༄། །༼ Buddhist Tour in Bhutan ༽
Himalaya & Bhutan Pilgrimage Itinerary
10th October 2026 -23th October 2026
"A journey beyond landscapes: into silence, devotion, and self-discovery. The precious pilgrimage of Bhutan invites you to walk sacred paths, experience monastic life, and reconnect with inner peace." Based on guidance fromLama Tashi Norbu la & Yogini Elizabeth Carsen, the brother of NAMKHAI Nyingpo Rinpoche, giveslong life empowerment.
Look below for a day-by-day itinerary!
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Day 1: Arrival in Phuntsholing
Arrive at Phuntsholing, Bhutan’s border town with India. Complete immigration formalities and obtain your permits. Explore this gateway town where Indian and Bhutanese cultures meet. Visit Zangto Pelri Lhakhang and begin your sacred journey from Phuntsholing to Bjimena.
Drive to Bjimena (approximately 4–6 hours), a quieter route through subtropical forests and small villages. Bjimena offers an off-the-beaten-path experience of rural Bhutan. Explore the surroundings and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, deeply connected with nature. Experience authentic village life, traditional hospitality, and monastic culture at Bjimena Nyindey Monastery.
Bjimena Nyindey Monastery
Experience authentic village life, traditional hospitality, and monastic culture at the Monastery
Day 2-5 : Nyidey monastery
Travel to the Nyidey Monastery area. Nyidey Monastery is a serene meditation center with beautiful valley views. Spend time exploring the monastery, observing monks at prayer, and learning about Buddhist practices. The monastery offers a peaceful retreat atmosphere.
Take walks around the monastery grounds and surrounding areas. Engage with monastic life and participate in activities as opportunities arise.
Day 6: In Thimphu
Drive to Thimphu (approximately 1 hour). Upon arrival in Bhutan’s capital, visit the massive Buddha Dordenma statue (51.5 meters tall). After that, visit the Motithang Takin Preserve (home to Bhutan’s national animal). In the evening, visit Tashichho Dzong, the impressive fortress housing the throne room and government offices (exterior view; interior access requires special permission).
Dinner at Simply Bhutan (cultural experience).
Day 7: To explore Thimphu
Visit the Buddha Dordenma statue again along with the National Memorial Chorten, a spiritual center where locals gather for prayers and circumambulation. After lunch, visit the Bhutan School for Arts and Crafts (Painting School), where students learn Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts, including painting, sculpture, and embroidery.
Day 8 -10: Thimphu to Dochula Pass
Drive to Dochula Pass (3,100 m, approximately 1 hour). Spend time at this spectacular location featuring 108 memorial chortens (Druk Wangyal Chortens), built in honor of Bhutanese soldiers. On clear days, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan range, including peaks over 7,000 meters. Visit Druk Wangyal Lhakhang, known for its unique paintings depicting Bhutanese history and royal lineage. Take a peaceful walk around the chortens. Return to Thimphu in the afternoon.
Visit the organic vegetable market and explore local shops for Bhutanese souvenirs.
Day 9: Thimphu to Paro
Drive to Paro Valley (approximately 1.5 hours). En route, visit Paro Rinpung Dzong and cross the traditional wooden cantilever bridge (Nyamai Zam). After lunch, visit the National Museum (Ta Dzong), showcasing Bhutanese art, artifacts, and natural history.
Enjoy an evening stroll through Paro town. Overnight stay in Paro.
Day 10: Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Early start for the iconic hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), one of Bhutan’s most sacred sites. The monastery clings dramatically to a cliff face 900 meters above the valley floor. Legend says Guru Rinpoche flew here on a tigress’s back in the 8th century to meditate. The round-trip hike takes 5-6 hours with a cafeteria at the halfway viewpoint offering the famous Tiger’s Nest view. The climb is challenging but incredibly rewarding. Afternoon return to Paro for rest and recovery. Consider a traditional hot stone bath (Dotsho) in the evening to soothe tired muscles. Overnight in Paro.
Day 11: Punakha
Punakha Dzong, known as the "Palace of Great Happiness", is Bhutan's second-oldest and second-largest dzong. Located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (male river)and Mo Chhu (female rivers) in Punakha, it features three massive courtyards, a stunning 100-pillar assembly hall, and sacred relics of the Drukpa Lineage Punakhazong
Day 12 -14: Reach Phuntsholing
Bhutan’s border town with India. Explore this gateway town where Indian and Bhutanese cultures meet. Visit Zangto Pelri Lhakhang and shopping things as souvenir and experience the real taste of organic edible…
And then to the closing ceremony with the glories blessing of mantras.
"Conclude the journey with a heart full of gratitude, carrying forward the peace and wisdom experienced throughout the sacred pilgrimage."
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For more information or trip correspondence, please DM TibetMuseumUSA on Instagram or Facebook, email info@lamatashinorbu.org, or check Yogini Elisabeth Carson’s website here.