Overview Embarking on a Bhutan overland tour is an enchanting journey that unveils the kingdom's natural beauty, cultural treasures, and profound spirituality. This unique adventure also takes you through the majestic landscapes of the eastern Himalayas, where you'll also immerse yourself in the traditions and customs of Bhutan. Your overland tour begins with a warm welcome in Paro, home to Bhutan's only international airport. From there, you'll also travel in a private vehicle, accompanied by an experienced guide and a skilled driver, as you navigate the winding mountain roads that lead to the heart of Bhutan. Thimphu, the vibrant capital…
Embarking on a Bhutan overland tour is an enchanting journey that unveils the kingdom’s natural beauty, cultural treasures, and profound spirituality. This unique adventure also takes you through the majestic landscapes of the eastern Himalayas, where you’ll also immerse yourself in the traditions and customs of Bhutan.
Your overland tour begins with a warm welcome in Paro, home to Bhutan’s only international airport. From there, you’ll also travel in a private vehicle, accompanied by an experienced guide and a skilled driver, as you navigate the winding mountain roads that lead to the heart of Bhutan.
Thimphu, the vibrant capital city, beckons with its blend of modern development and traditional charm. Here, you’ll also visit the magnificent Tashichho Dzong, a fortress-monastery that serves as the seat of Bhutan’s government. Explore the bustling streets lined with shops offering Bhutanese handicrafts, textiles, and local delicacies.
Continuing your journey, you’ll also venture to Punakha, the former capital, renowned for its stunning Punakha Dzong. Situated at the confluence of two rivers, this architectural marvel is a prime example of Bhutanese craftsmanship. Take a leisurely stroll through rice fields or hike to Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of the Divine Madman, also known for its fertility blessings.
As you traverse the picturesque valleys, you’ll encounter sacred monasteries perched on cliffs and hillsides. One of the highlights of your tour is the hike to Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang Monastery), a spiritual landmark clinging to a sheer cliff face. The arduous trek is rewarded with breathtaking views and a profound sense of serenity.
Immersing yourself in Bhutanese culture, you’ll have the opportunity to witness traditional festivals, where masked dancers also mesmerize the crowd with their intricate movements. Bumthang, the cultural heartland, offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s spiritual heritage with its sacred temples, including Kurjey Lhakhang and Jambay Lhakhang.
Throughout your journey, you’ll also captivate by Bhutan’s commitment to preserving its environment. The country’s rich biodiversity and pristine landscapes are protected through a policy of sustainable tourism, ensuring a low-impact, high-value experience.
A Bhutan overland tour is a transformative adventure that allows you to connect with the country’s awe-inspiring landscapes, delve into its ancient traditions, and experience the warm hospitality of its people. This journey will leave you with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for Bhutan’s unique cultural heritage.
Arrive Phuentsholing, meet our representatives and after concluding the formalities. Check-in hotel. Overnight at Hotel (Lunch/Dinner included)
Early morning drive from Phuentsholing towards Thimphu following Pa Chhu downstream which takes 6-7 hours. In Thimphu, drive on to the Buddha Terrace for a stunning view of the valley and take a drive to visit Takin Preserve to see Takin, Bhutan’s national animal – a strange looking beast which some say resembles a beestung moose! Take a view of the majestic Tashichoe Dzong, the seat of the government before circumventing the Memorial Chorten – a monument erected in memory of Bhutan’s third king H.M. Jigme Dorji Wangchuk.Visit Centenary Farmers Market, the new authentic craft bazaar, National Institute of Traditional Medicine that still dispenses traditional herbal medicines to the locals, the Folk Heritage Museum – a 300 year old traditional house converted into a museum. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
After breakfast, drive for about 1 & half hour to Punakha. Climb up the mountain road to Dochu La at 3140m. On clear weather, the pass commands a wonderful panorama of the Eastern Himalayas. From the pass, descend through varied forest and finally emerging into the highly cultivated valley of Punakha. 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”. The temple is on a hillside in the middle of rice fields and has become a pilgrimage site for childless couples. Enjoy some tea and snacks at the end of hike while overlooking the fields. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Drive to Paro re-crossing Dochula. In Paro, 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 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. Afterwards, back to hotel. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Early morning, depart to Phuentsholing from Paro which is a 6 hours drive and cross the border back to India. (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.
A Bhutan overland tour is an exciting way to explore the stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unique traditions of the Kingdom of Bhutan. Located in the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is known for its pristine environment, ancient monasteries, and a commitment to preserving its unique cultural heritage. Here is some information to help you plan your Bhutan overland tour:
It’s important to note that specific tour details and regulations may change over time. It is recommended to contact a licensed Bhutanese tour operator for the most up-to-date information and to customize your overland tour based on your interests and preferences.
Throughout the Bhutan Overland Tour, you’ll travel through scenic mountain passes, picturesque valleys, and charming villages, with opportunities to interact with friendly locals, taste traditional Bhutanese cuisine, and witness the country’s rich cultural heritage. The tour ensures comfortable accommodations, experienced guides, and adherence to Bhutan’s sustainable tourism principles.
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 Bhutan Overland Tour according to your specific interests, duration, and preferred route. They will ensure a seamless and memorable overland journey through Bhutan’s stunning landscapes and cultural treasures.