Spiritual Pilgrimage Tour

Spiritual Pilgrimage Tour of Bhutan

10-Day Spiritual Pilgrimage Tour of Bhutan

Day 1: Arrival in Paro

• Arrive at Paro International Airport.
• Meet your guide and transfer to your hotel.
• Relax and acclimate to the altitude.
• Visit Paro Rinpung Dzong for an introduction to Bhutanese architecture and spirituality.
• Overnight in Paro.

Day 2: Paro to Thimphu

• Drive to Thimphu (1.5-hour drive).
• Visit the Buddha Dordenma Statue, a significant spiritual site with panoramic views.
• Explore Tashichho Dzong, the seat of Bhutan’s government and a major spiritual center.
• Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha

• Drive to Punakha (2.5-hour drive) via the scenic Dochula Pass.
• Visit the Dochula Pass and its 108 chortens.
• Explore Punakha Dzong, a majestic fortress with rich spiritual heritage.
• Participate in a traditional Bhutanese prayer ceremony.
• Overnight in Punakha.

Day 4: Punakha to Trongsa

• Drive to Trongsa (3.5-hour drive), crossing the scenic Pele La Pass.
• Visit Trongsa Dzong, a key historical and spiritual site.
• Explore the Ta Dzong, the watchtower-turned-museum.
• Overnight in Trongsa.

Day 5: Trongsa to Bumthang

• Drive to Bumthang (2.5-hour drive).
• Visit Jakar Dzong and Kurje Lhakhang, significant pilgrimage sites.
• Explore Jambay Lhakhang and spend time reflecting in the serene Bumthang Valley.
• Overnight in Bumthang.

Day 6: Bumthang – Tang and Ura Valley Excursion

• Drive to Tang Valley (1-hour drive) and visit the Tang Monastery.
• Continue to Ura Valley (1.5-hour drive), known for its traditional villages and spiritual atmosphere.
• Visit Ura Monastery and explore the scenic valley.
• Return to Bumthang for the night.

Day 7: Bumthang to Gangtey

• Drive to Gangtey (4-hour drive) through the scenic landscapes.
• Visit Gangtey Monastery, an important center of Nyingma Buddhism.
• Explore the tranquil Phobjikha Valley, famous for its black-necked cranes and natural beauty.
• Overnight in Gangtey.

Day 8: Gangtey to Paro

• Drive back to Paro (6-hour drive).
• Spend the afternoon at leisure or visit any remaining sites in Paro.
• Overnight in Paro.

Day 9: Paro – Tiger’s Nest Monastery

• Early morning hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang). This sacred site offers breathtaking views and spiritual enrichment.
• Return to Paro for lunch.
• Explore Kyichu Lhakhang if time permits or enjoy a leisurely afternoon.
• Overnight in Paro.

Day 10: Departure

• Transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure.
• Farewell and onward journey.

Note: This itinerary provides a comprehensive spiritual journey through Bhutan, culminating with the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Travel times are approximate and may vary based on road conditions and personal preferences.

VALUE-ADDED OPTIONS

In addition to offering independent, flexible tour options, Bhutan Travel Bureau can also arrange a variety of “add on” options to provide a more in-depth experience of Bhutan. These include:

• Cooking lessons
• A farmhouse stay
• “Ara” (rice liquor) brewing lessons
• Monastery experience
• Evening dinner & culture show

Alternatively, you can awaken your senses with a range of wellbeing and spa retreats offering yoga, pilates, meditation, healing bodywork, hot stone baths and massage.