Mystic Eastern Highland Moments

Your journey into the mystical highlands of Bhutan begins with your arrival at Paro International Airport, one of the world’s most scenic landings. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your local guide with a traditional khadar (white scarf), symbolizing peace and welcome. After a smooth transfer to your hotel, take some time to rest and acclimatize to the fresh Himalayan air. In the afternoon, enjoy a gentle exploration of Paro Rinpung Dzong, an architectural marvel and active monastic center, followed by a walk across the historic wooden bridge. Stroll through Paro town, browse handicraft shops, and soak in the peaceful ambiance of the valley. In the evening, savor a traditional Bhutanese dinner featuring local dishes like ema datshi and red rice, while your guide gives an overview of the journey ahead. Overnight stay in Paro.

After an early breakfast, transfer to the airport for a domestic flight to Yonphula in eastern Bhutan — a scenic journey offering aerial views of deep valleys and forested ridges. Upon arrival at Yonphula airstrip near Trashigang, you’ll be welcomed by your eastern region support team. From here, embark on a 3-hour drive to Merak, a remote highland village nestled in the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary. The journey takes you through rugged terrain, pine forests, and open pastures, gradually ascending into the misty highlands inhabited by the semi-nomadic Brokpa community. On arrival in Merak, settle into your local guesthouse and take a light walk around the village to stretch your legs and absorb the peaceful atmosphere. In the evening, enjoy a simple yet hearty highland dinner prepared by local hosts.

Start your day in the serene highlands of Merak with a warm breakfast surrounded by stunning mountain views. Your guide will lead a detailed orientation session, introducing you to the rich culture and traditions of the Brokpa community, known for their semi-nomadic lifestyle and vibrant heritage. Learn about their unique relationship with the land, their traditional yak herding practices, and the spiritual beliefs that shape daily life. The session will also cover the significance of Merak within the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary and the efforts to preserve both the environment and cultural heritage. After the orientation, take a relaxed walk around the village to observe the traditional stone houses, meet locals, and witness daily activities such as wool weaving and butter tea preparation. This introduction sets the foundation for a deeper, immersive experience in the days ahead. 

After an early breakfast, embark on a scenic hike through the pristine highland pastures surrounding Merak. As you trek gently uphill, breathe in the crisp mountain air and enjoy panoramic views of the rolling valleys dotted with grazing yaks and traditional stone houses. Your guide will share insights about the local flora and fauna, including medicinal plants used by the Brokpa people.

The highlight of the day is visiting a yak herders’ camp, where you will meet the herders and learn about their nomadic lifestyle, herding techniques, and the cultural importance of yaks in the community. Experience their warm hospitality as you observe daily tasks such as milking yaks and weaving yak wool products. This hands-on encounter offers a rare glimpse into a way of life that has persisted for centuries.

Return to Merak village in the late afternoon to relax and reflect on your highland adventure.

After breakfast in Merak, begin your journey toward Sakteng, another beautiful highland village known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes. Travel by road back to Rangjung, a small town that serves as the gateway between the eastern valleys and the highlands. Take a brief rest or lunch stop in Rangjung before continuing the drive toward Sakteng.

Upon arrival in Sakteng, settle into your accommodation and enjoy an orientation to the village and its surroundings. Explore the peaceful hamlet, meeting local residents and observing their daily activities, including traditional weaving and farming. Sakteng is also part of the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, offering unique opportunities to experience Bhutan’s biodiversity and learn about local conservation efforts.

Spend the evening relaxing amid the tranquil highland environment, preparing for further exploration the next day. 

Wake up to the peaceful rhythm of highland life and begin your day with a traditional breakfast. Today is dedicated to exploring the cultural and spiritual heart of Sakteng village. Begin with a scenic walk to the revered Borangtse Lhakhang (Temple), located on a gentle hillside above the village. This sacred site holds deep spiritual significance for the local Brokpa community and offers stunning views of the surrounding valley.

After the temple visit, return to the village for a guided cultural walk. Wander through narrow lanes lined with stone houses, observe skilled weavers at their looms, and interact with friendly locals eager to share stories of their unique heritage. If time allows, visit the local school or community center to better understand daily life in this remote region.

In the evening, enjoy a quiet dinner and perhaps a final highland sunset. 

After an early breakfast, begin your scenic journey from Sakteng to Mongar, descending from the highlands into the lush valleys of eastern Bhutan. En route, make a cultural stop at the majestic Trashigang Dzong, perched dramatically above the Drangme Chhu River. Built in the 17th century, the Dzong once served as a strategic fortress and administrative center for eastern Bhutan. Take time to explore its impressive courtyards, prayer halls, and monastic quarters while learning about its historical and spiritual significance.

Continue the drive through winding mountain roads, passing through small villages, rice terraces, and forested hills. Arrive in Mongar, a vibrant eastern town blending traditional charm with modern life. After check-in at your hotel, spend the evening at leisure—relaxing, journaling your experiences, or exploring the local market.

After an early breakfast, set off on a scenic drive from Mongar to Ura, the easternmost village of the Bumthang Valley, often referred to as the spiritual heartland of Bhutan. The journey takes you through lush forests, high mountain passes, and remote settlements, offering breathtaking views along the way — particularly from Thrumshing La Pass (3,400m).

Arrive in Ura village by afternoon and check in to a local guesthouse. With its cobbled paths, traditional stone houses, and serene environment, Ura offers a timeless glimpse into Bhutanese rural life. After lunch, enjoy a gentle walk through the village, visit the Ura Lhakhang (temple), and interact with locals known for their hospitality and rich folklore traditions.

Ura is also known for its sacred festivals and beautiful alpine setting, making it a perfect place to unwind and reflect.

After breakfast, journey deeper into the spiritual heart of Bumthang with a full-day exploration of the Tang Valley, one of the region’s most sacred and culturally rich areas. Your first stop is Tang Mebar Tsho, the legendary Burning Lake, where Terton Pema Lingpa is believed to have discovered hidden treasures from the depths while holding a burning lamp. It remains a powerful pilgrimage site for Bhutanese Buddhists.

Continue to Ta Rimochem Temple, perched quietly amidst pine forests — a serene place for reflection and local spiritual lore. Afterward, visit the historic Ugyen Choling Palace and Museum, a beautifully preserved manor that offers a rare glimpse into Bhutan’s aristocratic past, complete with personal artifacts, manuscripts, and everyday items from centuries ago.

Enjoy a peaceful afternoon exploring the village before returning to your lodge.

On your final full day, immerse yourself in the spiritual richness of Choekhor Valley, the cultural heart of Bumthang. After breakfast, set out to explore some of the valley’s most sacred and historic temples. Begin with a visit to Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, dating back to the 7th century. Continue to Kurje Lhakhang, where Guru Rinpoche is said to have meditated, leaving his body imprint on a rock inside the temple.

Next, explore Tamshing Lhakhang, renowned for its ancient murals and iron chain mail believed to have been worn by the temple’s founder, Terton Pema Lingpa. Enjoy a gentle village walk through traditional farmhouses and peaceful countryside, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of the valley.

After an early breakfast, transfer to Bathpalathang Airport in Bumthang for your domestic flight back to Paro. Enjoy the stunning aerial views of Bhutan’s dramatic landscapes during the flight. Upon arrival in Paro, transfer to your hotel and check in.

After a short rest, head out to explore two of Paro’s cultural gems. Begin with a visit to the National Museum (Ta Dzong), housed in a former watchtower overlooking Paro Dzong. The museum offers a rich collection of Bhutanese art, textiles, ancient weapons, and religious artifacts that provide deeper insight into the kingdom’s history and heritage.

Then, visit Kichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan, originally built in the 7th century by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. This quiet and spiritual site is a perfect place for reflection.

Today is the highlight of your Bhutan journey — a memorable hike to the legendary Taktsang Monastery, famously known as Tiger’s Nest. After an early breakfast, begin the uphill trek through pine forests scented with juniper and fluttering prayer flags. The 2–3 hour hike rewards you with breathtaking views of the monastery clinging dramatically to a cliff face, 900 meters above the Paro Valley.

Taktsang is one of the most sacred sites in Bhutan, where Guru Rinpoche is believed to have meditated in the 8th century after flying to the site on the back of a tigress. Explore the inner sanctums of the monastery, soak in the spiritual atmosphere, and lunch on the way down.

Return to Paro in the afternoon for rest or souvenir shopping. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your guide and team.

After breakfast, your guide and driver will accompany you to Paro International Airport for your onward journey. As you bid farewell to the Land of the Thunder Dragon, take with you memories of misty highlands, ancient temples, sacred stories, and the warm hospitality of Bhutan’s people. Whether it was the spiritual quiet of Taktsang, the vibrant culture of the Brokpas, or the breathtaking beauty of the eastern highlands, your journey through Mystic Eastern Highland Moments will remain etched in your heart. We wish you a safe flight and look forward to welcoming you back to Bhutan in the future.

Tashi Delek and safe travels!