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Bhutan Scared Valleys Cultural Journey

9 days / 8 Nights Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, Wangdue (Phobjikha) & Haa Valley Breakfast & Dinner (MAP) Licensed guide
Starting from ₹1,850 per person
Duration9 days / 8 Nights
Tour typeCultural Tour
MealsBreakfast & Dinner (MAP)

Overview

Experience the living heritage, dramatic mountain passes, and hidden valleys of western and central-west Bhutan on this 9-day overland journey. Beyond the classic cultural triangle of Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha, this itinerary ventures into the glacial Phobjikha Valley—winter home of the endangered black-necked cranes—and crosses Chele La Pass (3988M) into the secluded Haa Valley, culminating in a hike to the iconic cliffside Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest).

Tour Highlights

  • Cross Dochula Pass (3,100 m) &  Chele La Pass (3,988 m) with sweeping Himalayan views
  • Explore Bhutan’s iconic fortresses: Punakha Dzong, Tashichho Dzong, and Rimpong Dzong
  • Discover the glacial Phobjikha Valley and historic Gangtey Monastery
  • Venture off the beaten path into the serene Haa Valley
  • Hike to the legendary cliffside Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)

Day-by-day itinerary

Day1
Arrive in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu
Day Highlights 

  • Arrival: Meet your guide at Paro International Airport and enjoy a scenic drive to Thimphu (approximately 1 hour).

  • En Route: Visit the historic Tamchog Lhakhang Iron Bridge, a traditional iron-chain suspension bridge.

  • Buddha Dordenma: Visit Buddha Dordenma statue overlooking the Thimphu Valley and enjoy its peaceful surroundings

  • National Memorial Chorten: Visit this revered landmark, an important centre of daily prayers and spiritual devotion.

  • Simply Bhutan: Experience traditional Bhutanese life through cultural displays, local customs and interactive activities

  • Overnight: Thimphu.


Day2
Discover Thimphu's Nature, Culture & Heritage
Day Highlights 

  • Wandiste Hike: Enjoy a scenic one-hour hike offering panoramic views of Thimphu Valley.

  • Motithang Takin Preserve: Discover Bhutan's rare national animal, the takin, in its natural woodland habitat.

  • Institute for Zorig Chusum: Explore Bhutan's 13 traditional arts and crafts through the skills of young artisans.

  • Tashichho Dzong: Visit this magnificent fortress, the seat of Bhutan's government and central monastic body.

  • Evening: Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Thimphu town and explore Kaja Throm.

  • Overnight: Thimphu.


Day3
Thimphu to Punakha via Dochula Pass
Day Highlights 

  • Drive: Approximately 2.5–3 hours

  • Dochula Pass (3,100 m): Stop at 108 memorial chortens and enjoy spectacular Himalayan views on clear days.

  • Chimi Lhakhang: Enjoy a scenic walk through terraced rice fields and traditional villages to visit the revered Temple of the Divine Madman.

  • Punakha Dzong: Explore Bhutan's magnificent riverside fortress, beautifully situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.

  • Punakha Suspension Bridge: Walk across one of Bhutan's longest suspension bridges, offering beautiful valley views.

  • Overnight: Punakha.


Day4
Punakha – Phobjikha (Gangtey) Valley
Day Highlights 

  • Drive: Approximately 3 hours 

  • Scenic Journey: Travel through beautiful oak and rhododendron forests, crossing Lawala Pass before descending into the picturesque glacial valley of Phobjikha.

  • Gangtey Monastery: Visit this historic 17th-century Buddhist monastery, beautifully perched on a forested ridge overlooking the valley.

  • Gangtey Nature Trail: Enjoy a gentle walk through pine forests, traditional farmhouses and peaceful open wetlands.

  • Overnight:  Phobjikha Valley.


Day5
Phobjikha Valley - Paro
Day Highlights 

  • Black-Necked Cranes: Discover the winter habitat of the endangered black-necked cranes, which migrate to Phobjikha Valley from late autumn to early spring.
  • Drive back to Paro: approximately 4-5hours.
  • Wangduephodrang Dzong: Stop en route to explore the restored fortress, dramatically perched on a ridge overlooking the river confluence.

  • Ovenight: Paro

Day6
Paro to Haa Valley
Day Highlights

  • Scenic Drive: Journey towards Haa Valley, crossing breathtaking mountain landscapes (2.5-3 hours)

  • Chele La Pass (3,988 m): Stop at one of Bhutan's highest motorable passes, offering spectacular Himalayan views and colourful prayer flags.

  • Lhakhang Karpo & Lhakhang Nagpo: Visit the sacred White and Black Temples, two of Haa's most revered spiritual landmarks.

  • Explore Haa Town: Discover the peaceful charm of this secluded Himalayan valley and its traditional surroundings.

  • Overnight: Haa (Soednam Zingkha Heritage Home) 


Day7
Haa Valley – Paro Cultural Exploration
Day Highlights

  • Paro Ta Dzong (National Museum): Discover Bhutan's rich history, culture and artistic heritage through fascinating collections and exhibits.

  • Drukgyel Dzong: Explore the historic fortress, a symbol of Bhutan's victories and heritage, with stunning views of Mount Jomolhari on clear days.

  • Evening: Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Paro town and browse local handicraft shops for traditional Bhutanese souvenirs.

  • Overnight: Paro (Homestay)


Day8
Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest)
Day Highlights

  • Tiger's Nest Monastery: Embark on an unforgettable hike to Bhutan's iconic cliffside monastery, offering breathtaking views of Paro Valley (approximately 4–6 hours round trip).

  • Kyichu Lhakhang: Visit one of Bhutan's oldest and most sacred temples.

  • Traditional Hot Stone Bath: Unwind after your hike with a relaxing Bhutanese hot stone bath.

  • Farewell Gift: Receive a special farewell gift from Global Safari Tours & Treks as a lasting reminder of your Bhutan journey.

  • Overnight: Paro.


Day9
Departure

  • Airport Transfer: After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward flight.

What's included

Inclusion

  • Flexible itinerary: Customizable according to your interest and needs.
  • SDF & Entry Fee
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Government approved hotels (minimum 3-star category)
  • Unlimited mineral water
  • Hot-stone bath 
  • English speaking guide 
  • Comfortable SUV car

  • Exclusion

  • Airfare
  • 4-star & 5-star hotels
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips and gratuities for guide & driver

  • Good to know

    Can this itinerary be customised?

    Yes. Every tour is private and tailor-made. We can change the number of days, hotel category, pace and activities, or start from Siliguri, NJP, Bagdogra or Paro.

    What documents do I need?

    Indian nationals need a valid passport or original Voter ID (birth certificate for children). International guests need a passport valid for 6+ months and a visa approval, which we arrange. See all travel requirements.

    Is the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) included?

    Your quotation clearly shows whether the SDF is included. It is currently ₹1,200 per night for Indian nationals and USD 100 per night for international visitors. Read about the SDF.

    What is the cancellation policy?

    Cancellation charges depend on how close to the travel date you cancel. See our Cancellation & Refund Policy.

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