Matsutake Mushroom Summer Festival

Flying into Bhutan offers the most spectacular views of the Himalayan ranges, including Mt. Everest (8,848m/29,028ft), Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m/28,169ft) and Mt. Gangkar Puensum (7,564m/24,836ft). On arrival we meet you at Paro International Airport after clearing your immigration and customs formalities. We’ll then travel (125-km) about 4 hours to Punakha, Bhutan's former winter capital until 1955. Nestled in western Bhutan, Punakha enjoys a temperate climate, bordered by Gasa to the north, Thimphu to the west, and Wangdue Phodrang to the east and south. Our first stop will be at the Druk Wangyal Chortens before crossing the Dochula Pass (3,050m). If weather permits, this spot provides awe-inspiring panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, including Bhutan’s highest, Mount Gangkar Puensum, towering at 7,564m. Continuing our picturesque journey for 52-km, we'll traverse the captivating landscapes of Punakha and Wangdue Phodrang Valley. In Punakha (1,350m), we'll explore Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple situated on a circular hillock near Sopsokha village. Built in 1499 by Saint Drukpa Kunley, known as the Divine Madman, this sacred site is believed to bless childless couples from across Bhutan and occasionally overseas, granting them children. Enjoy a delightful evening with the Bhutan Green Travel team, featuring a warm welcome drink and a delicious dinner to kickstart your journey in style. Overnight stay in Punakha.

Discover the delights of Punakha–Wangdue Phodrang Valley, situated in western Bhutan with a warm and temperate climate. It is bordered by Gasa to the north, Thimphu to the west, and Wangdue Phodrang to the east and south, making it a popular tourist destination. Begin by driving (7-km) for about 30 minutes to the parking area by the Mochhu River before ascending to the majestic Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten. Constructed in 1994 by Queen Mother Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuk, this 100-ft tall temple is located on a strategic ridge, offering panoramic views of the terraced fields and countryside of Punakha Valley. From the parking area, cross a suspension bridge over the Mochhu River and walk through paddy fields to the base of the hill. Then, ascend a moderately inclined trail surrounded by pine trees, taking approximately 45 minutes to reach the top. In the afternoon, sightseeing includes a visit to the Punakha Dzong, strategically located at the confluence of the Phochhu (male) and Mochhu (female) Rivers. This grand fortress is adorned with jacaranda trees, coloring the landscape with vibrant purple blooms in spring. The evening can continue with a visit to the Sangchen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery Buddhist College in Wolakha, spectacularly located on a hilltop (25-minute drive from Punakha Dzong). Built in 2008 by the Queen Mothers' parents, the nunnery provides a space for nuns to pursue higher Buddhist studies. Overnight stay in Punakha.

After breakfast, we travel (71-km) about 3 hours to Punakha, once the winter capital of Bhutan until 1955. It is situated in western Bhutan with a warm and temperate climate, bordered by Gasa to the north, Thimphu to the west and Wangdue Phodrang to the east and south, and also a popular tourist destination. Stop off at Druk Wangyal Chortens (108 Stupas) before crossing over Dochula Pass (3,050m). On a clear day, you can enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, including Bhutan’s highest mountain (Mt. Gangkar Puensum at 7,564m). Continue our scenic journey (52-km) to Punakha and Wangdue Phodrang Valley. Arriving in Punakha (1,350m), visit the fertility Chimi Lhakhang (temple) en route, nestled on a round hillock near a village called Sopsokha, built in 1499 by Saint Drukpa Kunley (known as the Divine Madman). The temple is about 10-km from Punakha Dzong and takes 20-minutes walk through agriculture fields. Legend has it that the childless couples wishing to have a baby from across Bhutan and occasionally from overseas are blessed with a child after visiting this mysterious temple. We also visit the Punakha Dzong, which is strategically located at the confluence of the Phochhu (male) and Mochhu (female) Rivers. Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal (founder of Bhutan) built the dzong in 1637. Jacaranda trees beautifully cover the dzong with the purple bloom of flowers in the spring. Overnight in Punakha.

After breakfast, our return journey takes us to Thimphu (134-km) about 5 hours drive, pausing en route at Dochula Pass (3,050m). Perhaps why not take a chance to meditate awhile in the 11 man-made hidden “Igloos – Caves” with 11 different paintings of gods and goddesses? People seeking inner peace from modern day stress come to Dochula Pass for meditation. Arriving in Thimphu, visit the Drupthob Thangtong Dewachen Nunnery, popularly known as Zilukha Anim Dratshang and is located on a gentle slope overlooking Thimphu Valley. The monastery was built in 1976 by the 16th emanation/reincarnation of Thangtong Gyalpo, Drubthob Rikey Jadrel. Here spend time with some 60 nuns or so that has devoted their life to Buddhism and also provide spiritual needs of the community. Continue to the Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory, a small industry, where you will see the entire process of producing the authentic Bhutanese handmade paper (known as Deh-sho) using the bark of two local tree species (Daphne and Dhekap). You can also even try your hand at this ancient craft and make your own paper for a special souvenir. A shop beside the factory sells the handmade paper, cards, calendars, envelopes and paper bags. Use your free time to relax or explore the streets of Thimphu city. Overnight in Thimphu.

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. Opt for a Village Homestay for a unique experience in a vibrant, traditionally built Bhutanese farmhouse. These 2-storey homes are adorned with colourful decor and equipped with decent amenities such as toilets, showers, and hot stone baths. Service providers are trained in basic housekeeping and hygiene for tourists. Enjoy the immersive experience of living in a village house, where the housemother personally serves food and drinks, creating a familial atmosphere. Interact with locals and engage in daily village activities.

This morning, we begin our return journey to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Along the way, we'll stop at Dochula Pass, situated at an elevation of 3,050m. Renowned for its breathtaking views, the pass features the iconic Druk Wangyal Chortens, a collection of 108 stupas, as well as 11 man-made hidden "Igloo-Caves," each adorned with unique paintings depicting various gods and goddesses. Many visitors seeking inner peace amid modern-day stresses come here for meditation. For Buddhists, meditation is often pursued as a path to enlightenment and nirvana. Continuing our journey, we arrive in Thimphu city, located at an altitude of 2,300m. Unlike the concrete jungles of other capitals, Thimphu lies nestled in a serene rural valley, surrounded by stunning natural beauty and featuring traditional Bhutanese architecture. Experience the city’s unique traffic control system, where police officers direct traffic with elegant hand signals instead of lights. Upon arrival, visit the Centenary Farmers Market, a vibrant marketplace where Bhutanese farmers sell fresh local produce, arts, and crafts. The evening is free for you to relax, explore the sights of the capital, shop, or soak in the festive atmosphere of Thimphu. Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Today we explore the best attractions of Thimphu city (2,300m), home to approximately 138,736 inhabitants. Morning begins with a visit to the National Memorial Chorten (stupa), built in 1974 in honour of the Third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk (1928-1972). This stupa is a prominent monument for Bhutanese daily worship in the city with its golden spires and bells. Another must-see place to tick off your list is Kuenselphodrang, home to the 169-foot Buddha Dordenma statue, the largest of its kind, which was erected in 2006. Our next stop is at the Motithang Takin Reserve, home to Bhutan's national animal, followed by the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, established in 1971 where students are taught the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. Proceed to the nearby National Library of Bhutan, established in 1967, located in the cultural center of Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Here, you'll find the world's largest book, Bhutan: A Visual Odyssey Across the Last Himalayan Kingdom. It weighs over 60 kg, stands 1.52 meters high, and spans 2.13 meters wide. Its pages are turned once a month. We then continue to the Bhutan Postal Museum, a must-visit for philatelists and those looking to purchase postcards and stamps. If time permits, visit the Tashichhodzong, initially constructed in 1216 and rebuilt in 1641 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. This iconic fortress now houses several government ministries, the office and throne room of His Majesty the King, and the Central Monk Body. Overnight stay in Thimphu.

We exit Haa and set off for a scenic, meandering drive (62-km) about 2.5 hours to Paro (2,200m), Today, attend the Genekha Matsutake Mushroom Festival, held annually in August. This two-day festival is an exciting event that celebrates the region's rich culture and diverse communities. Renowned for its abundance of matsutake and chanterelle mushrooms, the festival promotes sustainable mushroom harvesting and showcases local cuisines. Activities include indigenous sports, product stalls, culinary delights such as mushroom soup and curry, and cultural performances like mask dances, folk dances, and skits by nearby schools (a detailed program list will be provided on the day). The festival offers a unique opportunity for food enthusiasts and nature lovers to experience Bhutan's untouched beauty. Explore the traditional Bhutanese villages, adorned with beautiful houses and temples, and immerse yourself in the distinctive culture of the valley. There are also plenty of hikes and treks in the area, and it is also the starting point for the Dagala Thousand Lake Treks. In the evening, we will drive back to Paro for your overnight stay. If time permits, you can relax or explore the charming sights of Paro town and its surroundings.

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)!