This four-to-six-night journey through the Kingdom’s western valleys reveals the beating heart of Bhutan with stays at Amankora’s Thimphu and Paro lodges. Discover Bhutan’s colourful history and wealth of traditions while exploring the capital Thimphu, visiting Tashichho Dzong at dusk and hiking to the Cheri Goemba, a picturesque temple and monastery where the Kingdom’s first monastic body was established. Your time in Paro will be spent exploring the town and countryside, and of course, climbing to the lofty Tiger’s Nest. Perched cliffside with astounding views, the famed temple complex was first built in 1692 around the cave where a revered Guru was said to have meditated in the 8th century.
When choosing a destination for your backpacking trip, it is important to consider the level of difficulty of the trail and the weather conditions. Some popular backpacking destinations include national parks, wilderness areas, and mountain ranges. It is also important to obtain any necessary permits and to be aware of any regulations or rules for the area you plan to visit.
Upon arrival at Thimphu, you will have time to settle in before exploring Bhutan’s only city – a capital unlike any other. Visit the Simply Bhutan Museum, the Textile Museum, the Weaving Centre and the Paper Factory to learn more about Bhutan’s cultural heritage in all its diverse forms.
After a hearty breakfast, hike to Cheri Goemba, a stunning temple and monastery where the Kingdom’s first monastic body was established. After a picnic lunch, visit the Choki Art School, an institution focused on teaching traditional Bhutanese art (only open on weekdays) and the Pangri Zampa, a collection of 16th century temples that now houses a monastic astrology school. If you wish, we will have one of the monks read your astrological fortune or you can schedule a private astrology reading (chargeable activity) back at the lodge.
While travelling to Punakha Valley, we will stop at the Semtokha Dzong, the country’s first fortress and later pause at Dochula Pass with its striking memorial of 108 chortens. As we enter Punakha, we will visit the intriguing Chimi Lhakhang Temple, a site known all over Bhutan as the Fertility Temple, where the faithful gather to pray for the gift of a child. The adjacent village is an interesting place to wander about and see local crafts and folk art.
Day begins with a hike to the extraordinary Khamsum Chorten, a route that takes you through farmlands and rice paddies and offers a wonderful opportunity to experience local farming traditions. Enjoy superb views of the valley from the chorten roof top, then savour a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, explore Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s largest fortresses said to have been envisioned by its architect in a dream in 1637. Visit its sacred halls, courtyards and cantilevered bridge, then stroll to another handcrafted marvel in the valley – the longest chain link suspension bridge in the world.
Today, we journey back to Paro, arriving in time for a traditional farmhouse lunch showcasing the authentic flavours of Bhutanese cuisine, prepared by a former cook of Bhutan’s royal family. After lunch, start your exploration of the valley with the 7th-century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the Kingdom’s first Buddhist temples. Then, wander through Bhutan’s history with a visit to the Paro Rinpung Dzong and the National Museum, housed in a historic watch tower above the fortress. As evening falls, join a prayer flag printing workshop, an astrology reading or a talk on Gross National Happiness at Amankora Paro before heading to the Dining Room for dinner.
In the morning, visit one of Bhutan’s most dramatic monuments, the Taktsang Goemba, more commonly referred to as the Tiger’s Nest. Built on a sheer cliff face at an altitude of 2,950m (9,678ft), the monastery offers spectacular views of the valley 900m below. Head back to the lodge for a late lunch and a well-deserved Holistic Massage. Then if time and energy allow, head to the old town of Paro to wander its streets lined with galleries, cafes and bookstores. A traditional Bhutanese dinner awaits back at the lodge, with traditional gho and kira garments available if you’d like to dress the part.
In the morning you bid farewell to Bhutan. Your driver will take you to Paro International Airport, a journey of around 30 minutes from the lodge. We recommend arriving two hours before the flight is scheduled to depart.
We have you covered! We will email you as items in your order ship, or if there are updates on the status of your order. Can’t find the email?Click here to check the status of your order.
We have you covered! We will email you as items in your order ship, or if there are updates on the status of your order. Can’t find the email?Click here to check the status of your order.
We have you covered! We will email you as items in your order ship, or if there are updates on the status of your order. Can’t find the email?Click here to check the status of your order.
We have you covered! We will email you as items in your order ship, or if there are updates on the status of your order. Can’t find the email?Click here to check the status of your order.
We have you covered! We will email you as items in your order ship, or if there are updates on the status of your order. Can’t find the email?Click here to check the status of your order.
