Bhutan West East Traverse Tour
- 14
days
The Bhutan West East Traverse Tour is a complete package for exploring the entire kingdom of Bhutan. The 14 days of this tour is an incredible journey that takes you to the major tourist destinations across the ‘Land of Thunder Dragon’, Bhutan. The Eastern and Western Bhutan Tour provides you once in a lifetime opportunity to behold the Bhutanese lifestyle closely and learn about the divine Vajrayana Buddhist culture.
The Bhutan Wes East Traverse Tour is specially designed to give you a real taste of rural Bhutan. The particular itinerary offers you an exceptional chance to witness the magnificent natural canopies and unleash the historic folklores of Bhutan, all at the same time with sightseeing in Trashigang, Bumthang, Punakha, and Thimphu. This Bhutan tour package begins from Guwahati, India, and takes you right across Bhutan's major towns and hubs, extending from East to West. The Bhutan Wes East Traverse Tour is just the right one to discover the treasures of the fascinating Kingdom of Bhutan.
The trip's price depends on the type of services chosen by our clients and the group size. The cost of each trip we organize is different because we see travelers as individuals having their own particular needs and preferences.
Get ready for an incredible journey tailored to your interests and preferences, whether you're looking for a budget-friendly adventure or a luxurious getaway. Leave the planning to us as we take care of all the details, ensuring your dream trip becomes a reality. You can relax and focus on creating unforgettable memories that will stay with you forever.
Cheejun Chu
|
October 27, 2019
Adriano Pereira
|
October 10, 2019
Anton Petro
|
September 16, 2019
| Day | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Guwahati to Samdrup Jongkhar - 3 to 4 hours (104km) drive |
| Day 2 | Samdrup Jongkhar to Trashigang - 5 to 6 hours (170km) drive |
| Day 3 | Sightseeing in Trashigang |
| Day 4 | Trashigang to Mongar - 2 to 3 hours (74km) drive |
| Day 5 | Drive from Mongar to Khoma and Drive to Autsho - 3 to 4 hours (103km) drive |
| Day 6 | Autsho to Bumthang - 6 to 7 hours (193km) drive |
| Day 7 | Sightseeing in Bumthang |
| Day 8 | Bumthang to Punakha - 6 to 7 hours (217km) drive |
| Day 9 | Sightseeing in Punakha |
| Day 10 | Punakha to Thimphu - 2 to 3 hours (85km) drive |
| Day 11 | Sightseeing in Thimphu |
| Day 12 | Thimphu to Paro and Sightseeing in Paro - 1:30 hours (55km) drive |
| Day 13 | Hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery (3180m/1043ft) - 5 to 6 hours hike |
| Day 14 | Final Departure from Paro |
Bhutan Wes East Traverse Tour takes you on an enthralling journey across Bhutan's eastern and western pockets. This tour is just the right one for exploring the wilderness of the remote untouched parts of Bhutan and not missing out on the country's major tourist hubs. Regarded as the happiest country in South Asia, Bhutan is a unique travel destination of the world. Venture into the country with astounding natural vistas, enticing Mountains, and rich culture.
The Western and Eastern Bhutan Transverse Tour commences from Guwahati, the largest city in Assam, India. Soak up the spectacular countryside and alpine scenery as you head to Samdrup Jongkhar, Bhutan. Walk around the town and learn more about the ‘Last of the Himalayan Kingdom,’ Bhutan, and its happy way of life.
Enjoy a scenic drive to Trashigang with quick side visits to Narphung, Wamrong, Khaling, and Kanglung. Visit the Rangjung Monastery founded by legendary Guru Rinpoche in 1989. Explore the villages of Radhi and Phongmey. Both the villages are beautifully carpeted by green rice fields and recognized for their unique textile weavings.
Proceed to Mongar with a drive through the stunning road on the pristine blue Gamri River bank. Cross one of the major high passes of Bhutan, Kori La Pass. Mongar is one of the ancient educational hubs of Bhutan. Take a walk around the town of Mongar and explore the local markets.
Relish the serene surrounding and feel the calming breeze in Lhuentse. Witness a typical rural Bhutan setting and experience the remote lives of the Bhutanese people. Discover some exotic weavings of raw silk known as ‘Kishuthara’ in Khoma.
Head to central Bhutan on the sixth day of the trip. The road from Autsho to Bumthang passes through some tranquil villages delightfully decorated by green fields with the majestic backdrop of Bhutan’s evergreen mountains. On the way, stop at the second highest pass of Bhutan, Thrumshing La Pass, and witness Bhutan's glorious peaks. Relishing the picturesque view, sit down for a delicious picnic lunch.
Enjoy an entire day of sightseeing in the most historic district of Bhutan, Bumthang. Bumthang is home to beautiful valleys carpeted by beautiful fields and accented by Bhutan's oldest and famous temples. Find out the real reason why Bumthang is considered as the ‘Spiritual Heartland of Bhutan’ as you visit the legendary Jakar Dzong, Kurjey Lhakhang, Jambay Lhakhang, and Tamshing Lhakhang.
Proceed to mesmerizing Western Bhutan, which encompasses some eminent mountains and marvelous valleys of Bhutan. Enter the former capital city of Bhutan, Punakha. Pay a visit to Trongsa Dzong, which is an iconic landmark of notable Bhutanese architecture. The next day you can treat yourself to memorable sightseeing in Punakha.
Visit the second built dzong of Bhutan, Punakha dzong. The beautiful white dzong falls among the top choice Buddhist monasteries in Bhutan. Regarded as the official monk body's winter residence, the view of Punakha dzong surrounded by purple jacaranda trees paints a surreal picture near to perfection.
Explore the ancient treasures and religious legends of Chimi Lhakhang. Popularly known as the ‘Divine Madman’s Temple,’ Chimi Lhakhang is one of the venerable places of worship in Bhutan and is acclaimed as the temple of fertility in the Bhutanese communities. Overlook the resplendent Punakha valley residing in utmost serenity from the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten.
Enjoy a scenic ride to the capital city of Thimphu stretched artistically along the dazzling Wang Chhu river. En route, stop at the Dochula pass, which offers you jaw-dropping views of some mighty Himalayas of Bhutan. Visit the 108 Memorial Chortens and Druk Wangyal Lhakhang situated atop the pass. See for yourself two major tourist attractions of Bhutan, namely National Memorial Chorten and Buddha Point.
Explore different forms of authentic Bhutanese paintings, weavings, and sculptures at the School of Arts. Discover traditional medicinal herbs and plants exclusively sampled at the National Institute of Medicine residing on top of a hill. Observe the national animal of Bhutan, Takin, with a visit to the Motithang Takin Preserve. Explore the rich biodiversity of the preserve and find out why Bhutan is the only carbon-negative country in the world. Witness the idyllic masterpiece of noteworthy Bhutanese style, Tashi Chhoedzong.
Visit another paradigmatic town in the Himalayas of Bhutan, Paro. Explore Paro Dzong, a fortress monastery ranked as the high point of architecture and top attraction in Bhutan. Famous as ‘Fortress on a Heap of Jewels,’ the dzong residing on the bank of Paro Chhu is arguably one of the most beautiful dzongs of the country. Pay a visit to Kichu Monastery, which is equally stunning and imparts a peaceful vibe. Hike to the Taktsang Monastery standing in high esteem on the side of a stark cliff. Popularly known as ‘Tiger Nest’s Monastery,’ the Taktsang Monastery is a must-visit place of Bhutan.
The tour finally ends as you head to your destination from Paro International Airport on the fourteenth day. Take back wonderful memories to look back and cherish throughout your life.
Arrive at Guwahati Airport, Guwahati, India, where our representative will welcome you. Take a drive through mesmerizing tea gardens, petillant flowing rivers, and lively towns to Samdrup Jongkhar. Regarded as the ‘Gateway to Eastern Bhutan”, Samdrup Jongkhar is the oldest town in Bhutan.
You can take a quick orientation walk in the town and learn about Bhutan's vibrant culture and lifestyle in the evening.
Overnight in Samdrup Jongkhar.
On this day, you start your journey to one of the major commercial hubs of Eastern Bhutan, Trashigang. You can enjoy a scenic journey as you pass through the lush green forests and terrace farms.
During the trip, stop at Narphung, Wamrong, Khaling, and Kanglung to interact with the locals and gain insight into the Bhutanese lifestyle.
Overnight in Trashigang.
Trashigang Dzong- built in 1659 and one of the largest dzong fortress in Bhutan, located in Trashigang
Enjoy a full day of exciting sightseeing in the Trashigang district. Pay a visit to the Rangjung Monastery originally built to continue the legacy of Buddhism. With a history that dates back to 1989, the Rangjung Monastery is home to many country monks. Take a short drive to Radhi village. Famous as the ‘Rice Bowl of the East, the village encompasses rampant rice fields spread around the village. Stroll through the alleys of the village and discover the weaving skills of the locals.
Explore Phongmey village and its famous textiles made exquisitely from raw silk. Have your lunch in one of the farmhouses in the village. Interact with the semi-nomadic traders from Merak and Sakteng. Return to Trashigang in the evening.
Overnight in Trashigang.
Enjoy the drive to Mongar as you pass several remote settlements of the country. Sit back and witness the sparkling Gamri River, one of the major tributaries of Dangme Chhu, flowing alongside the road. The road passes through widespread cornfields and banana groves and eventually leads to Yadi. Sip a cup of tea in the serene landscape of Yadi. The road then winds up to one of the famous high passes, Kori La Pass (2450m).
Upon arrival in Mongar, you can freshen up and relax. Later in the evening, take a walk around Mongar town.
Overnight in Mongar.
Drive to one of the remote districts of Bhutan, Lhuentse. Earlier known as Kurtoe, the district is the ancestral home of the royal family of Bhutan. Relish the alluring landscape filled with striking cliffs, deep gorges, and dense coniferous forests. Explore a wide variety of colorful weavings unique to the Lhuentse.
Arrive in Khoma and breathe the fresh air of the village and stroll through the village and discover women weaving intricate woven silk known as Kishuthara, a kind of brocade dress. Interact with the welcoming locals and learn about their simple yet happy lifestyle. In the evening, drive to Autsho.
Overnight in Autsho.
Jakar Dzong (Bumthang) - Constructed in 1549, by the Tibetan Lam Nagi Wangchuk, It also became the seat of the first king of Bhutan.
This day marks the beginning of an exhilarating journey to the central region of Bhutan. En route, stop at the second-highest mountain pass of Bhutan, Thrumshing La pass (3750m), which connects the eastern and central parts across the Donga range. Have a relishing picnic lunch while enjoying the stunning views of some pristine mountain ranges of Bhutan. Get a quick insight into medieval Bhutan as you pass through Ura village.
Overnight in Bumthang.
Enjoy a full day of sightseeing in the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, Bumthang. Visit some ancient sacred sites of Bhutan, namely Jakar Dzong, Kurjey Lhakhang, Jambay Lhakhang, and Tamshing Lhakhang.
Later in the afternoon, stroll through the streets of Bumthang and grab some authentic Bhutanese souvenirs.
Overnight in Bumthang.
Drive to the ancient capital of Bhutan, Punakha. Visit the famous Trongsa Dzong and witness one of the perfect examples of Bhutanese architecture.
Stop for lunch at Chendebji and visit one of the many roadside Chortens of Bhutan. The Chorten is beautifully built in Nepalese style and uniquely designed after one of the UNESCO world heritage sites, Swayambunath Stupa of Kathmandu, Nepal. Built in the 18th century, the chorten is sure to captivate you. On the way, you will cross two astounding high passes of Bhutan.
Overnight in Punakha.
Punakha Dzong - Second oldest and second biggest dzong of Bhutan
Wake up early in the morning and buckle up for sightseeing in the beautiful town in the Himalayas of Bhutan, Punakha. Visit one of the most beautiful Buddhist monasteries of Bhutan, Punakha Dzong. Drive to Lobesa and take a short 20 minutes to walk through the rampant rice and mustard fields to Chimi Lhakhang. Famous as ‘Divine Madman’s Temple,’ the Chimi Lhakhang is regarded as the temple of fertility in Bhutanese society.
After lunch, hike through the rampant rice fields to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten.
Overnight in Punakha.
Enjoy a scenic drive from Punakha to the capital of Bhutan, Thimphu. While driving to Thimphu, stop at Dochula mountain pass. Overlook the pristine Himalayas. Visit the 108 memorial Chortens and the popular Druk Wangyal Lhakhang to increase the beauty of the pass. Renowned for its astounding natural vistas and cultural richness, Thimphu has much in store for you.
Discover the streets and markets of the city in the afternoon.
Overnight in Thimphu.
National Memorial Chorten - the most visible religious landmark in Bhutan, built in 1974 to honor of Third Druk Gyalpo.
Set off for an exhilarating full day of sightseeing in Thimphu with a side visit to the famous National Memorial Chorten and the National Institute of Traditional Medicine. Explore the traditional arts and crafts unique to Bhutan at the School of Arts, renowned as the ‘Painting School.’
Get a quick insight into rural Bhutan and the unique Bhutanese lifestyle. Step into the peaceful world of Buddha's point while relishing the stunning view of Thimphu's Southern entrance. Witness the gigantic Buddha Dordenma statue. Observe the herd of Takin and explore flora and fauna at the Motithang Takin Preserve.
Visit Tashichho Dzong in the evening. Famous as the ‘Fortress of Glorious region,’ the fortress is a noteworthy masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture. Witness the locals play archery, Bhutan's national sports, with great zeal to visit a local archery ground.
Overnight in Thimphu.
Enjoy a delicious breakfast and drive to Paro. On the way, you can see farmers and locals selling vegetables, fruits, dried cheese, and other items on the roadside. Arrive in the beautiful Paro valley and freshen up.
After lunch, step out for incredible sightseeing in Paro. Visit the acclaimed Paro Dzong and Kichu Monastery. Also known as ‘Rinpung Dzong,’ the fortress was built on the foundation which the acclaimed Guru Rinpoche laid under the command of Zabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. The fortress was constructed to keep an eye on the invasion activities of Tibet.
Take a quick walk through the streets of the town in the evening.
Overnight in Paro.
Paro Taktsang - Sacred Buddhist site located in Paro and constructed in 1692 also called Tiger's Nest Monastery
Hike to the Taktsang Monastery in Paro is the most thrilling part of the trip. Famous as the ‘Tiger’s Nest Monastery,’ the monastery rests on the side of a rocky cliff and overlooks the entire Paro valley. The Taktsang monastery is a fine example of remarkable Bhutanese architecture and holds great legendary significance.
Enjoy mesmerizing views of the surrounding mountains and the beautiful Paro valley. Explore the Bhutanese artistic paintings and the ancient tales of the formation of Tiger’s Nest Monastery by Guru Rinpoche.
The hike to the monastery starts from the foot of a mountain and follows uphill. Anyone who is physically fit in good health can easily complete the hike. Taktsang Monastery is one of the must-visit places of Bhutan that perfectly winds up your stay in the fascinating kingdom of Bhutan.
Overnight in Paro.
On this day, our Bhutanese guide will transfer you to Paro International Airport and bid you adieu. Return to your destination with awesome memories and a lifetime experience that will remain in your heart forever.
If necessary, Third Rock Adventures is always ready to extend the tour to Bhutan and other neighboring countries, namely Tibet, India, and Nepal.
Moreover, if the present itinerary does not suit you, you can go through our other Bhutan packages, such as Western And Central Bhutan Tour -9 Days.
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