The Eastern Jewel

Trip Highlights

Scenic drives through eastern and central Bhutan, visiting historic dzongs, monasteries, and sacred sites such as Jakar Dzong, Jambay Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang, Tamshing Monastery, Ta Dzong, Punakha Dzong, and Taktsang Monastery. Includes hands-on experiences in local crafts, cheese-making, weaving, and Bhutanese cuisine.
Nature, wildlife, and photography opportunities across lush valleys, alpine landscapes, rivers, terraced fields, and remote villages, alongside insight into Bhutanese spirituality, monastic life, and traditional village culture.
Well-paced itinerary with ample time for photography, scenic stops, and cultural immersion.

Trip overview

This 12-day journey through Bhutan unveils the vibrant landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the country’s Eastern and Central regions. Travelers will discover lush valleys, terraced rice fields, and charming villages, where traditions thrive and local life reflects Bhutan’s timeless customs. From the master weavers at Khaling’s Handloom Center to the peaceful town of Trashigang, and the spiritual depth of Mongar and Bumthang, each destination offers a unique window into Bhutanese craftsmanship, architecture, and devotion.

The tour then moves westward to explore the cultural and historical treasures of Punakha, the bustling yet serene capital of Thimphu, and the iconic beauty of Paro, including the breathtaking Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Along the way, travelers can admire panoramic Himalayan vistas, enjoy hands-on experiences with local crafts and cuisine, and immerse themselves in Bhutan’s festivals and spiritual landmarks. This journey provides a harmonious blend of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and heartfelt hospitality, offering an unforgettable glimpse into the essence of Bhutan.

Why Book This Tour?

Discover the vibrant landscapes and rich heritage of Eastern Bhutan, from terraced valleys to charming villages.
Immerse yourself in Bhutanese traditions, arts, crafts, and local cuisine through hands-on experiences.
Travel with knowledgeable local guides who share insights into Bhutan’s history, architecture, and daily life.
Enjoy a balanced journey of cultural exploration and spiritual encounters across Bhutan’s Eastern and Western regions.

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Itinerary

Day 01:

Guwahati – Samdrup Jongkhar

Begin your journey by driving from Guwahati, India to Samdrup Jongkhar, a quiet town on the Bhutanese border. The drive takes approximately 3 hours covering around 130 km, passing through scenic lowland landscapes with gently rolling hills, tea gardens, and small rivers. Upon arrival, complete immigration formalities and meet your local guide. Depending on your arrival time, explore the town’s markets and narrow alleys, where Bhutanese and Indian influences blend beautifully. Visit local shops to observe traditional handicrafts and fresh produce, or take a short stroll along the calm riverbanks dotted with small temples—perfect for photography. Evening at leisure to soak in the serene border-town atmosphere. Overnight: Hotel in Samdrup Jongkhar

Day 02:

Samdrup Jongkhar – Trashigang

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive of approximately 7 hours covering 250 km toward Trashigang, perched in the hillside valleys of eastern Bhutan. The road winds through lush forests, rivers, and small villages where farmers tend terraced fields. Stop at Khaling to visit Bhutan’s National Handloom Center, witnessing master weavers creating traditional kira and gho. Continue via Wamrong and Yongphula Pass, which offers panoramic views of the eastern mountains. Pause at Kanglung, home to Sherubtse College, for tea or coffee and enjoy the pastoral surroundings. Arrive in Trashigang, check into your hotel, and if time allows, stroll through local shops and cafes, soaking in the town’s lively yet tranquil vibe. Overnight: Hotel in Trashigang

Day 03:

Trashigang - Monger

Start the day with a visit to Rangjung Yoeselcholling Monastery, a peaceful modern Buddhist site with meditation halls and courtyards. Then continue the drive to Mongar, covering approximately 110 km in 3 hours, through terraced fields, rivers, and small rural settlements. If traveling in spring, make a stop at the Rhododendron Garden to enjoy vibrant blooms. Approach Mongar along scenic roads flanked by fir forests and cliffs. On arrival, visit Mongar Dzong, an architectural marvel blending spiritual and administrative functions. In the evening, stroll around Mongar town, observing local markets and engaging with friendly villagers. Overnight: Hotel in Mongar

Day 04:

Monger - Bumthang

Drive from Mongar to Bumthang, the cultural heartland of Bhutan. The journey covers approximately 260 km and takes around 8 hours, crossing Thrumsing La Pass with breathtaking panoramic views of highland valleys, snow-capped peaks, and pine forests. Descend into fertile valleys dotted with farmhouses, small temples, and shepherds with yaks grazing along the slopes. Observe farmers tending to wheat and potato fields, and enjoy the pastoral landscapes of eastern Bhutan. Arrive in Bumthang in the late afternoon and relax at your hotel, enjoying the valley’s peaceful ambiance. Overnight: Hotel in Bumthang

Day 05:

Bumthang Sightseeing

Spend a full day exploring Bumthang’s spiritual and cultural treasures. Begin with Jakar Dzong, the “Castle of the White Bird,” overlooking Chamkhar Valley. Continue to Jambay Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples dating back to the 7th century, then to Kurjey Lhakhang, where Guru

Padmasambhava’s sacred body imprint is preserved. Visit Tamshing Monastery with its historic murals and artifacts, followed by Kharchu Dratsang, an active monastic school. Optional visits include the Swiss Cheese Farm and Red Panda Brewery for hands-on insight into local cheese-making and brewing. Afternoon free for photography, exploration, or sampling local cuisine, soaking in the valley’s serene and culturally rich atmosphere. Overnight: Hotel in Bumthang

Day 06:

Bumthang - Trongsa

Depart Bumthang for Trongsa, driving approximately 70 km over 3 hours through rolling hills, pine forests, and terraced farmland. Stop at Ta Dzong, a cylindrical tower housing ancient manuscripts, religious scrolls, and artifacts. Continue to Trongsa Dzong, an impressive fortress that historically served as the seat of power for central and eastern Bhutan. Enjoy sweeping valley views and stop at small villages along the way to interact with locals. Evening free to stroll through the quiet town and absorb its historical ambiance. Overnight: Hotel in Trongsa

Day 07:

Trongsa - Punakha

Drive from Trongsa to Punakha, covering approximately 180 km in 6 hours, descending from highland terrains into lush, fertile lowlands. Along the route, observe rice paddies, river confluences, and small villages. Optional stops for photography or short walks allow interaction with locals and a closer look at rural life. Check into your hotel in Punakha and, if time permits, explore the local market or relax by the Mo Chu River. Visit Punakha Dzong and Chimmi Lhakhang, the Fertility Temple, for cultural insights. Overnight: Hotel in Punakha

Day 08:

Punakha - Thimphu

Begin the day with a visit to Punakha Dzong, an architectural masterpiece located at the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. Admire its massive whitewashed walls, ornate woodwork, and peaceful courtyards while learning about its historical role in royal coronations and Bhutanese governance. After exploring the dzong, take a short walk through lush rice paddies and local villages to reach Chimmi Lhakhang, the Fertility Temple, where locals often seek blessings for family and prosperity. Pause at the charming suspension bridge for photographs of the flowing rivers and terraced landscapes.

After the cultural stops, embark on the drive to Thimphu, approximately 140 km taking around

3 hours. The route passes through serene forested valleys, terraced farmlands, and quaint villages, offering glimpses into rural life. Along the way, enjoy views of cascading rivers, pine forests, and distant mountains. Upon arrival in Thimphu, check into your hotel and relax after the day’s cultural and scenic experiences. Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu

Day 09:

Thimphu Sightseeing

Spend the day exploring Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, where tradition blends seamlessly with modernity. Begin at the Memorial Chorten, built in honor of Bhutan’s third king, and observe locals performing daily prayers and spinning prayer wheels. Continue to Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang), home to the world’s largest seated Buddha statue, perched on a hill with panoramic views of the valley and mountains.

Visit Simply Bhutan, an interactive museum showcasing traditional crafts and rural life, then the Arts and Crafts School to witness thangka painting, weaving, and other Bhutanese arts. Stop at the National Library to explore ancient manuscripts and religious texts, followed by the Folk Heritage

Museum, a traditional farmhouse displaying domestic and farming artifacts. End the day at the Takin Preserve, where Bhutan’s national animal roams, and enjoy some free time in the city for shopping or photography. Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu

Day 10:

Thimphu - Paro

Drive approximately 55 km in 1.5 hours from Thimphu to Paro through rolling hills and picturesque valleys. Upon arrival, visit Rinpung Dzong, a fortress that combines administrative and religious functions, adorned with intricate woodwork, courtyards, and temples. Then explore Ta Dzong, now the National Museum, home to a collection of thangkas, traditional weapons, and cultural artifacts.

Spend the afternoon at leisure to explore Paro town, browse local shops, and enjoy the charming streetscape. This is an excellent opportunity to photograph traditional Bhutanese architecture, colorful prayer flags, and the backdrop of the valley. Take time to interact with locals, sample snacks, or relax in a riverside café before the evening. Overnight: Hotel in Paro

Day 11:

Paro – Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Hike

Embark on a morning hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), dramatically perched 900 m above Paro Valley. The round-trip hike takes approximately 5 hours over 12 km, passing through pine forests, cascading waterfalls, fluttering prayer flags, and small meditation caves. Pause at viewpoints to admire sweeping Himalayan vistas and take photographs of the monastery clinging to the cliff face. On the return trail, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, and a traditional farmhouse to gain insight into rural Bhutanese life and architecture. Overnight: Hotel in Paro

Day 12:

Departure from Paro

After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for onward flights. Depart Bhutan with lasting memories of serene valleys, spiritual sites, traditional culture, and Himalayan beauty.

Cost Details

Cost includes

Accommodation
Full board Meals
English speaking Guide
Transportation
Entrance fee, Visa fee
Unlimited bottles of mineral water
Applicable government taxes(GST)
SDF
Trying out of traditional Bhutan attire.
Pick up from Samdrup Jongkar Entrance

Cost exclusion

Medical & personal insurance
Personal expenses
Emergency evacuation charges
Tips for the guide and driver
Airfare
Pony Ride to Taktshang (Tiger Nest)
Hot Stone Bath, Raffting

Trip Facts

Trip Duration 12 Days

Trip Price 2814.25

Single Supplement 462

Districts Samdrup Jongkhar, Trashigang, Mongar, Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Trongsa, Bumthang

Accomodation Hotel, Resort

Entry Samdrup Jongkhar

Exits Paro

Difficulty: Medium

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Hotels/Accommodations

Hotels where you’ll be staying during this trip

Our Bhutan tour packages are specifically curated with the travellers in mind. As a reputable Bhutan travel agency, for the past 23 years, our tour guides and travel specialists have dedicatedly served travellers from all over the world. We want to show you what Bhutan has to offer, and we’re committed to making your trip to Bhutan a special and memorable one. We have a deep love for the Kingdom, and we hope that you’ll come to love it too.

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5 Star Hotels

Transportation

Choice of vehicles for this trip

Private SUVs for Couples 2 Seater

Toyota Innova (2 Units) 5 Seater

Coaster Buses (4 Units) 25 Seater

Mini Bus (8-Seater) 8 pax. Seater

Restaurants

Food and Drink

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 89 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Carolann M 
 
 
 
 Verified An unforgettable week in Bhutan!
An unforgettable week in Bhutan with Happiness Kingdom In July 2025, I joined a 7-day group tour of Bhutan with Happiness Kingdom, and it was truly an unforgettable experience from start to finish. I had a fantastic time and enjoyed every single moment of the trip. From the very beginning, I felt incredibly well looked after and completely safe, which allowed me to fully relax and immerse myself in the experience. The organisation was excellent, and I was especially impressed by how much we managed to see and do in just one week without ever feeling rushed. Our tour guide, Karma, was absolutely outstanding. His knowledge, professionalism, and warm personality made the journey even more special. He went above and beyond to ensure everyone was comfortable, informed, and enjoying themselves, and his passion for Bhutan really shone through. Thanks to Happiness Kingdom and Karma, this trip created memories I will cherish forever. I would highly recommend them to anyone considering a visit to Bhutan — you won’t be disappointed.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Rachel L 
 
 
 
 Verified A fantastic Bhutan trip!
We had a wonderful experience exploring Bhutan’s rich culture with Jigme Thinley and Tenzin Wangchuk. Jigme is incredibly knowledgeable and provided engaging explanations about Bhutan’s history and traditions. We thoroughly enjoyed learning from him. Every story, explanation, and insight added depth and meaning to the places we visited. At one point, Jigme even prepared a simple makeshift heat pack to ensure we stayed comfortable in the cool mountain weather. That thoughtful gesture made all the difference and showed just how dedicated he is to his guests’ comfort. Shoutout to Tenzin as well, a wonderful and skilled driver. We felt safe and comfortable throughout our journey. Both of them were exceptionally helpful and attentive. Each day was well-scheduled and relaxed, letting us take in the experience without rush.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Becky S 
 
 
 
 Verified Best value to see Bhutan in a cultural tour
We selected this tour company both because of reviews and cost. Flights to and from Bhutan cost more than our 10-days in Bhutan with Happiness Kingdom. Our guide, Tschering Namgay, and driver, Tashi, were great! Both were so polite and helpful. Tashi was a safe driver. Namgay was a very knowledgeable cultural guide. He explained all the temples and fortresses, the stories and history of Bhutan, and the nuances and meanings of Buddhist sculptures and paintings. He had a good sense of humor and worked hard to ensure we got to see and do all that we wanted to do. Communication with the tour company was delayed, because of the time difference, but always responsive. They were happy to rearrange the plans to accommodate what we wanted to do instead of the standard, without leaving out the important things we didn't even know we wanted to see. Our hotels were comfortable, restaurants with good and sufficient food, and although our schedule was full, we were not rushed (just tired) every day. We got to see the black-necked cranes and several other birds. We enjoyed the Takin Preserve to see some of the more difficult species of animals. Word of caution though - if you are unfit, need a cane, walker, or wheelchair, Bhutan is NOT for you. There are stairs and hilly climbs everywhere. It is not ADA-compliant. But, if you want to take a tour of Bhutan, we recommend Happiness Kingdom as your tour company & #tscheringnamgay, #tashi as your guide and driver.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Sam B 
 
 
 
 Verified Great 6-day trip in Bhutan
Really enjoyed our 6 day tour of Bhutan with our guide Bhim and driver Tshering. They were both very attentive to our every need, and took us to some great places. We loved the hike to Tiger's Nest and the visit of Punakha Zhong. Bhim was very knowledgeable and gave us all the context and history we needed while visiting all the religious sites. Thanks again for everything!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   ik298 
 
 
 
 Verified Wonderful trip
7days Bhutan Trip 19.th – 25th. of October 2025 I had booked the 7days trip to Bhutan via Asia Odyssee travel agency. This trip was really a great adventure and everything was wonderful. Well Bhutan I is a very special and amazing country with such a beautiful landscape, very cultivated architecture and overall deep religious life. Well let me give you some details of my tour: The first 3 days I spent with 5 other persons from all over the world. On the second day we made the hike to Tiger nest. I am not so used to climb steep mountains (Steps!!!), so my knees were already quite hurting from my former trek in Nepal. Our driver, Phub Gyeltshen, carried all the way up my backpack and motivated me all the way up to carry on. All the three days he was always there when somebody needed anything, everybody found on his place freshwater bottles. His drive was safe and very relaxed. The last days I travelled alone with the same guide and the driver Gembo. There we had quite long drives – over Dochu La. Also his way to drive was save and forward-looking. I really could enjoy to be on routes. But the main contribution of this wonderful trip layed in the responsibility of the guide (all 7 days!) Sonam Phuntsho. He is such a mindfulness person and always tries to make that everybody feels well. His explanations at the different sites where really detailed and showed that he has a great knowledge, specially religious belongings. Two of the other travellers were Tibetans and he could give always profound answers even from them, who had a great knowledge of the Bhuddist religion. In the day when I was travelling alone, we talked a lot about the social life, education, regime (your King), environmental protection and much more. So I got a deep insight of the life in Bhutan. So I really want to thank you for this wonderful days. Before this trip Bhutan seemed to be an unreachable country and somehow unreal, but now it is a part of my dreams, a country were I really could feel the meaning of happiness and mindfulness. .
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Paul W 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing place. Wonderful people.
I did a 7-day trip through West Bhutan and loved the tour overall. It was very well organised and Bhim (Narayan) and Dorji (Wangchuk) were a pleasure to spend time with. Friendly, helpful and a credit to the hospitality of their country. My personal highlights were the dzong at Punakha, getting to enjoy two tsechus (festivals) at Wangdue and Thimphu, and the hike to Tiger's Nest. The addition of a homestay was also a nice way to see a different side to Bhutan. I can thoroughly recommend both visiting Bhutan and this trip.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   thierry w 
 
 
 
 Verified Great travel in Bhutan
Very well organise 10 days tour group in Bhutan. the guide Tashi and Phuba the driver were fantastic. Adapting the time for us to discover places without rushing us. 'the hotels were we stayed were nice and the food very good. I would highly recommand happiness kingdom travel to anyone who decide to travel to bhutan
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Chris K 
 
 
 
 Verified Fantastic tour, well organised, great Guide and Driver. Excellent in all aspects
Did a small group tour of Bhutan over 10 days with Tashi and driver Phuba. The tour took our group from Paro to Thimbu, Punakha, Phobjikha Valley and Bumthang Valley. A lot of logistics to get that to go off smoothly; stayed in good hotels, always with extremely enthusiastic staff, saw lots. But what really set this off was Tashi; extremely knowledgeable and equally extremely patient with guiding the group through from zero to at least a vague understanding of Bhutan Buddhist culture and history. Tashi, your sense of humor and tolerance really made this trip work. And Phuba always there and ready to assist.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   MK L 
 
 
 
 Verified A memorable journey!
It was our first visit to Bhutan, and it turned out to be an incredibly unforgettable journey -- stunning views, awesome culture, and super friendly locals! We arranged this exclusive 6-day trip via a travel agency in Hong Kong. We landed at Paro Airport on 7 Sept and proceeded to Thimphu, then Punakha, before returning to Paro for the Tiger's Nest. Huge thanks to our amazing guide Jigme for his expertise, organization, and dedication in making the journey truly memorable. He possesses great knowledge and has revealed to us the charm of Bhutan. Jigme attentively looked after us in every way, including informing all the restaurants of my dietary preference, and ensured we were comfortable to fully enjoy each moment throughout the trip. We are grateful for our friendly driver Tashi and his outstanding abilities. The ride was so comfortable and smooth! We couldn't have requested a better team! 👍👍 I was also impressed that Jigme not only spoke fluent English but also knew French! A heartfelt thank you to Jigme and Tashi, and I wish you both the very best! 🙏🙏
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Madam Wong 
 
 
 
 Verified The Guide Who Turned Our Bhutan Trip Into a Masterpiece .
TE25070007AT Bhutan is a country rich in culture and steeped in deep historical traditions. Our tour guide, Mr. Trashi Dhendup Namgyel, demonstrated exceptional professionalism throughout our journey. He was highly knowledgeable and consistently able to answer all of our questions with clarity and insight. Mr. Namgyel also went out of his way to accommodate our requests whenever possible, ensuring that our experience was both comfortable and memorable. We are truly grateful to have had him as our guide on this meaningful trip. — Madam Wong