Bhutan Traverse from West to East Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Paro

Arrive by flight into Paro. You will be greeted by your guide and driver, who will escort you to your hotel for check-in and lunch (for an early flight). After lunch, visit Paro Rinphung Dzong, Dungtse Lhankhang, the 7th-century Kyechu Lhakhang, and stroll through the town area. Overnight in Paro at a hotel.

Day 2: Paro (Taktsang Hike)

Embark on a hike to the famous Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), a quintessential Bhutan travel experience. In the afternoon, explore the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong. Overnight in Paro at a hotel.

Day 3: Paro to Thimphu

After breakfast, drive for an hour to the capital, Thimphu. Visits include the Memorial Chorten, Takin Sanctuary, Zilukha Nunnery, traditional painting school, Indigenous Hospital, 12th-century Changangkha Lhakhang, and other sights as time permits. In the evening, visit the Tashicho Dzong, the main seat of the government and monastic body. Overnight in Thimphu at a hotel.

Day 4: Thimphu

Visit the Textile Museum, Changzomtok Weaving Center, Buddha Point, Craft Bazaar, Handicraft Emporium, and the Farmer’s Weekend Market. Overnight in Thimphu at a hotel.

Day 5: Thimphu to Punakha

Drive east across the spectacular Dochula Pass to Punakha and Wangdue Valley. Spend some time at the pass to enjoy the views and explore. On the way, visit the Chimi Lhakhang Temple near Wangdue and the impressive Punakha Dzong at the confluence of two rivers. Overnight in Punakha at a hotel.

Day 6: Punakha to Gangtey/Phobjikha

In the morning, visit Wangdue Phodrang and then drive towards the Phobjikha Valley (2-3 hours). Visit Gangtey Gompa Monastery, followed by an easy walk into the valley to explore and admire its beauty.

Visit local homes and the Nature Center. From late October until March, spend time observing the black-necked cranes in the valley. Overnight in Phobjikha at a hotel.

Day 7: Gangtey to Bumthang

Drive to Bumthang, stopping at Trongsa Dzong, Ta Dzong (the Tower Museum dedicated to Bhutan’s monarchs), and the Chume Weaving Center. Overnight in Bumthang at a hotel.

Day 8: Bumthang

Visit Kurjey Lhakhang, Jambay Lhakhang (built in the 7th century), Tamshing Lhakhang, Jakar Dzong, and Kharchu Dratsang to see monk debates. In the evening, stroll through the Bumthang market area. Overnight in Bumthang at a hotel.

Day 9: Bumthang to Mongar

Continue eastwards through rugged terrain with spectacular views (6 to 7 hours drive). Visit Member Tsho (Burning Lake), pass through Ura Village, and Thrumshingla Pass (12,465 ft). Upon arrival, visit Mongar Dzong. Overnight in Mongar at a hotel.

Day 10: Day Excursion to Lhuentse

Visit the 113 ft tall statue of Guru Rinpoche atop Takela Hill in Lhuentse, constructed by a Nepali craftsman, Raj Kumar Shakya. In the afternoon, visit Khoma Village, famous for Kishu Thara textiles. Drive back to Mongar for an overnight stay at a hotel.

Day 11: Mongar to Trashigang

Drive to Trashigang (around 3 hours). Visit a local village and school (if possible). Upon arrival, visit Trashigang Dzong and the town area. Overnight in Trashigang at a hotel.

Day 12: Day Excursion to Rangjung & Radhi Village

Visit Rangjung Monastery, known for its unique Tibetan-style architecture and paintings. Continue to Radhi Village, famous for raw silk weaving. Overnight in Trashigang at a hotel.

Day 13: Trashi Yangtse Day Excursion

Visit Gom Kora Temple, set on a small alluvial plateau overlooking the river. In Tashiyangtse, visit the traditional art school and Chorten Kora. Drive back to Trashigang for an overnight stay at a hotel.

Day 14: Trashigang to Samdrup Jongkhar

Drive to Samdrup Jongkhar (6 to 7 hours). En route, visit the Khaling Weaving Center and Wamrong Zangdopelri Lhakhang. Overnight in Samdrup Jongkhar at a basic hotel.

Day 15: Samdrup Jongkhar to Gauhati

After an early breakfast, drive to Gauhati Airport (around 3 hours). Bid farewell to Bhutan and catch your flight home.

Conclusion

The Bhutan Traverse from West to East Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Bhutan's diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. From the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery in the west to the remote villages and monasteries in the east, you will witness the true essence of Bhutan.

This journey promises unforgettable experiences, stunning views, and deep cultural immersion. Whether it’s the vibrant local festivals, the serene monasteries, or the breathtaking natural beauty, this tour is designed to provide a unique and enriching adventure through the heart of Bhutan.