East to West Grand Bhutan Experience

Highlights

• Discover remote eastern Bhutan – explore the less-visited regions of Samdrup Jongkhar, Trashigang, Sakten and Lhuntse
• Experience Sakten Village – meet local villagers and discover their distinctive traditions, lifestyle and handicrafts
• Explore Bhutan’s textile heritage – visit Khoma, famous for its traditional handwoven textiles and Kishuthara fabrics
• Cross Thrimshingla Pass – travel through spectacular forests and mountain landscapes towards Bumthang
• Explore the sacred Bumthang Valley – visit Jambay Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang, Tamshing and other important Buddhist sites
• Visit historic Trongsa – discover Trongsa Dzong and the former watchtower museum
• Experience Gangtey & Phobjikha Valley – explore Gangtey Gompa and the beautiful glacial valley famous for black-necked cranes
• Discover Punakha – visit Chimi Lhakhang, Punakha Dzong, the suspension bridge and Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Temple
• Experience Thimphu & Haa Valley – discover Bhutan’s capital and the peaceful, remote Haa Valley
• Hike to Tiger’s Nest – complete your journey with Bhutan’s iconic Taktsang Monastery and an authentic farmhouse experience

Day by day

1. Day 1

   Arrival in Samdrup Jongkhar

   Gateway to Eastern Bhutan

   • Elevation 350 m
   • Distance 150 km
   • Drive approx. 3 hrs

   Upon arrival at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, India, you will be warmly welcomed by our Bhutanese team. Begin your overland journey towards Bhutan through the scenic countryside of Assam, passing expansive villages, tea plantations and lively local settlements.

   Continue towards Samdrup Jongkhar, one of Bhutan’s eastern gateways. After checking into your hotel, take some time to explore the town while your guide completes the necessary passport-stamping formalities. Enjoy your first evening in Bhutan and experience the relaxed atmosphere of this eastern border town. Overnight at hotel in Samdrup Jongkhar.

   

2. Day 2

   Samdrup Jongkhar – Trashigang

   Narphung • Khaling • Yongphula • Trashigang Dzong

   • Elevation 1,200 m
   • Distance 170 km
   • Drive approx. 5 hrs

   After breakfast, depart Samdrup Jongkhar and begin your scenic journey towards Trashigang, the largest district in eastern Bhutan. Cross the Narphungla Pass at 2,200 m and continue towards Narphung, known for its wild tea and local products. The road winds through traditional villages and dense forests before reaching Womrong, where you will stop for lunch and refreshments.

   Continue to the Khaling Weaving Center, where village women learn and practice Bhutan’s traditional weaving art. The journey then continues uphill towards Yangphula Pass and Yongphula Airport, followed by a descent towards Kanglung University and Trashigang.

   In Trashigang, visit the impressive 17th-century Trashigang Dzong, which serves as an important administrative and religious center. In the evening, stroll through Trashigang town and interact with the local people. Overnight at hotel in Trashigang.

   

3. Day 3

   Trashigang – Sakten Village

   Journey into a Remote Himalayan Community

   • Elevation 3,500 m
   • Distance 60 km
   • Drive approx. 2 hrs

   After an early breakfast, begin your journey towards the remote Sakten Village. The road takes you through spectacular mountain landscapes and traditional settlements. The journey is winding and rugged, but the scenery and cultural experience make the adventure worthwhile.

   As you approach Sakten, notice the distinctive culture, clothing and traditions of the local community. The village’s remote location has helped preserve its traditional way of life. Upon arrival, receive a warm welcome from the villagers and learn about their customs, farming practices, daily lifestyle and handicrafts. Spend time interacting with the community for an authentic insight into life in this remote Himalayan region. Overnight at farmhouse in Sakten.

   

4. Day 4

   Sakten – Trashigang – Mongar

   Monasteries, Villages & Mountain Landscapes

   • Elevation 1,200 m
   • Distance 150 km
   • Drive approx. 3 hrs

   After breakfast, retrace your journey towards Trashigang before continuing onward to Mongar. Along the way, visit Rangjung Monastery and village, followed by Gom Kora Monastery, an important sacred site featuring original paintings dating back to the 17th century.

   Continue through the eastern landscape with stops at Yedi Village and Korila Pass. From the pass, descend towards Mongar town. Upon arrival, visit Mongar Dzong, which houses district administrative offices and monastic residences. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll around Mongar town and experience the atmosphere of this eastern Bhutanese settlement. Overnight at hotel in Mongar.

   

5. Day 5

   Mongar – Khoma Village, Lhuntse

   The Textile Heritage of Khoma

   • Elevation 1,350 m
   • Distance 70 km
   • Drive approx. 2 hrs

   Today, travel towards Lhuntse, one of the most culturally distinctive regions of eastern Bhutan. The drive is spectacular, passing towering cliffs, winding rivers and vast stretches of coniferous forest.

   Lhuntse is renowned for its traditional culture, festivals and especially its beautiful handwoven textiles. The region is famous for Kishuthara, a highly valued textile traditionally worn during important cultural occasions. Continue directly to Khoma Village, where you will visit local farmhouses and observe the traditional weaving process.

   This is a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the skill and patience behind Bhutan’s traditional textile heritage and interact with local weavers. Overnight at farmhouse in Khoma.

6. Day 6

   Lhuntse – Yongkola

   Lhuntse Dzong • Takila • Guru Rinpoche Statue

   • Elevation 1,200 m
   • Distance 140 km
   • Drive approx. 3 hrs

   After breakfast, visit Lhuntse Dzong, dramatically positioned above deep valleys and the Kuri Chhu River. Explore some of the temples within this important eastern fortress.

   Continue towards Tangmachhu Village, followed by Takila, home to the impressive large statue of Guru Rinpoche. From Takila, continue through Lingmithang towards Yongkola, a region well known for its natural beauty and birdlife. In the evening, enjoy some time exploring the area or experiencing a relaxing birdwatching opportunity. Overnight at hotel in Yongkola.

   

7. Day 7

   Yongkola – Jakar, Bumthang

   Across Thrimshingla Pass to the Sacred Bumthang Valley

   • Elevation 2,500 m
   • Distance 170 km
   • Drive approx. 5 hrs

   Today brings one of the most scenic drives of the journey as you travel towards Bumthang. The route passes through dense forests, waterfalls, remote villages and dramatic mountain scenery. Continue through Sengor before ascending towards Thrimshingla Pass at 3,700 m.

   From the pass, enjoy spectacular mountain views before descending towards Ura Village. Stop to visit the village temple and take a short walk around this charming traditional settlement. Continue for approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes towards Jakar, the heart of Bumthang. Overnight at hotel in Jakar.

   

8. Day 8

   Explore Tang & Jakar Valleys

   Sacred Temples, Ancient Heritage & Burning Lake

   • Elevation 2,500 m
   • Distance 120 km
   • Drive approx. 3 hrs

   Today, explore the cultural and spiritual treasures of the Tang and Jakar valleys. Begin with Mebar Tsho, the Burning Lake, followed by Tang Rimochen Lhakhang, a sacred temple associated with the 8th-century Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo and important relics connected with Guru Rinpoche.

   Continue to the Ogyen Choling Museum, a beautifully preserved mansion offering insights into the lifestyle of Bhutanese aristocratic families and displaying historical household artifacts. Return towards Jakar to visit Jakar Dzong, also known as the Fortress of the White Bird.

   Continue to Jambay Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, followed by Kurjey Lhakhang, a sacred site where Guru Rinpoche is believed to have meditated. Cross the river to visit Tamshing Lhakhang, founded in 1501 by Terton Pema Lingpa. In the evening, walk around Chamkhar town and interact with local residents. Overnight at hotel in Jakar.

   

9. Day 9

   Jakar – Trongsa

   Yotongla Pass • Trongsa Dzong • Ta Dzong

   • Elevation 1,800 m
   • Distance 80 km
   • Drive approx. 2 hrs

   After breakfast, depart Bumthang towards Trongsa. En route, stop at Zugney Village, famous for textiles woven from yak hair and wool. Observe the weaving process and browse locally made products and souvenirs.

   Continue towards Yotongla Pass at 3,425 m, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Descend towards Trongsa and visit the magnificent Trongsa Dzong, an architectural masterpiece deeply connected with Bhutan’s history and former political importance.

   Continue to Ta Dzong, the former watchtower that has been converted into a museum displaying historical objects associated with the Wangchuck dynasty. Enjoy some free time to explore Trongsa town. Overnight at hotel in Trongsa.

   

10. Day 10

    Trongsa – Phobjikha / Gangtey

    Pelela Pass • Gangtey Gompa • Phobjikha Valley

    • Elevation 2,900 m
    • Distance 87 km
    • Drive approx. 3 hrs

    Continue your journey towards the spectacular Phobjikha Valley. En route, stop at Chendipji Stupa, a beautiful 19th-century structure with distinctive painted eyes. Continue through the villages of Chendepji, Rukupji and Langthel, with opportunities to meet local people, photograph traditional villages and observe yaks and their herders.

    Cross Pelela Pass at 3,425 m, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Black Mountain range and sample traditional dry yak cheese. Continue across Lawo La Pass towards Gangtey.

    Visit Gangtey Gompa, the largest Nyingmapa monastery in Bhutan, before hiking down into the beautiful glacial valley. During winter, Phobjikha is particularly famous as a seasonal habitat for the rare black-necked cranes. Overnight at hotel in Phobjikha/Gangtey.

    

11. Day 11

    Phobjikha – Wangdue – Punakha

    Chimi Lhakhang • Punakha Dzong • Suspension Bridge • Khamsum

    • Elevation 1,200 m
    • Distance 78 km
    • Drive approx. 2 hrs

    After breakfast, continue towards the fertile valleys of Wangdue and Punakha. Stop at Nobding Village, where local farmers and residents gather to sell agricultural products. Continue to Wangdue and visit Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, an important administrative and monastic center.

    At Lobesa, begin an approximately one-hour round-trip hike through the countryside to Chhimi Lhakhang, the famous temple associated with Lama Drukpa Kuenley, known as the Divine Madman. Continue north to magnificent Punakha Dzong, strategically located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.

    After exploring the dzong, cross the famous Punakha Suspension Bridge. Later, hike through rice fields to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Temple, beautifully positioned above the Punakha Valley. Overnight at hotel in Punakha.

    

12. Day 12

    Punakha – Thimphu

    Dochula Pass • Archery • Weekend Market • Tashichho Dzong

    • Elevation 2,300 m
    • Distance 70 km
    • Drive approx. 2 hrs

    After breakfast, leave Punakha and travel towards Thimphu, crossing the spectacular Dochula Pass at approximately 3,100 m. The pass is adorned with 108 stupas and offers beautiful views of the snow-capped Himalayan ranges when weather conditions are clear.

    Upon reaching Thimphu, visit Changlimithang Ground, where you may have the opportunity to witness a traditional Bhutanese archery match, the national sport. Continue to the weekend market, where local farmers and vendors sell fresh agricultural products.

    In the evening, visit the impressive Tashichho Dzong, followed by a stroll through the craft market to explore Bhutanese handicrafts and local products. Overnight at hotel in Thimphu.

    

13. Day 13

    Explore Thimphu

    Tango Monastery • Buddha Point • Memorial Chorten • Takin

    • Elevation 2,300 m

    After breakfast, drive approximately 45 minutes north to the Tango Buddhist Institute. From the base, begin the hike to Tango Gompa, taking approximately two hours round trip. The monastery was built in 1689 and today serves as one of Bhutan’s important centers of Buddhist learning.

    Return to Thimphu and continue sightseeing. Visit Buddha Point, home to the impressive Buddha Dordenma statue overlooking the capital. Continue to the National Memorial Chorten, built in memory of Bhutan’s Third King, followed by a visit to the preserve to see the takin, Bhutan’s national animal.

    In the evening, take a leisurely walk through the streets of Thimphu and interact with local people. Overnight at hotel in Thimphu.

    

14. Day 14

    Thimphu – Haa Valley

    Off-the-Beaten-Path Bhutan

    • Elevation 2,500 m
    • Distance 120 km
    • Drive approx. 3 hrs

    Today, leave the capital behind and travel towards the peaceful and remote Haa Valley. Opened to tourism only in 2002, Haa remains one of Bhutan’s least populated and least-visited regions. The valley provides an authentic glimpse into rural Bhutanese life, where agriculture and seasonal traditions remain central to everyday living.

    The road winds through deep valleys and traditional hamlets along the Haa Chu. Stop along the way to admire Dobji Dzong, a small fortress overlooking the valley. Upon arrival in Haa, visit Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo, two ancient and important temples of the valley.

    In the evening, stroll through Haa Katso village and explore Haa town. Overnight at hotel in Haa.

    

15. Day 15

    Haa – Chele La – Paro

    Bhutan’s Highest Motorable Pass & Kila Gompa

    • Elevation 2,300 m
    • Distance 70 km
    • Drive approx. 2 hrs

    Today, travel towards the spectacular Chele La Pass at 3,988 m, one of the highest motorable passes in Bhutan. Pause at the pass to admire the breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-covered Himalayan peaks and enjoy the high-altitude landscape.

    Continue with a short hike towards Kila Gompa Nunnery, situated at approximately 3,000 m. Meet the resident nuns, visit the temple and gain insight into their peaceful monastic lifestyle.

    Continue towards Dzongdrakha Village, beautifully positioned overlooking the Paro Valley and its rice fields. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing stroll around Paro town. Overnight at hotel in Paro.

    

16. Day 16

    Paro – Tiger’s Nest

    Taktsang Monastery • Farmhouse • Traditional Hot Stone Bath

    • Elevation 2,300 m
    • Distance 7 km
    • Drive approx. 20 min
    • Hike approx. 5 hrs

    Today is the grand finale of your Bhutan adventure—the legendary Tiger’s Nest, Taktsang Monastery. Begin your trek through beautiful pine forests, passing prayer wheels, colorful prayer flags, waterfalls and meditation caves as you climb towards the monastery dramatically perched on a cliff above the Paro Valley.

    According to Bhutanese Buddhist tradition, Guru Rinpoche arrived at this sacred location on the back of a tigress and meditated here. After exploring the monastery, enjoy lunch at a teahouse while taking in the magnificent surroundings. Begin the descent back to the valley, with further opportunities to enjoy the scenery.

    Later, visit a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse and experience a traditional hot stone bath, an important part of Bhutanese culture and hospitality. Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese dinner and, if desired, sample the locally produced spirit known as Ara. Overnight at hotel in Paro.

    

17. Day 17

    Departure from Paro

    Farewell Bhutan

    After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward flight.

    As you leave Bhutan, carry with you memories of remote Himalayan villages, sacred monasteries, magnificent dzongs, colorful traditions, warm local hospitality and the unforgettable journey from the eastern gateway to the legendary Tiger’s Nest. Tashi Delek!

    

Tour information

Tour Duration	16 Nights / 17 Days
Destinations	Samdrup Jongkhar • Trashigang • Sakten • Lhuntse • Mongar • Yongkola • Bumthang • Trongsa • Phobjikha • Punakha • Thimphu • Haa • Paro
Maximum Altitude	3,988 m / 13,083 ft – Chele La Pass
Other High Passes	Thrimshingla 3,700 m • Yotongla 3,425 m • Pelela 3,425 m • Dochula 3,100 m
Meals	Full Board – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation	3-Star Hotels • Farmhouses as specified
Transportation	Private vehicle throughout the journey
Tour Type	Cultural • Scenic • Spiritual • Nature • Hiking • Community Experience
Main Hiking Experiences	Sakten • Gangtey • Chhimi Lhakhang • Khamsum Yulley • Tango Monastery • Kila Gompa • Tiger’s Nest
Best Season	Spring and Autumn are generally ideal for this journey

Note: This itinerary is a general guide and can be customized according to the season, your interests, group size, preferred accommodation and duration of the tour.

Frequently asked questions

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