Unexplored Bhutan

 – 29 Nights of Discovering Bhutan.
– A Journey beyond the discoverable.
– An adventure of a lifetime

Embark on a captivating journey through the hidden gems of Bhutan, exploring the lesser-known regions that showcase the country’s rich cultural tapestry and stunning natural beauty. This itinerary offers an immersive experience, taking you through Western Bhutan and Central Bhutan including the Kheng Region, Sarpang, Tsirang, and Dagana Districts.

Begin your adventure in the iconic Western Bhutan, where you will explore the enchanting valleys of Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha. Visit the majestic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the serene Punakha Dzong, and the bustling capital of Thimphu. Enjoy the perfect blend of traditional culture and modern vibrancy in these popular destinations.

Venture into the remote Kheng region, a land steeped in ancient traditions and unspoiled natural landscapes. Here, you’ll traverse dense forests, discover hidden temples, and engage with the warm-hearted Khengpa people, who have preserved their unique way of life for centuries. This area offers a true escape into Bhutan’s untouched wilderness.

Journey south to Sarpang, where the landscape transforms into lush subtropical forests and fertile plains. Explore the rich biodiversity of the region, visit quaint villages, and experience the harmonious coexistence of various ethnic communities. Sarpang provides a peaceful retreat with its verdant surroundings and tranquil ambiance.

Continue to Tsirang, a region known for its rolling hills, orchards, and vibrant farming communities. Engage in agricultural activities, taste local produce, and immerse yourself in the serene rural lifestyle. Tsirang offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s agricultural heartland, where tradition and nature blend seamlessly.

Continue your journey in the picturesque district of Dagana, a place of hidden valleys and majestic mountains. Explore ancient monasteries, interact with local artisans, and witness the traditional festivals that celebrate Bhutanese culture in its purest form. Dagana’s serene beauty and cultural richness make it the perfect finale to your Bhutanese adventure.

This itinerary offers a rare opportunity to experience Bhutan beyond its popular tourist destinations, delving into regions that are rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From the high valleys of the west to the remote southern districts, “Unexplored Bhutan” promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon.

Details about the package

What's included

  • All meals (Breakfast, lunch and dinner)
    Lunches may be provided in other tourist Restaurants or picnic lunches in certain cases
  • Accommodations;
    3 Star Hotels, Villages Houses, Camps. Accommodations facilities shall be basic in remote places.
  • Certified, English speaking guide throughout the tour
    Language Guides may be available at an additional cost, however this shall entirely depend upon the requirements confirmed at the time of booking
  • Exclusive vehicle for all transfers as per the group size
  • Entrance fees for museums and monuments
  • Sustainable development fund 
    Indian Nationals – INR 1200 per person per night
    Others – USD 100 per person per night 
  • USD 40 Visa Fee (for travelers other than Indian Nationals)
  • Other govt taxes applicable
  • Cost related to planning and confirming your trip to Bhutan excluding within our premises. Additional Cost may be applicable in certain cases. 

Complimentary

  • Assistance with Bhutan Travel Info
  • Guidance in planning your Bhutan tour
  • Drinking water during the tour
  • A traditional cultural show
  • Hot stone bath in a village house
  • National dress and Archery experience
  • Explore the Royal Manas National Park, rich in untouched flora and fauna
  • Soak in Natural hot springs in the remote places
  • Get the best of nature and culture
  • Visit both the most visited and least visited places
  • Archery and traditional Hot stone bath
  • National Dress experiences
  • Bhutanese food and farmhouses
  • Villages and local interactions
  • Authentic Bhutanese experiences
  • Hikes and walks amongst the undisturbed nature
  • Trek to the iconic Taktsang Monastery,
  • Visit the stunning Punakha Dzong, a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture,
  • Experience the vibrant capital city, where modernity meets tradition,
  • Explore the biodiversity and culture in Sarpang
  • Immerse yourself in the rural charm of Tsirang, participating in farming activities,
  • Delve into the rich cultural heritage of Dagana,
  • Traverse through Bhutan’s hidden valleys and lesser-known landscapes,
  • Throughout the journey, engage with Bhutan’s warm and welcoming people,
  • Witness the creation of traditional Bhutanese arts and crafts.
  • Trip Rating: Moderate/ Adventurous
  • Travel Type: Nature, Culture, Walks, Hikes, Local Interactions & Experiences, Sights & Monuments
  • Arrival: Paro international Airport
  • Departure: Paro International Airport
  • Duration: 29 Nights, 30 Days
  • Destinations: Haa, Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Wangdue, Gangtey, Bumthang, Zhemgang, Sarpang, Tsirang and Dagana 
  • Possible Departures: Throughout the year (Some of the places are not recommendable in Summer). Best time would be spring, autumn and winter.

Travel Cost

Kindly write to us at idealtravelcreations@gmail.com for the travel cost as the cost varies for different months and for different Nationalities.

 

The cost does not include the following:

  • All kinds of bank charges
  • Single room supplement
  • Personal expenses, such as phone, laundry, etc.
  • Any form of insurance
  • Any kinds of bottled drinks
  • Flights fares – both domestic and international
  • Gratitude and Tipping
  • Extra activities such as rafting, cycling, horse ride
    (if not included in the inclusion or complimentary)
  • All kinds of additional expenses due to unforeseen contingencies whether man-made of natural
  • Anything not mentioned in the cost inclusion during the confirmation of the trip

Notes

  • We reserve the right to change the itinerary or hotels anytime as may be required to, in case of unforeseen contingencies (natural/man made) or unavailability of hotels or any other services such as flights and transport.
  • Some of the sites to be visited may be closed on government holidays or during breaks. In such cases we shall do other sightseeing in its place.
  • This itinerary can be tailor made for any duration or within any destination and can be combined with any kind of activities such as trekking, rafting, walking tour, cycling , etc
  • It is advisable to book tours in Bhutan at least 6 months prior to the travel date because of limited Bhutan tourism infrastructures and inventories.
  • Except for the planning, guidance and information phase, all bookings are confirmed only after the receipt of the tour payment.

Cancellation Policies

  1. We shall charge a minimal amount of USD 30 as administrative charges for any bookings cancelled more than a month before the date of travel.
  2. 25% of the payment shall be charged as cancellation charges for any bookings cancelled within one month to 16 days from date of travel.
  3. 50% of the payment shall be charged as cancellation charges for any bookings cancelled within 15 days to 7 days from date of travel.
  4. 100% cancellation charges shall be applicable for any  any bookings cancelled within 6 days from date of travel or no show
  5. Cancellation charges shall also depend upon the policies of the parties from whom we have taken the services such as hotels and airlines. The cancellation charges levied by the external parties shall be applicable incase it exceeds the amount as mentioned above in points 1 – 4.

Itinerary

Driving Distance: 65 km | Driving time: 2.5 hr |Altitude of Haa: 2300 m

On your journey to Paro, shall give the panoramic views of the Himalayas are sensational, including the Everest and other famous Himalayan Peaks. The approach through the Bhutanese foothills and the landing, including a few steep turns to land at the tiny airstrip of Paro becomes more exciting as you enter Bhutan.

On arrival, you will be received by your Bhutanese guide with “Tashi khadar”, then drive to Haa Valley, a culturally rich valley, opened to foreign tourist only in the year 2002. The winding roads climbs up the slopes giving you beautiful views till you reach the Chelela Pass (3810 m). It is the highest point between the Haa and Paro valley offering you good view of the Himalayan Mountains, including the mountain Jumolhari and Haa Valley. A lots of prayer flags flutter in the place and has breathtaking photo opportunities. After paying your respects here (You could choose to hang your own prayer flags here or burn incense), drive downhill towards Haa valley.

Lunch at Haa. After lunch, visit the 7th century Lhakhang Karpo (White temple) and Lhakhang Nagpo (Black temple) at the foothills of a venerated three brotherly mountains known as Meri Puensum. The grand annual Haa Tshechu is also performed here at Lhakhang Karpo on the 8th-10th day of the 8th Bhutanese month. Then view the Haa Wangchuklo Dzong (From Outside) built in 1915 after the Dumchog Dzong was razed to the ground by fire. Walk around the small town of Haa for a while.

Dinner and overnight in hotel.

Driving Distance: 110 km | Driving time: 3.5 hr | Altitude of Thimphu: 2300 m

After a leisure morning breakfast. Drive to Thimphu via the old highway. Stopping at places, visit villages, interact with people and photograph rural areas and nature as you drive to Thimphu. The drive from Haa to Thimphu takes you through two dzongs en route, at Betikha (34 km. from Haa) and at Dobji (65 km. from Haa. It also crosses many villages and fields until you reach Chuzomsa, where the Paro River (Pa Chhu) meets the Thimphu River (Wangchhu). You shall see the three stupas built in Nepalese, Tibetan and Bhutanese styles. They were placed here for good luck and safe passage. Drive to Thimphu crossing the villages of Wangsisina, Khasadrapchu and Namseling. Spend some time in the settling in the hotel.

Afternoon, you shall be taken for your foray of this Hidden Kingdom’s Capital City. Stroll around Clock Tower Square, Craft Bazaar and the Kaja Throm”, the new local market built as per the command of the His Majesty.

In the evening visit impressive Tashichho Dzong (Fortress of the Glorious Religion) which houses the Throne Room and the Offices of His Majesty the King as well as the Je Khenpo, seniormost religious authority of Bhutan.

Welcome dinner with your Bhutanese Hosts. Overnight in hotel.

Altitude of Thimphu: 2300 m

The day starts with a visit the National Memorial Chhorten. This Chhorten was built in the honor of the Third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, also known as “The Father of Modern Bhutan”. Built in 1974 in a typical Tibetan style, the Chorten is also a center of worship for the people living in Thimphu. Circumambulating the chorten can be a great experience and a good way to earn merits as per Buddhist beliefs and a good way to start your day with prayers. Then drive to Kuenselphodrang, a place for refreshing with one of the largest statues of Buddha Dordenma. The place gives a breathtaking view of the Thimphu Valley and has a picnic spot, biking and hiking trail. Finally visit the “Simply Bhutan”. It is also a living museum, and a photo studio aimed at preservation and promotion of culture involving Bhutanese youth as the core group. 

After lunch visit the Government Post office and make personalized stamps. Post a card to your hometown. This could be a good memory of Bhutan. Then visit the Takin Preserve Centre. Takin is the National Animal of Bhutan. Then visit Nado Poizokhang, the oldest and the largest hand-made incense sticks manufacturer in Bhutan. Visit the Zorig Chusum (The National Institute for 13 Traditional Arts and Crafts of Bhutan) and the Royal Textile Academy.

The day ends witnessing an Archery Match at the Changlimithang stadium.

A traditional Cultural Show before dinner. Dinner and overnight in hotel.

Driving Distance: 76 km | Driving Time: 2 hr | Altitude of Punakha/ Wangdue: 1250 m

Start your day with a drive to Dochula Pass. You shall first see the Simtokha Dzong and then the winding roads leads you through blue pine forests and the villages of Hongtsho (2890m) and Yusipang. The local villagers sell apples, walnuts, dried cheese in this area. The road climbs through the forest till you reach the Dochula Pass (3150 m), the highest point between Thimphu and Punakha valley. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas, explore the 108 Druk Wangyel Chhortens and then visit the Druk Wangyel Lhakhang.

Descend to the subtropical lush and beautiful valley of Punakha. The terraced rice fields, the meandering river and the beautiful villages shall welcome you as you reach Punakha.

Visit Chimi Lhakhang. Also known as the temple of fertility, the temple was built by Lam Drukpa Kuenley. the revered ‘Divine Madman’ and Buddhist ‘crazy wisdom.’ A lot of graphic phallus paintings and crafts might surprise you in the nearby areas. Visit the Punakha dzong at the junction of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu River. Addition to its appealing looks this Majestic Dzong stands six stories high. Walk over the one of the country’s longest suspension bridges and enjoy the breathing views, soothing breeze and a beautiful experience.

Dinner and overnight in hotel.

Start your day with a Hike to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chhorten. An hour of walk after crossing the suspension bridge and through the rice fields takes you to magnificent views and the Chhorten, beautifully crafted in traditional Bhutanese style. With the intricate design and sculptures, the temple was built by Bhutanese craftsmen which took 9 years. The craftsmanship of Bhutanese artists is amazing. The 360-degree views of the Punakha valley’s rice fields and the shimmering river shall ensure that the sweating was worth.

An hour of rafting on the Mo Chhu shall bring you near the Punakha Dzong. A Picnic lunch at the Banks of the Mo chhu.

Finally Spend some time with the Nuns at the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery. Explore the Khuruthang town for a while.

Dinner and overnight in hotel.

Driving Distance: 80 km | Driving Time: 2.5 hr | Altitude of Phobjikha/ Gangtey: 3000 m

After breakfast discover the Drinchengang Village. Previously known as Rinchengang Village, it is a captivating village known for its remarkable cluster of interconnected houses. It is situated on the opposite hill, overlooking Wangdue Phodrang Dzong. The residents are said to be descendants of the artisans and craftsmen who came from India and Nepal to build the Dzong. It is considered one of the oldest clustered villages in Bhutan.

Visit the Wangduephodrang Dzong overlooking the convergence of the Dangchhu and Punatsangchhu Rivers. The dzong was initially built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in 1638.

Drive along the slopes of bare hills following the river (Drang Chhu) until you reach Chuzomsa, (the confluence of the Dang Chhu and the Pe Chhu). After crossing the bridge, the road goes uphill through pine forests often encountering small villages, where women spinning yarns on their porches, older men idling their time and children frolicking around could be the most common sights. 

Explore the Lawala Pass. A few Photographs are must here.

Drive down along the pine forest till your Hotel in Gangtey/ Phobjikha

In the afternoon, relax at the property enjoying the breathtaking views the property has to offer in one of the most beautiful Glacial valleys in the Himalayas.

Dinner and overnight in hotel. 

Start your day with a breakfast with views. Visit the Gangtey Goemba overlooking the large green expanse of the Phobjikha Valley. Gyaltse Pema Thinley, the grandson and mind reincarnation of Pema Lingpa founded the Temple in 1613, and Tenzin Legpai Dhendup, the second re-incarnation, built the temple.

Hike the Gangtey Nature Trail. The trail starts at the 17th century Gangtey Monastery. The two-hour gentle trek lets you get immersed in the beautiful Phobjikha valley.

Visit the Khewang Lhakhang and interact with the young monks.  Explore the nearby villages for a while.

Picnic Lunch in the Phobjikha Valley. After lunch drive towards the villages of Kilkhorthang and Remeachin. Visit the Nelung Dreachagling Nunnery and the villages around. Witness farmers working in the field and enjoy taking photographs in this beautiful Glacial valley.

On the way back visit the Black Necked Crane Information Centre, a place for recreation with crane watching equipment (binoculars, spotting scopes) and reference books.

Dinner and overnight in hotel. 

Driving Distance: 165 km | Driving Time: 5 hr | Altitude of Zhemgang: 1320 m

Today your journey goes deeper into the Kingdom of Bhutan amidst breathtaking views, beautiful landscapes and interesting experiences. Visit the Chendebji Chorten, built in the style of the great Boudhanath Chorten of Nepal. Further near Trongsa, stop at a place across on the other side of the Trongsa Dzong, where you get a perfect view of the Dzong. Photograph the Dzong.

While in Trongsa, visit Trongsa Dzong, the most impressive Dzong in Bhutan. The Dzong was built by Chogyal Minjur Tempa, the official who was sent by Zhabdrung to unify Eastern Bhutan and enlarged at the end of the 17th century by Desi Tenzin Rabgay. Trongsa Dzong is the ancestral home of the present Royal Family. The first two hereditary kings ruled Bhutan from this Dzong.

Continue your journey with a stoppage at Yotongla, the highest peak between Bumthang and Trongsa and then the Chhumey village, known for Yathra Textile. It is the most famous textile product of Bumthang. The Chhumey Valley is known for the beautiful Yathra woven by the locals. Yathra is a hand-woven fabric made from the wool of sheep or Yak. The wool is first spun into threads and then dyed before they are woven into Yathra with beautiful flower patterns and colors. The Yathra cloth is made into scarves, jackets, tablecloths, bags, etc. Most of the women in this valley, especially in Zungye village earn their lively hood by weaving Yathra which is supplied to various towns in Bhutan.

Settle into the serene atmosphere at your hotel in Bumthang.

Your day starts with a visit to the Jakar Dzong, literally meaning the Castle of White Bird. The current structure was built in 1667. Visit the Wangdichholing Palace which was the home to the First and Second Kings of Bhutan. Continue your day’s sightseeing with visits to Jambay Lhakhang and Kurjey Lhakhang.

Picnic Lunch in a quaint setting in the Chhoekhor valley.

After lunch, visit the Tamshing Lhakhang and the Könchogsum Lhakhang. As you reach Bathpalathang, visit the cheese and apple juice/wine making factory. Taste the Locally made red panda beer here.

Explore the Chamkhar Town before settling down in your hotel.

After breakfast, drive towards Tang Valley. On the way visit the Membar Tsho, also known as “The burning Lake”. It is one of the most sacred sites in the region and relates to the famous treasure revealer, Terton Pema Lingpa. 

Further in Tang visit the Ugyenchholing Palace. The Palace now houses the family Museum and was restored in the 19th century. The Palace contains the historic items of Tshokey Dorji (the then Trongsa Penlop (Governor)) and his household.  Visit the Tang Rimochen Lhakhang, located in a sacred place of Guru Rinpoche. In front of the temple is a rock which bears the body print of the Guru Rinpoche and two Khandoms (female celestial being). This site got its name from the tiger stripe markings on the cliff.

Dinner and overnight in hotel.

Driving Distance: 160 km | Driving Time: 4.5 hr | Altitude of Zhemgang: 1320 m

Retrace your steps back till Trongsa with a stoppage at Yotongla. Settle into the serene atmosphere at your hotel in Bumthang.

Drive to Zhemgang, locally known as Kheng. This district is considered as one of the most inaccessible districts in the country at the same time the region is blessed with incredibly rich biodiversity. Its lush forests are home to 22 endangered animal species including the Golden Langur. The drive through the winding road amongst lush green vegetation shall be peaceful yet adventurous to many. On the way visit the Kuenga Rabten Palace, the winter palace of the Second King.

Drive further till you reach Zhemgang with many beautiful stops. The main town of Zhemgang consists of few houses and you can enjoy a stroll through the small market and visit the traditional style house and shops.

Overnight at your Eco Lodge or Camp at Dangkhar village in Zhemgang.

You will spend the day visiting the three main villages of Dangkhar, Trong and Dakpai located in and around the main town. The Trong village consisting of traditional centuries old houses are being preserved as a heritage village and the small village still has intact old structures and pathways.

You can visit some of the houses, interact with the villagers and visit their farmlands and vegetable gardens.

Dinner and overnight at your Eco Lodge or Camp at Dangkhar village in Zhemgang.

Driving Distance: 60 km | Driving Time: 2 hr | Altitude of Duenmang: 218 m

Drive on the Trongsa – Gyelephu Highway till you reach Tingtibi. Explore the settlement along the highway including a visit the Tangma handmade factory and the Tingtibi Zangtopelri.

Drive further till you reach the Gomphu village. From there walk downhill for about 2 hours till you cross the Mangdue Chhu / River and reach Duenmang Hot Springs. There are many ponds of varying degrees of water temperature, and you can spend the rest of the evening at the hot spring.

Dinner and overnight in camp or guesthouse.

Altitude of Duenmang Hot springs: 218 m

Relax, enjoy and explore the various hot spring pools with different medicinal and healing properties.

Dinner and overnight in camp or guesthouse.

Driving Distance: 35 km | Driving Time: 40 min | Altitude of Pantang: 239 m

Hike back to the road point at Gomphu and then drive through Rendaybee village till you reach Pangtang. You will enjoy this safari like drive through the serene and beautiful nature.  Overnight at your eco lodge in Pantang.  The camp is located on the right bank of Mangdue chhu overlooking Pangtang settlements and the river itself. 

Dinner and overnight in Eco Lodge or Camp.

Enjoy the full day excursion of the rural villages of Pangtang, Bhudashi and Goshing. Walk to the three villages and visit their community schools and Basic Health Units. Visit some traditional houses and their farmlands, interact with the villagers and with your guide as your translator you can listen to their stories and legends of the places.

Dinner and overnight in Eco Lodge or Camp.

Driving Distance: 45 km | Driving Time: 1 hr | Altitude of Panbang: 239 m

Panbang is lies at an elevation of 155 meters above sea level and has a temperate highland tropical climate with dry winters. It is only 13 kms from the Indian border. 

Drive through rural villages of Shilintoe and Repati. Explore the villages. You shall also come across the popular twin water fall on the way.

Dinner and overnight in guest house or camp.

The Royal Manas National Park is one of oldest and most biologically diverse protected areas in Bhutan. Established in 1966, it spans over 1,057 square kilometers and is renowned for its rich biodiversity, blending subtropical and tropical ecosystems. The park serves as a crucial habitat for various endangered species, including the Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, one-horned rhinoceros, and the golden langur, a primate species endemic to Bhutan and neighboring regions.

The park’s diverse landscape, ranging from lowland tropical forests to alpine meadows, supports a wide variety of flora and fauna, making it a vital area for conservation. Additionally, Royal Manas is connected to other significant conservation areas in Bhutan and India, creating a vast transboundary network that facilitates wildlife movement and ecological balance.

Besides its ecological significance, Royal Manas National Park also holds cultural importance for the local communities, who live in harmony with the park’s natural resources, practicing sustainable agriculture and traditional livelihoods. The park is a symbol of Bhutan’s commitment to environmental preservation, aligning with the nation’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness, which emphasizes the balance between development and environmental conservation.

Dinner and overnight in guest house or camp.

Driving Distance: 60 km | Driving Time: 2.25 hr | Altitude of Bjoka: 150 to 1600 m

After an early breakfast you can either hike for about 6 hours to reach Bjoka village, enjoying the landscape and walk OR you can drive through the farm road to Bjoka and spend the day exploring Bjoka village. Bjoka is one of the most remote and lease developed of all the places in Zhemgang. The unique feature of Bjoka is the production of handmade cane and bamboo products which is the main source of livelihood of the people. Items like the bangchung (round tiffin-like plates) and small storage containers are made and sold off to the other parts of Bhutan.

In the past when there were no roads (till 2014) people had to walk for 4 – 5 days to reach Bjoka from the main town of Zhemgang.

Dinner and overnight in a village house in Bjoka.

Driving Distance: 70 km | Driving Time: 2.5 hr

From here on you will drive back to Gomphu. The whole of afternoon is kept for relaxation or rest.

Dinner and overnight at the Eco lodge or camp in Gomphu.

Driving Distance: 95 km | Driving Time: 3 hr | Altitude of Gyelephu: 221 m

Drive to Gyelephu via trongsa – Gyelephu Highway. On the way you shall come across beautiful villages including the villages of Suray and Samkhara. Drive downhill and experience the change in vegetation and climate till you reach the warm plains of Gyelephu. Gyelephu Mindfulness City shall be a Special Administration Region with a focus on mindfulness, sustainability and harmony.

Check in hotel. In the evening, visit explore the Town and visit the Park.

Dinner and ovenright in hotel.

Driving Distance: 105 km | Driving Time: 3 hr | Altitude of Tsirang: 900 – 1600 m

After breakfast, drive to Tsirang. On the way, explore villages and interact with farmers.

Check in hotel / Farmhouse/ Camp in Tsirang.

After lunch, visit the Hindu-Buddhist temple. This is one of a kind in Bhutan since the Hindu and Buddhist culture and tradition coexist in the Tsirang district. The temple is right in the heart of Damphu town and is one structured temple built with two different entrance door. Buddhist Temple to the right and Hindu Temple left. The Hindu Mandir is lead by Hindu Dharma Foundation of Bhutan and the Buddhist temple by Tsirang Dratsang. One of the largest Guru Statue is built near the temple. Then visit the Pemachoeling Heritage Forest. This is sprawling Himalayan forest near the town of Damphu in the Tsirang. the Pemachoeling Owing to its diverse collection of exotic flora, fauna and beautiful religious and historical sites, this heritage forest is a fascinating tourist destination. The Pemachoeling Heritage Forest is one of the 20 wildlife conservation projects that have been recently started in Bhutan in order to protect and preserve the biodiversity of this mountainous region. Finaslly visit the Rigsum Pemai Dumra. The park has two huge concrete gazebos, – fountain, a mani Dungkor, An artificial Lake with an arched bridge over it a children’s playing zone.

In the eveninexplore the Damphu town for a while.

Check in hotel / Farmhouse/ Camp in Tsirang.

Driving Distance: 105 km | Driving Time: 3 hr | Altitude of Tsirang: 900 – 1600 m

Begin your day with a visit to the local markets in Tsirang, where you can witness the vibrant local trade of fruits, vegetables, and other agricultural products. Engage with local farmers and taste fresh, organic produce.

Explore the scenic villages of Tsirang, known for their terraced fields and traditional Bhutanese farmhouses. Visit temples like the Tsholingkhar Lhakhang, a significant spiritual site in the region.

Visit a nmearby village and spen the whole day interacting with the villagers and working in the farm with them. If it is paddy plantation time, the experience will the fantastic as you come together to work hand in hand with the villagers in the muddy fields. We shall take you through the process of milking the cows, making cheese and butter, cooking , plantation etc.

Check in hotel / Farmhouse/ Camp in Tsirang.

Driving Distance: 115 km | Driving Time: 4 hr | Altitude of Dagana: 1500 m

Depart from Tsirang early in the morning, heading towards Dagana. The journey will take you through picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills, dense forests, and quaint villages. The drive typically takes about 3-4 hours.Stop at scenic viewpoints to capture the breathtaking beauty of the region including the Lungsegang OR Hawa Dara. This is a beautiful landmark and favourite packed lunch spot in Tsholingkhar Gewog for travellers.

In the evening visit the Lho Darkar Trashiyangtse Dzong (Dagana Dzong) built in 1651 under the command of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Then explore the Dagana Town.

Dinner and overnight in farm house/ Camp.

After a late breakfast, you may choose to spend some time with the villagers experiencing the daily activities of the locals. Visit the Shathong Goenpa which was initially built by Drupthop Shawa Rinpa. The highlight about this place is the birds eye view of Dagana Dzong. Then drive to Kana Village to visit the Birthplace of Zhabdrung Sungtruel (Speech Reincarnation). This is an ancient house which is still in its original form. Visit a temple nearby and interaction with the villagers over a glass of local wine can be nice.

In the aftrenoon, visit the Ranga Ney (The Holy Place of Ranga). Ranga Ney got its name because of its location. This sacred place is located at Ranga under Tashiding Gewog. However local call it as Maha Dev Dham, which is believed to be Lord Shiva’s sacred place.

We have drive around 23 km from Dagapela town till Deuralli and then hike downhill for approximately 1 hour to visit Ranga Ney. Hike back to road and then drive back to your village homestay.

Dinner and overnight in hotel.

Driving Distance: 170 km | Driving Time: 5.5 Hr | Altitude of Punakha/ Wangdue: 1310 m

After breakfast drive to Punakha. 40 kilometers from Dagana is Dagapela. Dagapela is small town which used to be a happening place before the road to Dagana was built. This place used to be the main place where the people from north and south used to meet for trade and business. This places also served as a night halt place for travelers traveling to and from Dagana. Explore the Dagapela town for a while. We will come across beautiful views and villages till we reach the Sunkosh River. This is the same river that flows in Wangdue valley as the Punatshangchhu. The road the leads you by the side of rivers with frequent sights of villagers from Tsirang district selling their farm products by the roadside. Lunch at Rilanthang.

Cross the Sunkosh river again at Wakletar bridge drive through the Punatshangchhu Hydro power project site till you reach Wangdue. The road shall take you through beautiful landscapes and experiences including the first road through a tunnel in Bhutan. The drive might be dusty in some places due to the project construction.

Dinner and overnight in hotel.

Driving Distance: 130 Km | Driving Time: 3.5 Hr | Altitude of Paro: 2280 m

After breakfast, drive to Paro. On the way stop to visit the Royal Botanical Park at Lamperi. Further on the way visit the Tamchhog Lhakhang to experience the river, the iron chain bridge and to visit the temple.

Lunch at Paro. After lunch, the following activities awaits you.

  • Explore the Paro Town and Valley shopping souvenirs
  • Experience National Dress and Archery
  • Visits to weaving centers
  • Spend some time in a coffee shop or a handicraft shop
  • Visit the Ta Dzong overlooking the Rinpung Dzong. It was built in 1951 as a watch tower. This Dzong is round, more like parts of a European castle. The Dzong was established as the National Museum of Bhutan since 1967 and holds fascinating collection of arts, relics, religious thangka, etc.

 Dinner and overnight in hotel.

Altitude of Paro: 2280 m

Your day starts with an early morning Hike to Taktshang Monastery, one of the most wonderful and significant monasteries in Bhutan. Also known as the Tiger’s Nest, the hike shall be accompanied with stories of Guru Rinpoche, who arrived on the spot where the monastery is located on the back of a flying tigress somewhere in 8th century. Reaching the top shall enlighten you on why the Monastery is an iconic pilgrimage for visitors to the Kingdom of Bhutan.

Visit Kyichhu Lhakhang, a 7th-century temple nearby with two magical orange trees that bear fruit throughout the year. Drive to a local farmhouse for lunch with a Bhutanese family.  Try the traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath, National Dress and Archery here. You shall also have an opportunity to witness the daily life in a village in Bhutan.

Dinner and overnight in hotel.

In the morning drive to Chelela Pass which is the highest point between the Paro and the Haa Valley. At approximately 45 km from the Paro Town, the Chelela Pass lies at an altitude of 3988 m and is the one of the highest motorable roads in Bhutan. The drive from Paro to Chelela would be through a winding road over the dense pine forest, the view is spectacular. As we ascend further to higher elevation the vegetation changes to conifer such as spruce, juniper, hemlock, silver fir and finally at the summit, the vegetation is all open alpine meadows. The Pass is decorated with colorful prayer flags. You can choose to hang some prayer flags or offer incense here. On a clear day the views are beautiful.

After a while Hike to Kila Goemba. The trail, spanning approximately 9-12 kilometers, meanders through alpine meadows and rhododendron forests, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks and valleys. The hike concludes at the serene Kila Goenpa Nunnery, a centuries-old cliffside retreat home to Buddhist nuns. This journey, marked by natural beauty and cultural significance, provides hikers with a unique blend of adventure and spiritual tranquility.

On the way back visit the Namgay Artisanal Brewery. Check out the varieties of made in Bhutan beers. Set in a traditional Bhutanese style, the place is beautifully located overlooking the Paro valley.  This place brews different flavors of Bhutanese Beer to suit one’s palette. The outdoor setting of Namgay Artisanal brewery is equally awesome. Take a tour in the beer producing house. They mainly produce Indian Pale Ale, Apple Cider, Wheat beer, Dark ale, and red rice lager.

Finally visit the Drukgyal Dzong, with a picturesque village nestling below. The dzong was initially built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646 to commemorate the victory of Bhutanese over the allied Tibetan-Mongolian forces. It was destroyed by fire in 1951 and was in ruins for a long time until reconstruction process was initiated in the year 2016 under the Command of His Majesty the King of Bhutan.

Farewell Dinner with your Bhutanese hosts.

“Unexplored Bhutan” comes to an end with a drive to Paro airport and farewell.

 

 

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