West-East Expedition

Traverse Bhutan’s incredible diversity on this 16-day expedition from the western peaks of Paro to the subtropical forests of Samdrup Jongkhar in the southeast. This journey offers a rich tapestry of cultural festivals, ancient heritage sites, vibrant local lifestyles, and extraordinary biodiversity. Witness the country’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness come alive as you engage with communities, explore sacred monasteries, and experience the stunning landscapes stretching from high Himalayan valleys to lush tropical jungles.

Duration: 16 Days / 15 Nights
Start: Paro (Western Bhutan)
Exit: Samdrup Jongkhar (South-East Bhutan) via Guwahati, Assam
Best Seasons: March–May & September–November
Theme: Festivals • History • Culture • Gross National Happiness • Flora & Fauna • Landscapes

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Cultural Orientation

• Arrive at Paro International Airport

• Visit Paro Rinpung Dzong, National Museum, and Kyichu Lhakhang

• Evening stroll in Paro town

Overnight in Paro

Day 2: Paro – Tiger’s Nest Monastery Hike

• Early hike to Taktshang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery

• Afternoon at leisure or visit Drukyel Dzong ruins

Overnight in Paro

Day 3: Paro – Drive to Thimphu

• Stop at Tachogang Iron Chain Bridge

• Visit Buddha Dordenma, Memorial Chorten, and Tashichho Dzong

• Explore local handicrafts market

Overnight in Thimphu

Day 4: Thimphu Cultural Day

• Folk Heritage Museum, Textile School, and Handicraft Emporium

• Takin Preserve

• Optional visit to Gross National Happiness Centre

Overnight in Thimphu

Day 5: Thimphu – Dochula Pass – Punakha

• Scenic drive via Dochula Pass (108 stupas, Himalayan views)

• Visit Punakha Dzong

• Riverside walk

Overnight in Punakha

Day 6: Punakha – Chimi Lhakhang & Villages

• Walk to Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple)

• Visit local villages

• Optional hot stone bath

Overnight in Punakha

Day 7: Punakha – Wangduephodrang – Pele La Pass – Trongsa

• Visit Wangdue Dzong ruins

• Cross Pele La Pass (3,350m)

• Explore Trongsa Dzong

Overnight in Trongsa

Day 8: Trongsa – Drive to Bumthang

• Cross Yutong La Pass (3,400m)

• Visit Jakar Dzong and local villages

Overnight in Bumthang

Day 9: Bumthang Sacred Sites

• Kurje Lhakhang, Tamshing Lhakhang, Jambay Lhakhang

• Village walks, crafts visit

Overnight in Bumthang

Day 10: Bumthang – Ura Valley Excursion

• Explore Ura Valley

• Visit Tangbi Monastery

• Optional visit to Ogyen Choling Museum

Overnight in Bumthang

Day 11: Bumthang – Sengor / Thrumshingla National Park

• Drive to Sengor

• Nature walks in Thrumshingla National Park

Overnight in Sengor or eco-lodge

Day 12: Sengor – Mongar

• Descend to Mongar through tropical forests

• Visit local nurseries or research centers

Overnight in Mongar

Day 13: Mongar – Trashigang

• Drive through scenic valleys

• Visit Trashigang Dzong

• Explore local markets

Overnight in Trashigang

Day 14: Trashigang – Radhi / Pemagatshel

• Visit Radhi village (famous for weaving)

• Explore Pemagatshel region’s culture and natural beauty

Overnight in Pemagatshel area

Day 15: Pemagatshel – Samdrup Jongkhar

• Drive to Samdrup Jongkhar at the Indian border

• Visit local markets and cultural sites

• Farewell dinner

Overnight in Samdrup Jongkhar

Day 16: Departure

• Transfer to Indian border for onward journey to Guwahati Airport, Assam

• End of expedition

Tour Inclusions

• Bhutan visa and permits

• Licensed English-speaking guide

• Accommodation in comfortable lodges and hotels

• All meals (B/L/D)

• Private transport with driver

• Entry fees for monuments and parks

• Bottled water during travel

• Domestic flights (optional, weather dependent)