Uncover the western valleys – the beating heart of Bhutan where half its population reside and where the kingdom straddles one foot in its unchanged medieval past and another foot fully anchored into the arms of modernity. In this journey, embark on discoveries of Bhutan’s colourful history and cultural layers – from the birthplace of the kingdom’s Buddhist monastic body to the institutions bringing the country’s heritage to the forefront of its new generations, and the many iconic sites that embody its distinct culturalscapes.

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Bhutan is a destination that demands not only to be seen but to be felt, heard, tasted, savoured and experienced within the context of cultural immersions.

There is no journey long enough that can truly give justice to the heart and soul of this fascinating Himalayan kingdom, but this Cultural Journey is a good start.

A 6 NIGHT CULTURAL EXPLORATION INCLUDES:
Accommodations in Amankora Thimphu, Punakha and Paro lodges with all meals, picnics and house beverages. Activities, hikes and visits as stated in the programme with a private English-speaking guide, driver and vehicle for the entire journey.

We also include a one 60-miniute Amankora Holistic Massage, return airport transfers, laundry, wi-fi and monument passes and long road permits.

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A Cultural Immersion of Bhutan’s Western Valleys

DAY ONE: Thimphu
Arrival in Paro and travel to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. In the afternoon, explore the highlights and culturalscapes of the city: Simply Bhutan Museum, Textile Museum, the Weaving Center, Paper Factory and the Tashichho Dzong.

DAY TWO: Thimphu
After breakfast, hike up to the Cheri Goemba Monastery – the birthplace of Bhutan’s Monastic Body. During the weekdays, visit the Choki Art School, one of the institutions helping preserve Bhutan’s traditional arts and crafts. Visit the Pangri Zampa, a collection of 16th century temples which now houses a monastic astrology school.

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DAY THREE Punakha
Travel to Punakha and stop by the Semtokha Dzong, the Dochu La Pass and the Chimi Lhakhang Temple and village on your way to the lodge. Check-in at Amankora Punakha Lodge and relax in the afternoon with a dip in the heated infinity pool or learn a game of traditional Bhutanese archery or darts.

DAY FOUR Punakha
Hike up to the Khamsum Yulley Chorten, a temple built on top of a hill overlooking rice fields and lush farmlands in the subtropical valley. After lunch, explore the historic Punakha Dzong, the seat of the last capital of Bhutan before the capital was moved to Thimphu in the 1960s.

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DAY FIVE Paro
Travel to Paro. Savour traditional Bhutanese flavours with a Farmhouse lunch before heading to the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang – the kingdom’s oldest temple. Paro Cultural Tour at the National Museum, Paro Dzong and Jangtsa Dumtseg Lhakhang.

DAY SIX Paro
Wake up early for this journey’s highlight: the hike up the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Head back to the lodge for lunch and enjoy a complimentary 60-minute Amankora Holistic Massage. Cap off your cultural sojourn with a farewell dinner at the lodge Dining Room wearing a traditional Bhutanese gho or kira.

DAY SEVEN Departure Bon Voyage International Flight

 

The Most Comprehensive Journey Across the Kingdom

This trip can be customised to your personal preferences.
"Be prepared to be inspired"
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