7D6N Escape to Haa Valley
7 days 6 night |
5.0 (61 reviews) |
Thimphu, Punakha, Haa and Paro
What's Included
- Guaranteed visa approval
- Visas for Bhutan
- Airport transfers
- Daily 3 meals (B/L/D) at designated restaurants or hotels
- Accommodation at 3 star hotel
- A qualified & licensed English-speaking guide
- An experienced driver
- A tour vehicle
- Entry fees & road permits
- Government fee, royalty, taxes & surcharges
- Mineral bottled water
- Set of traditional costume (to be return at the end of your stay)
- Full service & assistance before, during and after your Bhutan trip
What's Excluded
- Flight into Bhutan via Drukair (can be arranged with us)
- Flight on other airline to catch Drukair Flight
- Meals at 4-5 stars restaurants
- Hotel stay outside of Bhutan
- Expenditure of personal nature
- Travel Insurance (can be arranged with us)
- Tips for the guide and driver
- Alcoholic drink
Day 1 Arrival in Paro, head to Thimphu
Welcome to Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Touching down at Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide upon exiting the arrival hall. Today, we will take it easy to acclimatise to the altitude. Drive to Thimphu, check in to the hotel and lets have your first taste of Bhutanese cuisine.
Activities
View of Trashi Chhoe Dzong at Night
‘Fortress of the Glorious Religion’ was initially erected in 1641 and rebuilt by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in the 1960s. Tashi Chhoe Dzong houses some ministries, His Majesty’s secretariat, and the central monk body. Entrance may be granted to guests only after 5 pm but the nine-hole golf course alongside makes for a quirky photo opportunity.
Walk Around Thimphu Town
Shop and walk around Thimphu town.Thimphu is the most modern city in Bhutan with an abundance of restaurants, cafes, shops and nightclubs. However, it still retains its cultural identity and values amidst the signs of modernization.
Day 2 Thimphu
Thimphu Day 2.
Activities
Sangaygang Wangditse loop
This is a beautiful short trail which offers great views of the Thimphu Dzong and city. The trail starts at the Radio (BBS) Tower at the NW corner of the city
Takin Enclosure
On the way to the viewpoint over Thimphu is the home of Bhutan’s national animal, the Takin, a strange looking beast some say looks like a bee-stung moose.
Simply Bhutan
Simply Bhutan is an interactive living museum that gives an introduction to Bhutanese traditions. There’s also a café that dishes nosh that locals eat at home. [Opening hour Summer 09.00 AM - 17.00 PM, Winter 10.00 AM - 16.00 PM]
Post Office
Visit the post office in Thimphu to get customized stamps or to mail cards to your friends and relatives
Tashichhodzong (Thimphu Dzong)
The “fortress of the glorious religion” was first constructed in 1641 and restored by the Third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in the 1960s. Tashichhodzong houses the offices of some ministries, His Majesty’s secretariat, and the central monastic body. Opening hour: Weekday 05:00 PM - 06:00 PM Weekend 09:00 AM - 06:00 PM Winter 04:00 PM - 06:00 PM
Day 3 Thimphu to Punakha
We will set off early from Thimphu after breakfast. Then proceed to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan, about 2 1/2 hours drive from Thimphu across Dochu-la pass. Once you cross the pass, you wind down into a warm fertile valley and meander along a gently flowing aquamarine river that leads you to the Punakha Dzong, the second dzong to be built in Bhutan. wind down into a warm fertile valley and meander along a gently flowing aquamarine river that leads you to the Punakha Dzong, the second dzong to be built in Bhutan.
Activities
Chimi Lhakhang
Also known as the Fertility Temple, this monastery is located in the beautiful village of Sopsokha. It stands on a small hill close to the village of Lobesa and was constructed in 1499 by Ngawang Choegyel, the 14th Drukpaheirarch. This monastery is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley, the 'Divine Madman', known for his risqué behavior. The footpath to Chimi Lhakhang meanders through beautiful terraces of paddy fields. The walk across the fields takes about 30 minutes. Many have been blessed with children after praying at the temple. Visiting Window 9:00 A.M to 12:00 NOON 2:00 P.M to 4:00 P.M
Dochula Pass
At 3,100 metres, this beautiful pass located on the way to Punakha from Thimphu offers stunning 360-degree panoramas of the Himalayas mountain range. Here you will also see 108 chortens built by Her Majesty The Queen Mother Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck. The pass is a popular spiritual destination for both locals and tourists.
Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge
At 160 metres, this is known as the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan. From here, you will get spectacular views of Punakha Dzong and the Pho Chhu Valley.
Punakha Dzong
Located strategically at the junction of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers, the Dzong was built in 1637 by the Great Unifer of Bhutan as the religious and administrative seat of the region. It was here that the dual system of government in Bhutan was introduced in the 17th century. The first King Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck was crowned here in 1907. Damaged by four fires and an earthquake over the centuries, the Dzong was fully restored in recent years by the 4th King Jigme Singye Wangchuck. It is now the winter home of Je Khenpo, the head abbot of Bhutan, along with a retinue of 1,000 monks. Marvel over intricate woodwork by the best craftsmen in Bhutan. Visiting Window: Summer Timing: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Winter Timing: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Day 4 Punakha to Paro
The beautiful valley of Paro is home to many of Bhutan's old monasteries and temples. The country's only Airport is in Paro. The valley is also home to mount Chomolhari (7,300 meters) situated at the northern end of the valley whose glacier water forms the Pachu flowing through the valley
Activities
Kyichu Lhakhang
At 1,300 years old, this is one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. Like the Jambhay Lhakhang in Bumthang, it is one of 108 temples built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo to subdue and vanquish an ogress that was obstructing the spread of Buddhism. Legend has it that all 108 temples were built in a single night. The Kyichhu temple’s name means “reservoir of peace”. Next to the temple is a museum dedicated to the late Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche. You will see photographs and other personal artefacts belonging to the Rinpoche.
Archery and Khuru Tryout
You can try your hands on Archery and Khuru at Traveller's farmhouse. Our guide will be there to teach you how to shoot and hold the arrow. We also have another traditional game called Khuru (which is like a huge dart), whereby you throw it at the target.
Kha ja Throm Paro
Initiated upon Royal Command, and as a gift from His Majesty The King to the people of Paro, the Ka Ja Throm has been built so that vendors can showcase and sell their produce in a vibrant community space. The Farmer’s Market has 147 stalls for vegetables, fruits, meat, and other local farm produce, and food and drinks. A children’s park and an open-air live-band stage are also part of the Paro Ka Ja Throm. The market is envisioned to be a lively public space place for families and visitors to enjoy while also showcasing the best of Paro’s local produce. The management will organize regular live performances at the venue, alongside food and drinks stalls managed by de-suups from the DSP Culinary training.
Day 5 Paro to Haa (Day trip)
Activities
Chele La Pass
Start early for the drive to Chele La Pass, which, at 3,988 m, is the highest road pass in Bhutan, snaking upwards through blue pine and rhododendron (Etho Metho) forests for 35 kilometres. On a clear day the view sweeps away to the snow-dome of Bhutan’s second highest peak, Mt Jhomolhari (7,314 m), and down to the Haa Valley, which only opened to foreigners in 2002 due to its proximity to the border with Sikkim and Tibet. For those who rather have a leisure sightseeing day, there is the option to drive from Chele La Pass down the other side to the Haa Valley. In case Chele La Pass is not accessible during the winter months due to ice or snow, your guide will propose an alternative for this day excursion.
Haa Valley
Drive to Haa through Chele La (3,988 m). From the pass, you can see Paro valley on one side and then Haa valley on the other. You can also have a picnic at Chele La if you like to. In Haa, some sightseeing and then going to katsho village and visiting the Katso Lhakhang. The valley of Haa was only opened to Tourist in 2002 and Haa is the least visited valley in Bhutan due to the lack of Tourist infrastructure. This has helped in keeping Haa the way it has always been, with Bhutanese families living their traditional and simple life.
Lhakhang Karpo, White Temple
Established in the 7th century by Tibetan King, Songtsen Gempo in his mission to build 108 monasteries in one day. He built Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo in the Haa Valley. According to a legend, he has sent two pigeons (one black and one white) to find a sacred place to build the temple.
Lhakhang Nagpo, Black Temple
It's a very peaceful and tranquil place, suitable for meditation. The monastery was established in the 7th century by King Songtsen Gampo in his mission to build 108 monasteries in one day. It is situated towards the north of Lhakhang Karpo. Legend has it that King Songtsen Gampo released a black and white pigeon to select sites to build the temples.
Day 6 Paro
Are you ready? We will be making the hike up to one of the key highlights in Bhutan today! Tiger's Nest aka Taktsang Monastery
Activities
Taktsang Monastery
Also known as the Tiger’s Nest, this monastery set dramatically on the cliffs of Paro Valley, is Bhutan’s most famous landmark. In fact, some tourists would even say that “A trip to Bhutan is not complete without climbing to Taktsang.” According to local folklore, the Guru Rinpoche flew to this location from Tibet on the back of a tigress (his consort Yeshey Tshogyal) and meditated in one of the caves, before emerging in eight manifestations. A hike up to Taktsang draws people with different interests. It fills those who are spiritually inclined with a sense of peace, while avid hikers feel a sense of achievement upon reaching the monastery. Take time to process the mental and physical sensations that wash over you during the uphill climb as you ascend more than two thousand feet from the valley floor to reach the monastery.
Hot Stone Bath
After the trekking we special arrange Bhutanese traditional hot stone bath for you to relax your muscles.The process of a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath is unique. It uses Menchu (medicinal water) which is nothing but fresh river water mixed with Artemisia leaves. The water is heated using river stones that are roasted on fire till they are glowing red. The temperature of the water can be increased by adding more heated stones into a wooden chamber via a chute. This chamber is connected to the main tub (also made of wood) which contains the water. The holes in the chamber allow the heat to be infused into the bath (so there is no danger of being burned by the hot stones) and the stones are said to release key minerals into the water which are believed to have medicinal benefits. One can soak in the water for about half and hour after a tiring day. **additional charges USD 25 per person
Day 7 Depart Paro
Today we will bid a fond farewell to this beautiful Himalayan country and take a flight back home. We hope by now you would have made some friends and also kept many photos and beautiful memories of Bhutan! And we look forward to seeing you again in this beautiful land of endless Enchantments! Tashi Delek
Why Book With Druk Asia
We're Bhutan's largest tour operator & leading travel specialist with more than a decade of experience. We specialise in creating personalised, authentic and immersive travel experiences for travellers all around the world.
We're also the most-reviewed Bhutan tour agency with over 700 testimonials from satisfied clients in 50 countries. Our exceptional service and attention to detail have earned us a reputation as the go-to tour operator for Bhutan travel.
Our GuaranteeWelcome to Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Touching down at Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide upon exiting the arrival hall. Today, we will take it easy to acclimatise to the altitude. Drive to Thimphu, check in to the hotel and lets have your first taste of Bhutanese cuisine.
✓ Guaranteed Visa approval. We have yet to disappoint a single of our travellers in term of Visa issuance.
✓ Your choice of hotels will be confirmed for your inspection before your arrival.
✓ We're here to help. Our world-class member services team is available by phone or email.
Testimonials
Ivy
from Malaysia, May 2019
5
I would like to say Thank You to you for all the pre-trip arrangement.
I am amazed by nature beauty, Dzongs and people’s of Bhutan. I enjoy so much from the moment I stepped out from the plane.
I would like to also Thank You for arranged 2 wonderful Brothers as my Guide and Driver throughout my trip in Bhutan. I have lots of fun with both brother Ugyen and Rinzin.
Brother Ugyen (Guide) is very knowledgeable with Bhutan culture. He is a very patience and care person. Brother Rinzin (Driver) not only good in driving skill he is also very good in photographic skill. Most of my picture taken by him was without my notice but it comes out great.
Sujesh Pavithran
from Singapore, May 2018
5
We have just returned to Singapore from our trip to Bhutan and would like to give fantastic feedback for our tour guide, Kinley, and our driver Uncle Rock.
Kinley had been very caring throughout our trip and took care of us every step of the way. She went the extra mile to make us feel comfortable and safe and helped us experience the best of Bhutan. Kinley was a very hardworking, knowledge, warm-hearted lady and we are extremely thankful to her.
Shuli Lin
from Singapore, Mar 2018
5
Kyly Ang
from Singapore, Mar 2018
5
One of the best decision made in my life to visit Bhutan
Read testimonialStanley Chua
from Singapore, Dec 2017
5
My friends and I have just returned to Singapore from Bhutan. We had a wonderful time - thank you for arranging the tour for us!
I'm not sure whether there's a more "official" way of giving feedback, but if not, here's what my friends and I want to say of our tour guide Ugyen. (Please feel free to use these feedback for any publicity by Druk Asia.)
Quite simply, Ugyen was a fantastic guide. I'm not exaggerating at all when I say that having travelled to many countries around the world and interacted with so many tour guides, Ugyen is by far the best guide I've ever met. Let me explain why we found him so good.
He was supremely attentive. From day 1, every time we set off, he ran his eyes discreetly across our attires to make sure we were suitably clothed. If our clothes were not warm
Siegfried Beil
from Germany, Dec 2017
5
After our return to Singapore we are reviewing all the wonderful photos and experiences gathered during our memorable visit to your beautiful Country. Although we already had high expectations prior to departure, our actual visit by far exceeded what we anticipated, thanks to your in-depth knowledge of all aspects of Bhutanese, life, religion, culture and history, and also thanks to Bhurpa's very reassuring driving skills across the precarious mountain passes.
My wife Esther has already written to you to express our appreciation for making our visit so enjoyable throughout, but I want to separately take the opportunity to send a BIG "thank you" to you both for show-casing your unique Country in the best of light. Of course the good weather also deserves mention, because without
Kate Tan
from Singapore, Dec 2017
5
We did the 7 Day Essential Bhutan Tour with Druk Asia from 3 - 9 Dec 2017. It was an enjoyable trip and we are pleased to have chosen Druk Asia. Our travel specialist, Namgay Dorji is always prompt and patient in replying to our queries. Special thanks to our guide, Sangay Tashi and driver, Dechen Wangdi too - they are friendly, entertaining and had been very accommodating to our needs and request throughout the trip. It was a beautiful and memorable experience. Kadrin chhey to Druk Asia!
Read testimonialJing Yu Poon
from Singapore, Oct 2017
5
This is the most UNFORGETTABLE trip of my lifetime. Barely a day I spent regretting there. The moment i stepped in Paro, all my worries and tiredness (been travelling quite a lot before landing Paro) all vanished. The air is incredible. but hold on, the Bhutanese have stolen my heart away. Sherab Thai (guide) and Sonam Tshering (driver) had treated me with kindness and graciousness throughout. I have regarded Sonam like a father i never have and Sherab, a friend and brother who have shown great professional knowledge in everything!
It is the 3Hs--> humility, Humble-ness, HOSPITALITY that made me cried on my day of departure. I could not bear to leave them. I should have opt for 2 weeks stay in the Land of Thunder Dragon. I have made new Bhutanese friends (other than my guide and driver)
Qing Gui
from Singapore, Oct 2017
5
Good evening!
My stay at Bhutan was a great and memorable one. Will be returning to Bhutan definitely.
Bhutanese people are friendly, magnificent scenery, rich culture, nice food and etc etc (too many things to be listed down). This 7D6N tour is indeed enriching myself not just from the trip itself, but also an addition request to drop by to a school during the tour for donation of stationary. The school principal was actually willing and happy to host and show me around the school explaining the school curriculum to how school can self sustain. It broaden my horizon on how knowledgeable Bhutanese can be and it is their perspective that actually make them the
Jenny Won
from Singapore, Sep 2017
5
Bhutan has been one of my travel destination list for a long time, and finally I decided and plan to travel.
Bhutan's exotic, serenity and magical land has attracted me and now I had experienced the happiness in the country.
With many breathtaking sights and warm hospitality during my stay in Bhutan, I felt the unique of Local Bhutanese & Environment that leaves me with a good sense of memories.
Together with my friends, we had received extremely, friendly, warm & courteous Tour Guide - Ugyen Tenzin & Tour Driver - Ugyen Tenzin (ShangPo) from day 1 till our departure day in Bhutan.
Our skillful driver - Ugyen Tenzin (ShangPo) drove us through many scenic and mountain drives.
Also appreciated with their patience and care