all four sides, symbolizing the all-seeing wisdom of the Buddha. According to legend, the chorten was constructed to subdue a malevolent spirit that once haunted the valley. Set in a tranquil meadow beside the Nikka Chhu River, surrounded by forests and prayer flags, it serves as a peaceful rest stop for travelers and pilgrims alike. Chendebji Chorten beautifully blends spiritual significance, ancient architecture, and scenic charm, representing Bhutan’s deep Buddhist devotion and artistic heritage.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
6
The Tower of Trongsa Museum
Trongsa Dzong, majestically perched on a ridge overlooking the Mangde River, is the largest and one of the most impressive fortresses in Bhutan. Built in 1644 by Chhogyel Minjur Tempa, the dzong served as a strategic gateway between eastern and western Bhutan. Its massive white-walled structure cascades down the hillside in multiple levels connected by stairways, courtyards, and corridors, creating a striking architectural masterpiece. Historically, Trongsa Dzong held great political importance, as Bhutan’s monarchs traditionally served here as penlops (governors) before ascending the throne. Inside, the dzong houses numerous temples, administrative offices, and monastic quarters adorned with exquisite murals and woodwork. The site offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, blending history, religion, and scenic grandeur in a single breathtaking setting.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
7
Ta Dzong Museum
Trongsa Ta-Dzong, majestically perched above Trongsa Dzong, was originally built in the 17th century as a watchtower to guard the fortress and the vital east–west trade route. Its unique circular structure, with massive stone walls and narrow stairways, once served as a strategic defense post. Today, Ta-Dzong has been transformed into the Royal Heritage Museum, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into Bhutan’s rich history and monarchy. The museum houses rare artifacts, ancient Buddhist relics, manuscripts, paintings, and royal memorabilia that chronicle the Wangchuck dynasty’s rise to power. Each of the museum’s floors represents aspects of Bhutanese spirituality and governance, blending history with sacred art. The panoramic views of Trongsa Dzong and the Mangde River below further enhance the museum’s charm, making it a must-visit for those seeking to understand Bhutan’s cultural and political legacy.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
Day 3
Bumthang Sightseeing
3 stops
8
Jakar Dzong
Jakar Dzong, also known as the “Fortress of the White Bird,” majestically overlooks the Chamkhar Valley in Bumthang, central Bhutan. Built in 1549 by Lam Ngagi Wangchuk, the dzong served as an important administrative and monastic center for the region. According to legend, a white bird perched on the site during its construction, which was taken as an auspicious sign, giving the fortress its name. The dzong’s massive walls, elegant courtyards, and traditional architecture reflect Bhutan’s rich heritage. Inside, sacred temples and monastic quarters preserve centuries-old murals and relics. Jakar Dzong also played a key role in unifying eastern and western Bhutan during historic conflicts. Today, it continues to house both monks and government offices while offering stunning panoramic views of the Bumthang Valley, making it a highlight for visitors exploring Bhutan’s cultural heartland.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
9
Jambay Lhakhang Temple
Jambay Lhakhang, located in Bumthang, is one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples. It was built in the 7th century by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo as part of his grand mission to subdue evil spirits and spread Buddhism across the Himalayas. Legend says it is one of 108 temples built in a single night to pin down a demoness who obstructed the spread of Buddhism. The temple’s architecture reflects early Bhutanese design, with intricate murals, ancient relics, and beautifully carved wooden structures. Inside, visitors can find statues of Jambay, the Buddha of the Future, and other deities of great spiritual importance. Jambay Lhakhang is also famous for its vibrant annual festival, the Jambay Lhakhang Drup, featuring the sacred fire dance and mask dances performed by monks and locals, celebrating Bhutan’s living spiritual traditions in a colorful and mystical atmosphere.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
10
Kurje Lhakhang
Kurjey Lhakhang, located in the picturesque Bumthang Valley, is one of Bhutan’s most sacred and revered monasteries. The name “Kurjey” translates to “body imprint,” referring to the imprint of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) left on a rock inside one of the temple’s main sanctuaries. The complex consists of three temples: the oldest, built in 1652, enshrines the sacred rock; the second was commissioned by the first King of Bhutan in 1900; and the third by the Queen Mother in 1984. Surrounded by towering cypress trees and traditional stone walls, Kurjey Lhakhang serves as a spiritual heart of Bumthang, attracting pilgrims from across the country. The site holds great religious importance as Guru Rinpoche meditated here while subduing evil spirits. Its peaceful surroundings and deep spiritual energy make it an essential stop for visitors exploring Bhutan’s ancient Buddhist heritage.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
Day 4
Bumthang to Phobjikha (Phobjikha sightseeing)
3 stops
11
Gangtey Monastery
Gangtey Monastery, also known as Gangtey Goemba, is a 17th-century Buddhist monastery perched on a gentle hill overlooking the pristine Phobjikha Valley in central Bhutan. Belonging to the Nyingmapa school, it is one of the most important monasteries in the region and a spiritual center for local communities. The monastery’s whitewashed walls, traditional Bhutanese architecture, and golden rooftops create a serene and picturesque setting. Inside, colorful murals, prayer halls, and sacred relics reflect Bhutan’s rich Buddhist heritage. The surrounding Phobjikha Valley, famous for its black-necked cranes during winter, adds a unique natural charm. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks through the valley and witness the monastery’s rituals, festivals, and meditative atmosphere, making Gangtey a perfect blend of culture, spirituality, and nature.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
12
Black-necked Crane Visitor Centre, Phobjikha
The Black-Necked Crane Information Centre is located in the serene Phobjikha Valley, central Bhutan, and serves as a hub for the conservation and study of the endangered black-necked cranes. Every winter, these magnificent birds migrate from the Tibetan Plateau to the valley, making it a vital habitat for their survival. The center educates visitors about the cranes’ behavior, ecology, and conservation efforts through informative exhibits, displays, and interactive sessions. It also highlights the local community’s role in protecting this rare species and their wetlands. Visitors can observe the cranes in their natural habitat, often from viewing towers, and learn about the delicate balance between nature and traditional Bhutanese agricultural practices. The center emphasizes sustainable tourism and environmental awareness, making it both an educational and memorable experience for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
13
Phobjikha Valley, also known as Gangtey Valley, is a serene glacial valley nestled in central Bhutan, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Surrounded by forested mountains and rolling hills, the valley is dotted with traditional Bhutanese farmhouses and vast meadows. It is famous as the winter home of the endangered black-necked cranes, which migrate from Tibet, attracting birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts from around the world. The valley is also home to Gangtey Monastery, a 17th-century monastery perched on a hilltop, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Phobjikha’s pristine landscapes, quiet trails, and rich cultural heritage make it a perfect destination for trekking, wildlife spotting, and experiencing Bhutan’s peaceful rural life. Visitors can stroll along scenic walking paths, enjoy local hospitality, and witness the harmonious coexistence of nature, tradition, and spirituality in this unique Himalayan valley.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
Day 5
Phobjikha to Punakha(Punakha sightseeing)
3 stops
14
Punakha Dzong
Punakha Dzong, also known as the “Palace of Great Happiness,” is one of Bhutan’s most majestic and historically significant dzongs. Located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, it was built in 1637–38 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan. The dzong’s massive whitewashed walls, intricate woodwork, and towering courtyards exemplify classic Bhutanese architecture. It served as the administrative center and winter residence of the Dratshang Lhentshog (monastic body). Punakha Dzong is renowned for its vibrant festivals, especially the Punakha Tshechu and the royal wedding ceremonies, attracting locals and tourists alike. Surrounded by lush paddy fields and the flowing rivers, the dzong offers a serene and picturesque setting, making it a symbol of Bhutanese culture, history, and spirituality.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
15
Punakha Suspension Bridge
The Punakha Suspension Bridge, located in Punakha, Bhutan, is one of the longest and most scenic pedestrian suspension bridges in the country, spanning approximately 160 meters (525 feet) across the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Surrounded by lush rice fields, forests, and distant mountains, it offers stunning panoramic views of the Punakha Valley and Punakha Dzong. Originally constructed centuries ago, the bridge has been rebuilt and reinforced with modern materials while preserving its traditional Bhutanese charm. Visitors crossing the bridge experience a gentle sway, adding a sense of adventure and excitement. The bridge serves not only as a functional crossing but also as a cultural symbol connecting communities, linking ancient villages, and providing easy access to local monasteries. Its scenic beauty and architectural simplicity make it a must-visit attraction for travelers exploring Punakha, offering both breathtaking photographs.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
16
Chimi Lhakhang Temple
Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Fertility Temple, is a charming and culturally significant temple located in the Punakha Valley of Bhutan. Built in 1499 by the revered saint Drukpa Kunley, famously known as the “Divine Madman,” the temple is dedicated to promoting fertility and blessings for couples wishing to have children. Nestled amidst lush rice fields and serene landscapes, it is accessible via a short, scenic walk from the nearby village. Pilgrims often carry phallic symbols, painted on walls and wooden poles, as a mark of blessing and protection. Inside, the temple houses sacred relics, statues, and vibrant murals depicting Drukpa Kunley’s life and teachings. Visitors circumambulate the temple, offer prayers, and sometimes receive blessings from the resident monks. Chimi Lhakhang is not only a spiritual site but also a delightful glimpse into Bhutanese folk traditions, combining devotion, humor, and local heritage. Its peaceful surroundings and unique rituals.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
Day 6
Punakha to Thimphu (Thimphu Sightseeing)
4 stops
17
Dochula Pass
Dochula Pass, located at an elevation of 3,100 meters between Thimphu and Punakha, is one of Bhutan’s most picturesque mountain passes. It is renowned for the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens (stupas) built by the eldest Queen of Bhutan to honor Bhutanese soldiers who lost their lives in a 2003 battle. On clear days, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas, including peaks of the Bhutanese Himalaya range. The pass is surrounded by lush forests and rhododendron groves, which bloom vibrantly in spring. Dochula Pass offers peaceful walks, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and traditional cafes where travelers can rest and enjoy local snacks. It’s a popular stop for photography, meditation, and soaking in Bhutan’s serene natural beauty.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
18
Simtokha Dzong
Simtokha Dzong, located about 5 km south of Thimphu, is one of Bhutan’s oldest and most historically significant fortresses. Built in 1629 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan, it served as a strategic stronghold to protect the Thimphu valley from invading forces and internal conflicts. The Dzong’s name, “Simtokha,” means “Atop a Demon Stone,” as it is believed to have been built on a site where a demon was subdued. Architecturally, Simtokha Dzong showcases classic Bhutanese craftsmanship with its intricate wood carvings, ancient murals, and exquisite mandalas that depict Buddhist teachings. Today, it functions as an important monastic and administrative center and also houses the Institute for Language and Cultural Studies, where Dzongkha and traditional Bhutanese culture are taught. This fortress stands as a symbol of Bhutan’s spiritual and historical heritage, blending defense, religion, and education in perfect harmony.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
19
Simply Bhutan Museum
Simply Bhutan Museum, located in Thimphu, is a unique living museum that offers visitors an immersive experience into Bhutan’s traditional lifestyle, culture, and heritage. Built in the style of a traditional Bhutanese village, it showcases the nation’s rich customs, architecture, and age-old practices. Guests can walk through authentic Bhutanese houses, try on traditional attire, witness the art of butter sculpture and archery, and even sample local delicacies like butter tea and ara (local wine). The museum also highlights traditional crafts such as weaving and wood carving, performed by skilled artisans. What makes Simply Bhutan truly special is its interactive approach—visitors don’t just observe but participate, making it both educational and entertaining. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to experience Bhutan’s “Gross National Happiness” philosophy through its living traditions and warm hospitality.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
20
Tashichho Dzong (Thimpu Dzong)
Tashichho Dzong, meaning “Fortress of the Glorious Religion,” is an impressive architectural masterpiece located on the western bank of the Wang Chhu River in Thimphu, Bhutan. Originally built in 1641 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and later reconstructed by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in the 1960s, the dzong serves as the seat of Bhutan’s government. It houses the throne room, offices of the King, and the central monastic body headed by the Je Khenpo. The dzong’s majestic whitewashed walls, red and gold-topped towers, and intricate woodwork showcase Bhutan’s rich craftsmanship. Surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, it becomes especially lively during the Thimphu Tshechu festival. Tashichho Dzong symbolizes Bhutan’s deep-rooted spiritual and political harmony, blending traditional Bhutanese artistry with its role as the administrative and religious heart of the nation.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
Day 7
Drive from Thimphu to Paro Shightseeing
4 stops
21
Chele La Pass
Chele La Pass, standing at an altitude of about 3,988 meters (13,084 feet), is one of the highest motorable passes in Bhutan, located between the Paro and Haa valleys. The drive to the pass offers breathtaking views of pristine forests, colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and snow-capped peaks, including the majestic Mount Jomolhari on a clear day. The pass is often covered with wildflowers in summer and blanketed with snow in winter, making it a photographer’s paradise year-round. It’s a popular stop for travelers seeking peace and panoramic scenery, as well as a starting point for hikes to the Kila Nunnery, one of Bhutan’s oldest nunneries nestled on a steep mountainside. The crisp mountain air, spiritual atmosphere, and stunning natural beauty make Chele La Pass a truly memorable and awe-inspiring experience for anyone visiting Bhutan.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
22
Paro Airport Bird's Eye View Point
Paro Airport Bird’s Eye View Point, located on a hilltop overlooking Bhutan’s only international airport, offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the country. From this vantage point, visitors can marvel at the dramatic Paro Valley surrounded by lush green hills and snow-capped peaks. The viewpoint provides a fascinating perspective of the Paro International Airport, one of the world’s most challenging airports, where skilled pilots navigate between steep mountains to land and take off. The sight of planes gracefully descending and ascending amid such rugged terrain is truly captivating. This scenic spot is ideal for photography enthusiasts and travelers who wish to capture the essence of Bhutan’s stunning landscapes. The viewpoint is easily accessible by car and often included in Paro sightseeing tours, making it a must-visit location for its breathtaking views and serene atmosphere that perfectly encapsulate Bhutan’s natural beauty.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
23
Paro Penlop Heritage Home Museum
Paro Penlop Heritage Home Museum, located in Paro, Bhutan, is a beautifully preserved traditional Bhutanese house that offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history, culture, and lifestyle of Bhutan’s noble families. Once the residence of the Penlop (Governor) of Paro, this heritage home has been transformed into a living museum showcasing authentic Bhutanese architecture, household artifacts, religious relics, and antique furnishings. The museum’s wooden structure, intricately carved windows, and rammed-earth walls reflect Bhutan’s timeless craftsmanship. Inside, visitors can explore rooms arranged as they would have been centuries ago, from the kitchen and altar room to the family quarters. Traditional tools, costumes, and everyday utensils provide insight into Bhutan’s past. Surrounded by scenic landscapes, the Paro Penlop Heritage Home Museum stands as a cultural treasure that preserves Bhutan’s noble legacy and promotes an understanding of its enduring traditions.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
24
Rinpung Dzong
Rinpung Dzong, meaning “Fortress on a Heap of Jewels,” is one of Bhutan’s most iconic and well-preserved fortresses located in Paro. Built in the 17th century by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it serves as both a religious and administrative center of the Paro district. The dzong showcases classic Bhutanese architecture with massive whitewashed walls, intricate wooden carvings, and richly decorated interiors. Perched on a hill overlooking the Paro River, it offers stunning views of the valley below. The fortress houses sacred temples, government offices, and living quarters for monks. Rinpung Dzong is also the venue for the annual Paro Tshechu festival, one of Bhutan’s most colorful religious events, where locals gather to witness mask dances and rituals that celebrate Bhutanese culture and spirituality.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
Day 8
Paro Sightseeing
1 stop
25
Paro Taktsang
Paro Taktsang, also known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, is Bhutan’s most iconic and sacred landmark, perched dramatically on a cliffside about 900 meters above the Paro Valley floor. Built in 1692, it marks the site where Guru Padmasambhava, the revered Buddhist master, is said to have flown on the back of a tigress to subdue evil spirits and meditate in the 8th century. The monastery complex consists of several temples, shrines, and living quarters connected by stairways and bridges that cling to the rocky cliffs. Surrounded by lush forests and prayer flags fluttering in the wind, the site exudes deep spiritual energy and stunning natural beauty. Pilgrims and visitors embark on a scenic yet challenging hike to reach it, rewarded by breathtaking views and profound tranquility. Paro Taktsang remains a symbol of Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage and unwavering Buddhist faith.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
Day 9
Depart from Paro Airport
1 stop
26
Paro District
Depart from the paro air port.
1 hour • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

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