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༄། །   ༼ BUDDHIST TOUR IN BHUTAN ༽ 
Bhutan Pilgrimage Itinerary
10th October 2026 -23rd October 2026

"A  journey beyond landscapes: into silence, devotion, and self-discovery. The precious pilgrimage of Bhutan invites you to walk sacred paths, experience monastic life, and reconnect with inner peace." 

Based on guidance from Lama Tashi Norbu la & Yogini Elisabeth Carson, Special blessings and a Long Life Empowerment will be offered by the brother of Namkhai Nyingpo Rinpoche.

Day 1-2: Arrival in Paro 

Land at Paro Airport and visit the sacred pilgrimage Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

Hike to Paro Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), one of Bhutan’s most sacred sites. The monastery clings dramatically to a cliff face 900 meters above the valley floor. Legend says Guru Rinpoche flew here on a tigress’s back in the 8th century to meditate. The round-trip hike takes 5-6 hours with a cafeteria at the halfway viewpoint offering the famous Tiger’s Nest view. The climb is challenging but incredibly rewarding. Return to Paro for rest and recovery. Consider a traditional hot stone bath (Dotsho) in the evening to soothe tired muscles. Overnight in Paro.

Day 1-2  BUDDHIST TOUR IN BHUTAN elisabeth carson hoekstra unlimited.jpg

Day 3-7: Bjimena Retreat 

Drive to Bjimena (approximately 4–6 hours), a quieter route through subtropical forests and small villages. Bjimena offers an off-the-beaten-path experience of rural Bhutan. Explore the surroundings and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, deeply connected with nature. Experience authentic village life, traditional hospitality, and monastic culture at Bjimena Nyindey Monastery.

Travel to the Nyidey Monastery area. Nyidey Monastery is a serene meditation center with beautiful views of the valley. Spend time exploring the monastery, observing monks at prayer, and learning about Buddhist practices.

The monastery offers a peaceful retreat atmosphere. Take walks around the monastery grounds and surrounding areas. Engage with monastic life and participate in activities as opportunities arise. 
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Day 8-10:  Thimphu to Dochula Pass 

Visit the Buddha Dordenma statue again, along with the National Memorial Chorten, a spiritual center where locals gather for prayers and circumambulation.

After lunch, visit the Bhutan School for Arts and Crafts (Painting School), where students learn Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts, including painting, sculpture, and embroidery.

Drive to Dochula Pass (3,100 m, approximately 1 hour). Spend time at this spectacular location featuring 108 memorial chortens (Druk Wangyal Chortens), built in honor of Bhutanese soldiers.

On clear days, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan range, including peaks over 7,000 meters. Visit Druk Wangyal Lhakhang, known for its unique paintings depicting Bhutanese history and royal lineage.

Take a peaceful walk around the chortens. Return to Thimphu in the afternoon.

Visit the organic vegetable market and explore local shops for Bhutanese souvenirs.

Day 11- Punakha 

Punakha Dzong, known as the "Palace of Great Happiness", is Bhutan's second-oldest and second-largest dzong. Located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (Male River) and Mo Chhu (Female River)...in Punakha, it features three massive courtyards, a stunning 100-pillar assembly hall, and sacred relics of the Drukpa Lineage.

Day 12 -14: Reach Phuntsholing 

Bhutan’s border town with India. Explore this gateway town where Indian and Bhutanese cultures meet. Visit Zangto Pelri Lhakhang and shop for souvenirs and experience authentic Bhutanese organic cuisine.

And then to the closing ceremony with the glorious blessings of mantras. 

"Conclude the journey with a heart full of gratitude, carrying forward the peace and wisdom experienced throughout the sacred pilgrimage." 

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