Authentic Bhutan Food Tour Package

Day 1: Arrival and Drive to Haa via Chele La Pass

Upon your arrival in Paro, you will be greeted and escorted for tea or lunch. Following this, a scenic drive will take you to the Haa Valley via Chele La Pass, the highest motorable point in Bhutan at 3,988 meters. The Haa Valley, with its captivating beauty, offers a serene start to your journey. En route, you have the option to stop at the Kila nunnery for sightseeing. Spend the rest of the day exploring Haa town at your leisure. Accommodation will be in a traditional farmhouse, providing an authentic Bhutanese experience.

Overnight in Farmhouse.

Day 2: Exploring Haa and Tasting Haap Hoentey

Begin your day with a 50-minute hike to Juneydrak hermitage, a cliffside retreat that houses the footprint of Machig Labdrom, a revered female Tibetan tantric practitioner. Afterwards, visit the 7th-century Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple) and Lhakhang Napo (Black Temple). Lunch will be served at the GREF Canteen, offering Indian dishes. In the afternoon, participate in a cooking session to learn how to make Hoentay, traditional buckwheat dumplings unique to the Haa Valley.

Overnight in Farmhouse.

Day 3: Haa to Thimphu - Savoring Local Momos and SeKam Paa

After breakfast, drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, which takes approximately three hours. Upon arrival, enjoy a lunch of momos at the renowned Momo Corner. These Nepalese-origin dumplings are a favorite in Bhutan, filled with various ingredients like chicken, pork, or cheese. Post-lunch, visit Thimphu's weekend market, Memorial Stupa, textile weaving center, and the Tashichhodzong fortress. Dinner will be at the famous Kelden Restaurant, where you can relish a variety of Bhutanese dishes.

Day 4: Thimphu - Cultural Luncheon and Sightseeing

Start your day with a visit to the Great Buddha Dordenma, a massive statue of Shakyamuni Buddha situated in the mountains above Thimphu. Following this, embark on a scenic two-hour hike ending at Changangkha Temple, an ancient fortress-like temple built in the 12th century. After visiting the Takin zoo, home to Bhutan's national animal, enjoy a traditional Bhutanese luncheon accompanied by a cultural program. Afternoon options include visiting the Jungshina handmade paper factory, witnessing an archery match at Changlimithang stadium, or shopping at an authentic Bhutanese craft bazaar. Dinner will be at a local restaurant.

Day 5: Thimphu to Punakha - Learning to Cook Ema Datshi

Drive east to Punakha, Bhutan's old capital, crossing the Dochula Pass. Stop at Dochula for a panoramic view of the Himalayas and a cup of milk tea. Continue to Sopsakha village for a short walk to Chimi Lhakhang, a monastery dedicated to Buddhism's "Divine Madman."

After a picnic lunch by the river, tour the Punakha Dzong at the confluence of two rivers, followed by a visit to Bhutan's oldest and longest suspension bridge. In the village of Labtsakha, your host family will teach you how to prepare Ema Datshi and Kewa Datshi. Enjoy your homemade Bhutanese dinner.

Day 6: Punakha to Paro - Sampling Multi-Cuisine Delights

After a hearty breakfast with your host family, drive back to Paro, making a stop at the Royal Botanical Garden. Visit Tamchog Lhakhang and the Iron Chain Bridge built by Thangthong Gyelpo en route. Lunch will be at the Organic Hotpot, known for its multi-cuisine offerings. In the afternoon, visit the National Museum and the Rinpung Dzong, featured in the movie "Little Buddha." Spend the evening at leisure before enjoying dinner at your hotel.

Day 7: Paro - Hike to Tiger’s Nest and Traditional Hot Stone Bath

No trip to Bhutan is complete without a visit to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest. This iconic monastery is perched on a cliffside, and the hike to reach it takes about 4-5 hours round trip. After a tour of the monastery, descend and head back to your hotel for a change of clothes. The evening culminates with a relaxing hot stone bath at a local farmhouse, followed by a traditional Bhutanese dinner served with Ara, a local alcoholic brew.

Day 8: Departure

After breakfast, your guide will assist with your transfer to the airport, helping with baggage and bidding you farewell as you depart Bhutan, carrying with you the flavors and memories of an unforgettable culinary adventure.

Conclusion

The Authentic Bhutan Food Tour Package is more than just a culinary adventure—it's an immersive experience into the heart of Bhutanese culture and tradition. From tasting fiery chilies and savoring the creamy textures of Ema Datshi to engaging with local families and learning age-old cooking techniques, this tour offers a deep and flavorful dive into Bhutan's unique gastronomy. The journey is complemented by breathtaking landscapes, historical sites, and the warm hospitality of the Bhutanese people. This eight-day adventure promises not only to tantalize your taste buds but also to leave you with lasting memories and a profound appreciation for Bhutan's rich cultural heritage.