Bhutan Cultural Tour

Bhutan Cultural Tour

This great 14 day cultural tour is a wonderful introduction to the highlights and key sites of beautiful Bhutan, Land of the Thunder Dragon, as well as providing a short introduction to some of the highlights of neighbouring Nepal before and after your time exploring Bhutan. Beginning in Kathmandu, enjoy a full day guided tour of the key cultural sites including UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kathmandu's Durbar Square. Swayambhunath Temple and Patan Durbar Square. Enjoy the views on the flight to Paro, one of the most spectacular in the entire Himalayas.  During your stay in Bhutan you'll visit key sites and highlights of this stunning country including Paro and on to the capital city Thimphu. Continue onwards into the heart of Bhutan with visits to Gangtey, Bumthang and Punakha. Enjoy more spectacular Himalayan peak views from Dochula Pass and soak in the views and serenity at Taktsang Monastery, famous Tiger's Nest, just two of the many highlights you'll enjoy on this fantastic tour of Bhutan.

Itinerary

• Day 01

  Arrive Kathmandu (1400m)

  Welcome to Nepal. On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll need to obtain your visa and collect your luggage before heading to the exit where one of our local team will be waiting to greet you. Look out for a sign with your name and our One Himalaya company logo. On the transfer drive to your hotel, the traffic can be busy, but you’ll also have interesting views of day-to-day life in the city en route. This evening you’ll be briefed by our travel planner and then we invite you to a complimentary welcome dinner at an authentic Nepali restaurant with an interesting cultural program. Overnight at your hotel in Kathmandu. Meals Included: Welcome dinner.

• Day 02

  Full day guided tour - Kathmandu and Valley

  This morning begin with an easy walk through Asan Bazaar’s streets, an old Kathmandu Valley market area. Here you’ll see streets filled with vendors including farmers selling fresh vegetables and other stalls selling local spices, clothing and household items, with locals haggling on prices and beautifully dressed women visiting nearby temples. Surrounded by ancient palaces, courtyards and streets, Kathmandu Durbar Square dates back to the 12th century. Known for its unique architectural design and cultural significance, the ancient palace is one of the most important historical sites in Nepal. In 1979, it was declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO. Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Kumari Ghar, Taleju Temple, and Kal Bhairav temples are all significant attractions in the area. After exploring Durbar Square your tour continues. Also known as the “Monkey Temple”, the pilgrimage site of Swayambhunath, is located atop a hill in the Kathmandu Valley. This fascinating UNESCO world heritage site dates to the 5th century. There’s a long set of steps to reach the temple complex and reaching the top you’ll be able to see a blend of Hinduism and Buddhism with a large dome of golden stupas surrounded by small Buddha statues, stupas, temples and small handicraft and tea shops. Enjoy mixing with the local people, the monks, and sellers. There’s also a local monastery where young monks train and a small museum holding Buddhist relics and scripts and you’ll often see locals celebrating special occasions here as well as making their regular prayers and offerings. Dating back to the 16th century, the historical site of Patan Durbar Square is filled with stunning temples and structures with intricate carvings and ornate façades. This is another important UNESCO World Heritage site, and its most prominent attractions include the Krishna Mandir, Bhimsen Temple and the Golden Temple. The ancient palace houses some of the most important museums and cultural centers in Nepal. Here you’ll have a chance to meet and receive a blessing from the Kumari or Living Goddess. This revered figure in Nepalese culture, is believed to be the reincarnation of the Hindu goddess Taleju. After several physical and spiritual tests, a young girl is chosen through an elaborate selection process by a Buddhist community, to represent the Hindu deity. After reaching puberty, another Kumari will be selected with the previous Kumari able to live a more normal life. The Kumari is a prominent figure in Nepalese culture with both Hindus and Buddhists seeking guidance and blessings from her. There are lots of interesting cafes to enjoy lunch in Patan, before heading back into the city. Heading back towards Kathmandu city we’ll visit Pashupathinath before the return to your hotel. One of South Asia’s most sacred Hindu temples, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the most important deities in the Hindu Pantheon. Intricate carvings and decorations make the temple an astounding architectural marvel. The holy river, Bagmati, flows alongside the temple, where the devotees take ritual baths and perform cremation ceremonies, reminding us of the cycle of life and death. There are also many shrines, meditation centers and ashrams surrounding the main temple. The rest of your evening is at leisure. Overnight: Kathmandu. Meals Included: Breakfast.

• Day 03

  Fly to Paro, drive to Thimphu (2400m)

  Fly to Paro, Bhutan and transfer drive to Thimphu (2400m) (55km/approximately 1 ½ hrs drive) The flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular in the entire Himalayas. Flying along the Himalayan range from Kathmandu, the route offers fascinating views and an exciting descent into the Kingdom of Bhutan. After immigration formalities and baggage collection, you’ll be met by our representative, and afterwards drive to Thimphu, the capital, with a stop enroute at Chuzom, the confluence of the Thimphu and Paro rivers. Shortly before reaching Chuzom, we’ll stop to visit Tschogang Lhakhang, “the temple of the excellent horse”. This is a private temple, built in the 15th century, based on a visitation from Balaha, the excellent horse, a manifestation of Chenrezig, the compassionate Buddha. From here it’s a short drive to reach Chuzom and here you’ll see three different style of stupas; Tibetan, Nepalese and Bhutanese to mark the site where the rivers come together. On arrival in Thimphu, you’ll be able to check into your hotel. Thimphu is the capital of Bhutan and the centre of Government, religion and commerce in Bhutan. It’s a unique city with an unusual mix of modern development alongside ancient traditions. With a population of about 90,000 it is perhaps still the world’s only capital city without a traffic light. This evening enjoy a walk around Thimphu Main Street and market area where you can also visit the Local Crafts Bazaar, to browse through examples of Bhutan's fine traditional arts. Here you can buy hand-woven textiles, Thangkha paintings, masks, ceramics, slate and wood carvings, jewellery and other interesting items made locally. Overnight at your hotel in Thimphu. Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

• Day 04

  Full day Thimphu

  Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, uniquely combines the charm of a small, serene Himalayan town with the progressive vibes of a national capital. Sightseeing in Thimphu encompasses exploring a blend of cultural heritage and modern Bhutanese life. The impressive Tashichho Dzong ( a dzong is a fortress monastery) serves as the seat of the government and the King's office and is a prime example of Bhutanese architecture. For art and history enthusiasts, the National Folk Heritage Museum and the Royal Textile Academy offer deep insights into Bhutan's rich traditions, crafts, and the Bhutanese way of life. The Buddha Dordenma, a gigantic Shakyamuni Buddha statue, sits atop the hills of Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, overseeing the valley—a sight not to be missed for its spiritual ambiance and panoramic views. You’ll also visit the Memorial Chorten, a stupa built in memory of the third Bhutanese king, and an important religious landmark frequented by locals for daily prayers. For wildlife and nature lovers, a visit to the Takin Preserve, home to the Takin, the national animal of Bhutan, reveals the country's commitment to conservation. A stroll around the bustling Centenary Farmers' Market and the main streets offers a taste of local life, cuisine, and the opportunity to pick up some Bhutanese handicrafts. In Thimphu, modern cafes and traditional Bhutanese eateries coexist, offering visitors a variety of dining options. Each of these sites provides a unique window into the heart and soul of Bhutan, making Thimphu a city that offers an authentic and enriching cultural experience. Overnight at your hotel in Thimphu. Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

• Day 05

  Drive Thimphu to Gangtey

  Thimphu to Gangtey (approximately 6 – 7 hours with stops en route) The journey from Thimphu to Gangtey takes you deep into the heart of Bhutan's scenic landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Leaving behind the urban sights and sounds of Thimphu, the route to Gangtey traverses winding mountain roads, offering stunning views of the Himalayan range. As you move eastwards, you'll pass through the Dochula Pass, one of Bhutan's most famous mountain passes, renowned for its 108 chortens (stupas) and the mesmerizing, panoramic 360-degree mountain views. On clear days, the views of peaks like Masagang, Tsendagang, and Gangkar Puensum from this vantage point are breathtaking. We’ll stop here so you can enjoy the beautiful views. The route then descends into the subtropical valleys of Punakha, another significant historical and religious site in Bhutan, where a visit to the majestic Punakha Dzong, beautifully located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, is a highlight. Considered as perhaps the most beautiful building in Bhutan, especially in Spring when the Dzong is surrounded by lilac jacaranda trees, this was the original capital and seat of Government in Bhutan until the 1950s. After time to explore Punakha Dzong, continuing the scenic drive from Punakha, the road meanders through changing landscapes, characterized by rhododendron forests and lush greenery, before reaching the serene and beautiful Phobjikha Valley. Phobjikha Valley is home to Gangtey Monastery and is also the winter habitat for the rare Black-necked Cranes. It offers a peaceful retreat and a stark contrast to the bustling streets of Thimphu. This transition from the country's capital to the tranquil and ethereal beauty of Gangtey through various Bhutanese terrains and climates presents a unique opportunity to witness and appreciate the diverse natural and cultural richness of Bhutan. The rest of your evening is at leisure to rest and relax and perhaps explore locally. Overnight at your hotel in Gangtey. Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

• Day 06

  Drive Gangtey to Bumthang

  Gangtey to Bumthang (approximately 6 hrs 30 with stops en route) Traveling from Gangtey to Bumthang, this part of your journey takes you further into the central heartland of Bhutan, an area renowned for its spiritual significance, ancient temples, and breathtaking landscapes. This is another beautiful scenic route, passing through dense forests, over high mountain passes, and alongside traditional Bhutanese villages and farmlands. Leaving the tranquil Phobjikha Valley, the road twists and turns through the rugged Himalayan terrain. You ascend to Pele La Pass, one of Bhutan's highest road passes, marked by a chorten and prayer flags fluttering in the wind. The pass acts as a natural boundary between western and central Bhutan, and on clear days, it offers stunning views of Jumolhari Mountain. Continuing onwards, the journey takes you through Trongsa, where the commanding Trongsa Dzong, a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture, sits atop a steep ridge overlooking a deep valley. This dzong is historically significant, as nearly every Bhutanese king has held the position of Trongsa Penlop (governor) before ascending the throne. The journey from Trongsa to Bumthang is one of the most picturesque, with winding roads leading through forests and over the Yotong La Pass, culminating in the wide, open valleys of Bumthang. Bumthang itself, often considered the cultural heartland of Bhutan, is a region comprising four major valleys: Chokhor, Tang, Ura, and Chumey. Each valley has its own distinctive beauty and is sprinkled with ancient monasteries, sacred sites, and temples. Bumthang is also known for its unique woven textiles and handicrafts. The drive from Gangtey to Bumthang is not just a change in location but a transition through various layers of Bhutanese culture, history, and natural beauty, making it an essential experience for understanding the depth and diversity of Bhutan. The rest of your evening is at leisure to rest and relax and perhaps explore locally. Overnight at your hotel in Bumthang. Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

• Day 07

  Full day Bumthang

  Bumthang is often referred to as the spiritual heartland of Bhutan and your tour today offers the chance to explore and experience more, providing a deeper insight into Bhutan's rich religious and cultural heritage. This beautiful valley, with its lush landscapes and historical importance, is dotted with some of the oldest temples and monasteries in Bhutan. A day here typically starts with a visit to the Jambay Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest temples, dating back to the 7th century, famous for its historical significance and architectural marvels. Following this, a short drive or a comfortable walk takes you to Kurjey Lhakhang, a monastery complex holding body imprints of Guru Rinpoche embedded in a rock, making it a highly revered pilgrimage site. Nearby, crossing a traditional suspension bridge over the Chamkhar River, you'll find Tamshing Lhakhang, founded by the great treasure revealer Pema Lingpa, showcasing ancient Buddhist paintings and relics.

  No visit to Bumthang is complete without exploring the tranquil and sacred surroundings of the Mebar Tsho (The Burning Lake), a small water body with a deep spiritual history linked to Pema Lingpa. Strolling through Bumthang's main town, Jakar, offers an authentic taste of local life with its small shops, traditional architecture, and charming cafes, where you can indulge in local culinary delights. If time permits, a visit to the Bumthang Brewery or a local cheese factory can provide a unique insight into the region's growing reputation for producing Swiss-style cheese and apple brandy. In Bumthang, every turn and every story takes you deeper into the spiritual ethos and the age-old traditions of Bhutan, making it a profoundly enriching experience even if you only have a day to explore. The rest of your evening is at leisure to rest and relax and perhaps explore locally. Overnight at your hotel in Bumthang.

  Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

• Day 08

  Bumthang to Punakha

  Bumthang to Punakha (205km, approximately 7 hours drive with rest breaks)

  Traveling from Bumthang to Punakha takes you on another scenic journey across the diverse landscapes of Bhutan. As you leave the spiritual and cultural richness of Bumthang, known for its sacred monasteries and stunning valleys, the road meanders through the heart of Bhutan, showcasing the country's diverse geographical and cultural tapestry. The drive is long and takes approximately 7 hours, but the ever-changing scenery provides an enjoyable backdrop, making the journey enjoyable and fascinating.

  You'll travel back over the Yotong La Pass and through the winding roads of the Black Mountains, part of Bhutan's central mountain range, offering stunning views and a sense of serenity amidst nature. The journey includes passing by Trongsa again, with its commanding dzong serving as a historic landmark. As you descend from the higher elevations, the landscape shifts dramatically from the alpine zones of Bumthang to the subtropical forests of central Bhutan, showcasing the country's rich biodiversity.

  Upon approaching Punakha, you’ll see beautiful Punakha Dzong, located at the confluence of the Pho and Mo Chhu rivers. This majestic fortress, with its intricate woodwork and historical significance, was the former capital of Bhutan and continues to be a symbolic anchor of the Bhutanese state. The Punakha valley, with its milder climate, is also famous for its fertile lands producing abundant crops and fruits. The rest of your day is at leisure to rest and relax. Overnight at your hotel in Punakha.

  Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

• Day 09

  Punakha to Paro (2200m)

  The journey from Punakha to Paro is around 3 -4 hours drive and marks a transition from the subtropical valleys to the high-altitude, serene environment of Bhutan's most iconic town. This scenic drive, typically around 4 hours long, retraces part of the route back towards the capital, Thimphu, before diverging towards Paro. As you leave Punakha, the road snakes up through pine-clad mountains, offering dramatic views of the deep valleys and distant Himalayan peaks. Crossing the Dochula Pass again is a highlight, with its 108 chortens and sweeping panoramic views of the majestic Himalayas providing an ideal spot for a brief pause.
  

  Moving onward, the drive meanders down into the Thimphu valley and then ascends again through a series of hairpin bends towards Chuzom, the confluence of the Paro and Thimphu rivers. The change in landscape as you near Paro is noticeable, with apple orchards and rice fields giving way to a more rugged, mountainous terrain. Arriving in Paro, the traditional architecture and historic buildings stand out, reflecting a deep-rooted adherence to Bhutanese cultural heritage. Rest of your day at leisure to rest and relax.

  Overnight at your hotel in Paro.

  Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

• Day 10

  Full day Paro

  Today is a full day in Paro, one of Bhutan's most iconic towns, nestled in the lush Paro Valley. This morning begin your day with a visit to the Ta Dzong, housing the National Museum of Bhutan. Take time to explore the exhibits and artefacts that depict the country's history and heritage. Today you’ll also visit Drukgyel Dzong, the ruins of a historic fortress that offers insights into Bhutan's past as well as stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. This afternoon there’s a chance to immerse yourself in Bhutanese rural life with a visit to a local farmhouse. Experience traditional hospitality and learn about daily life and farming practices. You’ll also have a chance to have a go at archery, Bhutan’s national sport and to try traditional Bhutanese dress.

  Rest of your day at leisure. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.

  Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

• Day 11

  Paro - hike to Tiger's Nest

  A visit to the famous landmark Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger's Nest, is an absolute must-visit when you’re in Bhutan. Perched precariously on the side of a cliff 900 meters above the Paro Valley, the hike to the monastery is about a two to three-hour trek each way through beautiful, shady pine forests adorned with Spanish moss and fluttering prayer flags. There are also ponies available for the trek up if you prefer not to walk. The view of the monastery, against the backdrop of the pristine sky and rugged cliffs, is mesmerizing, and the spiritual ambiance inside the monastery very serene.

  After descending from Taktsang, you’ll visit to Rinpung Dzong, meaning 'Fortress on a Heap of Jewels,' which give you a chance to see more of Bhutan's architectural grandeur and religious heritage. This large dzong serves both as a monastic home and as an administrative center and provides picturesque views over the valley and river below.

  If time permits, there’s the option of visiting Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, dating back to the 7th century. It's a peaceful and spiritual place, providing a reflective end to a day of exploration in Paro.  Overnight at your hotel in Paro.

  Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

• Day 12

  Fly Paro to Kathmandu.

  This morning it’s a short drive from your hotel in Paro to the International Airport. The airport itself, nestled among the steep mountains of the valley and alongside the Paro Chhu (river), is quite picturesque and often regarded as one of the most beautiful and challenging airports in the world. Enjoy the bird's-eye views of the Paro Valley, the surrounding majestic mountains, and the patchwork of fields and traditional houses below during take off and the chance to enjoy more Himalayan views en route. Arriving in Kathmandu you’ll be met by our local representatives for the transfer drive to your hotel. The rest of your day is at leisure to relax, explore locally and maybe do some local shopping. Overnight: Kathmandu. Meals Included: Breakfast.

• Day 13

  Kathmandu - half day sightseeing

  This morning enjoy a half-day guided tour to Boudhanath Stupa with the rest of your day at leisure. Located in a vibrant and bustling area, this sacred site is the centre of Tibetan pilgrimage and spiritually in Nepal and is surrounded by small monasteries, cafes and handicraft shops. The large dome of the stupa, believed to be built in the 14th century, represents the universe, while the prayer flags and the adorned wheels symbolise the constant cycle of birth, death and rebirth. Many of the shops in the area are owned by Tibetans, making the area a fascinating place to learn about Tibetan culture. It’s also a great place to relax at one of the rooftop cafes with views over the dome of the stupa. Before your tour ends, visit a local Tibetan style café near Boudhnath, to try some delicious traditional Tibetan style dishes. Many Tibetan refugees brought their culture and traditions including their food with them. Food is a very important part of both Nepalese and Tibetan culture as it embodies the belief and lifestyle of the people. Today you’ll have a chance to explore some of the unique food of the Tibetan Culture, including some favourite delicacies. After lunch we’ll return to your hotel with the rest of your day and evening free to relax and explore locally and do any last minute shopping. Overnight: Kathmandu Meals Included: Breakfast and lunch.

• Day 14

  Depart Kathmandu

  Today is at leisure until time to check out and head to the airport. Our representative will arrange your transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport three hours before your departure flight. Meals Included: Breakfast.