Journey Across Bhutan Tour- 15 Days
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- Journey Across Bhutan Tour- 15 Days
Budget
NPR 100
Per Person
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Duration
15 Days
Trip Overview
Journey Across Bhutan Tour – Discover the Dragon Kingdom from West to East
Bhutan, a peaceful Himalayan kingdom known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, remains one of the world’s most unique travel destinations. The Journey Across Bhutan Tour is a longer, more immersive experience that takes you from the western valleys of Paro and Thimphu through central Bhutan to the untouched eastern regions of Mongar, Trashigang, and beyond. Spanning around 14 to 18 days, this tour is the most complete way to explore the diverse geography, spiritual soul, and cultural depth of Bhutan.
Geography
Bhutan’s geography is both spectacular and diverse. The country stretches from the subtropical lowlands near the Indian border to snow-covered Himalayan peaks to the north. The Journey Across Bhutan covers all three main geographic zones:
- Western Bhutan (Paro, Thimphu, Punakha): Known for iconic sites like the Tiger’s Nest Monastery and Punakha Dzong.
- Central Bhutan (Trongsa, Bumthang): The cultural and spiritual heartland with picturesque valleys and ancient temples.
- Eastern Bhutan (Mongar, Trashigang, Trashi Yangtse): Less visited, but incredibly rich in indigenous culture, traditional crafts, and unspoiled nature.
Traveling across Bhutan offers not just changes in landscape, but also variations in architecture, dialects, and customs—each region preserving its unique identity within a shared national culture.
People and Climate
Bhutanese people are known for their hospitality, humility, and deep-rooted spirituality. The population includes Ngalops in the west, Sharchops in the east, and Lhotshampas in the south. Across the country, life is centered around Buddhism, with monasteries and chortens dotting every hilltop and valley.
The climate varies significantly depending on altitude and region. Western and central Bhutan have a temperate climate, while the east is warmer and more humid. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are the best times to travel, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures, especially for long drives and mountain views.
Transportation
The tour begins with your arrival at Paro International Airport, Bhutan’s only international gateway. From there, your journey proceeds by road in a private vehicle with a dedicated driver and guide.
Bhutan’s road network winds through mountains and forests, offering breathtaking views but requiring patience. Distances that seem short on a map can take hours to cover. However, the drives are part of the adventure, with stops at monasteries, villages, and viewpoints like Pele La and Thrumshing La Pass (3,750m) offering unforgettable moments.
In the east, domestic flights between Trashigang (Yonphula Airport) and Paro may be available for those preferring a shorter return, depending on weather and flight schedules.
Package Highlights:
- The ‘Journey Across Bhutan’ cultural tour is ideal for those who want to discover the true Bhutan. This ultimate tour explores the cultural valleys of the west, the spiritual heart of Bhutan, and the rugged east,
- Explore cultural Vally of Bhutan-"Cultural Heartland"
- Explore Bhutan’s central valleys, rich with ancient historical and sacred Buddhist sites,
- Journey to the rugged, remote and seldom visited Eastern Districts,
- Discover some of the most sacred Buddhist monasteries and temples in the Himalaya,
- Visit ancient palaces and museums featuring historical memorabilia of Bhutan’s Royal Family,
- Experience Bhutan’s unique culture up-close with farmhouse visits and village excursions,
- Drive over high mountain passes affording sensational views of the Himalayan peaks,
- Visit many cultural attractions including medieval fortresses (Dzongs), markets and museums,
- Hike up to the famous Taktsang Monastery, perched on a cliff 900m above the valley floor,
- Marvel at the exquisite ancient murals and carvings in the dzongs and temples,
- Traverse beautiful landscapes from lush valleys to dense forests.
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Trip Information
Start : Kathmandu
Finish : Kathmandu
Difficulty :
Moderate
Max Altitude : 
Group Size : 
Season :
Trip Gallery
Trip Itinerary
The flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular
mountain flights in the world, with a constantly changing panorama of some of
the highest mountains on earth. Our BJPTT representative will meet you at Paro
airport exit doors following customs formalities. After lunch enjoy afternoon
sightseeing around Paro, including a visit to the Ta Dzong Museum housing many
religious relics, works of art and handicrafts offering a great orientation
into Bhutan’s historical, cultural, and religious past. Next, visit the Rimpong
Dzong to see the painting of the great saint Milarepa. Dzong’s are large monasteries
and district administrative Centre’s, which were once strategic forts. Before
dinner at the hotel there will be an orientation on Bhutanese etiquette by your
guide. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.
After breakfast hike to Taktsang Monastery. The walk of
approximately 1.5 to 2 hours uphill takes you almost a kilometer above the Paro
valley floor (for those who cannot hike we will arrange a horse for transfer up
to cafeteria). The view of Taktsang Monastery built on a sheer cliff face 900
meters above the valley floor is a spectacular sight. The Monastery is an
important pilgrim site for Buddhists. The great Guru Rimpoche is said to have
flown here on the back of a tigress when he brought the teachings of the
Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan in the 8th Century. Afterwards drive to the ruins of
the 17th Century Drukgyel Dzong, and 7th Century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the
108 temples constructed by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo. Overnight at your
hotel in Paro.
Enjoy a day trip to the Haa Valley, one of the most
picturesque districts in Bhutan. Reached via the beautiful Chelila Pass
(3900m), Haa Valley is characterized by its surrounding rugged and mountainous
terrain and unique architecture. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.
Drive to the capital, Thimphu (1.5 hours). Once a rustic
village sitting in a broad river valley, Thimphu is today the nation’s capital.
Enjoy a full day of sightseeing, including a visit to the National Memorial
Chorten, completed by the Royal Queen Mother as a memorial stupa for the Third
King. Continue on to 12th century Changangkha Temple and the Zilukha Nunnery.
If your visit coincides with the weekend, you can walk through the Thimphu
Market. Overnight at your hotel in Thimphu.
Continue sightseeing in Thimphu. Visit the School for
Arts and Crafts, The National Library housing the collection of Bhutanese scriptures
dating back to the 8th century, the Traditional Paper Factory and a fascinating
replica of a medieval farmhouse at the Folk Heritage Museum. If there is time,
you may visit the nursing pen for the Takin, the national animal of Bhutan, and
Tashichho Dzong, ‘the fortress of the glorious religion’ housing some
ministries, His Majesty’s secretariat, and the central monk body. Other options
for the day include a hike to Tango and Cheri Monasteries (45 min.), two of the
most ancient monasteries in the Thimphu region. Overnight at your hotel in
Thimphu.
Drive over the Dochu-La pass (3,100 meters), which on a
clear day offers an incredible view of Himalayan peaks before descending into
the Punakha valley (3 hrs.). In the Dochu-La area there are vast Rhododendron
forests that grow to tree size and bloom in late April/early may covering the
mountains in a riot of glorious spring color.Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan. On arrival,
visit Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 by the Shabdrung, the ‘Unifier of Bhutan’.
The three story main temple of the Punakha Dzong is a breathtaking example of
traditional architecture with four intricately embossed entrance pillars
crafted from cypress and decorated in gold and silver. After lunch, enjoy a
walk to Chimi Lhakhang, temple of Drukpa Kuenly. He inherited the Divine Madman
title since he revolted against the orthodox Buddhism in his time. Overnight at
your hotel in Punakha/ Wangdue.
Transfer to Phobjikha Valley (3 hrs.) via the bustling
market town of Wangduephodrang. Drive up a winding mountain road through oak
and rhododendron forests, and over a high pass down into the picturesque
Phobjikha Valley. Phobjikha is one of Bhutan’s few glacial valleys, and chosen
winter home of black necked cranes (November – March) migrating from the
Tibetan plateau. After lunch visit the Phobjikha Sanctuary to view the majestic
black necked cranes (Nov-Mar only) and Gangtey Gompa (Monastery), dating back
to the 16th century. Overnight at your hotel in Phobjikha.
Depart over the Pele La pass (3,420m) on the Black Mountain
range towards Trongsa. In route visit the beautiful 18th century Chendebji Chorten.
Trongsa is the ancestral home of Bhutan’s ruling dynasty. Visit Trongsa Dzong,
the largest Dzong in Bhutan and the Ta Dzong museum housing a collection of
historical artefacts of the Royal Family. Overnight at your hotel in Trongsa.
After breakfast proceed towards Bumthang (2.5 hrs.), the
spiritual heart of the kingdom. Bumthang is home to some of Bhutan’s oldest
Palaces, Buddhist temples and monasteries. On arrival, visit Jakar Dzong (Dzong
of the White Bird) and 16th century Tamshing Lhakhang containing ancient
Buddhist wall paintings. After lunch visit Kurje Lhakhang, one of the most
sacred places in the kingdom and 7th Century Jambay Lhakhang. Overnight at your
lodge in Jakar, Bumthang.
Enjoy a day exploring some of the many sites around
Bumthang, including the 16th century Tang Ugyen Chholing Palace museum
containing an overview of traditional rural life in Bhutan and the pool of
Mebartso (The Lake of Fire) where Pemalingpa (founder of the Nyingmapa sect) is
said to have found treasure hidden by Guru Rinpoche. Overnight at your lodge in
Jakar, Bumthang.
The journey to Mongar takes about 6 hours with
spectacular views in route. Drive through Ura village before climbing sharply
to the highest point on Bhutan’s road network, Thrumsing-La Pass (4,000m). From
here, the road gradually passes through picturesque alpine valleys, pine
forests, maize fields and hamlets to reach Mongar town. Visit Mongar Dzong,
built in the 1930’s using the traditional process without either plans or the
use of nails. Overnight at your lodge in Mongar.
Drive to Trashigang (3 hrs.) through leafy forests filled
with ferns and over Kori-La Pass (2,450m) before descending through cornfields
and banana groves to reach the famous road zigzag just below Yadi. Trashigang
is the main township of the largest district in the country. After lunch visit
Trashigang Dzong. Overnight at your lodge in Trashigang.
Visit the temple of GomKora and Doksum Village where you
can see women busily weaving traditional Bhutanese fabric before reaching
Tashiyangtse, the administrative Centre for this district. The area is famous
for its unique wooden crafts. Visit the Tashiyangtse Dzong, and the dazzling
white stupa of Chorten Kora and the nearby institute for ZorigChusum, where
student is trained in Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts. Overnight at
your lodge in Trashigang.
After breakfast drive to Samdrup Jongkhar, the gateway to
eastern Bhutan and to Assam, India. It is about 9 hours’ drive from Trashigang
with many beautiful villages and landscapes on the way. Overnight at your hotel
in Samdrup Jongkhar.
After breakfast, your guide will arrange an Indian
vehicle your transfer to Guwahati, the capital town of the Indian north-eastern
state of Assam, for your onward flight.
Cost Includes
1. Visa & Fees
- Visa & SDF: Bhutan visa processing and the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for tourism in Bhutan.
2. Accommodation & Meals
- Hotel Accommodation: Comfortable hotel stays throughout the tour with all meals included.
- Meals: All meals included during the tour (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner – BLD).
3. Staff
- Guide: Knowledgeable English-speaking guide to assist, provide information, and ensure a smooth travel experience.
4. Transportation
- Transport: Comfortable private vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing during the tour.
1. Visa & Fees
- Visa & SDF: Bhutan visa processing and the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for tourism in Bhutan.
2. Accommodation & Meals
- Hotel Accommodation: Comfortable hotel stays throughout the tour with all meals included.
- Meals: All meals included during the tour (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner – BLD).
3. Staff
- Guide: Knowledgeable English-speaking guide to assist, provide information, and ensure a smooth travel experience.
4. Transportation
- Transport: Comfortable private vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing during the tour.
Cost Excludes
1. Flights
- International Airfare: Flights to and from Bhutan.
2. Travel Insurance
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering unforeseen circumstances, medical emergencies, and trip cancellation.
3. Personal Expenses
- Personal Nature Expenses: Costs for shopping, additional personal items, and individual expenditures.
4. Tips & Gratuities
- Tips & Gratuities: Optional but customary for guides, drivers, and support staff.
1. Flights
- International Airfare: Flights to and from Bhutan.
2. Travel Insurance
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering unforeseen circumstances, medical emergencies, and trip cancellation.
3. Personal Expenses
- Personal Nature Expenses: Costs for shopping, additional personal items, and individual expenditures.
4. Tips & Gratuities
- Tips & Gratuities: Optional but customary for guides, drivers, and support staff.
Essential Info
Permits and Travel Requirements
Bhutan has a strict tourism policy to preserve its culture and environment. All foreign visitors (except those from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) must pre-book a tour with a licensed Bhutanese operator.
A visa is required and is processed only after booking a prepaid tour that includes accommodation, transportation, a guide, and payment of the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which supports healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
For Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals, a permit is needed to travel beyond Thimphu and Paro. Tour operators assist with this, including necessary regional travel clearances for the eastern districts.
Extra Info
Why Choose the Journey Across Bhutan Tour?
While many tours cover western Bhutan, the Journey Across Bhutan Tour offers the full picture. This immersive route allows travelers to witness Bhutan’s regional diversity, from famous landmarks to off-the-beaten-path villages.
You’ll explore bustling markets in Thimphu, meditate in quiet Bumthang temples, interact with artisans in Trashi Yangtse, and hike through remote eastern forests. Each region offers its own rhythm, food, crafts, and customs—making the experience rich and rewarding. For travelers seeking a deep, meaningful exploration of Bhutan—beyond the highlights—the Journey Across Bhutan Tour is the ultimate adventure.
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