Bhutan’s Monasteries, Culture & Mountains (14 days / 13 nights)
14 days / 13 nights
2025 group departures
may 1-14
This Bhutan walking holiday has as much focus on cultural sites as it does on natural wonders, but with plenty of hiking thrown into the mix. By walking to some of the country’s most spectacular monasteries, we endeavor to help you gain an insight into Bhutan’s Buddhist culture in the most profound way possible. During the week, we cover the three valleys of Thimphu, Punakha, Phobjikha and Paro, all varied in terms of ecosystems and landscapes.
One of the highlights of this walking holiday is our trek to Bumdra Monastery where we camp overnight in the Himalayan wilderness way up in the clouds, our final destination being the iconic Taktsang Goemba or Tiger’s Nest Monastery. We hike along ancient mountain paths, following in the footsteps of pilgrims going back over the centuries, but where today’s tourists hardly ever go. It really is a spectacular and, for many, a very sacred journey.
All of your camping equipment will be provided for the overnight adventure, and we will also provide a camp dinner, breakfast and lunches.
ITINERARY
DAY 1 Arrive Paro Sightseeing in Paro
Arrive Paro by Drukair (Royal Bhutan Airlines) or Bhutan Airlines (Private Airlines). You will be received at the Paro International Airport by our local representative, who will be your guide throughout your tour. After checking to your hotel and fresh up, you will be guided to Drukgyal Dzong, which was built in 1647 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to mark local victories over invading Tibetan forces. This Dzong was destroyed by fire in the 20th century. On a clear day you can see a magnificent view of the Mount Jhomolhari (alt. 7314 m /23,990 ft.). Then, move down the valley to the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. You can enjoy the night walking around Paro Town after dinner. Overnight at a hotel in Paro.
DAY 2 Paro - Thimphu
Paro - Thimphu (54 km, 1 hr drive)
After breakfast you directly travel to Thimphu, the capital town of Bhutan. The road runs down through the Paro valley, to Chuzom (Confluence) at the entrance to the valley, where the Paro and Thimphu rivers meet. The road passes along a narrow valley with high, rocky cliffs on the left, and then the valley opens out into farmland on the approach to Thimphu.
On arrival at Thimphu, check into your hotel and after a refreshment or lunch, visit the following places:
• Centenary Farmers’ Market (open from Thu-Sun only): Most of the Thimphu’s population and many valley dwellers converge on the bustling weekend market, held by the side of Wangchu River. A wide range of foodstuffs and local arts and crafts are sold at the market, which runs from Thursday afternoon till Sunday evening. A visit to the market provides great photo opportunities, as well as the chance to mingle with local people.
• Archery Match (National Game of Bhutan) at Changlimithang National Stadium.
• Kuenselphodrang (commonly known as Buddha Point) where the largest Buddha statue in the country is perched on the hillock overlooking the Thimphu Valley. You may take a nature hike through Kuenselphodran Nature Park for about 20-30 minutes.
• Tashichhoe Dzong, a fortress of the glorious religion. It was built in 1641 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel and was reconstructed into present structure by the late King, His majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in the year 1962-1969. It houses the secretariat building, the throne room and the office of the king, and the central monk body.
• The National Memorial Chorten (stupa) which was constructed in 1974 as a memorial for the third King of Bhutan, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, who is widely regarded as the father of modern Bhutan. The term ‘chorten’ literally means ' seat of faith' and Buddhists often call such monuments the 'Mind of Buddha'. Meet the elderly generation in circumambulation, especially in the evenings, at the National Memorial Chorten.
• Craft Bazaar – A one stop place to witness Bhutanese culture and to buy Bhutan made art and craft product. The Bazaar in its 80 stalls covers all aspects of the traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. You will get to see craftsmen and artisans from across the country displaying and selling their handicrafts. You can also visit other handicraft stores in town. Dinner and overnight in Thimphu.
DAY 3 Thimphu Sightseeing
After breakfast visit the following places:
• School of Traditional Painting of Arts and Crafts where students undertake a six-year course on the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan.
• Traditional Bhutanese paper making factory. The handmade paper making in Bhutan stemmed from the age old tradition originated in 8th century of Bhutanese history. The handmade paper constitutes as valuable National heritage of Bhutanese cultural identity and is preserved through all the ages. The Traditional paper is recognized and held high esteem both in home and outside world. Jungshi Paper Factory was established in November 1990 as an undertaking of the Royal Government of Bhutan. The unit now boasts as a major and sole dealer in handmade paper and its products.
• Bhutan Post Office Headquarters to get personalized Bhutanese postage stamps with your photo on them. You can bring along your favorite photo to put on the stamps and put these stamps on your postcard to send to your family and friends.
After lunch visit the following:
• Takin Preserve, which houses the national animal the Takin that is only found in Bhutan. This is an extremely rare member of the goat family. Found in herds in the very high altitudes (13,125ft and over). They live on a diet of grass and bamboo. It can weigh as much as 550 pounds.
• Changangkha Lhakhang (temple): Changangkha Lhakhang is an old fortress like temple and monastic school perched on a ridge above Thimphu. It was established in the 12th century on a site chosen by Lama Phajo Drukgom Shigpo, who came from Ralung in Tibet. The central statue is Chenresig in an 11-headed, thousand-armed manifestation (God of compassion). There are enormous prayer wheels to spin and even the prayer books in the temple are larger in size than usual Tibetan texts.
• Dechenphodrang (Palace of great bliss) Monastery located at north of Thimphu valley. It is a monastic school for about 500 young monks enrolled for 8 years courses. You will visit the monastery and have free interaction with young monks who are mostly from poor family ground and some even orphan. The ‘Palace of Great Bliss’ serves as a home and learning center for these young monks. You will spend some time interacting with young monks. In the evening stroll through Thimphu downtown.
Dinner and overnight in Thimphu.
DAY 4 Thimphu Short Hike to Tango or Cheri Monasteries
After breakfast, travel to the base camp of Tango Monastery which lies north of Thimphu city with packed picnic lunch. From the base camp which is the end of motor road you hike up to the Monastery is through the forest filled with oak and pine trees as well as Rhododendron flower trees which will be in full bloom during spring season. The Tango Monastery site has had religious significance since the 12th century when it was the home of the highly revered Buddhist monks who brought the Drukpa Kagyupa school of Buddhism to Bhutan. The Tango Monastery was built in 1689 by Gyalse Tenzin Rabgyal. The three-storied monastery was built with the help of the locals and was completed within two months. At present Tango Monastery is the center for higher studies for monks. The view from Tango Monastery is breathtakingly beautiful. You will experience complete peace and serenity in this area. After visiting the monastery, walk back to the road and drive to the base of Cheri Monastery where you will eat your packed picnic lunch by the side of the river.
OR Hike to Cheri Monastery through the forest filled with oak and Rhododendron flower trees. This is the place where monks undergo meditation/retreat with a duration ranging from 4 months to 3 years. Therefore, this place is so peaceful and you will experience complete serenity at this place. The hike up will take approximately 50 minutes. The view from Cheri Monastery is breathtakingly beautiful. You can sit in one of the temples of this monastery complex and meditate for some time if you would like to do so. Then walk back to the base where your car will wait for you and then travel back to Thimphu. In the evening relax.
Dinner and overnight in Thimphu.
DAY 5 Thimphu -Punakha
(Distance: 71 km Estimated driving time: 2 1/2 hrs.)
After breakfast, travel to Punakha through Dochula Pass 3140 m). In the clear sky enjoy the panoramic view of the Himalayan Mountain ranges. Then pass by the beautiful 108 chortens built on the hill by Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck (Queen Mother of Bhutan) for the security and wellbeing of His Majesty, the King of Bhutan.
Also visit Druk Wangyal Lhakhang (temple). The temple was built to honor His Majesty the fourth Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. The past and future appear to merge in the details of the Lhakhang that tells the story of a supreme warrior figure whose vision pierces the distant future. Then continue your journey towards Punakha.
Punakha has been inextricably linked to some of the most momentous events in the Bhutanese history. Punakha had served as the capital of Bhutan from 1637 till 1907 and the 1st National Assembly was held there. On the way, stop at Metsina village and take a 20-minute walk through the paddy fields to visit the Devine Madman’s Monastery-Chhimi Lhakhang, famously known for its fertility shrine, where one can receive a special fertility blessing. After lunch visit the Punakha Dzong, located on the island of the Pho - Chu (Male River) and the Mochu (Female River).
The Dzong was built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal (the person who unified Bhutan) to serve as the religious and administrative seat of the region. It was here that the dual system of government was introduced in the 17th century and in 1907, enthroned the first King Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck. Damaged over the centuries by four catastrophic fires and an earthquake, the Dzong has been fully restored in the recent years by the 4th King Jigme Singye Wangchuck. At the Dzong, you can see the highest standards of woodwork.
In the evening, visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendup Lhakhang Nunnery and enjoy the breathtakingly beautiful view of Punakha and Wangdue valleys from there. Dinner and overnight in Punakha.
DAY 6 Sightseeing & hiking in Punakha
After Breakfast drive to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten through fields of vegetables, rice paddies and tiny hamlets. This Chorten holds very special significance being consecrated in 1999 and dedicated to the protection of the former Crown Prince – today’s current King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. This temple is situated on the hilltop overlooking the valley below. The leisurely walk up to the temple would take about an hour. Visit the temple and also enjoy the breathtakingly beautiful view from there.
After lunch, you will visit Rinchengang village in Wangduephodrang where you will take a short walk through the village and have free interaction with the villagers. Round trip hike will take about 1 hr. Later visit Wangdue Dzong which caught fire on 24 June 2012 and was completely destroyed. The new Dzong construction completed in the year 2022. Main Tower of the Dzong is constructed with Bhutanese unique wood carvings. Dinner and overnight in Punakha.
DAY 7 Punakha – Phobjikha
After breakfast drive to the beautiful valley of Phobjikha. Phobjikha is one of Bhutan’s few glacial valleys, and chosen winter home of black necked cranes (November – March) migrating from the Tibetan plateau. On arrival in Phobjikha after lunch visit Gangtey Gompa Monastery, from outside. Gyaltse Pema Thinley, the grandson and mind reincarnation of Pema Lingpa founded the Temple in 1613. It is a Nyingmapa monastery and is affiliated to other Nyingmapa monasteries including Tamshing in Bumthang. Dinner and overnight in Phobjikha.
DAY 8 Sightseeing in the Phobjikha Valley
While you are in Phobjikha you will visit the Black Crane nature information Centre and enjoy time to wander through Gangtey village and hike the Gangtey Nature Trail. There are many additional hikes available in this beautiful valley and your guide will advise you the best options. \Dinner and overnight in Phobjikha.
DAY 9 Punakha – Sightseeing
After early breakfast travel to Punakha. Check in Hotel in Punakha and later explore around Punakha valley and look for semi-nomadic tribal people known in Bhutan as “Layaps” (Interaction with Layap people is possible only from Dec –end of March). They can be seen in and around Punakha valley during the winter months when they migrate southward from Laya to escape the extreme cold. After a picnic lunch nearby the Pho Chu River, we will drive back to Lobesa and to visit a farm house. Here we will see a Traditional Bhutanese cooking and farming demonstration. Afterwards, participate in some unique Bhutanese recreational activities including Khuru, a Bhutanese dart game, Archery, The National Game of Bhutan and Degor, a throwing competition. Dinner and overnight in Punakha.
DAY 10 Punakha Valley to Paro Valley (4hrs +)
Depart Punakha early morning for your transfer westwards to the Paro Valley, once again traversing Dochu La, and arriving in Paro town in time for a late lunch at one of the local restaurants. This afternoon enjoys an orientation tour of the major features in Paro town including Paro Dzong with its cantilever bridge; Kyichu Lhakhang – one of Bhutan’s oldest and most beautiful temples boasting an orange tree that perpetually bears fruit followed by a visit to the old ruined fortress of the Drugyel Dzong (14km from Paro). This is the historical site of the Fort of Drukpa Victory, from which the Bhutanese used to repel the Tibetan invaders again and again. On a clear day views of the 7314 m snow domed peaks of sacred Mt Chomolhari can be seen. Dinner and overnight in Paro.
DAY 11 Chela La Pass and Haa Valley
After breakfast, we drive to Chele La Pass which is one of the highest road points in Bhutan and offers breathtaking views of the mountains. It is situated at an elevation of 3,988 meters/13,084 feet between the Paro and Haa valleys. The drive to Chela La Pass from Paro is as charming as the Mountain Pass itself.
It will be good to fuse nature on your trip; indulge your visual senses with some natural beauty and give yourself some time to relax and soak in the atmosphere. You have the option to take a leisurely drive and carry a picnic lunch as well as a beverage of your choice.
The Chele La pass is at a cool crisp mountain pass and your route takes you through a spectacularly lovely forest of pine, oak and rhododendrons that ablaze with blood red and pink blooms in April and May. The heady scent of Daphne permeates the air and the sun-dappled - as enchanting a drive as you could have hoped for. Around 10 km from the top you can spot the Kila Nunnery perched on the opposite hillside with prayer flags lining the walking path to it and surrounding the complex. Once you cross the tree line, you are likely to come up with yaks grazing in the alpine meadows. The pass itself is marked by a multitude of prayer flags that seem to spear the intense blue skies! On a clear day, you can get a breathtaking view of Mt. Jomolhari and other Himalayan giants.
Later, we drive down to Haa, one of the country's smallest Dzongkhags, having an area of around 1706 square kilometers and located south of Paro. This little location, decorated with virgin alpine woods and quiet mountain peaks, is one of Bhutan's most attractive and remote areas. The Haa Valley, a steep north-south valley with a small floor, is the most prominent feature of Haa. Haa is a name that connotes arcane secrecy. The district is also known as "Hidden-Land Rice Valley." Rice, wheat, and barley are the principal commodities farmed here. Farmers also cultivate other income crops including potatoes, apples, and chilies on the valley floor, along terraced hillsides, and in some of the more accessible side valleys. The Torsa Strict Nature Reserve, one of Bhutan's environmentally protected regions, is located in this region. Few places to visit in Haa if time permits: Lhakhang Nagpo,Lhakhang Karpo,Haa Wangchuklo Dzong. Afterwards, return to your hotel in Paro.
DAY 12 Start of Bumdra Hike
Hike from Sang Choekor Buddhist College (2,800m) to yak pastures below Bumdra Monastery (3,800m). The adventure begins with an early morning drive up to the Sang Choekor to meet our ponies and while they are being loaded we may pay our respects at the college. Above and ahead the Chhoe Tse Lhakhang (temple) nestles in the mountainside 1-2 hours walk away. Our home for the night is tucked in under Bumdra Monastery (cave of a thousand prayers) making the most of the awesome views of the Himalayan range. After lunch we can visit the monastery (if it is occupied) and also climb the peak to the north (about 4000m) for even better views, returning in time for a slap up dinner. Duration: 4-5 hours to camp 2-3 hours return trek to peak (optional). Difficulty: Moderate to Hard. Overnight at Bumdra Wilderness Camp.
DAY 13 Bumdra to Paro (via Tiger Nest Monastery)
Hike from Yak pasture below Bumdra Monastery (3,800m) via Zangtopelri Monasteries to Taktsang Monastery (2,900m). After a hearty breakfast, we either head straight back into the valley or linger a while soaking up the view and perhaps hang some prayer flags of our own. Eventually we have to drop back into the ancient pine and rhododendron forest on the monks’ winding trail. After a couple of hours of descent, we begin to catch glimpses of the golden temples below.
The path snakes across the mountainside between these monasteries before reaching the gardens of Zangtopelri (Heaven on Earth) from which you can peer over the edge and straight down onto the ornate rooftops of Taktsang Monastery, perched against the cliff-face far below. An hour later and we are at the gates of Taktsang looking across the gorge; a steep descent to a waterfall then up some steps and we pass into Tiger’s Nest itself. The Monastery is an important pilgrim site for the Buddhists.
The great Guru Rinpoche is said to have flown here on the back of a tigress when he brought the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan in the 8th Century. He then mediated in a cave there for three months where the monastery was later built. The cave is said to be the origin of Buddhism in Bhutan. Retracing our steps, we begin the final descent of about 45 minutes to reach our vehicle and drive further up the Paro valley. Dinner and overnight in Paro.
DAY 14 Fly home
In the morning, after breakfast, we will see you off at the Paro airport for your onward flight.
TRIP STYLE
This tour mainly takes you on sightseeing to various highlights of Bhutan. The day hikes are rated moderate to strenuous depending on how acclimatized you are to the high altitude in the region. You will be staying in hotels on a shared basis with one-night of camping. In lieu of hotels, you can also choose to do village/farm stay which will give you a more intimate experience with the local people and daily life. Learn more about village/farm stay via this page.
2025 pricing
PER PERSON FOR A GROUP OF:
1 person: $6250
2 persons or more: $5190
DEPOSIT: $850
NOTE: We offer $150 discount when you pay the deposit & trip balance via Zelle.
A completed booking form and a trip deposit are required to book your spot. Trip balance is due 90 days prior to the departure date.
Note: The deposit is nonrefundable and nontransferable.
Private tours with dates of your choice are available upon request.
For questions, send us an email at equity@browngaltrekker.com.
You must review and agree with the TERMS & CONDITIONS (which include the cancellation policy) and the LIABILITY WAIVER before booking.
The cancellation policy for this tour is as follows:
When cancelling 46 days or more from the start of the tour, the cancellation fee is 40%
When cancelling 45 days or less from the start of the tour, the cancellation fee is 100%.
Click on BOOK NOW to reserve your spot!
INCLUSIONS
Airport pickup and drop.
Sustainable Development Fee ( SDF ) 100$ per person per day.
English speaking local guide
Driver & vehicle
Camping Equipment
Drinking water throughout your tour.
Accommodation in 3 Star Hotel / Resort, as per the availability. (4 & 5 star may require an additional premium).
All meals (buffet system /include evening tea/snacks per pax each day).
All hotel tax & service charges.
Bhutan visa processing fee and Bhutan e-visa.
All inland travel permits.
Royal Government of Bhutan (RGoB) Royalties and taxes.
Inland transfers by private car: SUV Vehicles (Toyota Prado / Hyundai Tucson / Hyundai Santa Fe / Toyota Sedans), Toyota Hiace, Toyota Coaster, Hyundai H1 – based on group size.
Local sightseeing with entrance fees where applicable.
Services of an English speaking local guide.
EXCLUSIONS
International flight
Travel insurance
Refreshment, any alcoholic/nonalcoholic beverages and any other personal expenses
Gratuities to guide, driver, trekking staff, etc
Other expenses of personal nature.
FLIGHTS
Clients must book their own flights and send a copy of their flight itinerary by e-mail to equity@browngaltrekker.com no later than the trip balance due date.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
We require that you obtain travel, medical, and emergency evacuation insurance since your tour involves hiking at high altitude conditions. Note that not all travel insurance companies cover activities at high altitudes. Hence, we recommend Global Rescue for tours that involve high-altitude hiking and adventure/outdoor-type activities.
VISA
Visa will be processed by the tour operator upon submitting your booking details and trip deposit.
VACCINATION & COVID-19 TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
Please make sure to check the most up-to-date vaccination & Covid-19 entry requirements prior to your travel.
GEAR LIST & TRIP NOTES
Upon booking, you will receive trip notes that include the recommended gear list and specific trek information.