Samdrup Jongkhar to Paro

Itinerary for 10 nights 11 days from Samdrup Jongkhar to Paro

Day 1. Arrival to Samdrup Jongkhar from Guwahati

Morning 3 hours drive from Guwahati (capital of Indian state Assam) to Bhutan’s border in Samdrup Jongkhar and immigration formalities.

Day 2.Samdrup Jongkhar – Trashigang  

All day drive ascending to the Himalayas. After few hours drive we will stop to get blessing from Hindu hermit for safety of our journey. Soon after you will have opportunity to visit first of many charming Bhutanese Buddhist temples, called Zangto Pelri Lhakhang, with detailed mural painting. During afternoon you will stop in Khaling village to visit National Handloom Development Project, which maintains rich tradition of local weaving. Also you will pay a visit to the National Institute for the Visually Impaired. One of the accomplishment of this progressive institution is the development of Bhutanese version of Braille’s script. Along the way, you’ll also Visit Draktsho East, the only Vocational Training Institute for the People with disabilities in the eastern part and Sherubtse College, first Bhutanese university campus established in 1978. Also we visit temple in nearby Kanglung village.

Day 3.Trashigang-Trashi Yangtse excursion.

Morning visit of Trashigang dzong which was built in 17th century and has commanding view of the valley. Inside are few interesting temples and local government offices. After that you’ll take about 2 hours drive time to Trashi Yangtse. On the way, pay a visit to the Gom Kora temple, place where 8th century magician-saint Guru Padmasambhava left his body imprints. Further drive will offer occasional views of snowy mountain in clear weather. Finally you will see impressive building of the old Trashi Yangtse dzong which is home to 300 monks. The dzong used to protect former trade route with Tibet and was established by the saint Pema Lingpa of 15th century. The temples with valuable statues are worth of exploring. Also near the Trashi Yangtse is the famous Chorten Kora, the largest stupa in Bhutan built in Nepali style. This is the site of two colourful local festivals at the beginning of the year. Trashi Yangtse is also home to National Institute for Zorig Chusum, the school where the young people learns the art crafts of their forefathers to keep Bhutan’s traditional arts alive. Evening return to Trashigang.

Day 4. Trashigang -Mongar

It’s just 3.5-hours drive to Mongar but it would be a pity not to make a 2 hours detour to Dramtse Gompa, which is one of the most important monasteries of eastern Bhutan. This is the place from where the famous Naga Chham (Drums of Dramtse), mask dance with drums originated. This dance is ubiquitous feature of many festivals and also it was included to the UNESCO list of of oral and intangible heritage. Monastery itself was founded in 16th century by descendants of the saint Pema Lingpa and it’s name means “the peak where there is no enemy”. There is number of interesting chapels with a lot of important statues of the saints and protector deities. If you’re in mood for short hike, you can also pursue 1.5 hour scenic hike from Dramtse to Baging la via Shergang village (currently might not be possible due to road works). Alternative option would be easy half hour hike going downhill from Drametse to Baging village directly. After reaching Mongar, you will pay a visit to it’s dzong (castle). Although built in 1930, the dzong maintains Bhutanese architectural traditions.

Day 5. Mongar to Bumthang Jakar.

The journey continues westwards winding through more rugged terrain. The drive will take minimum 7 hours, but it won’t be boring at all. Road offers most spectacular views in the country ascending 3200 meters in the distance of 84 kilometres. After about a hour drive, you’ll pass along the ruins of Sengor dzong, which burned to ash in 1899. Chortens on the roadside are built in memory of 300 labourers who died during roadbuilding in 1970’s. You’ll also come along the stunning Namling waterfall.  After crossing the second highest motorable pass in Bhutan, the Thrumshing-la (3,580 m), you gradually descend to clustered village of Ura. It’s good idea to stop at rhododendron garden just after the pass to see the number of species of this beautiful tree. From Ura village we will continue drive to the Shertong-la pass (3580 m). Right after that in sharp turn, the Gangkhar Punesum, the highest mountain in Bhutan might be seen in clear weather. Reaching BumthangJakar in the evening.

Day 6 Bumthang Excursion.

Visit of sleepy castle Jakar dzong and old Jambay lhakhang temple, which pins down the leg of giant demoness. Walk to Kurjey lhakhang temple complex. After exploring the place, enjoy the picnic lunch on beautiful riverside. Finally, continue walk to Tamshing Gompa, built by 15th century blackmisth-saint Pema Lingpa allegedly with the help of angels. Then marvel over the remarkable paintings inside the renovated Kenchosum Lhakhang, the seat of the mind and speech reincarnation of Pema Lingpa. Rest of the day in leisure or other program suggested by guide.

Day 7 :Bumthag and Punakha

Breakfast at Hotel: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Bumthang.

Departure for Gangtey: Embark on an exhilarating excursion to Gangtey, a picturesque valley located at an altitude of 2890 meters. The journey offers breathtaking views of the Bhutanese countryside, with opportunities to spot native flora and fauna along the way.

Gangtey Valley Exploration: Upon arrival in Gangtey, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the valley, known for its pristine landscapes and serene ambiance. Visit Gangtey Monastery, also known as Gangtey Gonpa, a prominent Buddhist monastery dating back to the 17th century.

Gangtey Nature Trail: Embark on a leisurely nature walk along the Gangtey Nature Trail, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Keep an eye out for rare bird species, including the endangered, black-necked cranes that migrate to the area during the winter months.

Lunch in Gangtey: savoring traditional Bhutanese cuisine.  

Drive to Wangdue Phodrang: After exploring Gangtey, continue your journey to Wangdue Phodrang, a historic town nestled on the banks of the Punakha River. Marvel at the scenic beauty of the landscape as you traverse winding mountain roads.

Wangdue Phodrang Dzong: Visit Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, an impressive fortress-monastery perched on a ridge overlooking the confluence of the Punakha and Dang Chu rivers. Explore the architectural marvels and cultural treasures housed within the dzong, offering insights into Bhutan’s rich history and heritage.

Return to Punakha: In the late afternoon, depart from Wangdue Phodrang and return to Punakha, retracing your journey through the picturesque Bhutanese countryside.

Dinner and Overnight Stay in Punakha: Conclude your day with a delicious dinner at your hotel in Punakha.

Day 8 Punakha to Thimphu (Capital)

Breakfast at Hotel. Start the most scenic drive to Thimphu from Punakha. 

Visit the most beautiful Punakha Dzong: Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the Dzong was named Druk Pungthang Dechen Phodrang (Palace of Great Happiness). Punakha is still the winter residence of Je-Khenpo religious head of Bhutan. King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck convened the first National Assembly here in 1952.  This is one of the finest and must see Dzongs of Bhutan. The Dzong stands inbetween meeting point of two rivers, Phochu and Mochu making the most photogenic Dzongs of Bhutan. 

Enjoy the walks on the suspension bridge: Punakha suspension bridge is considered one of the longest of its kind in Bhutan. The bridge connects the dzong with the villages Shengana, Samdingkha and Wangkha on the other bank of the Po Chhu river. In these small villages, locals sell their wares in tiny, traditional shops. Visitors can stop here for a quick and authentic view of true Bhutan.  In order to access the suspension bridge from the dzong, one must walk past the King’s palace and the cremation ground. Overnight in Punakha, altitude 1350m. 

Hike to Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of fertility: This temple is known as the temple of fertility. It is widely believed that childless couples can visit this temple to pray for better fertility to conceive the child. There are stories and incidences that many visitors dream came true however one must truly need to believe and follow the lama’s instruction. The hike though the lovely villages of Mesina gives truly amazing experience. Enjoy the gentle walks from the road head. 

Dochula pass 3150m: The pass is at a popular location as it offers a stunning 180 degree panoramic view of the Great Himalayan mountain ranges. The view is especially scenic and very clear on winter days with snowcapped mountains forming a majestic backdrop to the tranquility of the 108 chortens gracing the mountain pass.

Dinner and Overnight Stay in Thimphu.

Day 9 Thimphu-Paro.

This bustling little city is the main centre of commerce, religion and government in the country. Thimphu is the most modern city with an abundance of restaurants, internet cafes, nightclubs and shopping centers. However it still retains its cultural identity and values amidst the signs of modernization, often referred as world only city without traffic lights.  Drive pass by Memorial Chorten: It is located close to the center of Thimphu city and is one of its most iconic monuments. Visitors will find elderly Bhutanese people circumambulating the Chorten throughout the day. The National Memorial Chorten was built in memory of Late Third King of Bhutan and dedicated to World Peace. Third King is regarded as father of modern Bhutan. Visit Buddha viewpoint: The Buddha Dordenma is located at a top of the hill in Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park and overlooks the southern entrance to Thimphu valley. Changangkha Lhakhang: Changangkha Lhakhang is located at the lower part of Motithang in upper Thimphu, on a small hill overlooking the Thimphu Town below. The main relic of Changangkha Lhakhang is the Chenrigzi in an 11 headed thousand arms manifestation. Visit textile museum: The National Textile Museum which opened in June 2001, is worth a leisurely visit to get to know the living national art of weaving. Changing exhibitions introduce the major weaving techniques, styles of local dress and textiles made by women and men. The small shop features work from the renowned weaving centers in Lhuntshe Dzongkhag, in north-eastern Bhutan. Each item is leveled with the name of the weaver and price. The textile museum’s exhibition are centered around six major themes – warp pattern weaves, weft pattern weaves, role of textiles in religion, achievements in textile arts, textiles from indigenous fibres and the royal collection.

By evening drive towards Paro and halt night and dinner at Paro

Day 10 Paro

Breakfast at the Hotel: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.

Depart for Base of Tiger’s Nest: Your guide will drive you to the base of the trail that leads up to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang).

Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery: The hike covers about 4 km each way and takes approximately 2 hours to ascend. The trekking path is steep in places. The monastery sits at an altitude of 3,120 meters, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Cafeteria Stop: Halfway up the trail, there is a cafeteria where you can rest and have tea or coffee while enjoying the spectacular view of the monastery perched on the cliff.

Explore the Monastery: Upon reaching Tiger’s Nest, explore the various temples and meditation caves. Learn about the monastery’s rich history and religious significance.

Descent and Lunch: After spending time at the monastery, begin your descent, which is generally quicker but can be challenging on the knees.

Lunch: Have lunch either at the cafeteria on the way down or once you’re back at the base, depending on your pace and preference.

Afternoon Sightseeing in Paro:

National Museum of Bhutan: Visit the museum housed in an old watchtower above the Paro Dzong, offering excellent insights into Bhutan’s history, culture, and traditions.

Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong): Explore this fortress and monastery which serves as the administrative center for the valley, known for its beautiful architecture and intricate wall paintings.

Kyichu Lhakhang: One of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan, dating back to the 7th century.

Dinner in Paro: Enjoy a relaxing dinner at your hotel, discussing the day’s adventures and experiences. Overnight in Paro 3 stars hotel.

Day 11 end of the tour and depart from Paro Airport.

Cost Includes

1. Comfortable accommodation during the tour (3 stars accommodation).
2. MAP plan (breakfast & dinner).
3. All private transportation during the tour as per the itinerary.
4. English speaking experienced Licensed Bhutanese local guide.
5. Food, accommodation, salary, equipment’s for Bhutanese driver and guide.
6. Drinking water during the tour.
7. Airport transportation by private vehicle to Paro airport for your final departure.

Cost Excludes

1. International flight airfare (from and to Paro) but we can assist to book the flight ticket if require.
2. SDF.
3. Lunch.
4. Travel Insurance (for trip cancellation, interruption, medical treatment, repatriation, etc.)
5. Personal expenses such as telephone Calls, Internet, laundry, soft drinks, beers, and any Alcoholic beverages.
6. Filming or camera or drone permits fees.
7. Tips for the guide and driver (Tipping is Expected).
8. Any other services, activities or personal expenses, which are not mentioned in the itinerary and other items not listed in the “Cost Includes” section.
9. Monument & entrance fees.