Divine Madman Journey

Day 1: Arrival in Paro Bhutan
Check-in Hotel.
Visit to the National Museum Paro.
Paro Rimpung Dzong visit.
Leisure/relax

National Museum
A visit to the national Museum of Bhutan is a must for all travelers. This place was used as a watch tower in earlier times for the dzong. Now it houses as the national museum.
Paro Rinpung Dzong
Paro Dzong functions as the office of the district and residence of the monastic body of Paro. It is a beautiful dzong overlooking the Paro river.
Kichu Monastery
A visit to this temple in Paro which is one of the oldest temples in the country.

Day 2, Paro
Hike to Tigers Nest (4 hours)
Farm House dinner and hot stone bath experience.

Itinerary/Program
Today you will spend the day hiking towards the Tigers nest monastery. Perched on a cliff, this famous temple is a must visit to travelers. Located towards the north of Paro Dzongkhag. It has both historical as well as cultural importance in Bhutan. Lunch would be provided on route to the temple.
Paro Town leisure visit
Stroll through this bustling town of Paro and the local farmers market. Evening Dinner at a Local Farm house with Hot stone bath experience

Day 3, Thimphu, 27.4716°N, 89.6386°E ( 2400Mts)
Drive towards Thimphu ( 2hours)
Tachog Monastery visit.
National Memorial Stupa visit.
Buddha Dordenma Statue Visit.
Takin Enclousre

Itinerary/Program
Tachog Monastery
Tachog Lhakhang is one of the several temples build by the Tibetan king Thangtong Gyalpo ( 1385-1464) known as the “Iron Bridge builder” for his engineering works including chain-link suspension bridges. Around 1433 he build the “Tamchog Chakzam” “Iron Bridge” to commute from both direction. The temple perched on the hill top has been in the hands of his descendants who comprise of the Tachog Choeje, one of the noble families of Paro. The temple was burnt down in the 17th Century and rebuilt.
National Memorial Chorten (Stupa)
This well-known landmark in Thimphu was build in 1974 in the memory of the third king by his mother. This Stupa serves as an important place of work ship and religious gatherings for the locals of Thimphu. One of the picturesque location in Thimphu.
Buddha Dordenma Statue
This siting Buddha bronze and gilded in gold statue majestically stands at a height of 51.5m, overlooking the Thimphu Valley. It was recognized as the tallest sitting Buddha statue in the world. Inside this gigantic Buddha, sits another 100,000 smaller Buddha statues. This place serves as an important religious event gathering place in the country.
Takin Enclosure
The national animal of Bhutan, Takin is an interesting specimen. Known locally as “Drong gim tse”. Legend has it that the Buddhis yogi, Drukpa Kuenley created this animal with his powers. This species of animal is found in high ranges of the Himalayas including Bhutan and india.

Day 4: Thimphu Bhutan
After breakfast we drive towards the Buddha Point, from here you will hike on the Kuensel Phodrang trail ( 3hours)
After the hike we will head to town for a local lunch at a Bhutanese restaurant. In the afternoon we will visit the institute of traditional arts and craft, the local farmers market and the Dzong.
Itinerary/Program
Kuensel Phodrang Hike
This trail starts from the Buddha Dordenma point. You will hike through the forest area towards Changgankha temple overlooking the Thimphu Valley. With clean air and birds chirping sounds, this trail takes around 3 hours light hike.
National Institute of Zorig Chusum
The National institute of traditional arts and craft offers training courses to the youth in the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. This institute plays an important role in the preservation of traditional culture and also the promotion of the National heritage. Skill set such as painting, wood carving, weaving etc… are taught in this institute overseen by the Ministry of Education. There is a shop in the institute that sells the products made by the students for the guests.
Centenary Farmers Market
A visit to this beautiful farmers market is crucial. Local produce are brought here by the farmers as well as produce from the nebighouring country. The residents of Thimphu are dependent on the local farmers for their daily vegetables, cereals and fresh produce needs.
Tashichhodzong Visit
Your first glimpse and experience of a Bhutanese Dzong in this journey. In the afternoon after our programs are completed we will visit the Thimphu Dzong. This gigantic fortress structure houses the office of the King and the residence of the head abbot and the monk body. Located next to the Thimphu river, it functions as the summer residence of the central monastic body. The popular annual Thimphu Tshechu festival is hosted in the court house of this Dzong.

Day 5 Punakha Bhutan
27.5921° N, 89.8797° E (1350mts)
After breakfast and check out, you will start your journey towards Punakha. (3hours)
Dochu La Pass Visit
Coffee break at Dochula Pass and visit the 108 stupas.
Visit to the Diving Madman Temple ( Chimmi Lhakhang), Punakha
Punakha Dzong visit

Itinerary/Program
Dochula Pass
Dochula Pass divides Punakha from Thimphu. La means High Pass in Bhutanese. From the pass one can view the breathtaking glance of the Himalayan range. Perched at an elevation of 3100mts one can on a clear day, view the tallest un-climbed mountain in the world and other Bhutanese majestic peaks. Druk Wangyel Chorten. These 108 stupas was commissioned in 2003 by the queen mother after the Country witnessed skirmish with insurgents in the Southern border. Led by the fourth King, the mission was a success. As a tribute to the soldiers who lost their life this 108 stupas were consecrated and a yearly special mask dance festival is organized in this vicinity.
Chhimi Lhakhang
This monastery was built in 1499 by Ngawang Choegyel. It was built after the place was blessed by the divine madman saint, Drukpa Kuenley. The temple sits atop the hill overlooking Lobesa valley. This temple has significant importance to the Bhutanese. The temple is also called the temple of fertility. People come to this temple to get blessing from a special wooden phallus, in-order to have success in conceiving a child. As tale of this fertility temple spread, a lot of childless people both locals and foreigners have made visits here for blessing and had children.
Punakha Dzong
“ The Palace of Great Happiness” is located at the confluence of the river, Phochhu and the Mochhu ( Male and female river) it was built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal ( 1594-1651). This dzong houses the residence of the monk body of Punakha as well as the winter residence of the central monk body. The government offices of Punakha are also inside the dzong. This dzong holds historic significance in the country. As per tradition all the Kings are crowned here in this dzong. The wedding of the current king was also held here. In this Dzong there are centuries old statue of the Buddha, Guru Rinpoche and Zhabdrung.

Day 6 Punakha
Khamsum Yuell Namgyal Temple visit
Rafting down Pho Chu
Local Market visit
Technical Training Institute Visit Khuruthang
Nunnery visit

Itinerary/ Program
Khamsum Yuelle Namgyel Temple Visit
This 3 storey temple was recently commissioned by Her majesty the Queen Mother, Tshering Yangden Wangchuck. This temple houses representations of tantric Buddhist deities from Bhutan. The temple was built for the protection and prosperity of the country and the current king. The temple sits atop a hill and provides a excellent view of the valley below.
Rafting down the Pho Chhu
The male river “ Pho Chhu” flows from the glaciers in the Lunana region and meanders down the punakha valley till it joins with the Mo Chhu ( Female river) at the confluence of the Dzong. A 16km down river rafting from the road point takes you all the way down at the edge of the Punakha Dzong. Rapids of class 2 and 4 can be experience on this stretch. The rafting experience takes you down the meandering river with breath taking scenery and a joyful experience.
Technical Training Institute Visit
After rafting and having a hearty lunch by the river front, next you will visit the technical training institute in Khuruthang. Skill like, welding, electrical and mechanical courses are offered here by the Ministry. A visit here will show you how the Bhutanese youth are trained and taught in technical skills.
Sangchhen Dorji Nunnery
A visit to this nunnery gives you an idea of the practice of Buddhism by Nuns. Consecrated in 2010, by Yab Ugyen Dorji and Yum Thuji zam( maternal grandparents of the current king).
As this region did not have any nunnery, the Yab stressed for a place of workship for the nuns benefit, hence on this sacred land. The nunnery was build. Today it houses around 200 nuns, their hostels and classes.

Day 7 Phobjikha Bhutan
27.4594° N, 90.1802°E ( 3000 Mts)
After check out you will be driven towards Phobjikha Valley ( 2hours)
Visit Gangtey Monastery.
Gangtey natural trail hike.
Dinner at Local house with hot-stone bath experience

Itinerary/Program
Gangtey Goenpa Monastery
After check-out you will then head towards Phobjikha Valley. The drive takes around 2 hours. The beautiful monastery of Gangtey Goemba sits perched atop a verdant hillock in Wangdue Phodrangs Phobjika Valley. The monastery is one of the school of Nyingma tradition of Buddhism. As per the prophesy of Terton Pema Lingpa, his grandson Pema Trinle ( 1564-1642) built the monastery at the present site.
Phobjikha valley is famous as the winter nesting ground of black-necked cranes which migrate there from Tibet. A popular legend states that they circle the Gangteng Monastery three times on their final landing approach, then do the same upon departure at the season.
Gangtey Natural Trail Hike ( 4km)
After visit to the Monastery, a short hike down the Gangtey Natural Trail leads you towards the wide open valley of Phobjikha. This hike down takes you through the pine forest leading towards the valley. A beautiful scenery of Phobjikha valley on the right side of the trail gives you the view of the pristine marsh lands where the black neck crane roosts during season.
The Black Neck Crane Center
This center was built by the Royal Society for Protection of Nature. The crane center will give you abundant insight about this magnificent bird, its travel pattern, roosting and the number of crane visits to the valley every year.
Local farm House Dinner & Hot-Stone Bath
To end the day after a grueling hike and walk around the valley, a traditional hot-stone bath awaits you at a local farm house. With relaxed muscles and vibe after this bath, a traditional Bhutanese meal with local homemade organic spirit will awaken your taste buds. After dinner you will be headed back to your hotel.

Day 8 Trongsa 27.5002°N 90.5081°E (2200mts)
After check-out you will be driven towards the next destination of Trongsa. 2 hours drive.
Visit Chendebji Stupa on-route.
In Trongsa visit to the splendid Trongsa Dzong.
Local Farmers Market visit.

Itinerary/Program
Chendbeji Stupa
This Stupa lies on-route to Trongsa, Chendebju Chorten was built in the sytle of Nepalese stupa such as the famous Boudhanath in Kathmandu. It was built around the 18th century by Lam Oensey Tshering Wangchuk, to repel the demon Ngala.
Trongsa Dzong
Trongsa Dzong is the largest dzong in Bhutan. Built on a spur overlooking the gorge of Mangde River. A temple was first established at the location in 1543 by lam Nagi Wangchuk. In 1647, zhabdrung constructed the first dzong. The dzong has been renovated in 1927 and 1999. Today it holds office of the dzongkhag of Trongsa and the monastic body. The kings of Bhutan prior to their crowning, are given the title of Trongsa Penlop in this dzong.
Farmers Market
There is a small bustling local farmers market, which caters to the local community of Trongsa town. A visit there will see many farmers bringing their produce to sell.
Overnight halt at Yangkhil Resort Trongsa/Tashi Ninjey Hote, Trongsa

Day 9 Bumthang, Bhutan 27.5493° N, 90.7538 °E (2500mts)
After check-out you will travel towards Bumthang Dzongkhag. (2hours)
Trongsa Ta Dzong( Watch tower) visit, converted into a museum.
On-route to Chamkhar town visit the Technical Training Institute in Chumey.

Visit Jakar Dzong.
Itinerary/Program
Trongsa Dzong watch tower Museum.
The Ta Dzong, which overlooks the Dzong, used to function as a watch tower for the dzong in earlier times. Today it has been converted to a Museum. There are eleven galleries’ inside this Museum dedicated to Buddhist masters, saints and the current the monarchy lineage.
Technical Training Institute Chumey (TTIC)
Visit to this training institute on route to Chamkhar town. This institute has had close relation with Switzerland. The company WALO from Switzerland, has over the years supported this institute in terms of tools donation, trainings and exchange programs and contributed significantly in bringing changes to this institute.

Day 10 Chamkhar Bumthang

Itinerary/Program
Jakar Dzong
The Jakar Dzong houses the monastic body of Bumthang region and the government offices. This fortress was built by lam Nagi Wangchuck (1517-1554). Oral history mentions that a white bird perched on-top of the current location of the dzong, signified the local head monks looking for a place to construct the dzong on this place.
Kurjey Monastery Visit
Kurjey Lhakhang is one of the most holy and sacred Buddhist site in the country. The temple is surrounded by 108 chorten walls. The temple has three revered lhakhangs in its surroundings. A Magnificent architecture of Buddhist temple one can see.
Jampay Lhakhang
The Jampa Temple of Maitrey Buddha is located in Bumthang. It is said to be one of the 108 temples built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in 659 AD. . Visiting this sacred temple in the month of November, visitors can witness the traditional dance called ‘Ter-Chaam’ which is practised only by women seeking for babies.
Kenchosum Lhakhang
Kenchosum Lhakgang known as Tsilung is a Buddhist Monastery in Bumthang valey. The monastery was founded around 1039. The modern structure is truly magnificently built and one of the important monasteries in Bumthang.
Overnight Halt at Swiss Guest House

Day 11, Mongar 27.2754 °N, 91.2398 °E(1600Mts)
Drive towards Mongar Dzongkhag ( 7-8hours)
Mongar town leisure

Itinerary/Program
The journey from Bumthang to Mongar is a scenic drive of approximately 198 km (123 miles), taking around 7 to 8 hours by road. The route climbs to the Thrumshing La Pass at an elevation of approximately 3,780 meters (12,402 feet), offering stunning views of alpine valleys, dense pine forests, and diverse flora and fauna before descending into Mongar, a unique town built on a slope. On clear days, marvel at the sight of Gangkar Phuensum, Bhutan’s highest peak, visible from Thrumshingla.
Journey Highlights
Scenic Drive:
The road is a visual feast, showcasing picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, lush forests, and serene valleys.
Thrumshing La Pass:
The drive ascends to Thrumshing La Pass, the highest point on Bhutan’s road network, providing breathtaking panoramic views.
Diverse Scenery:
You will pass through Ura village, cross alpine valleys, and traverse through forests of oak and rhododendron trees.
Arrival in Mongar:
You will eventually reach Mongar, the first town in Bhutan built on a slope, rather than a traditional valley.

Day 12, Trashigang Bhutan. 27.3325°N, 91.5523 °E( 1100Mts)

Drive towards Trashigang from Mongar.
Tashigang Dzong
The distance between Mongar and Trashigang is approximately 90 kilometers, with an expected travel time of over 3 hours. The road from Mongar ascends past fields to Kilikhar, where you’ll find its Buddhist college (shedra), before winding through blue pine forests. As the journey continues, the road gradually climbs, hugging the cliffsides and passing through dense forests of rhododendron trees, eventually reaching the Kori la pass (2400m), adorned with mani (prayer) walls and prayer flags.
Descending from Kori la pass, the road meanders through broadleaf forests, eventually leading to the village of Naktshang. Continuing the descent, you’ll pass through corn and mustard fields before reaching the large village of Yadi (1480m) approximately one hour from the pass.
From Yadi, the road drops down through the Sherichhu valley, meeting the Drangme Chhu river. The road then winds in and out of side valleys until reaching Thungdari (around 70km from Mongar or 20km from Trashigang). A side road from Thungdari leads to Drametse (18km of dirt road, taking around 1 hour each way). Continuing from Thungdari, the road follows the side valleys of the Drangme Chhu river until reaching Chazam, named after the chain bridge built in the 15th century (literally meaning iron bridge). Chazam serves as the junction for the road to Gomkora and beyond to Tashiyangste. From Chazam, the road ascends for about 20 minutes to reach Trashigang.
Visit to Trashigang Dzong.

Day 13, Trashigang Bhutan
Visit to Rangung Monastery
Visit to Technical institute Rangung
Itinerary/Program
Today you will visit a Technical training center which is the only one in this region which caters to the youth of the eastern region. Interaction with the trainees and the staff in this institute will give you an understanding of the subjects and courses offered here.
Rangung Monastery Located above the training institute on a ridge lies the Rangung Monastery. A visit here to show you the beautiful monastery and its school.
Weaving center
Visit to the weaving center in Rangung.

Day 14, Samdrupjongkhar Bhutan.

 Drive towards Samdrupjongkhar ( 6hours) The journey along the 180-kilometer southern highway from Trashigang to Samdrup Jongkhar takes a minimum of six hours. After leaving Trashigang, the road winds through terraced fields up to Kanglung, 22 kilometers away, where Sherubtse College’s extensive campus is visible. Continuing upwards, the road crosses Yongphu la at 2190 meters and descends to Gumchu, leading to Khaling, nestled above the Drangme Chhu, with a High School campus, town, and an Institute for the Disabled.

 Beyond Khaling, the road traverses small villages, crossing Kharungla at 2350 meters and another pass at 2430 meters before reaching Wamrong, where travelers often pause for lunch. Further, a descent to the Pemagatshel junction offers views of distant houses and plains, leading to Pemagatshel town, the district headquarters. Continuing south, the route passes through Menlong Brak, descending sharply to Narphung before climbing to 1920 meters and descending to Deothang. From there, a 30-minute descent leads to Samdrup Jongkhar, marked by the abrupt transition to Sal and teak forests.

Check in Hotel.

Day 15. Exit Bhutan

Today you will exit Bhutan and will be chauffeured towards Guwahati International Airport, a 3 hour drive through the Indian state of Assam, from where you can catch your connecting flight.