Discover the Majestic Royal Manas National Park: A 13-Day Wildlife Safari Adventure

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Tour Itinerary

The Royal Manas National Park, the oldest nature preserve in the Kingdom of Bhutan, is renowned for its stunning beauty and incredible biodiversity. Home to hundreds of rare animal and plant species, it stands as the most biologically diverse protected area in the kingdom and one of the world's most outstanding nature preserves. The 13-day Manas Wildlife Safari Tour promises an unforgettable journey through the blissful Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan. Book your trip with HBT and immerse yourself in the wonders of Bhutan's natural heritage.

Day 1

Arrival in Paro - Thimphu (1.5 hrs drive)

Arrive in Paro International Airport, where you'll complete immigration formalities and meet the dedicated HBT team holding a placard to ensure no one is missed. You'll be warmly welcomed with a traditional khaddar before heading to Thimphu, a scenic one and a half-hour drive. The route follows the Paro River until Chuzom, where the Thimphu River takes you to the heart of Bhutan's capital. Along the way, enjoy picturesque views of villages like Bondey, Shaba, and Isina. Stop at Tachongang Lhakhang for a leg stretch and stunning roadside views. At Chuzom, the meeting point of the Thimphu and Paro rivers, you'll see a welcoming portrait of the King and Queen of Bhutan. Spend the night in Thimphu at an altitude of 2400m.

Day 2

Thimphu - Tsirang (5 hrs drive)

The journey from Thimphu to Tsirang is filled with scenic vistas, including the Dochula Pass and one of the country's largest hydro power projects. After a break at Dochula Pass, the road descends into Wangdue and then to Tsirang, one of the warmest places in Bhutan. The route features a fascinating drive through a tunnel. Visit the Buddha Dordenma, located atop a hill in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, offering a grand view of the southern entrance to Thimphu valley. At Dochula Pass, enjoy a panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain ranges, especially clear during winter with snowcapped peaks. Explore the Royal Botanical Park in Lamperi for bird watching and Rigsum Pemai Dumra in Damphu for a nature connection. Overnight in Tsirang at an altitude of 2000m.

Day 3

Tsirang Sightseeing - Gelephu (3 hrs drive)

Tsirang District, in southwestern Bhutan, is noted for its gentle slopes, mild climate, and rich biodiversity. Begin your day exploring Tsirang's authentic villages, including Chachey, Tsirang Toe, and Sergithang. Have lunch in Serithang before continuing to Burichu Doban and then Gelephu. Visit a farmhouse to connect with the local community and learn about their culture and way of living. Overnight in Gelephu at an altitude of 450m.

Day 4

Gelephu Sightseeing

Enjoy a drive through the warm valley of Gelephu, with roadside bird watching opportunities. The sub-tropical broadleaved forests are home to diverse wildlife. Hike to the Norbugang Guru Nye, a sacred site where Guru Rinpoche meditated. Along the route, you might spot hornbills, white-crested laughing thrushes, deer, wild boar, and langurs. Visit Tali Dratsang, adorned with statues of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, Buddha, and Guru Rinpoche. Overnight in Gelephu.

Day 5

Gelephu - Manas (3.5 hrs drive)

Embark on a scenic drive towards Manas, Bhutan's oldest protected area, designated a wildlife sanctuary in 1966 and upgraded to a National Park in 1993. Manas is home to over 365 recorded bird species and 900 plant types, many with significant commercial, medicinal, traditional, and religious value. Enjoy a dip in the hot springs of Gelephu Tshachu and continue your journey through dense jungles teeming with golden langurs and various bird species. Overnight in Manas.

Day 6

Manas Sightseeing

Explore the crown jewel of Bhutan, the Manas National Park, known for its tropical and sub-tropical ecosystems. The park hosts thousands of animal and plant species, many globally endangered. Activities include river rafting with varying levels of difficulty, an elephant safari to scenic viewpoints overlooking the Indian plateau and Manas river, and bird watching with over 365 recorded species. Overnight in Manas.

Day 7

Manas - Tingtibi (5 hrs drive)

Travel on a mix of bumpy and smooth roads to Tingtibi, a renowned bird-watching destination and home to the critically endangered white-bellied heron. Visit Duenmang Tshachu, a hot spring famous for its healing properties. Bird watching in Tingtibi offers sightings of Rufous-necked and Great Hornbills, Cool Laughing Thrushes, Cutias, Scarlet Minivets, and more. Overnight in Tingtibi.

Day 8

Tingtibi - Phobjikha (5.5 hrs drive)

Begin with bird watching in the morning before driving to Phobjikha, a valley known for its natural beauty and home stays that offer insights into Bhutanese living, cuisine, and culture. Visit the Kuenga Rabten Palace, the winter residence of the second King, and Chendebji Chorten, built to subdue harmful demons. The Black Necked Crane Information Centre provides high-power telescopes for spotting these cranes, which migrate to the region in winter. Overnight in Phobjikha at an altitude of 2900m.

Day 9

Phobjikha Sightseeing

Known as the valley of black-necked cranes and rhododendrons, Phobjikha is often referred to as Asian Switzerland. Enjoy the Gangtey Nature Trail, a short and easy trek through beautiful villages and monasteries, offering gentle, forested slopes. Visit the Gangtey Gompa, a temple atop a hill and the site of the annual Gangtey and Black Necked Crane festivals. Connect with the local community through a farmhouse visit. Overnight in Phobjikha.

Day 10

Phobjikha - Punakha (3 hrs drive)

Embark on a scenic journey to Punakha, often referred to as the second capital of Bhutan. Visit Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of fertility, where childless couples pray for better fertility. The hike through the villages of Mesina is an amazing experience. Explore Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 and one of Bhutan's finest Dzongs, located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Cross the Punakha suspension bridge, one of the longest in Bhutan, connecting the dzong with nearby villages. Overnight in Punakha at an altitude of 1350m.

Day 11

Punakha - Paro (4 hrs drive)

Retrace your journey to Paro, crossing Dochula Pass and Chuzom. Enjoy the mountain views and refresh your mind. In Paro, explore the town's authentic handicraft shops, restaurants, and historical sites. Visit Rinpung Dzong, a fortress ranked as one of Bhutan's best architectural marvels, and the National Museum of Paro, housing a vast collection of historical items. Overnight in Paro at an altitude of 2200m.

Day 12

Paro Sightseeing

Paro, with its fertile rice fields and crystalline river, is a region rich in history and natural beauty. Visit Taktsang Gompa (Tiger’s Nest Temple), Bhutan's most iconic landmark, perched on a cliff 900 meters above the valley. The hike to the temple offers breathtaking views and a spiritual experience. Engage in outdoor activities, including archery and dart games, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Overnight in Paro.

Day 13

End of the Tour

Conclude your unforgettable journey in the Kingdom of Bhutan, filled with memories of breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and warm hospitality. Depart from Paro International Airport, carrying the essence of Bhutan in your heart.