Itineraries

11-DAY WEST TO EAST BHUTAN EXPLORER

Destinations: Paro – Thimphu – Punakha – Trongsa – Bumthang – Mongar – Trashigang – Samdrup Jongkhar

Package Includes:

  • Visa & TDS fees
  • Licensed English-speaking Guide
  • 3-Star Hotels
  • All Meals
  • Sightseeing
  • Entry Fees

Day 1: Arrival in Paro

Warm Welcome & Transfer
Arrive at Paro International Airport and be greeted by the Vattara Quest team. Enjoy a smooth transfer to your hotel and settle in after your journey.

Paro Rinpung Dzong
Visit the majestic Paro Rinpung Dzong, an iconic fortress-monastery known for its stunning architecture, intricate woodwork, and spiritual significance.

National Museum (Ta Dzong)
Explore the National Museum, housed in the historic Ta Dzong tower. Discover Bhutanese art, artifacts, and cultural heritage that tell the story of this Himalayan kingdom.

Overnight Stay: Paro

Day 2: Paro – Thimphu

Drive to Thimphu & Tachog Lhakhang Stop
Travel from Paro to Thimphu, stopping at Tachog Lhakhang (Iron Bridge Temple). Explore the historic temple founded by Thangtong Gyalpo, and enjoy views of the river and valley.

Buddha Dordenma
Visit the giant Buddha Dordenma statue, one of the world’s largest seated Buddhas, overlooking the Thimphu Valley and radiating a sense of peace and serenity.

Memorial Chorten
Experience the Memorial Chorten, a spiritual landmark where locals gather for daily prayers and rituals.

Tashichho Dzong
Explore the impressive Tashichho Dzong, a fortress-monastery that houses the central monastic body and government offices, showcasing Bhutanese architecture at its finest.

Overnight Stay: Thimphu

Day 3: Thimphu–Punakha

Scenic Drive via Dochula Pass
Travel from Thimphu to Punakha, passing over the Dochula Pass (3,100m). Stop to admire the 108 memorial chortens and enjoy panoramic views of the eastern Himalayan peaks.

Punakha Dzong
Visit the stunning Punakha Dzong, located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Known for its architectural beauty, it remains one of Bhutan’s most significant dzongs.

Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple)
Explore Chimi Lhakhang, famously associated with fertility blessings. Many couples visit to receive blessings and experience its unique spiritual energy.

Overnight Stay: Punakha

Day 4: Punakha – Trongsa

Scenic Drive through Wangdue and Pele La Pass
Travel from Punakha to Trongsa, passing through picturesque Wangdue Phodrang and over Pele La Pass (3,300m). Enjoy panoramic views of valleys, forests, and distant Himalayan peaks along the route.

Trongsa Dzong
Visit the magnificent Trongsa Dzong, strategically perched on a ridge overlooking the Mangde Chhu river. This historic fortress is a symbol of power and culture in central Bhutan.

Ta Dzong (Royal Heritage Museum)
Explore the Ta Dzong, now a museum showcasing Bhutan’s royal heritage, historical artifacts, and exhibits on the region’s cultural significance.

Overnight Stay: Trongsa

Day 5: Trongsa – Bumthang

Drive to Bumthang
Journey from Trongsa to Bumthang, often referred to as Bhutan’s spiritual heartland, passing through scenic valleys and traditional villages.

Jakar Dzong
Visit Jakar Dzong, an impressive fortress-monastery overlooking the Bumthang Valley, known for its historical significance and architectural beauty.

Kurje Lhakhang
Explore Kurje Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s most sacred temples, believed to enshrine the meditation cave of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), the revered Buddhist master.

Overnight Stay: Bumthang

Day 6: Bumthang Sightseeing

Tamshing Monastery
Visit Tamshing Monastery, a historic monastery famous for its murals and as a center of the Nyingma school of Buddhism, offering insight into Bhutanese spiritual traditions.

Jambay Lhakhang
Explore Jambay Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, known for its sacred relics, festivals, and architectural charm.

Local Handloom Centers
Discover local handloom and weaving centers, where artisans create traditional textiles. Gain insight into Bhutanese craftsmanship and cultural heritage.

Overnight Stay: Bumthang

Day 7: Bumthang – Mongar

Scenic Drive via Thrumshingla Pass (3,780 m)
Journey east from Bumthang to Mongar, crossing the Thrumshingla Pass, one of Bhutan’s highest mountain passes. Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of rugged mountains, deep valleys, and alpine forests along the way.

Arrival in Mongar
Reach Mongar, known as the gateway to eastern Bhutan, and take in the charming town nestled among scenic hills.

Evening at Leisure
Relax at your hotel and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of eastern Bhutan.

Overnight Stay: Mongar

Day 8: Mongar – Trashigang

Mongar Dzong
Start the day with a visit to Mongar Dzong, an impressive fortress that blends traditional Bhutanese architecture with its strategic hillside location.

Drive to Trashigang
Travel east to Trashigang, enjoying scenic landscapes, rivers, and traditional villages along the way.

Evening Visit: Trashigang Dzong
Explore Trashigang Dzong, one of Bhutan’s largest and oldest fortresses, perched on a ridge overlooking the Drangme Chhu River. Witness its historic architecture and the town’s vibrant atmosphere.

Overnight Stay: Trashigang

Day 9: Excursion to Trashiyangtse

Day Trip to Trashiyangtse
Embark on a scenic day trip to Trashiyangtse, located in eastern Bhutan and known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional arts.

Chorten Kora
Visit the famous Chorten Kora, a stupa inspired by Nepalese architecture, revered by locals and pilgrims alike.

Traditional Woodcraft Workshops
Explore local woodcraft workshops to see artisans creating intricate carvings, religious artifacts, and traditional Bhutanese crafts.

Return to Trashigang
Travel back to Trashigang in the evening.

Overnight Stay: Trashigang

Day 10: Trashigang – Samdrup Jongkhar

Drive via Sherubtse College & Khaling Textile Weaving Centre
Travel from Trashigang to Samdrup Jongkhar, stopping at Sherubtse College, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most prestigious educational institutions. Visit the Khaling Textile Weaving Centre to see traditional weaving techniques and Bhutanese textiles in production.

Continue to Samdrup Jongkhar
Proceed to Samdrup Jongkhar, a vibrant town on the southeastern border of Bhutan, offering a mix of cultural and natural attractions.

Overnight Stay: Samdrup Jongkhar

Day 11: Departure from Samdrup Jongkhar

Farewell to Bhutan
After breakfast, take in your final moments in the Land of the Thunder Dragon, reflecting on the cultural, spiritual, and natural experiences of your journey.

Transfer to Indian Border / Guwahati Airport
You’ll be transferred to the Indian border or Guwahati Airport for your onward journey.

End of Tour – Tashi Delek!
Bid farewell with warm Bhutanese blessings and safe travels.