Experience the captivating essence of Bhutan on the “Western and Central Bhutan Tour,” an 9-day journey designed for seasoned travelers seeking authenticity. Your adventure begins in Thimphu, the vibrant capital, before exploring the iconic Punakha Dzong and the sacred Bumthang Valley, rich with ancient monasteries. Continue to the picturesque Gangtey Valley, renowned for its black-necked cranes, and conclude with a breathtaking hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro. Unlike many Bhutan trips, this itinerary combines both famous landmarks and hidden gems, offering unforgettable cultural encounters and a deeper connection to Bhutan’s timeless traditions and pristine landscapes.
General Information
Start/ End: Paro/ Paro
Duration: 7 Days/ 6 Nights
Tour Route: Paro - Punakha - Bumthang - Gantey Valley - Thimphu - Taktsang - Paro
Tour Customizable: Definitely! ( Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Brief Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Paro International Airport and Sightseeing
Day 2: Discover Punakha and Wangdue
Day 3: Trongsa and Bumthang’s Landscape Tour
Day 4: Bumthang Spiritual Sightseeing
Day 5: Gangtey Rural Expedition
Day 6: Phobjikha and Thimphu Happiness Tour
Day 7: Thimphu Cultural Tour
Day 8: Excursion to Mystical Taktsang
Day 9: Depart from Paro International Airport
Full Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Paro International Airport and Sightseeing
Welcome to Bhutan! Upon arrival, your guide and driver will greet you at the airport and transfer you into town. After enjoying a welcome tea and some refreshments, begin your journey with a sightseeing tour.
Highlights of the day include a visit to Kichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples built in 629 AD by a Tibetan king; Rinpung Dzong, famously known as the “Fortress of the Heap of Jewels”; and Ta Dzong, a former watchtower that now serves as a national museum.
Following your exploration, continue the drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s charming capital set amidst the Himalayan mountains. After checking in at your hotel, you may either relax and explore at leisure or opt for a guided tour of the city.
Day 2: Discover Punakha and Wangdue
Today’s journey takes you to Punakha and Wangdue. Along the way, pause at Dochula Pass (3,150 m) to soak in breathtaking views of the eastern Himalayas. Wander around the 108 chortens and visit Drukwangyel (Royal Temple), built in honor of Bhutanese victories. From there, enjoy a short hike through Metshina village to Chimi Lhakhang, the renowned fertility temple where couples come to pray for children.
Your tour continues with a visit to Punakha Dzong, the magnificent “Palace of Great Happiness,” gracefully situated at the confluence of the Phochu and Mochu rivers. End the day by crossing a suspension bridge to reach the charming Gidagom village.
Day 3: Trongsa and Bumthang’s Landscape Tour
Today you will journey to Trongsa in central Bhutan, with scenic stops along the way. Pause at Pele La Pass (3,300 m) for sweeping mountain views, where yaks are often spotted grazing. Continue through the picturesque Rukubji Valley, known for its clustered houses surrounded by fields of mustard, potatoes, barley, and wheat. Visit the striking Chendebji Chorten, a large white Nepali-style stupa by a stream, before enjoying a panoramic view of the grand Trongsa Dzong, the largest fortress-monastery in Bhutan, from Tangsibji.
(Optional: Take the ancient trail hike down to the riverbed and ascend to the fortress on a 2.5-hour walk — once the seat of immense power in Bhutan.)
Afterward, explore the ancient watchtower, now transformed into a historic museum, before continuing via the scenic Yotong La Pass (3,425 m). On the way, stop at a Yathra weaving center in Chumey Valley to see traditional woolen textiles being made. Conclude the day with a pleasant stroll around Bumthang town before resting for the night.
Day 4: Bumthang Spiritual Sightseeing
Dedicate the entire day to exploring the spiritual heart of Bumthang. Begin with a visit to Jakar Dzong, also called the “Fortress of the White Bird,” one of Bhutan’s largest fortresses with massive walls stretching nearly one kilometer in circumference.
After a relaxing lunch break, set out on a scenic hike to some of the region’s most significant sacred sites, including Jambay Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang, Pema Sambha Lhakhang, and Tamshing Lhakhang. Each temple is steeped in legends dating back as far as the 8th century, with your guide sharing their fascinating origins and mystical stories.
In the afternoon, continue with a short trek to Menbar Tsho (The Burning Lake), Bhutan’s holiest lake, believed to grant the wishes of devotees. Later, explore the historic Wangdichholing Palace, the very first palace of the Wangchuk dynasty and the first in Bhutan not constructed as a fortress.
In the evening, enjoy free time at your leisure to relax or wander around the charming surroundings.
Day 5: Gangtey Rural Expedition
Today, embark on a journey to the picturesque Phobjikha Valley, located on the northwestern edge of the Black Mountains and renowned as a winter roosting site for the rare Black-necked Cranes. Along the way, stop at the majestic Trongsa Dzong, a striking white fortress that seems to rise naturally from a narrow green ridge.
Continue with a refreshing nature walk through serene Blue Pine Forests leading to Kwewa Village (approx. 1.5 hours hike). Here, enjoy homemade tea and local snacks while engaging with the resident monks at Kewa Monastery.
After the day’s explorations, you may relax at your hotel or spend time exploring the surrounding area at your leisure.
Day 6: Phobjikha and Thimphu Happiness Tour
Begin the day with an early stroll through the lush valley to witness a beautiful sunrise. After breakfast, drive back to Thimphu, the vibrant capital of Bhutan. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take some time to relax before visiting Buddha Gang, home to one of the largest Buddha statues in the world, offering panoramic views of the city below.
Next, take a walk around the revered Memorial Chorten, followed by a visit to the impressive Tashichhoe Dzong. This grand fortress serves as both the administrative center and an important religious hub, housing the King’s office, the throne room, the State Monastic Body, and the main secretariat.
In the evening, enjoy leisure time to either further explore the city on your own or simply rest at your hotel.
Day 7: Thimphu Cultural Tour
Spend another full day exploring the cultural and natural highlights of Thimphu. After breakfast, begin with a drive to Sangay-gang, home to Bhutan’s national animal, the Takin. This scenic hill, often called the “romantic point,” also offers sweeping views of the valley below.
Continue with a short Wangditse Hike (approx. 1 hour). Starting from a prayer flag-adorned trailhead, the path leads through dense Blue Pine Forests up to Choekhortse Goemba, where you can pause to enjoy the stunning scenery.
Afterward, stop at the General Post Office to design your own personalized postage stamps, then visit the Zorig Chusum (School of Thirteen Traditional Arts and Crafts). Explore the Craft Bazaar for authentic handmade souvenirs before heading to the peaceful Zilukha Nunnery.
Day 8: Excursion to Mystical Taktsang
After a hearty breakfast, set out on a memorable hike through forested trails leading to the iconic Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), Bhutan’s most renowned spiritual landmark. Perched dramatically on cliffs rising 900m above the Paro Valley, the monastery is both sacred and breathtaking. The trek takes about five hours round trip, though ponies or horses are available for those who prefer an easier ascent.
Before entering the holy site, light butter lamps on the cliffside for the wellbeing of all beings. Inside the monastery, sit in the sacred chamber above the cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated in the 8th century. Open yourself to the spiritual energy of Tiger’s Nest and cherish this divine experience as you prepare to return home. A sunkey (holy string) and khada will be gifted by a lama as a blessing before your departure.
Enjoy lunch at a hillside café overlooking Tiger’s Nest, and in the evening, celebrate with a traditional Bhutanese farewell dinner at a local village home, accompanied by the country’s signature drink, Ara.
Day 9: Depart from Paro International Airport
Our representative will see you off at the airport, marking the conclusion of your unforgettable journey. Tashi Delek, and may your memories of Bhutan tours stay with you forever!
