Crane Festival Special
Gangtey • Phobjikha • Punakha • Paro
Experience Bhutan’s rich culture and stunning landscapes during the Black-Necked Crane Festival at Gangtey Monastery. This 7-day journey combines cultural exploration, scenic drives, and light adventure, culminating in a unique opportunity to witness the arrival of endangered black-necked cranes in Phobjikha Valley. Discover iconic landmarks, panoramic Himalayan vistas, sacred monasteries, and authentic village life, all while immersing yourself in Bhutanese traditions.
Highlights of the Journey
- Arrival at Paro International Airport with breathtaking Himalayan views.
- Scenic drive to Thimphu (1.5 hrs), visiting:
• Tamchoe Lhakhang & Iron Chain Bridge - Explore Thimphu:
• Buddha Dordenma
• Memorial Chorten - Evening leisure stroll in Thimphu.
Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu
DAY 01 – Arrival in Paro & Transfer to Thimphu
Welcome to Bhutan.
Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, enjoy one of the world’s most spectacular mountain landings with breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including Mount Jomolhari and Jichu Drake.
Meet your Miles To Memories guide and begin a scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s vibrant capital city.
Afternoon sightseeing includes:
- National Memorial Chorten
- Buddha Dordenma Statue
- Tashichho Dzong
Enjoy panoramic views of Thimphu Valley and your first introduction to Bhutanese culture.
Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu
DAY 02 – Thimphu Sightseeing & Drive to Phobjikha
- Morning visits:
• Takin Preserve
• Royal Textile Academy
• Simply Bhutan Living Museum
• Bhutan Postal Museum - Lunch en route
- Drive to Phobjikha Valley (4–5 hrs) via Dochula Pass (3,100 m) with 108 chortens.
Overnight: Hotel in Phobjikha
DAY 03 – Gangtey Festival & Phobjikha Sightseeing
- Attend Black-Necked Crane Festival at Gangtey Goenpa:
• Traditional mask dances
• Cultural rituals - Afternoon exploration:
• Gangtey Nature Trail
• Black-Necked Crane Information Centre
Overnight: Hotel in Phobjikha
DAY 05 – Punakha to Paro via Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
- Drive to Punakha (3–4 hrs), stopping for riverside lunch at Zomlithang.
- Visit:
• Punakha Dzong
• Punakha Suspension Bridge
• Nearby traditional villages
Overnight: Hotel in Punakha
Day 5 – Departure
- Morning hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten with panoramic views of Punakha Valley.
- Scenic drive back to Paro (4–5 hrs), revisiting Dochula Pass if missed earlier.
- Evening leisure in Paro Town.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro
DAY 06 – Tiger’s Nest Hike & Paro Exploration
- Option 1: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang Lhakhang)
- Option 2: Visit Kyichu Lhakhang and Paro Rinpung Dzong with town exploration.
- Evening farewell dinner.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro
DAY 07 – Departure from Paro
- Breakfast and transfer to Paro International Airport.
- Depart Bhutan with memories of culture, spiritual heritage, and breathtaking landscapes.
Tashi Delek!
