Detailed Itinerary

East to West Journey

9 Days · Fully Customizable

[Add a short trip overview here — a 2–3 sentence summary of the route and highlights.]

Arrive at Samtencholing

Arrival at Guwahati Airport. Upon arrival, you will be warmly received by Team Yumka and transferred to Samtencholing. (5 hr. Drive / 156 km)

Lunch will be served en route at a local restaurant.

On the way, stop at Samdrup Jongkhar, the first point of entry for travelers arriving by road from India. It is a business hub for the people of Eastern Bhutan.

Continue your journey towards Samtencholing Monastery.

Check in at Samtencholing Monastery Guest House.

Exploring Local Communities

Morning Prayer and meditation session with the nuns.

Nature walk around the Buddha Palri Park Trail led by a nun from Samtencholing Monastery.

Lunch at Samtencholing Monastery, and visit Wamrong schools and nearby villages to experience the life of the villagers. Later, return to the monastery.

Begin the Journey Across Bhutan

1. Breakfast at the monastery. Then proceed towards Yongkhola, Mongar. (approx. 5-hour drive / 260 km).

2. On the way, stop at Khaling Weaving Centre (Handloom), renowned for preserving Bhutan’s traditional textile weaving, and spend about 30 minutes there.

3. Lunch at Trashigang town, the largest town in eastern Bhutan and an important commercial and cultural centre.

4. Continue your journey and stop at Gomphu Kora, one of eastern Bhutan’s most sacred temples, built around a holy rock associated with Guru Rinpoche.

5. Later, stop at Mongar town for panoramic views, and continue on your journey.

6. Check in at your hotel in Yongkhola, Trogon Villa Lodge, a quiet valley famous for its lush forests, birdlife, and peaceful natural surroundings.

Experience the Mystique of Bumthang

1. Scenic drive towards Bumthang through beautiful valleys and changing landscapes, offering glimpses of rural Bhutan. (Approx. 5 hr. Drive / 142 km)

3. En route, visit The Burning Lake (Mebar Tsho), a sacred site, followed by lunch at a local restaurant. (Take time to meditate near the big rocks above the water)

4. Upon arrival in Bumthang, visit Kurjey Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s most revered temples known for housing the sacred imprint of Guru Rinpoche, then check in and rest at the guest house or hotel.

Connecting with the History of Bhutan

1. Breakfast in the guest house, followed by a visit to Koncho Sum Lhakhang and Tamzhing Lhakhang, one of the oldest monasteries in Bumthang, famous for its intricate murals and vibrant festivals. Here, you can see the Iron Jacket made by the treasure revealer Terton Pema Lingpa, which visitors are allowed to wear and walk around the temple; a ritual believed to cleanse one’s karma.

2. Lunch at a local restaurant.

3. Evening stroll in Chamkhar town before returning to your hotel.

Taking in the Beauty of Phobjikha

1. After a hearty local breakfast, start your scenic drive towards Phobjikha Valley; through lush valleys and pine forests. (Approx 5hr. Drive / 162 km)

2. Stop at Chumey Valley – Famous for traditional weaving. Observe local artisans at work and browse handcrafted yak-wool products such as jackets, hats, and bags—ideal souvenirs for family and friends.

3. Midway stop in Trongsa town; visit Trongsa Dzong, a historic fortress offering panoramic views.

4. Continue the drive to Gangtey (Phobjikha) Valley – Visit Gangtey Monastery – Explore one of Bhutan’s most significant monasteries, a central hub for the Nyingma school of Buddhism. Established in the 17th century, it is known for its beautiful architecture, tranquil setting, and vibrant murals depicting Buddhist teachings. The monastery offers insight into Bhutanese spiritual life and local traditions.

5. Check-in at the hotel. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy the serene valley views, as well as a traditional Bhutanese dinner served with warm hospitality.

Gems of the West

1. Breakfast at the hotel – Start your day with a hearty meal, enjoying views of the valley and surrounding hills.

2. Walk through Phobjhikha Valley.

3. Start your journey towards Thimphu to visit the National Memorial Chorten. Stop for lunch along the way. (Approx 3 hr. Drive / 129 km)

4. Short stop at Dochula Pass – Enjoy a breath taking 360-degree panoramic view of the 108 chortens (stupas) and the Himalayan mountain ranges, visible on clear days.

5. Visit the National Memorial Chorten – Built in memory of our late 3^rd King of Bhutan.

6. After lunch, move towards Haa valley (Approx 3.5hr. Drive / 109 km) via Damchu road, and enjoy beautiful scenery on the way.

7. Check into Soednam Zingkha Heritage, Haa – Enjoy the best hot stone bath in the heritage and also opt for contrast therapy.

Conclude the Journey in Paro

1. Enjoy a morning walk in the village near the heritage house – Start your day with a peaceful walk through a traditional Bhutanese village next to your heritage accommodation. Enjoy the local scenery, observe daily village life, and breathe in the fresh mountain air. Be mindful of the local dogs!

2. Savor a wholesome Bhutanese breakfast before starting your journey to Paro.

3. On the way to Paro, stop at some historic temples, among the oldest in Bhutan, Lhakhang Karpo. Next Stop at Chele La Pass – The highest drivable pass in Bhutan, offering panoramic views of both Paro and Haa valleys on either side. On clear days, you may even see Jomolhari, the highest unclimbed mountain peak in Bhutan, rising majestically in the distance.

4. Enjoy local Bhutanese cuisine at one of the restaurants after arriving in Paro Town.

5. Stroll through town – Explore the charming streets, visit local shops, and soak in the town’s vibrant culture and traditional architecture.

6. Check-in at the hotel – Settle into your room, relax, and prepare for your departure the next day.

Depart from Paro Airport

1. Relaxed breakfast in the hotel.

2. The Yumka Team will then transfer you to Paro Airport.

3. On the way to the airport, you can do some last-minute shopping if time permits.

5. Arrive at the airport and take in your final moments in Bhutan until we see you again.