Bhutan Remote Village Safari

Bhutan Remote Village Safari

Black Necked Crane, Phobjikha Valley, Wangdue

Bhutan, the land of the Thunder Dragon is the popular destination for international tourists. It is the last remaining Buddhist Kingdom in the world. Small yet the happiest country in Asia with unique traditions and culture attract the tourists to explore its happiness secrets. Amazing mountainous landscape, unique Buddhist architecture, religious festivals and delightful and loving people always welcome you to this wonderful place. To experience all of these, book HBTs 20 days Bhutan Remote Village Safari, you will be amazed by beautiful countryside that we take you across. Bhutan Remote Village Safari. 

Day 01: Arrival in Paro- Thimphu (1.5 hrs drive)
Fly on the wings of the Dragon to Bhutan, on arrival in Paro International Airport, complete the immigration formalities and exit through only one arrival gate where HBT dedicated team who will be holding placard, no one will be missed. We welcome with khaddar and proceed to Thimphu which will take about an hour and half. The route will follow Paro River until Chuzom from where we will bend towards Thimphu river taking us to the heart of capital city Thimphu. The entire stretch of drives is very scenic and picturesque as we pass by some of the beautiful villages of Bondey, Shaba, Isina etc until we enter welcome gate in Thimphu. Tachongang Lhakhang- En-route to Thimphu, stopover for little leg stretch walk crossing Paro River or enjoy the views from the roadside depending your arrival time. Chuzom- Meeting point of two rivers (Thimphu & Paro) this is tri junction of highway leading to Thimphu, Paro and Phuentsholing into three directions. Enjoy the lovely picture of beautiful portrait our King and Queen placed at chuzom which is so welcoming to all who visits Bhutan.  Overnight in Thimphu, altitude 2400m

Day 02: Thimphu Sightseeing
Thimphu- This bustling little city is the main centre of commerce, religion and government in the country. Thimphu is the most modern city with an abundance of restaurants, internet cafes, nightclubs and shopping centers. However it still retains its cultural identity and values amidst the signs of modernization, often referred as world only city without traffic lights. Buddha Dordenma- The Buddha Dordenma is located at a top of the hill in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park and overlooks the southern entrance to Thimphu valley. The Buddha Dordenma is a gigantic 51.5-meter tall statue, making it one of the largest statues of Buddha in the world. Arts and Crafts Vocational School- Arts and Craft School is where student learn 13 different techniques to master in Bhutanese Arts. Some of the skills required eight years to graduate. You can see live carving, painting, sculpture etc. You are allowed to take the pictures/make video. Products made by students are on display at the showroom for sales as well. The school is closed in July and December to February, beside their exams and events. Folk Heritage Museum-This museum was established in 2001 and provides visitors with fascinating insights into the Bhutanese material culture and way of life, especially the life of Bhutanese in remote parts of Bhutan. Authentic Bhutanese Crafts Bazaar- Bhutan’s first ever craft bazaar showcases wide range of authentic Bhutan-made arts and craft products with reasonable price range. Handicraft Emporium- Realizing the importance of socio-economic growth, handicraft emporium was set up with the command of His Majesty 3^rd King, this was the first step to showcase the authentic Bhutanese handicraft products in Bhutan. You can still find some of the fine products available here at reasonable cost. Witnessing Archery Match- Archery is the national game of Bhutan, it is amazing to see Bhutanese archers hitting target from a distance of 145 meters range. Bhutan has top archers on some categories on Olympic games. Weekend Market/Centenary Farmers Market– An interesting well organized permanent set of stalls built for vegetable vendors across the country. It is open from Wednesday to Monday and closed on Tuesdays. One can find wide range of local vegetables and fruits. Other side of the river is place for indigenous goods and handicrafts section, where locally produced goods, including religious objects, cloth, baskets and hats etc from various minority groups are sold here. These shops are open from Friday to Sunday only. Clock Tower Square- Situated in the heart of town, Clock Tower Square is a popular venue for open ground events such as cultural festivals, concerts, fund- raising events, live shows and trade fairs. The place is bounded by shops, cafes, souvenir shops and restaurants, making it one of the main attractions in the Thimphu town. Overnight in Thimphu

Day 03: Thimphu- Punakha (2 hrs drive)
Start the most scenic drive to Punakha from Thimphu over dochula pass which takes about two hours.  After the break at Dochula, the road descends into Wangdue and Punakha taking us to one of the warmest places of Bhutan. Dochula Pass- The pass is at a popular location as it offers a stunning 180 degree panoramic view of the Great Himalayan mountain ranges. The view is especially scenic and very clear on winter days with snowcapped mountains forming a majestic backdrop to the tranquility of the 108 chortens gracing the mountain pass. Lamperi Botanical Park- The park has many varieties of plants, herbs, birds and animals. This park is one of the must visit place for birds and nature lovers. You may enjoy the hot packed lunch here if you had planned picnic. Chimi Lhakhang- This temple is known as the temple of fertility. It is widely believed that childless couples can visit this temple to pray for better fertility to conceive the child. There are stories and incidences that many visitors dream came true however one must truly need to believe and follow the lama’s instruction. The hike though the lovely villages of Mesina gives truly amazing experience. Enjoy the gentle walks from the road head. Overnight in Punakha, altitude 1350m

Day 04: Punakha Sightseeing
Punakha is often referred as second capital having best Dzongs in Bhutan. Punakha has the perfect place to awaken the nature lover, take in the splendid views of the Himalayas, listen to the sounds of the Mo Chhu and Po Chhu rivers that simply soak up the serene beauty of this gorgeous valley. Khamsum Yulay Namgyal Lhakhang- The temple stands majestically on a strategic ridge above the Punakha valley. It is a splendid example of Bhutan’s fine architectural and artistic talent. The hike to the temple is about 45 minutes one way uphill. It offers amazing views of Punakha valley and Mochu river. Punakha Dzong- Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the Dzong was named Druk Pungthang Dechen Phodrang (Palace of Great Happiness). Punakha is still the winter residence of Je-Khenpo religious head of Bhutan. King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck convened the first National Assembly here in 1952.  This is one of the finest and must see Dzongs of Bhutan. The Dzong stands in between meeting point of two rivers, Phochu and Mochu making the most photogenic Dzongs of Bhutan. Punakha Suspension Bridge- Punakha suspension bridge is considered one of the longest of its kind in Bhutan. The bridge connects the dzong with the villages Shengana, Samdingkha and Wangkha on the other bank of the Po Chhu river. In these small villages, locals sell their wares in tiny, traditional shops. Visitors can stop here for a quick and authentic view of true Bhutan.  The suspension bridge is only about 15 minutes’ walk from Punakha Dzong. Overnight in Punakha

Day 05: Punakha- Phobjikha (3 hrs drive)
The road to Phobjikha passes through old town of Wangdue taking us through the black mountain region into Gangtey. The drive also passes through some of the most beautiful forests, water fall, hills, river and villages and Pelela pass before stepping into Phobjikha. Enjoy the most scenic and adventurous drive today with HBT. Gangtey Gompa- The temple built over hill top, headed by Gangtey Tulku the reincarnation of Pema Lingpa. Annual festival of Gangtey is performed in the temple courtyard every year. This is also the place for black necked crane’s festival held every year on 11-Nov, coinciding with His Majesty’s Fourth King’s Birthday. Gangtey Nature Trail- It is a short and relatively easy trek with several beautiful villages and monasteries en route. It offers beautiful views of the country with mostly gentle, forested slopes. All-time best trail and it takes approx. 2 hours, the trails ends at the road next to Khewang Lhakhang. Black Necked Crane Information Centre- This place is run by the Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN) and has an observation room with high-power telescopes and good scope for spotting the famous Black Necked Cranes which migrates to the region during winter. It also displays information about the history of the region. Overnight in Phobjikha, altitude 2900m

Day 06: Phobjikha- Bumthang (3 hrs drive)
The drive though newly constructed road is quite smooth however some of the stretch are still under maintenance.  The drive will pass through abundant natural beauty, spectacular landscapes, rich flora and fauna, breath taking hills and snow capped mountains and iconic Buddhist monasteries. Enjoy the drive through a region of diverse people with unique dialects, dress, food and lifestyle. Today we will be crossing Trongsa and over two passes up until we reach Bumthang. Chendebji Chorten– Located at 2430m, built in the style of the great Bodhanath Temple of Nepal, was constructed by Tshering Wangchuk son of Yon-Say and the Mahasiddha Zhidag in accordance with the prophecy of the second Gangteng Tulku Tenzin Lekpai Dhundrup in order to subdue harmful demons. Trongsa- This district falls at the centre of Bhutan and was considered crucial in controlling the kingdom in ancient history due to its strategic position of the district and particularly Trongsa Dzong. Trongsa Dzong- This is the largest Dzong (fortress) in Bhutan, located in the centre of the country. The Dzong is beautifully built on a spur overlooking the gorge of the Mangde Chhu River. The Dzong played very crucial role in the ancient history in protecting Bhutan and its sovereignty. The ruler of Trongsa Dzong was the most powerful leader to form Wangchuk Dynasty in the Kingdom of Bhutan. Trongsa Ta Dzong (Museum)- The watch tower was built in 1652 by first Governor of Trongsa. This was built to oversee and safeguard the Trongsa Dzong from any invading forces. Today it houses the Royal Heritage museum. The displays in the museum focused on Buddhist art and Royal memorabilia. Yotongla Pass- The pass divides Trongsa and Bumthang districts. This is one of the highest motor-able road pass at the height of 3460m. The pass is covered with mist and prayer flags most of the time. It is worth for a stop for photo break. Yatha Wool Weaving Center- This center is well known for woolen products, most of the yatha products are made from yak hair, sheep wool and other animal’s wool. This is the best place for buying woolen products like (jackets, caps, purse, muffler etc) Overnight in Bumthang, altitude 2600m

Day 07: Bumthang Sightseeing
Bumthang is the religious heartland of the nation and home to some of its oldest Buddhist temples and monasteries.  It is famous for its brightly coloured distinctive woolen item called Yathra and district formed by four valleys. Jakar Dzong or the “Castle of the White Bird”- Dominates the Chamkhar valley and overlooks the town, 3km 1.2 miles away from Chamkhar town. Jampay Lhakhang- One of the oldest temples built in the country. This is the home of the naked dance that is still performed annually. It is believed that the temple is built in 7^th century by Songtsen Gonpo of Tibet. Kurjey Lhakhang- The site where Guru Padmasambhava left the body imprint on the rock behind the temple. Visit for its artistic works and amazing structure. Kharchu Dratsang Monastery- This is an amazing experience to see monks chanting the mantras. The monastery has become part of an extensive effort to preserve and revitalize Bhutanese culture and heritage. Tamzing Lhakhang- Tamshing Lhakhang, founded in 1501 by Pema Lingpa, contains paintings of fundamental interest for the history of painting in this region. Is also one of the oldest temples in the valley. Swiss Cheese Farm & Red Panda Brewery- The Swiss Farm is established by Mr. Fritz Maurer.  The project introduced brewing, farming machinery and fuel-efficient, smokeless wood stoves to the valley, as well as its first tourist guesthouse in Bumthang. Swiss cheese and Bhutan’s only native beer, Red Panda, is brewed here. Fees applicable. Overnight in Bumthang

Day 08: Bumthang- Tingtibi (5.5 hrs drive)
Drive towardsTingtibi. Tingtibi is recognized as a potential area for bird watching because of large number of native bird species found there. Bird Watching in Tingtibi– Some of the birds seen are it serves as nice habitat for Rufous-necked and Great Hornbills, varieties of Cool Laughing Thrushes, Cutias, Scarlet Minivets, Pin-tailed Green Pigeons, Woodpeckers, Chestnut-headed, Grey-bellied Tesias, Spotted Wren Babblers, etc. Overnight in Tingtibi

Day 09: Tingtibi- Manas (5 hrs drive)
Enjoy the scenic drive towards Manas. Royal Manas was designated a wildlife sanctuary in 1966 making it Bhutan’s oldest protected area. The area was upgraded to a National Park in 1993.Manas is also extremely rich in wildlife species & more than 365 species of birds have been officially recorded in Royal Manas National Park with an additional 200 believed to be in residence. Many of the park’s more than 900 types of plants have commercial, medicinal, traditional and religious significance. Duenmang Tshachu/hot spring- This healing spring is famous for curing joint pains, sinusitis, gastric, rheumatism and tuberculosis. It takes 45 min- 1 hour to reach the tshachu from the road. Overnight in Manas

Day 10: Manas Sightseeing
Bhutan’s Crown Jewel, the Manas National Park represents the largest example of tropical and sub-tropical ecosystems in Bhutan. This park offers thousands of animal and plant species, many of which are globally endangered, it is not only the most diverse protected area in the Kingdom but also noted as one of the world’s biologically outstanding parks. River Rafting: It can be done throughout the year and they offer multiple levels of difficulty to choose from. Elephant Safari: The elephant will take you uphill to scenic view point from where you can see Indian plateau and Manas river meanders. Bird Watching: More than 365 species of birds have been officially recorded in Royal Manas National Park with an additional 200 believed to be in residence. Overnight in Manas.

Day 11: Manas Sightseeing
Bjoka village is considered as one of the remotest village in Zhemgang. The village is popular for cane and bamboo handicrafts. It is one and half hour drive from Royal Manas Park through giant bamboo trees and waterfall. Explore Bjokha Village– The place is well known for cane and bamboo products which i the main income for the villagers. The products made are wine container, baskets, matted bamboo carpets and other cane products. They offer a true setting of countryside life in Bhutan. Overnight in Manas

Day 12: Manas- Gelephu (3.5 hrs drive)
Enjoy the scenic drive towards Gelephu. Gelephu comprise of sub-tropical broadleaved forest. Road side bird watching is possible along the route in the forest. Farm House Visit- To reach this village, you need to drive for 4 hour from Sarpang. This experience is a particularly fun and spontaneous way to connect with the local community of Southern valley and learn about their culture and way of living. Overnight in Gelephu, altitude 450m

Day 13: Gelephu- Tsirang (3 hrs drive)
Start the drive towards Tsirang after completing the sightseeing in Gelephu. Tsirang is noted for its gentle slopes and mild climates. The dzongkhag is also noted for its rich biodiversity; however, it is one of the few dzongkhags without a protected area. Tsirang is one of the fastest developing dzongkhags in Bhutan. Norbugang Guru Nye- One needs to hike for 1.5 hrs to reach this holy place. This is a very sacred nye of Guru where he meditated during his first visit to Bhutan. This nye was founded by one of the local people of Norbugang when he was meditating there for 7 days. One can see the footprints & hat print of Guru. If interested, once can offer butter lamps, lit the incense, offer white scarf (khader) and can do meditation in the cave. Bird watching & Wild Life– Along the route, you will get the chances to sight some birds like horn bill, white crested laughing thrush, and animals like deer, wild boar and langurs. Overnight in Tsirang, altitude 2000m

Day 14: Tsirang Sightseeing
Tsirang District is located in the southwestern part of Bhutan on the Wangdue-Gelephu highway. Tsirang is noted for its gentle slopes and mild climates. The dzongkhag is also noted for its rich biodiversity; however, it is one of the few dzongkhags without a protected area. Tsirang is one of the fastest developing dzongkhags in Bhutan. Explore villages of Tsirang– Today we will explore the beautiful valley and meet with the farmers. Start the day to explore the authentic villages of Tsirang. We will start our journey by exploring Chachey village, Tsirang toe, Sergithang. We will have lunch in the beautiful valley of Serithang and continue our village trip to Burichu Doban and back to Tsirang. Overnight in Tsirang

Day 15: Tsirang- Dagana (2 hrs drive)
Start the journey towards Dagana. Dagana is a verdant region and over 80% of the district is under forest cover. Located below the major valleys of Thimphu and Wangdue Phodrang, Dagana stretches all the way down to the southern border of the kingdom. Dagana is home to many Buddhist monasteries. Daga Trashiyantse Dzong– Located in Dagana, the Dagana Dzong is the headquarters for district administration and houses the clergy. It was established in 1651 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, the first man to unify Bhutan. Hike around the valley- One can hike around and explore the valley. You can also go to see famous Dagana megalith, the giant stone slab which is believed to stand in the same altitude as the fortress main tower on opposite hill. Overnight in Dagana, altitude 1320m

Day 16: Dagana- Thimphu (7.5 hrs drive)
The route from Dagana to Thimphu is very scenic. Once will come across the tunnel and largest hydro power project which is under construction. Further drive to Dochula pass and to Thimphu- This bustling little city is the main centre of commerce, religion and government in the country. Thimphu is the most modern city with an abundance of restaurants, internet cafes, nightclubs and shopping centers. However it still retains its cultural identity and values amidst the signs of modernization, often referred as world only city without traffic lights. Explore Thimphu City- If time permits, walking through the city gives you immense joys and understanding of modern city. Good option for imported garments and local souvenir, beside unique local handicrafts. Thimphu offers mixed style of personalities taking the street walk in Thimphu- only city in the world without traffic lights. Overnight in Thimphu, altitude 2400m

Day 17: Thimphu- Paro (1.5 hrs drive)
As we proceed to Paro, we will retrace the journey crossing Chuzom and further to Paro. The entire stretch of drive will refresh your mind and give you second chance to enjoy smooth and most scenic drive to Paro. Paro Airport Bird’s Eye View Point- The Paro international airport is among the top 10 most stunning and challenging airports in the world. The view point offers an exquisite view of the Paro valley. Rinpung Dzong- ‘Fortress on a Heap of Jewels’, is ranked one of the best Bhutanese architecture. The massive buttressed walls that tower over the town are visible throughout the valley, particularly when landing at Paro Airport.  The Dzong also offers administrative seat of the district of Paro. The Dzong was built in 1644 under the order of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. National Museum of Paro- Perched above Paro Dzong it was watchtower built in 1649 to protect the undefended Paro Dzong located below, renovated in 1968 to house the National Museum. Today this museum houses the best collections of all time historical items making worth for a visit. Overnight in Paro, altitude 2200m

Day 18: Paro Sightseeing
Home to Bhutan’s only international airport. Paro is also one of the most fertile valleys in the Kingdom producing a bulk of the locally famous red rice from its terraced fields. Blessed with beautiful weathers throughout the year and world famous and most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage Taktsang is located in Paro. Chele La Pass- Highest motor-able road pass connecting two districts Paro and Haa, an elevation of 3988m above the sea level. On clear days, one can enjoy view of the most sacred Mt. Jomolhari (7314m). The pass is dotted with beautiful prayer flags and offers amazing walks around, worth a visit while in Bhutan. You can also plan to ride mountain biking from Pass to Paro valley with the stretch of 36-48km, mostly downhill and easy ride. Dzongdrakha Goemba- Temple is situated on the western region of Paro Valley on the Cliffside and often referred as “Mini Taktsang” of Bhutan. Tucked in a cliff above Bondey village, visit to temple offers pictorial hikes and one of the must visit places in Paro for inquisitive guests while in Paro. Paro Town- Tiny Paro town actually can offer lot more, there are many authentic handicraft shops, readily available Bhutan made products, grocery and imported garment shops beside having many small restaurants around. Overnight in Paro, altitude 2200m

Day 19: Paro Sightseeing
This picturesque region in the kingdom is covered in fertile rice fields and has a beautiful, crystalline river meandering down the valley. Paro has more of historical sites, high-end tourist resort and many souvenir shops for shopping including world famous Takstang. Taktsang Gompa/Tiger’s Nest Temple– is Bhutan’s most iconic landmark and religious Buddhist site in the world. The name Taktsang translates to “The Tiger’s Nest”. The temple is one of the holiest sites in Bhutan which clings impossibly to a sheer cliff face 900 meters above the valley. Although good trekkers can make it to the top in two hours, most of the guests take whole day to complete the hike. Outdoor Activities- Nicely made and well maintained activity place attached to whole sell Buddha statue store, offers wearing Bhutanese dress, playing archery and darts for guests visiting Bhutan. The center is maintained and operated by HBT herself and its free of cost for all HBT guests. Overnight in Paro

Day 20: End of the Tour
Departure from the Kingdom of Bhutan

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