Venture far beyond the typical tourist trail on this epic 12-day journey through Eastern Bhutan – one of the most remote and culturally rich regions of the Himalayan kingdom. This expedition takes you to places few foreigners ever see, from the spiritual heartland of Bumthang to the dramatic eastern frontier of Trashigang.
Experience authentic Bhutanese village life, meet the fascinating Brokpa people of Merak with their distinctive yak-hair clothing, witness ancient silk weaving traditions, and explore sacred temples that have stood for centuries. This is Bhutan at its most genuine – untouched by mass tourism and rich in traditions that have remained unchanged for generations.
Welcome to the Land of the Thunder Dragon
Your Eastern Bhutan adventure begins with the spectacular flight into Paro Valley. After the dramatic descent through Himalayan peaks, you'll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel for rest and acclimatization.
Explore the capital city
Drive to Thimphu, Bhutan's unique capital city - the only capital in the world without traffic lights. Spend the day exploring its blend of tradition and modernity, from ancient temples to the weekend market.
Cross Dochula Pass to the ancient capital
Journey to Punakha, crossing the beautiful Dochula Pass with its 108 memorial chortens. Descend into the subtropical Punakha Valley and visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong.
Journey to the heartland
Begin the journey east, driving through ever-changing landscapes to Trongsa, home to the impressive Trongsa Dzong - the ancestral seat of Bhutan's royal family and the largest dzong in the kingdom.
Enter the spiritual heartland
Cross the Yotong La Pass to reach Bumthang, considered the spiritual heartland of Bhutan. This sacred valley is home to some of Bhutan's oldest and most significant temples.
Sacred sites and the Burning Lake
Spend a full day exploring Bumthang's four valleys - Chokhor, Tang, Ura, and Chumme. Visit ancient temples, the mystical Burning Lake, and experience traditional village life.
Dramatic drive over highest pass
One of Bhutan's most spectacular drives awaits - crossing Thrumshing La Pass at 3,800m, the highest motorable pass in Bhutan. Descend through changing ecosystems to the eastern district of Mongar.
Gateway to Eastern Bhutan
Continue east to Trashigang, the largest district in Eastern Bhutan. En route, stop at Drametse Monastery, birthplace of the famous Drametse Nga Cham (Drum Dance), a UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage.
Meet the Brokpa people
The highlight of the journey - a full-day excursion to the remote village of Merak, home to the semi-nomadic Brokpa people. Their unique culture, clothing, and traditions have remained unchanged for centuries.
Silk weaving and textile traditions
Visit the famous weaving villages of Eastern Bhutan. Radhi is renowned for raw silk (bura) weaving, while Khaling houses the National Handloom Development Project.
Back through the heart of Bhutan
Begin the journey back west, retracing the spectacular route over Thrumshing La. Overnight in Bumthang or continue to Trongsa depending on timing.
Farewell to the Thunder Dragon Kingdom
Final drive back to Paro for your departure flight. Depending on flight time, enjoy last moments in Bhutan before bidding farewell to this extraordinary kingdom.