Rise early, feeling refreshed after the ceremonies and blessings of the previous evening, and travel to the iconic Buddha Dordenma statue standing at the top of a hill in the Kuenselphodrong Nature Park. Witness the grandness of the figure and learn its history in fulfilling an ancient prophesy to bestow blessings, happiness and peace upon the world. Then, feeling the need for speed, hop in the car and travel roughly two hours along black, ribbon-like roads to the riverside town of Punakha, where you can get the adrenaline pumping with a river-rafting adventure, before winding down with a picnic lunch set up on the banks of the river.
After lunch, soak up the culture and history of the region with a Bhutanese architect-guided tour through Punakha Dzong, the majestic fortress constructed between the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers in the 1600s. After the day’s activities, drive to the boutique-style Dhensa Boutique Resort, located in the lush Punakha Valley. Spend the afternoon at leisure, taking in the spectacular vistas, loosening up with some calming yoga poses or a relaxing meditation.
Your day will begin with a unique experience – partaking in the widely celebrated Talo Tsechu festival, a three-day commemoration for the birth of The Second Buddha. Watch as locals dressed in traditional attire, including the highly recognisable masks, dance and sing to celebrate and showcase the cultural significance of this special time.
Say goodbye to the riverside town and drive yourself for two thrilling hours along the steep and winding roads until you reach Phobjikha – a sprawling valley home to the awe-inspiring and sacred Gangtey Monastery. Feel the divine energy encompass you as you wander through this significant landmark before heading down to Gangtey Lodge, your five-star resort home for this leg of your journey. With stunning and sweeping views as your backdrop, enjoy lunch and then learn the ancient art of archery from a national champion and engage in an exciting match at the end of your training.
Take your time weaving and bending with the thin roads, testing your car on your journey back to the hotel.
Rise early to make the most of your day, kicking off with an adventurous six-hour drive, complete with hairpin turns and steep cliffsides to the historic region of Bumthang. Along the way, stop in Trongsa to uncover the monumental Trongsa Dzong fortress, recognised as the largest of its kind in Bhutan where it stands overlooking the gaping gorge of the Mangdi Chuu River.
Continue to the picturesque Chumey Village in Bumthang, where a picnic lunch of local delicacies will be served. After lunch, you will have the option to ride on horseback through the village and explore as the locals do. Spend your evening at the gorgeous, family-run Mountain Lodge, taking advantage of the healing baths or hiking through the exquisite landscape.
Optional Activity:
- Horseback ride through Chumey Village (charges apply)
This morning you will experience a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual pilgrimage through various monasteries peppered along the untouched streets of Bumthang, before undertaking a wonderfully treacherous 90-minute drive into the rolling landscape of the Tang Valley. The lush greenery and traditional houses bring a sense of unique tranquillity along the adrenaline-fuelled roads. Indulge in a mouthwatering lunch at one of the village’s most popular restaurants, before taking a guided tour with an acclaimed historian through the Ogyen Choling Museum. Return to the luxuries of your hotel and spend the rest of the evening at leisure.
Today you will say goodbye to the beautiful village of Bumthang, board a 30-minute flight to Paro, along with your vehicle, and witness the incredible scenery of Bhutan from the sky. Once you land in Paro drive the long stretches of mountainous road to the stunning five-star Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary, boasting unparalleled luxury and views. Sit back and relax as you receive a specialty-crafted herbal treatment and consultation at the resort, before choosing to spend the rest of the day as you wish. Choose to continue exploring the mountainous landscape or rejuvenate in the lavish resort spa (additional cost), and ensure you have a well-rested evening to prepare you for tomorrow’s adventures.
The last full day of your tour boasts arguably the most special experience you will have throughout your travels. Today, you will have the honour of hiking the sacred mountain trails to a place where nature and religion coexist in wonderous unison – the ancient Tiger’s Nest monastery. Hike towards the collection of ancient buildings perched cliffside, 900 metres off the ground. Soak up the extraordinary views and learn the rich legend of Guru Rinpoche’s meditation to ward off ancient threats. Enjoy your final mountainside picnic lunch, before returning to the hotel for a second herbal consultation and treatment.
Ensure you wake up early this morning to witness the final sunrise over Paro, before making your way to Paro International Airport (PBH) for your onward journey.