Overview The Bhutan Gangtey Trongsa Tour is a captivating journey that takes you through the heartland of Bhutan, allowing you to experience its mesmerizing landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This tour also typically spans 4 to 7 days, immersing you in the beauty of Gangtey and Trongsa, two remarkable destinations in central Bhutan. Your adventure begins in Gangtey, located in the enchanting Phobjikha Valley. This picturesque region also renowned for its sweeping vistas and pristine nature. You'll also have the opportunity to visit Gangtey Monastery, a significant religious site that offers a glimpse into Bhutan's spiritual traditions. If you visit…
The Bhutan Gangtey Trongsa Tour is a captivating journey that takes you through the heartland of Bhutan, allowing you to experience its mesmerizing landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This tour also typically spans 4 to 7 days, immersing you in the beauty of Gangtey and Trongsa, two remarkable destinations in central Bhutan.
Your adventure begins in Gangtey, located in the enchanting Phobjikha Valley. This picturesque region also renowned for its sweeping vistas and pristine nature. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit Gangtey Monastery, a significant religious site that offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s spiritual traditions. If you visit between late October and early February, you may witness the majestic black-necked crane migration, a breathtaking natural spectacle.
From Gangtey, you’ll also embark on a scenic drive to Trongsa. As you traverse the winding mountain roads, you’ll get treatment from awe-inspiring views of Bhutan’s mountainous landscapes, verdant valleys, and dense forests. In Trongsa, the centerpiece of your visit is the Trongsa Dzong, a magnificent fortress perched on a hilltop. This architectural marvel not only showcases Bhutan’s craftsmanship but also houses a museum that offers insights into the country’s history and culture.
While the Gangtey Trongsa Tour primarily focuses on these two destinations, many itineraries also include a visit to the Bumthang Valley. This region is revered for its ancient temples and monasteries, such as Jakar Dzong, Kurjey Lhakhang, and Jambay Lhakhang. The Bumthang Valley’s serene atmosphere and beautiful landscapes create a captivating setting for cultural exploration.
Throughout the tour, you’ll have the chance to engage with Bhutan’s warm and welcoming locals, witnessing their unique way of life and partaking in their vibrant festivals and traditions. Whether it’s observing colorful mask dances, trying local cuisine, or visiting traditional villages, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage.
To embark on this adventure, it’s necessary to obtain a visa and book the tour through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. They will guide you through the process, secure the required permits, and ensure a seamless and memorable journey through the enchanting Gangtey and Trongsa regions of Bhutan.
Arrive Paro by the Bhutanese National Carrier flying over the world’s highest mountains and finally landing at the lush green Paro valley. A cool and clean fresh air greets the visitor as stepping down from the plane, the first gift of Bhutan. After clearing customs and visa formalities, meet the representatives and the Bhutanese guide, and a short tour brief by the guide then transfer to Paro town for lunch. Then drive towards Thimphu (the capital of Bhutan) for about an hour’s drive.
In Thimphu, visit Buddha point for a stunning view of Thimphu city and Takin Compound- on the way to the viewpoint over Thimphu is the home of Bhutan’s national animal, the Takin. Then continue to Tashi Choe Dzong- the fortress of the glorious religion was initially constructed in 1641 and rebuilt by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk in the 1960s, Folk Heritage Museum – a 300 year old traditional house converted into a museum, Centenary Farmers Market, the new authentic craft bazaar. Overnight at Hotel (Lunch/Dinner included)
After early breakfast, drive towards Punakha for about 1 & half hour passing along Dochu La Pass at 3140m. On clear weather, the pass commands a wonderful panorama of the Eastern Himalayas. From the pass, the road descends through varied forest and finally emerging into the highly cultivated valley of Punakha. En-route take a short hike through beautiful rice fields to Chimmi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to Drukpa Kuenley, who as a favorite saint of the Bhutanese people is known affectionately as “the Divine Madman”.
In the afternoon, visit Punakha Dzong. Located at the confluence of the Pho-chu (male-river) and Mo-chu (female-river), the Punakha Dzong is arguably the most impressive dzong in the country. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Drive to Gangtey via Wangdue. After Wangdue, the drive is up a winding mountain road through oak and rhododendron forest, and over a high pass down into the Phobjikha valley, surely one of the loveliest high altitude valleys in Bhutan. Phobjikha is one of Bhutan’s few glacial valleys, and chosen winter home of black-necked cranes, migrating from the Tibetan plateau. Enjoy 1½ hours Gangtey nature trail from the monastery through the jungle before emerging to the valley floor. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Rejoin the east west highway to Pele la pass (3420m) marked by prayer flags. On a clear day Jumolhari, Kangbum & Jichu Drake can be spotted from the pass. After Pele la pass enters the traditional eastern region. The road gradually drops passing through Kgebji village, Sephu village, Chendebji village followed by large Chendebji Chorten. After Chendebji, the road passes through farms, villages then the valley narrows and then widens again, and it turns the corner into wide Mangde river valley. After a while Trongsa Dzong can be visible. The road then follows the side valley to cross the bridge at the upper reaches of Mangde Chhu river to arrive at Trongsa. The total drive is about 2 hours. PM: Visit Trongsa Dzong. Trongsa Dzong is the most impressive Dzong in Bhutan built in 1644 by the Shabdrung. It is an architectural masterpiece. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
After breakfast, re-trace the same route for drive back to Wangdue from Trongsa. The drive is about 6 hours. Wangdue Phodrang Dzong in Wangdue is an ancient fort atop hill built in 1638 located at the confluence of two rivers and originally meant to protect the southern invasion. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
After breakfast, drive over the Chelela pass (3899 m). From the pass, good view of the Himalayan Ranges and the valley beyond can be spotted. Then continue the drive towards Haa. Haa is made up of five counties and was closed to outside world until 2002. There is a military camp by the Indian Army. In Haa valley, visit Wangchucklo Dzong dating back to 1915 and Lhakhang Nakpo (Black temple) is said to have been built by pigeon emanation of King Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century and Lhakhang Karpo (white temple). After the visit drive to Paro. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
After breakfast drive towards the base camp of Taktsang for the hike up to the Taktsang Monastery-Tiger’s Nest. It’s about two hours hike up the cafeteria. From this point, enjoy the spectacular view of the monastery, where Guru Padmasambhava landed on the back of a tigress in 8th century. Then visit the Taktsang Monastery and hike back to the road point then drive to Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred shrines in Bhutan. Also visit Rinpung Dzong built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the first spiritual and temporal ruler of Bhutan; the Dzong continues its age-old function as the seat of the district administration, district court and the monastic body. The southern approach to the Dzong has a traditional roofed cantilever bridge called Nemi Zam. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
After breakfast, transfer to the airport to catch the onward flight. Bid farewell to the remote and legendary Dragon Kingdom disappearing again behind its guardian mountains. (Breakfast only included)
Airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle.
• 3-star accommodation (4 & 5 stars may require an additional premium).
• Bhutan visa fee – including all necessary processing
• Route Permit
• Three meals per day during your stay in Bhutan
• A licensed Bhutanese tour guide
• All land transportation by private vehicle
• Camping equipment and haulage for trekking tours
• Sightseeing as per itinerary
• Drinking water
• All internal taxes and charges
• A sustainable development fee of $200 per person per night. (This sustainable development fee goes towards free education, free healthcare, poverty alleviation, along with the building of infrastructure.)
Monuments entrance fees where applicable (Entrance fees)
• Airfare & Travel Insurance
• Expenses of personal nature, Tips to guides and drivers
• Expenses occurred due to unavoidable events i.e. road wrecks, flight delays etc.
The Gangtey Trongsa Tour in Bhutan is a popular itinerary that allows travelers to explore the beautiful landscapes and cultural heritage of Bhutan. Gangtey and Trongsa are two significant destinations in central Bhutan, known for their stunning scenery and historical landmarks. Here’s some information about this tour:
Duration: The duration of the Gangtey Trongsa Tour can vary depending on the itinerary and your preferences. Typically, it can range from 4 to 7 days.
Highlights:
Permits: Travelers visiting Bhutan require a visa, and it is mandatory to book the tour through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. The operator will assist in obtaining the necessary permits for the tour.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Gangtey and Trongsa, as well as other parts of Bhutan, is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. The weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are vibrant during these periods.
It’s important to note that specific tour itineraries and availability may vary depending on the tour operator and your preferences. It is recommended to contact a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or a travel agency specializing in Bhutan to get detailed information, customize your itinerary, and arrange the necessary logistics for your trip.
Throughout the Bhutan Gangtey Trongsa Tour, you’ll be accompanied by knowledgeable guides who will provide insights into Bhutanese culture, history, and spirituality. The tour operators ensure comfortable accommodations, seamless logistics, and adherence to Bhutan’s principles of sustainable tourism.
Please note that specific itineraries and package details may vary depending on the tour operator and your personal preferences. It is recommended to consult with a reputable Bhutanese tour operator to customize the tour according to your specific interests, duration, and preferred route. They will ensure a well-planned and memorable journey through the captivating landscapes and cultural treasures of Bhutan.