This luxury tour is designed around the Amankora lodges, offering an unparalleled experience in Bhutan’s most scenic regions. The tour includes stays at Amankora’s five lodges in Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey, and Bumthang, each providing a unique setting. The journey allows travelers to experience Bhutan’s rich culture, pristine landscapes, and spiritual sites while enjoying world-class comfort and personalized service.
(Distance: 54 km, driving time: 1 hour) | Altitude: 2300m
The flight into Paro is one of the most scenic mountain flights in the world. On a clear day, you will be able to view some of the highest peaks in the world, including Mt. Everest, Mt. Kanchanjunga, Mt. Makalu, and within Bhutan, Mt. Jhomolhari, Mt. Jichu Drakey, and Mt. Tsherimgang. As your flight descends into Bhutan, you’ll pass through the emerald green forests and picturesque villages that dot the mountainsides.
Upon arrival, a representative from Bhutan Omkara Tours & Travels will greet you at the airport and accompany you throughout your journey. After a short refreshment, visit the National Museum housed in the Ta Dzong (watchtower), which features an intriguing collection of artifacts offering a comprehensive introduction to Bhutanese culture and history. From here, take a short walk down to Paro Dzong, an impressive example of Bhutanese architecture. Continue your stroll across the Nyamai Zampa, a traditional cantilever bridge.
Later, drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. En route, enjoy views of the Paro and Thimphu rivers converging at Chuzom. The road passes through narrow valleys before opening up into farmlands as you approach Thimphu. A short stop at Simtokha Dzong, an important historical site known for its religious and cultural significance, rounds off the journey.
Overnight at Amankora Thimphu Lodge.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Amankora Thimphu
(Distance: 74 km, driving time: 2.5 hours) | Altitude: 1300m
Begin your day with a visit to Buddha Dordenma, a massive golden statue overlooking the Thimphu Valley. From here, proceed to the National Memorial Chorten, a sacred monument where locals gather to offer prayers. Continue your exploration at the Tashichho Dzong, the seat of Bhutan’s government and monastic body, before visiting the Handicrafts Bazaar, showcasing a variety of Bhutanese arts and crafts.
After lunch, depart for Punakha, traversing the stunning Dochula Pass at 3,100 meters. If the weather is clear, the pass offers spectacular views of the Eastern Himalayas, including the 108 chortens dotting the landscape. Continue your descent into the Punakha Valley, known for its lush rice terraces.
Upon arrival, check into Amankora Punakha Lodge, beautifully located amidst rice fields and overlooking the valley.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Amankora Punakha
Start your morning with a visit to the impressive Punakha Dzong, Bhutan’s most stunning fortress, located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Discover its history and marvel at the intricately painted interiors. From here, take a scenic walk to the Punakha Suspension Bridge, one of Bhutan’s longest suspension bridges, offering panoramic views of the river and valley.
In the afternoon, return to the lodge to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. You may indulge in a rejuvenating hot stone bath or other spa treatments offered at Amankora.
In the evening, experience traditional Bhutanese hospitality by visiting a local farmhouse, where you can enjoy tea and interact with a Bhutanese family.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Amankora Punakha
(Distance: 125 km, driving time: 4 hours) | Altitude: 2200m
After breakfast, begin your drive back to Paro, stopping en route to visit Simtokha Dzong, the oldest dzong in Bhutan. Upon arrival in Paro, check in at Amankora Paro Lodge, set in a serene forested location with views of the valley.
In the afternoon, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most revered temples in Bhutan, believed to have been built in the 7th century. It is one of the 108 temples built by King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet to pin down a demoness.
Return to the lodge for an evening of relaxation, where you can enjoy a spa treatment or unwind with a meditation session.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Amankora Paro
Today, embark on one of Bhutan’s most iconic experiences – the hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), perched on a cliff 900 meters above the Paro Valley. The 5-hour round-trip hike takes you through beautiful pine forests and offers stunning views of the valley and surrounding peaks. The monastery is an important pilgrimage site, where it is believed that Guru Rinpoche meditated after arriving on the back of a tigress.
After your hike, enjoy lunch at the midway point, overlooking the monastery. Once you descend, return to the lodge for a well-deserved rest. Treat yourself to a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath or a relaxing massage at the lodge’s spa.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Amankora Paro
After breakfast, enjoy a final moment of peace at Amankora Paro before your transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure flight, bidding farewell to the magical Kingdom of Bhutan.
Meals: Breakfast