PUNAKHA
EXTENSION
An Exclusive 3-night travel extension offered before or after the core program
PUNAKHA
Extend Your Visit to Meet Grassroots Change-makers
This supplementary immersive experience begins with a scenic drive east from Paro to Punakha, home of the Kingdom’s former capital city, situated at the confluence of two major rivers, the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu.
As you explore the unspoilt landscape of the region’s ancient valley, your exclusive itinerary will guide you to unique sites and temples, along a river rafting adventure, rural community visits and specially-catered picnic lunches and traditional dinners, through only-in-W4I experiences.
OCT 28 / NOV 4
Paro / Punakha – Day 1
Scenic Drive to Punakha
Embark upon a scenic drive east to Punakha via Dochula Pass, a ridge at 3000 meters that affords spectacular views of the snow covered peaks of the Himalayas, including Gangkar Puensum, the world’s tallest unclimbed peak.
Immersion in Punakha
Welcome to the stunning temperate valley of Punakha, once home to the Kingdom’s former capital city, situated at the confluence of two major rivers, the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu.
Hike to the Divine Madman’s Temple
Embrace your arrival in Punakha with a visit to the Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Divine Madman’s Temple. Despite its name, this beautiful temple is famous throughout the Kingdom and wider Himalayas for miraculously granting fertility to all who visit for a blessing.
An Inside Look at Monastic Life in Bhutan
Savor a relaxing lunch before taking a peek into the lives of Bhutanese monks at Talo Shedra, the Monastic School in Punakha.
Accommodation at Drubchhu
2 nights stay at Punakha’s best family-owned and operated property.
OCT 29 / NOV 5
Punakha – Day 2
Trip to Khamsum Yuelley Chorten
Begin Day 2 with a deliciously energizing breakfast before heading up to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, the 30m-tall chorten or stupa perched high on a hill overlooking the Mo Chhu river. Take time and a deep breath as you absorb some of the most spectacular views of the valley.
Raft towards Punakha Dzong
After viewing the chorten, the day’s exploration continues with a gentle trip down the slow moving waters of the Mo Chhu river, under the guidance of our expert rafting team. Relax and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings, as the team navigates you to a scenic lunch spot.
A Casual Riverside Picnic Lunch
As you enjoy a delicious, specially-catered lunch on the banks of the beautiful Mo Chu river, relax, breathe in the fresh air and marvel at the magnificent Punakha Dzong (fortress).
Tour of Punakha Dzong
Sitting at the confluence of the two great rivers, the Punakha Dzong is notable for containing the preserved remains of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, unifier of Bhutan, as well as a sacred relic known as the Ranjung Karsapani, arguably Bhutan’s most treasured possession.
A Local Farmhouse Dinner
As evening draws close, delve deeper into the culture of Bhutan by savoring the delights of a traditional feast, hosted in one of Punakha’s authentic heritage homes.
OCT 30 / NOV 6
Punakha / Paro – Day 3
Nobgang Village Immersion
This morning, embark upon a scenic drive to Nobgang, the birthplace of Her Majesty the Queen Mother, before enjoying a 5-star picnic lunch with awe-inspiring views of the valley and mountains.
Scenic Drive to Paro
Following a relaxed morning, hop aboard your scenic ride from Punakha back to Paro.
Sunset Drinks & Closing Dinner
Here, we bid farewell to the Land of the Thunder Dragon, over sunset drinks and a sumptuous dinner at Bhutan’s most beautiful lobby.
Accommodation at Zhiwaling
Closing night at Bhutan’s magnificent, Nat-Geo featured property.