Cooking Tours in Bhutan

Cooking Tours in Bhutan

Takshang Monastery, Paro

This cooking tour will give you opportunities to all our visitors to learn our traditional cooking methods, local food varieties, food history and remedies. You will be astonished by the usage of organic products in almost all our dishes. Apart from that you get to cook ubiquitous staple called Ema Datse (chilli & cheese) can be killing hot for most of the visitors. You will experience how to cook on the fire stove. This itinerary is made for you to experience the authentic Bhutanese culture throughout your stay around the country till the center of Bhutan. It includes everything you want to know and experience the Bhutanese lifestyle and about the foods in Bhutan. For booking this trip, HBT will organize 10 days Bhutan cooking tours for you.

Day 01: Arrival in Paro to 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 of our King and Queen placed at chuzom which is so welcoming to all who visits Bhutan.  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 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 Kuensel Phodrang 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. 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. Weekend Market/Centenary Farmers Market– An interesting well organized permanent set of stalls built for vegetable vendors across the country. Its 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. After the sightseeing we will visit one of the HBT team’s family member’s houses where we will prepare dinner with them. Today’s menu will be the national dish Ema Datshi – Stew made of Chillies and Cheese. Datshi’ in the Bhutanese language of Dzongkha means ‘cheese’, which is what they use in a number of dishes and we will also make special tea of Bhutan called SUJA- Bhutanese Butter Tea. Overnight in Thimphu

Day 03: Thimphu to 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. 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. After lunch check into Chimi Lakhang Homestay in Punakha and prepar dinner with the family members of the homestay/farm stay and enjoy dinner with the local family. Today we will make mushroom datshi & Pasha Paa (dried pork strips). Overnight in Punakha, altitude 1350m.

Day 04:Punakha to Bumthang (7-8 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 Wangdue, 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 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. 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). At evening check into farm house. Since you will be tired today due to long journey so we will just interact with the family members of farmhouse and have dinner. Overnight in Bumthang, altitude 2600m.

Day 05: 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.  After lunch we will go back to the farm house. You can even have experience of milking the cow here. Today we will learn to make Puta noodles and Pancake which are the main delicacies of Bumthang made from buckwheat. Over Night in Bumthang.

Day 06: Bumthang to Phobjikha (6 hrs drive)
Starting early from Bumthang will give us more time on roads to enjoy some of the best view points and passes. The journey will pass through Yotongla, Trongsa, Chendebji and Pelala before arriving in Phobjikha the valley of Black Necked Cranes and rhododendron. 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. After lunch we will visit the cow farm and later help the homestay family members to prepare dinner. Today we can learn cooking Khewa Datshi (potatoes and cheese)-Khewa Datshi involves chillies with potatoes that are usually cut into thin slices and then cooked with cheese and butter & Jaju Soup-Traditional Bhutanese Soup, generally served along with other dishes as a side.It is made up of green leafy vegetables like local spinach, or even turnips. The broth is prepared with milk and butter. Overnight in Phobjikha, altitude 2900m

Day 07: Phobjikha to Haa (6 hrs drive)
As we say good bye to the Asian Switzerland, we will retrace the journey crossing Chuzom and further to Haa. Haa is one of the smallest Dzongkhag in the country.This tiny region is one of the most beautiful and isolated areas in the kingdom, adorned with pristine alpine forests and tranquil mountain peaks. There are many typical Bhutanese home stays and hikes/walks available besides having renowned temples. Dobji Dzong View Point: It is considered to be the first model Dzong in Bhutan. The Dzong was built in 1531 by Ngawang Chogyal, the brother of Chojie Drukpa kuenley, who is popularly known as the “Divine Madman”. Lhakhang Karpo– Lhakhang Karpo was established in the 7th century by Tibetan king Songtsen Gempo in his mission to build 108 monasteries in one day. He built Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo in the Haa Valley. According to locals, a black and white pigeon were released to select sites to build the temples. These two temples stand as the guardian sentinels keeping watch at the south entrance of the valley. Later we will explore local villages, visit their homes and meet the families and walk through the paddy fields. If visiting during early summer, you’ll be fascinated by the age old traditional methods used during rice plantation. Experience the joy and simplicity of farming life. In autumn you’ll be able to share the happiness of farmers over a bountiful harvest and truly experience Gross National Happiness. Hoentay is a traditional Buckwheat dumpling special to the valley of Haa. Today with the help of homestay family members, we will learn to make Hoentay as it is “must-try”. You can even ask the receipe for making Ara is the traditional alcoholic beverage in Bhutan. It is made by fermenting or distilling rice, wheat, maize, millet, barley or buckwheat and is usually creamy, whitish or clear in appearance. Overnight in Haa, altitude 2700m.

Day 08 : Haa to Paro (2 hrs drive)
After breakfast we will proceed the drive back to Paro via Chele La Pass. The entire stretch of drive will refresh your mind and give you second chance to enjoy the great snowcapped mountain views of Jumulhari Mt during clear day from Chelela. 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. 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. 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. 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. Check into the Gatana homestay. Today we will have dinner prepared by the client. You can make anything that you have learned so far while you were in Bhutan. Overnight in Paro, altitude 2200m

Day 09: 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. Check out from the farm house, keep the luggage in the vehicle and start your hike to tiger’s nest. Taktsang/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. Hot-stone Bath- Hot stone bath is very unique to Bhutan and offers great medicinal values. In most cases, the bathtub is made of wood placed on a ground level in quite hut for the privacy. A couple can get into one bathtub to soak. Enjoy the great ancient techniques of curing body ache, joins pain and harness many other values. This is on additional cost check with guide/driver. Check into the hotel near to the airport. Overnight in Paro

Day 10: End of the tour
Departure from the Kingdom of Bhutan

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