Wing Trip Tours and Treks

Western Bhutan – Short loop

Western Bhutan – Short loop (6 Nights)

Our SHORT LOOP Journey of 6 Nights allows you to experience 3 Valleys, with two nights at each Valley.  The LOOP starts in Thimphu, then takes you to Punakha and finally to Paro where you will end your journey.

On the following pages we have compiled the most popular activities and hikes in each valley. For some, we recommend that you pre-book to ensure you can enjoy the activity on your preferred date and time.

Please note the chargeable activities below are optional and therefore, may book only if interested.

Enjoy one of the world’s most spectacular descents as your flight arrives into Paro amid breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. On arrival you will be greeted by your WING TRIP tour guide, who will remain with you throughout your journey across Bhutan. Your itinerary will be tailored to remain as flexible as possible and you will be able to discuss it in advance.

An hour drives away, Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital lies in a steep valley at an altitude of 2300m (7000ft). Upon arrival to Thimphu, you will have time to settle in before exploring the areas, including National Library, Textile Museum, Weaving Center, Buddha Point   and the National Memorial Chorten.  Depending on your arrival time, you may also be able to visit the Institute of Traditional Medicine, the School of Arts and Crafts, folk Heritage and Simply Bhutan – museum depicting Bhutan’s ancient cultural heritage.

Alternatively, opt for a mild hike with a good view, such as the Wangduetse Leisure Forest trail.

Overnight in Thimphu.

A short morning hike will take you to Cheri Goenpa Monastery.  On the way back, pay a visit to the 16th century Pangri Zampa, which houses a monastic training school of astrologers. Back in town, explore the capital cottage industries, from traditional paper making to hand rolled incense; browse Himalayan artifacts along the mainstreet; and make your own stamp at the post office. At weekends you can visit the craft bazar or vegetable market.

After lunch, head to the north end of the valley to visit the TashiChhoe Dzong, the seat of Bhutan’s government and royal office. As the sun sets, take a stroll pass the Takin animal Sanctuary for a beautiful view over the Thimphu valley. According to local legend, the Takin is believed to be part of cow and part goat.

Alternatively, you can play a round of nine holes at Thimphu Golf Club, set among Chorten and beautiful scenery. The course’s altitude – 2350m (7700ft) – causes the balls to fly further in the thin mountain air. (Chargeable activity).

 In the evening, enjoy a private meeting at the hotel delivered by local expert. This allows us the opportunity to learn more about Bhutan’s unique culture and its remarkable Gross National Happiness. (Chargeable activity).

Overnight in Thimphu.

An early departure will be necessary for the dramatic drive over the 0350m mountain pass Dochu La, from where towering Himalayan peaks are visible on a clear day. Sights on the way to Punakha Valley include one of Bhutan’s first fortress monasteries, the 17th century Simtokha Dzong.

Punakha lies at the altitude of 1250m (4100ft) in a warm fertile valley at the junction of Mo Chhu (Female River) and Pho Chhu (Male River). The subtropical environment allows the cultivation of rice and exotic fruits.

On the way you can visit Chimi Lhakhang, the auspicious fertility temple built in 1499, to which many couples come to pray for pregnancy and receive a wang (blessings) from the saint with the magic thunderbolt of wisdom.

Enjoy the evening in the hotel with beautiful view or may unwind the day with a massage using locally sourced ingredients. (Chargeable activity)

Overnight in Punakha.

Start the morning with a hike to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, a stunning monument built by the Bhutanese Queen Mother and consecrated in 1999. Following the hike, you can visit the impressive Punakha Dzong, home to the remains of the Bhutans first ruller and the winter residence of the monastic orders leader and his entoyrage of monks.

A popular option for lunch is the Private Riverside BBQ. Just by the beautiful female River, guest sit in the pine trees and enjoy the sounds of the water, views of the rice fields and mountain peaks and aromas of food sizzling on charcoal grill. (Chargeable activity)

 In the afternoon, try your hand at Archery, Bhutans national sport. Or sign up for a Cooking at a local farm house to learn how to make momos, traditional dumplings and the famous Ema datsi. (Chargeable activity)

Overnight in Punakha.

The four-hours journey to Paro takes you back across the impressive Dochu la pass. For lunch you can either stop at Thimphu city or enjoy a local cuisine at Wangsisina Farm house along with dramatic Wang Chhu river view.

In the afternoon, visit National museum; previously the valleys watchtower, which displays an intriguing collection of artifacts illustrating the rich culture and heritage of the kingdom. Just short walk downhill lies the imposing Paro Rinpung Dzong, a fine exemplar of Bhutanese architecture; Followed by Traditional Cultural performance, performed by group of local dancers. (Chargeable activity)

Evening at leisure.

Overnight in Paro.

In the morning, hike up to view one of the Bhutans most dramatic monuments, the Taktsang Goenpa, more commonly referred to as Tigers Nest, built on the cheer cliff face at the height of 2950m (9678ft). The four-hour trek offers spectacular views of this monastery perched on the rocks, 900m above the valley floor. Accommodating mules and donkeys will be on the hand to lessen the exertion for the climb up, if so desired. Your guide will check with you in advance if you would like to avail this service.

After lunch drive to outskirts of Paro town where you will find the 7th century twin temples of Kychu Lhakhang, one of the first and the oldest temple in the country. Spend time lighting 108 butter lamps (Chargeable activity).  Alternatively, take an excursion to Paro town.

This morning you bid farewell to Bhutan. Your driver and guide will take you to Paro International Airport, we recommend you to arrive at least two hours before the flight is scheduled to depart.

We hope to welcome you back to the Land of Thunder Dragon.

What is included

Not included

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