Black-Necked Crane Festival

Upon arrival, your Bhutanese guide and our Indian ground operator (local representative) will meet you at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, India, after you have cleared immigration and customs formalities. We will then embark on a 100-kilometer (approximately 3-hour) drive to the India–Bhutan border town of Samdrup Jongkhar (250m), passing through the famous Assam tea gardens and crossing the mighty Brahmaputra River. Samdrup Jongkhar serves as the entry and exit point for tourists travelling overland into eastern Bhutan. Located in the southeastern region of the country, it shares its border with the Indian state of Assam and is the largest urban center in eastern Bhutan. The rest of the day will be at your leisure, allowing you some time to explore this bustling business hub of the eastern region. Enjoy a delightful evening with the Bhutan Green Travel, featuring a warm welcome drink and a dinner to kickstart your journey in style. Overnight stay in Samdrup Jongkhar.

This morning, we start the day early for approximately 7-hour drive to Trashigang (1,500m), the largest district in Bhutan. The journey offers scenic views, and you might spot langur monkeys, kingfishers, eagles, and other birds along the roadside. Our first stop is Dewathang (18-km), just beyond the Pinchina checkpoint. Dewathang is historically significant as the site where the father of Bhutan’s First King led Bhutanese troops in their final battle against the British in 1884. In the past, many British Political Officers stationed in Sikkim used the route from Samdrup Jongkhar to enter Bhutan. Next, we pass by the Regional Mithun (Bos frontalis) Breeding Farm in Orong, considered the best breed of cattle in Bhutan. Continuing the journey, we reach Narphung (41-km), a popular stopover where shops sell a variety of local produce, including fresh vegetables, fruits, cereals, dairy products, and bamboo crafts. After passing through Melong Bra, where the highway cuts through sheer cliffs, we stop for lunch in Wamrong (29-km). Located midway between Samdrup Jongkhar and Trashigang, it’s a convenient rest point. From there, we proceed to Khaling (27-km) via the Kharungla Pass (2,350m). We visit the National Handloom Development Centre en route, a place where young women from remote rural areas once received weaving training under the support of the National Women’s Association of Bhutan. Along the way, you can catch a glimpse of Muenselling Institute, Bhutan’s only school for the visually impaired, founded in 1973, nestled below the road in Khaling. Our journey continues past Sherubtse College in Kanglung (28-km), Bhutan’s first university, founded in 1978. Upon reaching Trashigang town, you may encounter the semi-nomadic people from Merak and Sakteng, who often come here for shopping trips. If you're feeling energetic, embark on the 1.36-km hike from Trashigang town to Druk Doethjung Resort. This scenic trail winds through serene landscapes, views of the Drangmechhu River, and quaint villages, making it an ideal route for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Overnight stay in Trashigang.

Today, you will depart from Trashigang and embark on a journey to the pristine village of Bartsham, located 24-km away, a trip that will take approximately 1.5 hours. Geographically, Bartsham shares its boundaries with Ramjar, Jamkhar, Yalang, and Bidung villages. Visit the Chador Lhakhang Monastery, also known as Gonpa Ringbu, dating back to the 12th century. Perched atop a ridge, it offers commanding views of the surrounding villages and mountains in north Trashigang. The main relic here is the statue of Chana Dorji, affectionately called Memmay Chador, serving as the protecting deity of the locality. This monastery holds deep reverence among the Bartsham community and devotees across Bhutan. Continuing your journey, you'll drive 10-km through the Bidung villages, heading east of Bartsham. The scenic drive extends a further 13-km to Rangjung, a quaint commercial hub. Here, you will visit the Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery, located on a small hillock overlooking the town and its surroundings. Keep an eye out for nomadic people from Merak and Sakteng, who often frequent the lower valleys for trade and shopping. Pause for an authentic Bhutanese lunch at a local farmhouse, where you can experience the region's unique culinary traditions. If time permits, explore the picturesque countryside of the Radhi villages, renowned as the "Rice Bowl of the East" and admired for their expertise in weaving raw silk textiles and traditional dyeing. In the evening, return to Trashigang (16-km) for an overnight stay.

Morning highlights include the Trashigang Dzong, built in 1659 by Trongsa Penlop Chhogyal Minjur Tempa. The fortress is located on a steep hill overlooking the Dangmechhu (Gamri) River and has served as the political stronghold of eastern Bhutan for over 300 years. We then drive to Trashiyangtse (1,750m), a diverse district that was separated from Trashigang in 1992. Two roads diverge from Chazam (10-km downhill); take the right turn for Trashiyangtse. We then explore the Gomkora Lhakhang (temple), located 22-km from Trashigang town. This sacred site in eastern Bhutan is where Guru Rinpoche meditated on a rock adjoining the temple to subdue a demon. Afterward, we drive for about 2 hours (30-km) to Trashiyangtse via Duksum town, with a stop to visit the old Trashiyangtse Dzong, which was rebuilt in the 15th century by Terton Pema Lingpa and now houses the monastic body. Next, we visit the College of Zorig Chusum, established in 1997, where students learn the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. Our final stop is at the dazzling white Chorten Kora, a stupa modelled after the famous Boudhanath Stupa in Nepal, located on the Kholongchhu riverbank. Built over 12 years around 1740, this stupa is believed to contain the remains of an 8-year-old dakini girl, who, according to local legend, was buried alive of her own free will as an offering from the Dakpa tribe of Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh in India. In the evening, enjoy some leisure time exploring the small town of Trashiyangtse. Overnight stay in Trashiyangtse.

We rise early this morning and set out for Mongar, a journey that takes us back through Duksum town (30-km) on the way. Upon reaching Chazam (10-km), we encounter a fork in the road and take the right turn that leads directly to Mongar. Along the way, we’ll pause at various spots to enjoy the scenery, interact with local people, visit villages, and capture moments for photography. As part of this immersive experience, we’ll take an 18-km detour to visit the 16th century Drametse Lhakhang, which sits majestically atop a steep ridge. This temple is the birthplace of the famous and sacred Drametse Nga Chham (the Mask Dance of the Drums), an integral part of many festivals. The dance was inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2005. From Sherichhu, we travel 35-km along the East–West Highway, passing through the famous Yadi bends—an exhilarating stretch with 17-km of winding hairpin turns leading to the small town of Yadi. Then, it’s a 22-km drive to the lofty Korila Pass (2,289m), followed by another 17-km to reach Mongar town. Time permitting, visit Mongar Dzong, built in 1930, though it lacks the strategic positioning typical of many other dzongs in Bhutan. Mongar town is small and retains a traditional charm, with its shops painted and decorated in local styles, and rows of large eucalyptus trees lining the main streets. Overnight stay in Mongar.

We set out on a scenic drive to Lhuentse (1,400m), the ancestral home of our Kings. We stop at the Gangola junction (12-km), where local farmers sell a variety of goods such as cornflakes, fruits, peanuts, and vegetables. The journey continues through the picturesque town of Autsho (920m), located by the Kurichhu River, before passing through the traditional houses and paddy fields of Tangmachhu (63 km). Our sightseeing includes the 154-foot tall Guru Padma Sambhava statue (Guru Nangsa Zelnen), built between 2008 and 2015, which sits atop a hill in Takila. We then proceed to Khoma village (about 11-km), famous for its intricate Kishuthara fabrics, highly revered and even ordered by the Royal Family for special occasions. Returning to Lhuentse town, we explore the historic Lhuentse Dzong, perched atop a hill overlooking the Kurichhu River. Built in 1654 by Chogyal Minjur Tempa, the dzong houses many sacred artefacts placed by the 4th Desi Tenzin Rabgay. In the evening, we return to Autsho (40-km), where the serene riverside and peaceful rural atmosphere provide a perfect setting for an overnight stay.

Today is a long but rewarding journey to Bumthang (2,650m). We traverse the East–West Highway, a route adorned with rushing rivers, cascading waterfalls, towering cliffs, and snow-capped peaks, offering breathtaking scenic vistas. We cross the Kurichhu River, where a hydro power plant (60 MW) generates sufficient energy for the eight eastern districts. The Yongkola area, rich in sub-tropical rainforest, is a hotspot for birding, especially after passing Lingmithang (17-km). Keep an eye out for rare avian birds such as the Satyr Tragopan, Ward’s Trogon, and Rufous-necked Hornbill. You’ll witness a striking transition in scenery from Yonkola to Bumthang—a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and wildlife observers. We stop at Namling, one of Bhutan’s premier birding destinations, where avid birdwatchers often spend days. Lunch will be at a local restaurant in Sengor (3,500m), located about 41-km from Yongkola and known for the Himalayan Monal, a special mountain bird. The journey continues to Bumthang via the Thrumshingla Pass (3,880m), the highest point of our journey, surrounded by dense hemlock and rhododendron forests, just 20-km from Sengor. From there, we head to Ura (3,100m), a picturesque village about 49 km from Bumthang town. To expedite our arrival, we take the new Nangar–Ura bypass (32 km), bypassing the traditional route. Ura is a quaint and beautiful village, home to Bhutan’s largest clustered settlement. Overnight stay in Bumthang.

We will explore the pristine Bumthang Valley, also known as Jakar, revered as the religious heartland of Bhutan and home to some of the country’s oldest temples and monasteries. After breakfast, drive to Kenchosum Lhakhang, a historic 8th century temple. This sacred site is famed for its ancient relic— a broken bronze bell said to have been gifted by a mermaid. According to legend, the bell's sound could once be heard as far as Lhasa in Tibet when rung. The temple suffered extensive damage due to a butter-lamp fire in 2010 but was beautifully reconstructed, brightly painted, and re-consecrated in 2014. Inside, it houses three statues of Due-Sum-Sangay (the Buddhas of the Past, Present, and Future) and other revered relics. Next, visit Tamshing Lhakhang, a center for Nyingma Buddhist teachings founded in 1501 by Terton Pema Lingpa. From here, take a short walk and cross the bridge over the Chamkharchhu River to reach the Kurjey Lhakhang complex. This sacred site comprises three temples encircled by walls adorned with 108 chortens. Kurjey Lhakhang is where Guru Rinpoche meditated in the 8th century, subdued the local demon Phola Shelging Karpo, and healed the ailing King Sindhu Raja of Bumthang. Your next sightseeing is Jambay Lhakhang (Temple of Maitreya), believed to be one of 108 temples built in a single day by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century. This temple is steeped in history and mythology, having been constructed to suppress the evil spirits of a demoness hindering the spread of Buddhism. Today, enjoy an authentic traditional Bhutanese meal at Sherab Dema Farmhouse, where you can try your hand at archery or relax in a soothing traditional hot stone bath. Overnight stay in Bumthang.

After breakfast, our return journey takes us to Phobjikha Valley via Trongsa, enjoying a scenic drive lasting approximately 5-6 hours. Trongsa holds a profound legacy, as every Bhutanese monarch traditionally assumes the role of Trongsa Penlop before ascending the throne. Trongsa Dzong built in 1648, is the largest fortress in Bhutan, commanding a view over the Mangdichhu River gorge. Its majestic architecture, characterized by a distinctive yellow roof, is a testament to Bhutan's rich cultural heritage. Additionally, the Tower of Trongsa (known as Ta Dzong) stands tall as an ancient watchtower, offering captivating views of Trongsa town and its surroundings. Arrive in Phobjikha, take the opportunity to visit Gangtey Gonpa, a picturesque 17th century monastery perched on a hillock, offering breathtaking views of the valley. The monastery is the only Nyingmapa School of Buddhism taught here in western Bhutan. Phobjikha Valley is a haven for nature enthusiasts and is renowned as the winter habitat for rare, Black-Necked Cranes, migrating from the Tibetan plateau from late October to mid-March. Later in the day, you can explore the beautiful valley surrounded by pine forests, meet the locals, and visit the Black-necked Crane Information Centre to learn about the migrating birds. Overnight stay in Phobjikha.

This morning, you’ll witness the Black-Necked Crane Festival, organized by the Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN) in the courtyard of Gangtey Gonpa Monastery, located in the Phobjikha Valley. The main goal of the festival is to raise awareness and promote understanding among both locals and visitors about the importance of conserving the endangered, Black-necked Cranes. The program typically includes cultural performances such as folk songs, masked dances, and temple dances by the local people—some featuring crane themes—along with songs, a crane dance, and environmental skits performed by local schoolchildren. The festival’s intimate setting, with smaller crowds, offers a great atmosphere, a variety of programs, and excellent opportunities for photography. In the evening, you’ll depart from Phobjikha and head toward Punakha, a journey of approximately 78-km that takes about 2 hours, passing through the quaint town of Nobding. En route, you’ll pass by the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, which offers a breathtaking view of the confluence of the Dangchhu and Punatsangchhu Rivers. Constructed in 1638 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the dzong is said to resemble a sleeping elephant. Despite being devastated by a fire in 2012, it was meticulously restored to its former grandeur in November 2022. Punakha (1,350m) served as Bhutan’s winter capital until 1955. Nestled in western Bhutan, it enjoys a warm and pleasant climate, bordered by Gasa to the north, Thimphu to the west, and Wangdue Phodrang to the east and south, making it a popular destination for tourists. Spend the night in Punakha.

Morning highlights start with a visit to the fertility Chimi Lhakhang, located near the village of Sopsokha, built in 1499 by Saint Drukpa Kunley, also known as the Divine Madman. According to legend, couples from across Bhutan and occasionally from overseas who are struggling with infertility have been blessed with children after visiting this mystical temple. Next, embark on a scenic 71-km journey lasting about 3 hours to Thimphu (2,300m), Bhutan's capital. En route, make a stop at Dochula Pass (3,050m) to admire the Druk Wangyal Chortens (108 stupas) and enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, including Bhutan’s highest mountain, Mt. Gangkar Puensum (7,564m). Dochula Pass also features 11 man-made hidden “Igloos – Caves” adorned with paintings of various gods and goddesses, attracting people seeking inner peace through meditation. Upon arrival in Thimphu, a city boasting approximately 138,736 inhabitants, you'll be captivated by its rural valley setting adorned with traditional Bhutanese-style buildings and breathtaking natural scenery. Experience the unique traffic management system where police direct traffic with hand signals instead of traffic lights. Explore Kuenselphodrang, home to the world's largest 169ft Buddha Dordenma statue, erected in 2006 overlooking the Southern entrance to Thimphu. If time allows, visit the Motithang Takin Reserve, housing Bhutan's national animal. Overnight in Thimphu.

Escaping the hustle and bustle of Thimphu city, we set out for a beautiful hike to Cheri Monastery (2,850m) amidst a picturesque landscape of blue pine, oak trees, and rhododendrons. Located 14-km (a 35-minute drive) north of Thimphu Valley, the monastery houses sacred relics and serves as a meditation center. Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal (founder of Bhutan) built this monastery in 1620 and established the first monk body here in Bhutan. To reach the monastery, our journey begins by crossing a scenic bridge over the Thimphuchhu River adorned with prayer flags and hiking uphill for about an hour, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the woods. A visit to Cheri Monastery offers a spiritually enriching experience, allowing visitors to pray and engage in a fortune-telling dice game. Wildlife sightings, such as deer and mountain goats, add to the natural beauty of the trail. Enjoy a delightful picnic lunch by the riverside, followed by a return drive to Tashichho Dzong, originally built in 1216 AD and later reconstructed by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1641, now serving as the seat of ministries, the King's office, and the Central Monk Body. Today's short hike offers a rich cultural immersion while also serving as a vital step in acclimatization, preparing us for the exhilarating moderate hike to Tiger’s Nest and the adventures that lie ahead! Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Depart for Paro (54 km, approximately 1 hour) early in the morning after breakfast. Bhutan’s famous Paro Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) is an unforgettable sight. No visit to Bhutan would be complete without a trip to Paro Taktshang (3,120m). The monastery is perched on the edge of a steep cliff, 900m above the Paro floor valley. The hike (4-km) starts at the base of the mountain from the road point at Ramthangkha, 12-km from the Paro town. Expect a walking duration of around 4-5 hours for the complete round-trip hike, along with an additional hour allocated for touring the monastery at a comfortable pace. Gentle horse or pony rides are offered as a transport option halfway up the trail. Gentle horse/pony rides are available for transport halfway up the trail, where you will be treated to a breathtaking vantage point showcasing the monastery perched on the cliff wall. The latter part of the afternoon is free for leisure. Consider indulging in a hot stone bath at a farmhouse for a relaxing experience. Spend the night in Paro.

Your tour ends this morning after breakfast. We transfer you to Paro International Airport for your onward journey. Our guide and driver from Bhutan Green Travel will see you off. Tashi Delek (Goodbye and Good Luck)!