Manas Voyage

Eco-tourism is synonymous with Bhutan, for the country is a museum of ecology and its inhabitants.  Trekking routes have been opened recently into communities, turning these into ecological landmarks

The Manas Voyage Adventure:   Eco- in Bhutan's Oldest Sanctuary

Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights
Best Season: November to March (dry season, ideal for wildlife viewing and river activities)
Grade: Easy to Moderate (some light hikes, river-based activities)
Region: South-Central Bhutan (Zhemgang, Panbang, Royal Manas National Park)
Accommodation: Eco-lodges, Guesthouses, Community Homestays

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu

• Activities:

  • Warm welcome at Paro International Airport.

  • Drive to Thimphu (1.5 hrs).

  • Light sightseeing: Buddha Dordenma, Folk Heritage Museum, Tashichhodzong.

• Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu

Day 2: Thimphu – Gelephu

• Drive: ~8 hrs (long but scenic drive via Tsirang)

• Activities:

  • Early start to reach southern Bhutan.

  • Pass through subtropical forests and terraced farmlands.

  • Introduction to southern Bhutanese culture and nature.

• Overnight: Guesthouse in Gelephu

Day 3: Gelephu – Panbang (Gateway to Manas)

• Drive: ~5 hrs

• Activities:

  • Drive through Royal Manas buffer zone.

  • Arrival in Panbang, a remote settlement near the park boundary.

  • Orientation on Royal Manas National Park’s ecology and conservation.

• Overnight: Eco-lodge or Community Homestay in Panbang

Day 4: Panbang – Wildlife Safari & River Rafting

• Activities:

  • Morning: Wildlife safari into Royal Manas core zone by 4WD.

    • Wildlife sightings: Royal Bengal tiger (rare), elephants, gaurs, golden langurs, hornbills, wild buffaloes.

  • Afternoon: Rafting on Mangdechhu or Drangmechhu (Grade I–II; scenic and safe).

    • Spot water birds, kingfishers, otters.

• Overnight: Eco-lodge in Panbang

Day 5: Nature Trail Hike & Birdwatching

• Activities:

  • Early morning hike on Tingtibi Nature Trail for birdwatching.

    • Over 530 species recorded including Rufous-necked Hornbill, Chestnut-breasted Partridge, Pallas Fish Eagle.

  • Learn from local guides about medicinal plants and 900+ vascular plant species.

  • Visit Royal Manas Park HQ for a conservation briefing.

• Overnight: Lodge in Panbang

Day 6: Elephant Ride and Village Visit

• Activities:

  • Guided elephant safari into forest fringes (non-intrusive route).

  • Explore local Kheng villages to experience southern Bhutanese culture.

    • Enjoy traditional meals, millet-based drinks, local storytelling.

  • Optional: Visit Kumari Falls for a refreshing short hike and picnic.

• Overnight: Community Homestay

Day 7: Panbang – Tingtibi – Zhemgang

• Drive: ~4 hrs

• Activities:

  • Visit Tingtibi, one of Bhutan’s best birding spots.

  • Stop at scenic viewpoints with chances to spot capped langurs and black panthers (rare).

  • Cultural stop at Zhemgang Dzong, a historic fortress.

• Overnight: Guesthouse in Zhemgang

Day 8: Zhemgang – Trongsa – Punakha

• Drive: ~7 hrs

• Activities:

  • Depart Zhemgang and climb back into central Bhutan.

  • Visit Trongsa Dzong, historic seat of Bhutanese kings.

  • Scenic descent to Punakha, Bhutan’s winter capital.

• Overnight: Hotel in Punakha

Day 9: Punakha – Paro Departure

• Activities:

  • Visit Punakha Dzong and walk across Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge.

  • Scenic return to Paro via Dochula Pass (photo stop).

  • Optional: Last-minute shopping in Paro.

  • Drop-off at Paro International Airport for departure.

Ecological & Cultural Highlights

• Fauna: Royal Bengal Tiger, Asian Elephant, Golden Langur, Pygmy Hog, Hispid Hare, Wild Buffalo, Black Panther.

• Birdlife: Over 530 species, including globally endangered ones.

• Flora: 900+ species of vascular plants, subtropical to tropical zones.

• Activities: River rafting, boating, elephant rides, jungle safaris, birdwatching, nature hikes.

• Community Tourism: Homestay and cultural interaction with Kheng ethnic communities.

Packing List

• Light, breathable clothes for the subtropical climate.

• Binoculars, insect repellent, sunscreen.

• Reusable water bottle, quick-dry towel.

• Hiking shoes and sandals (for rafting).

• Light rain jacket and headlamp for village stays.