Khamsum Yuelley Namgyrl Buddhist temple Bhutan tours

Fabulous Bhutan Explorer 8 Days/7 Nights

The 8-day Fabulous Bhutan Explorer trip giving you an opportunity through the mystical Western valleys of the country is an ideal introduction to the Dragon Kingdom. Bhutan is of a Buddhist kingdom on the Himalayas’ eastern edge, it is known for its religious communities, posts (or dzongs) and landscapes that range from subtropical fields to soak mountains and valleys, an end to end escapade to the last extraordinary Himalayan kingdom, covered in secret and enchantment, where a conventional Buddhist culture blends with modern development.

Category: Bhutan Adventure Tours

General Information

Tour Highlights

Explore many of the holiest Buddhist monasteries and temples in the Himalaya.
Head to many cultural sites consisting of medieval fortresses (Dzongs), markets and museums as well.
Hike uphill to the renowned Taktsang Monastery.
Admire the elaborate and old-aged wall carvings and paintings in Dzongs and temples.
Visit beautiful landscapes from lush valleys to lush dense forests.

Tour Details

Duration: 8 Days/7 Nights
Start/ End: Phuentsholing/Phuentsholing
Tour Route: Phuentsholing – Thimphu – Punakha – Paro – Phuentsholing
Tour Type: Tailor-made tour
Tour Customizable: Definitely! Tell us your interest
Vehicle: private air-conditioned vehicle and licensed driver
Guide Service: private English-speaking guide
Tour Departure: No fixed departure. Anytime you wish!

Brief Itinerary

Day 01: Pick-up from Bagdogra – Phuentsholing

Day 02: Phuentsholing – Thimphu

Day 03: Thimphu

Day 04: Thimphu – Punakha

Day 05: Punakha – Paro

Day 06: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Day 07: Paro – Phuentsholing

Day 08: Phuentsholing – Bagdogra – Departure

Full Itinerary

Day 01: Pick-up from Bagdogra – Phuentsholing

Our representative will meet you Bagdogra airport and then drive to Phuentsholing, the frontier town which serves as a convenient exit/entry point is a fascinating mixture of India and Bhutan, a perfect example of mingling of people and their culture. Overnight at a hotel in Phuentsholing.

Day 02: Phuentsholing – Thimphu

Today begin your long exhilarating journey to Thimphu. Just 5 km away from Phuentsholing town is the Kharbandi Gompa, a small monastery constructed by late Royal grandmother. Visit the monastery which contains many beautiful paintings on the life of Buddha and it also offers fine views over the foothills and plains of Bengal.

Continue your drive to Thimphu. The driver is beautiful, and you will see some waterfalls along the way. You will visit the Simtokha Dzong and then go to the hotel for check-in. In the evening, you can stroll through Thimphu town and absorb the lifestyle of the people. Overnight hotel in Thimphu.

Day 03: Thimphu

After breakfast, visit the King’s Memorial Chorten (dedicated to world peace and prosperity) and the giant Buddha Statue at Kuenselphodrang overlooking Thimphu valley. After lunch visit the Folk Heritage Museum, the School of Arts and Craft and the National Textile Museum.

In the afternoon, head to the Takin reserve, Changangkha Lhakhang and Tashichhodzong, the beautiful medieval fortress-monastery which houses most of the Government’s office and Kings’ Throne Room. Overnight at a hotel in Thimphu.

Day 04: Thimphu – Punakha

After breakfast, enjoy the scenic drive to Punakha with a stop at Dochu La, where you will visit the Druk Wangyel Monastery. From the pass, drive downhill through the forests of rhododendron, fir, and hemlock. You will arrive at Punakha after traversing through the rice field and along the bank of Punakha River. Visit Punakha Dzong, one of the most beautiful Dzongs in the country. If time permits you will also go to the suspension bridge and Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten. Overnight at a hotel in Thimphu.

Day 05: Punakha – Paro

Today you will drive back to Paro via Dochula Pass again. Check into the hotel on arrival. On the way, you will stop at Lobesa and hike through rice paddies up to the Chimi Lhakhang Temple. Continue driving to Paro. If you wish you can visit Kyichu Lhakhang, the oldest and most sacred temple in the country. The evening is free time to explore Paro town and spend some time shopping for souvenirs. Overnight at a hotel in Paro.

Day 06: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Today hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery, which is Bhutan’s most famous monastery. Guru Rinpoche is said to have flown on the back of a tigress from Singye Dzong in Lhuntse to meditate in a cave where Taktsang Monastery now stands. It is perched on the edge of a steep cliff, about 900 meters above Paro Valley. This is a fantastic conclusion for your stay in Bhutan! Overnight at a hotel in Paro.

Day 07: Paro – Phuentsholing

In the morning, visit the Weekend Market where you can see the variety of food of the country, including basket upon basket of fiery chilies, fresh cheese, and fruits. In addition, many stalls contain Bhutanese handicrafts and household items. This is perhaps a good opportunity for photography and to mingle with locals who come from nearby villages to sell their farm products. Later drive to Phuentsholing. Overnight in Phuentsholing.

Day 08: Phuentsholing – Bagdogra – Departure

In the morning, you will drive to Bagdogra airport for departure. Our representative will bid farewell.

WHAT’S INCLUDED	– Taxes – Government approved 3-star hotels – Breakfasts & dinners – English speaking guide – Transport by coaster bus – Pick up and drop off at Bagdogra airport and special permits.
WHAT’S EXCLUDED	– Airfare – Insurance – Laundry – Lunches – Drinks and beverages – Entrance fees and sightseeing – Tips – Phone/ internet bills and other bills of personal nature.