Private Tour
Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu, 54 km drive, 1 hour duration, altitude: 2334 m.
Day 2: Explore Thimphu’s cultural attractions, altitude: 2334 m.
Day 3: Travel from Thimphu to the Rhododendron Festival in Bhutan, 76 km drive, 2-hour journey, altitude: 1242 m.
Day 4: Discover the historical treasures of Punakha, altitude: 1242 m.
Day 5: Drive from Punakha to Paro for sightseeing, 130 km drive, 4-hour journey, altitude: 2200 m.
Day 6: Explore Paro’s cultural sites and embark on a 7 km, 4-hour hike to the Tiger’s Nest.
Day 7: Departure from Paro.
Upon your arrival at Paro International Airport, our friendly guide and driver will warmly welcome you and accompany you to Thimphu, the capital city. En route, you’ll have a chance to visit Tamchog Lhakhang, a sacred temple built in 1420 by Thang Tong Gyalpo, known for constructing 108 bridges across Tibet and Bhutan, eight of which were in Bhutan. In the afternoon, your Thimphu adventure begins with a visit to the National Memorial Chorten, a tribute to the Late His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. The journey continues to Kuensel Phodrang, where you’ll marvel at the world’s tallest sitting Buddha statue (51.5 m). Finally, you’ll explore the Craft Bazaar, where you can purchase Bhutanese handicrafts and artwork. As the day winds down, experience the serene ambiance of Tashichho Dzong, also known as the Royal Secretariat and Central Monastic Body, before enjoying dinner and a comfortable overnight stay at a hotel.
Begin your day with a visit to Changangkha Lhakhang, an ancient 13th-century temple constructed by Phajo Drugom Zhigpo, making it the oldest temple in the Thimphu valley. Later, explore the fascinating Takin Preserve Center, home to Bhutan’s national animal, the takin, believed to be created by Lama Drukpa Kuenley, the Divine Madman of Bhutan. Your cultural journey continues with a visit to Sangay Gang viewpoint and Dupthop Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s few surviving nunneries. Enjoy a delectable lunch at the Simply Bhutan museum restaurant. In the afternoon, embark on a cultural adventure at the Postal Museum, where you can personalize Bhutanese stamps with your photos, and the Painting School, which showcases the intricate 13 arts and crafts. You’ll have the evening free to explore Thimphu town at your leisure, with dinner and another overnight stay at your hotel.
This morning, you’ll set out for the picturesque Punakha Valley, the ancient capital of Bhutan, with a stop at the enchanting Dochu La Pass (3140 m). This serene location boasts 108 small stupas and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains. If you’re visiting in December, you’ll have the unique opportunity to witness the annual Druk Wangyel festival. In the evening, you’ll arrive at Punakha and immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural festivities of the Rhododendron Festival 2024 at Lam Pelri Park. Take a leisurely walk through the garden and join in the cultural celebrations. Later, you’ll return to your hotel for a delightful dinner and a comfortable overnight stay.
Today’s adventure includes exploring Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, originally built in 1638 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, though it was unfortunately destroyed by fire in 2012 and is currently under repair. Your cultural journey continues with a visit to Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Temple of Fertility, built in 1499 to honor Drukpa Kuenley, the Divine Madman. This unique temple is celebrated as a place where childless couples from across the country come to offer prayers and seek blessings. In the afternoon, you’ll discover the magnificent Punakha Dzong, founded in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, and learn about its pivotal role in the history of Bhutan. To end your day, embark on a picturesque hike to Khamsum Yulley Monastery, an architectural wonder built by Her Majesty the Queen Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck for the well-being of His Majesty and global peace. As evening approaches, enjoy dinner and a restful overnight stay at your hotel.
Your journey today takes you back to Paro, where you’ll pause occasionally to capture the scenic beauty of Bhutan. Upon arrival, you’ll explore Ta Dzong, an ancient watchtower that has been transformed into the National Museum of Bhutan. Discover the fascinating history of Rinpung Dzong, an architectural marvel that even played a role in the film “Little Buddha.” In the evening, you’ll experience the warm hospitality of a typical Bhutanese farmhouse, indulge in traditional cuisine, and enjoy a restful night at your hotel.
The highlight of your Bhutan adventure is a memorable hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang), which was built in 1684 by Gyaltse Tenzin Rabgay. This renowned monument, perched on the cliffs of the Paro Valley, is perhaps the most photographed site in Bhutan. Your hike, approximately four hours round trip, will take you through the lush landscapes of the Bumdra trek in Paro Valley. In the afternoon, you’ll visit Drugyal Dzong, originally built in 1647 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to safeguard Bhutan from Tibetan invasions, which was tragically destroyed by fire but is now undergoing restoration. You’ll also explore Kichu Lhakhang, dating back to 659 A.D., built by the Tibetan king Srongtsen Gampo, making it one of the oldest temples in Bhutan and part of a group of 108 temples constructed to subdue an ogress across the Himalayan region. This delightful day concludes with an evening in Paro town, where you can shop for souvenirs and capture the beauty of Bhutan through photography. Afterward, return to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Your Bhutan adventure concludes with a peaceful morning as we drop you off at Paro International Airport according to your departure schedule. We hope you take with you cherished memories of Bhutan and hope to welcome you back soon. Safe travels!
Tailored to your preferences,
Customized to your schedule,
Designed for your comfort.
Dedicated to crafting an amazing adventure, our experienced team is here to assist you at every stage.
For any trip-related help or inquiries, contact our travel experts.
Notice Regarding Plan Adjustments
In recognition of the prevailing uncertainties, we are committed to ensuring your confidence in the event of itinerary modifications.
Date Modifications
Travel Max Guide provides the option to amend travel dates in accordance with their credit for future tours policy.
Credit for Future Tours
In the event of uncertainty regarding your future travel plans, you have the option to convert your existing payments into credit. This prudent choice safeguards your funds from potential cancellation fees. Your financial assets remain secure, allowing you the flexibility to reschedule your tour at your convenience. Detailed information concerning the policy on credit for future tours can be found in our comprehensive policy documentation.
Cancellation
Should circumstances necessitate a cancellation, it is important to be informed about potential associated fees. The following overview outlines the cancellation fees applicable to this tour, contingent upon the proximity to the scheduled departure date.
Up to 40 days before departure: 80% refund of the cost or deposit.
Up to 30 days before departure: 60% refund of the cost or deposit.
Up to 15 days before departure: 30% refund of the cost or deposit.
After 14 days, the deposit becomes non-refundable.
Read the full cancellation policy/terms and conditions
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