Altitude: 2280 m

Your guide from Wonder Bhutan will warmly welcome you upon your arrival at Paro International Airport. After a brief introduction, you’ll be driven a short distance to your hotel, where you can relax and freshen up.

Afternoon Activities:

1. Visit Ta Dzong (National Museum of Bhutan):

   • Explore this former watchtower, now housing an impressive collection of Bhutanese art, artifacts, and cultural relics.
   • Learn about Bhutan’s rich history and traditions through its exhibits.

2. Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong):

   • Built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, this majestic fortress-monastery is an architectural marvel.
   • Walk along the wooden bridge and admire the intricate designs and serene surroundings.

Evening Activity:

• Visit a Bhutanese Farmhouse:
  • Experience authentic Bhutanese rural life by visiting a traditional farmhouse.
  • Interact with the local family, and perhaps enjoy a warm cup of butter tea or ara (a traditional Bhutanese drink).

Dinner and Overnight:

• Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese meal at your hotel, followed by a restful overnight stay.

Bumdra Trek Itinerary

The day begins with an exciting drive to Sangchoekor Buddhist College, located in the scenic Paro Valley. This is the starting point of the trek, situated at an altitude of 2800 m.

Trek Details:

1. Morning Trek:

   • Begin your ascent from Sangchoekor. The uphill trail winds through peaceful forests and offers stunning views of the valley below.
   • After about 2 hours, you’ll pass Chhoe Tse Lhakhang, a serene spot for a brief rest and exploration.
   • Continue walking for another 1–2 hours to reach near the Bumdra Monastery, also known as the Cave of Thousand Prayers, at an altitude of 4000 m.

2. Afternoon Activities:

   • Enjoy lunch at the campsite with breathtaking mountain views.
   • Visit the Bumdra Monastery, a sacred site with a peaceful and spiritual ambiance.
   • For adventure seekers, there is an optional climb to a nearby peak at around 4000 m, which offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding Himalayan ranges. The return trek to the camp takes 2–3 hours.

3. Evening:

   • Relax at the campsite and soak in the serene atmosphere.

Dinner and Overnight:

• Enjoy a warm meal at the campsite and rest overnight under the stars, surrounded by the pristine beauty of the Bumdra region.

Hiking Duration:

• 3–4 hours to the camp from Sangchoekor.
• Optional 2–3 hours return trek to the peak.

Morning Trek:

• Begin your descent from Bumdra Camp, passing through dense forests and meadows with magnificent views of the Paro Valley.
• As you approach the Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang Lhakhang), pause to marvel at its stunning location perched on a cliffside. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche, the tantric mystic who brought Buddhism to Bhutan, meditated here after flying to the site on the back of a tigress.
• Continue descending to the base of the hill, where your vehicle will be waiting to transport you.

Hiking Duration:

• 5–7 hours from Bumdra to the base of Tiger’s Nest.
• Trek Difficulty Level: Easy

Afternoon Activities:

1. Drive to Drugyal Dzong:

   • Explore the ruins of this fortress built in 1647 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Once a strategic defense site, it offers breathtaking views of Mount Jomolhari on clear days.

2. Visit Kyichu Lhakhang:

   • Built in 659 A.D. by Tibetan King Srongtsen Gampo, this temple is one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred sites.
   • The serene atmosphere and ancient architecture make it a must-visit.

3. Drive to Thimphu:

   • En route, stop at Tamchog Monastery, constructed in the 15th century by the famous iron bridge builder, Thang Tong Gyalpo. The monastery and its suspension bridge provide a glimpse into Bhutan’s medieval engineering marvels.

Evening in Thimphu:

• Arrive in Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, and check into your hotel.
• Enjoy a delicious dinner and a restful overnight stay.

Altitude: 2334 m

Explore the cultural and spiritual heart of Bhutan’s capital city, Thimphu, with a day filled with iconic landmarks, traditional arts, and local experiences.

Morning Activities:

1. National Memorial Chorten (1974):

   • Built in memory of the third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, this chorten is a spiritual landmark where locals come to pray and spin prayer wheels.

2. Buddha Dordenma Statue:

   • Visit the world’s tallest sitting Buddha statue, towering at 51.5 meters.
   • Enjoy panoramic views of Thimphu Valley from this serene location.

3. Changangkha Lhakhang:

   • A 12th-century temple perched on a hill, offering blessings and spiritual significance for families with young children.

4. Takin Preserve Center:

   • Observe Bhutan’s national animal, the Takin, a unique goat-antelope found only in the Himalayan region.

5. Sangaygang Viewpoint:

   • Also known as “Lover’s Point,” this location provides a breathtaking view of Thimphu city, perfect for photography.

6. Dupthop Lhakhang:

   • One of Bhutan’s rare surviving nunneries, where you can learn about the spiritual lives of Bhutanese nuns.

Lunch:

• Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese meal at the Simply Bhutan Museum Restaurant, where you can also explore Bhutanese culture and lifestyle through interactive exhibits.

Afternoon Activities:

1. Painting School (School of 13 Arts and Crafts):

   • Witness students practicing zorig chusum, the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan, including painting, woodcarving, and embroidery.

2. Tashichho Dzong (Royal Secretariat):

   • This impressive fortress houses the king’s throne room and government offices. Visit in the evening to see it beautifully lit up.

Evening:

• Free Time in Thimphu Town:
  • Explore the local markets for unique Bhutanese souvenirs, including handmade crafts, textiles, and jewelry.
  • Enjoy photography opportunities or simply soak in the lively atmosphere.

Dinner and Overnight:

• Return to your hotel for a delicious dinner and a peaceful night’s rest.

Distance: 76 km | Drive Time: 3 hours | Altitude: 1242 m

The day’s journey takes you from Thimphu to the lush Punakha Valley, known for its warmer climate and fertile landscape. Along the way, you’ll experience some of Bhutan’s most iconic spiritual and cultural landmarks.

Morning Activities:

1. Drive to Punakha via Dochu La Pass:

   • Stop at Dochu La Pass (3100 m), a serene and scenic spot with 108 chortens (stupas) built to honor Bhutanese soldiers.
   • On clear days, enjoy spectacular views of the eastern Himalayas.

2. Visit Chimi Lhakhang:

   • Known as the Temple of Fertility, this sacred site was built in 1499 to honor Lama Drukpa Kuenley, the “Divine Madman” famous for his unorthodox teachings.
   • The temple is revered by couples seeking blessings for children.

Afternoon Activities:

1. Visit Punakha Dzong:
   • Built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, this magnificent fortress-monastery is considered one of Bhutan’s most beautiful dzongs.
   • Situated at the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers, it serves as the winter residence of the Je Khenpo (chief abbot) and hosts important ceremonies.

Evening Activities:

1. Drive to Yabesa Village and Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Monastery:
   • Enjoy a leisurely hike through rice fields and forests to reach this stunning monastery.
   • Perched on a ridge, the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Monastery offers panoramic views of the Punakha Valley and showcases intricate Bhutanese architecture and spiritual artistry.

Dinner and Overnight:

• Return to your hotel in Punakha for a delicious meal and a peaceful night’s rest.

Distance: 90 km | Drive Time: 3 hours

Today’s journey takes you back to Thimphu, with interesting stops along the way, including Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge and the historic Wangdue Phodrang Dzong.

Morning Activities:

1. Walk Across the Punakha Suspension Bridge:

   • Begin your day with a walk across the Punakha Suspension Bridge, the longest of its kind in Bhutan, stretching 160 meters across the Mo Chu River.
   • The bridge offers great views of the surrounding valley and is a fantastic photo opportunity.

2. Drive to Thimphu via Wangdue Phodrang:

   • As you make your way back to Thimphu, stop at Wangdue Phodrang, a small town known for its picturesque setting and historical significance.
   • Visit the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, built in 1638 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, to learn more about its importance in Bhutanese history.

Lunch at Dochula Cafeteria:

• Stop at the Dochula Cafeteria for a break and enjoy a meal while taking in the breathtaking views of the Himalayan range, particularly Mount Gangkar Puensum, Bhutan’s highest peak.

Afternoon Activities:

1. Visit the Postal Museum:

   • Head to the Postal Museum in Thimphu, where you can explore Bhutan’s postal history.
   • You can even create personalized stamps featuring your own designs or favorite images.

2. Witness an Archery Match at Changlimithang Stadium:

   • Experience the excitement of Bhutan’s national sport—archery—at the Changlimithang Stadium.
   • Archery matches are filled with energy and lively local participation, making for a fun and immersive experience.

Evening:

• Free Time in Thimphu:
  • Spend your free time strolling through Thimphu town, shopping for souvenirs like traditional textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts.
  • Capture the vibrant scenes of Bhutan’s capital with your camera, or simply soak in the local atmosphere.

Dinner and Overnight:

• Return to your hotel for a relaxing dinner and overnight stay, marking the end of another memorable day in Bhutan.

Distance: 54 km | Drive Time: 1 hour

On the final day of your journey, after a hearty breakfast, you’ll drive back to Paro for your departure.

Morning Activities:

• Enjoy the scenic drive back to Paro from Thimphu, reflecting on the incredible experiences you’ve had in Bhutan.
• Upon reaching Paro International Airport, your guide will assist you with check-in and bid you farewell.

End of Bumdra Trek and Bhutan Tour

• With unforgettable memories of Bhutan’s majestic landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality, your journey comes to a close. Safe travels and hope to welcome you back soon!