The Best of Bhutan Sample Itinerary: Rivers, Hiking and Culture with a multi-day Drangme Chuu (River) Adventure
NOVEMBER 19th– DECEMBER 2nd, 2017
Day 1 November 19th: Arrive in Paro (Bhutan) from Bangkok (or Delhi), head to hotel for lunch, afternoon hike to the stunning temple, Tigers Nest. This is where Guru Rimposhe first landed and meditated in Bhutan. After the hike: back to the hotel in Paro for banquet-style welcome dinner.
Day 2 November 20th: Drive over scenic Dochu La pass with views of the Himalayas. On our way to Punakha, short paddle on the Mo Chhu river or short hike to visit temple above the Mo Chhu River. Night at our lovely safari-style base-camp in an orange grove.
Day 3 November 21st: Paddle the beautiful Po Chu River with loads of fun rapids then visit Punakha Dzong. Night at base camp.
Day 4 November 22nd: Kayak/Raft Mo Chhu or cultural hike. Drive from Punakha Valley to Thimpu. Night at hotel in the city of Thimpu.
Day 5 November 23rd: 25 minute domestic flight from Paro to Bumthang. Visit Jambay Lhakan, said to be one of the 108 temples built by Tibetan King Songtsan Gampo in 659 CE on a single day, to pin down an ogress (female monster) to earth forever.
Day 6 November 24th: Option to kayak/raft Chamkhar Chhu River, night in Bumthang
Day 7 November 25th: Drive from Bumthang to Mongar, night in Mongar
Day 8 November 26th: Mongar Festival, night in Mongar
Day 9 November 27th: Drive to Drangme Chhu River, hike to put-in (approximately 3 hours).
KAYAK or RAFT THE DRANGME CHHU (River)
Day 10 November 28th: Paddle Drangme Chhu (River)
Day 11 November 29th: Paddle Drangme Chhu (River)
Day 12 November 30th: Paddle Drangme Chhu (River)
Day 13 December 1st: Paddle Drangme Chhu (River), drive across Indian border, stay the night in Manas Wildlife Park at Bansbari Jungle Lodge.
Day 14 December 2nd: Drive to Guwahati to catch flight to Bangkok.
