Royal Odyssey

11 Days / 10 Nights

The ultimate Bhutan experience — a grand journey through the Kingdom’s legendary landscapes, ancient heritage, and timeless traditions.

Overview

Royal Odyssey is our most comprehensive Bhutan journey, crafted for travelers who wish to experience the Kingdom in its entirety. From the dramatic valleys of western Bhutan to the spiritual heartland of Bumthang, this journey unveils Bhutan’s most treasured destinations, historic fortresses, sacred monasteries, and authentic rural communities. Travel at a relaxed pace while discovering the depth, beauty, and traditions of the Land of the Thunder Dragon.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Paro | Transfer to Thimphu

Drive: Approximately 1.5 hours (55 km)

Arrive at Paro International Airport, where your Bhutanese guide will welcome you and begin your Himalayan adventure.

Drive through scenic valleys to Thimphu, Bhutan’s charming capital.

Depending on arrival time, visit:

• Buddha Dordenma Statue

• Memorial Chorten

• Tashichho Dzong

• Local handicraft market

Overnight: Thimphu

Day 2 – Discover Thimphu

Explore the cultural and artistic treasures of Bhutan’s capital.

Visits include:

• Motithang Takin Preserve

• National Institute for Zorig Chusum

• Folk Heritage Museum

• National Textile Museum

• Simply Bhutan Living Museum

• Weekend Farmers’ Market (if available)

Overnight: Thimphu

Day 3 – Thimphu to Punakha

Drive: Approximately 2.5–3 hours (75 km)

Journey across the magnificent Dochula Pass, offering spectacular views of the Himalayan ranges.

Explore:

• Dochula Pass and 108 Druk Wangyel Chortens

• Chimi Lhakhang

• Punakha Dzong

• Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge

Overnight: Punakha

Day 4 – Punakha to Gangtey (Phobjikha Valley)

Drive: Approximately 3 hours (85 km)

Travel into the peaceful glacial valley of Phobjikha, famous for its natural beauty and cultural significance.

Explore:

• Gangtey Monastery

• Gangtey Nature Trail

• Black-necked Crane Information Centre (seasonal)

• Traditional countryside villages

Overnight: Gangtey

Day 5 – Gangtey to Trongsa | Continue to Bumthang

Drive: Approximately 6–7 hours

Cross the scenic mountain passes of central Bhutan.

En route:

• Pele La Pass

• Chendebji Chorten

• Trongsa Dzong

• Ta Dzong Museum

Continue towards Bumthang, Bhutan’s spiritual heartland.

Overnight: Bumthang

Day 6 – Spiritual Bumthang Exploration

Discover Bhutan’s most sacred valley with centuries-old monasteries.

Visit:

• Jakar Dzong

• Kurjey Lhakhang

• Jambay Lhakhang

• Tamshing Monastery

• Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake)

Experience the deep spiritual heritage of Bumthang.

Overnight: Bumthang

Day 7 – Hidden Valleys of Bumthang

A full day to experience the natural beauty and traditional lifestyle of central Bhutan.

Choose from:

• Ura Valley excursion

• Tang Valley exploration

• Village walks

• Traditional farmhouse experience

• Local cheese and craft experiences

Overnight: Bumthang

Day 8 – Bumthang to Punakha

Drive: Approximately 6–7 hours
(Domestic flight option available depending on schedule)

Return westwards through Bhutan’s spectacular landscapes.

Enjoy scenic mountain views and peaceful countryside along the journey.

Overnight: Punakha

Day 9 – Punakha to Paro

Drive: Approximately 4–5 hours

Return to the beautiful Paro Valley.

En route:

• Dochula Pass

• Scenic viewpoints

• Traditional villages

Evening:

• Explore Paro town

• Leisure shopping

Overnight: Paro

Day 10 – Tiger’s Nest & Paro Heritage

Experience Bhutan’s most iconic landmark.

Hike to:

• Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery

After the hike, visit:

• Rinpung Dzong

• National Museum (Ta Dzong)

• Kyichu Lhakhang

• Traditional Paro Town

Enjoy a farewell Bhutanese cultural dinner.

Overnight: Paro

Day 11 – Departure

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

Depart Bhutan carrying memories of its majestic mountains, sacred valleys, and the warmth of its people.

Trip Highlights

✔ Complete western and central Bhutan experience
✔ Explore six major destinations across the Kingdom
✔ Visit Bhutan’s most iconic monasteries and dzongs
✔ Discover the spiritual heartland of Bumthang
✔ Experience authentic village life and local traditions
✔ Walk through the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery
✔ Scenic Himalayan drives through untouched landscapes
✔ Perfect for travelers seeking the ultimate Bhutan journey

Destinations Covered

Paro, Thimphu,  Punakha, Gangtey, Trongsa, and Bumthang