At a Glance

Duration: 8 days
Group Size: Up to 16 Participants
Tour Grading: Easy
Activity: Cultural, Arts and Heritage, Nature Trail walk
Sights: Tiger’s Nest monastery, Punakha Dzong, Paro Dzong, Phobjikha Valley, Thimphu Centenary Market, Kuenselphordang (Buddha Dordenma), Painting School of Arts and Crafts, Textile Museum, National Museum, Madman Temple.
Best Season: January through December
Trip Route: Explore the hidden treasures of Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Wangdue, and Phobjikha, where ancient traditions and breathtaking landscapes await discovery. Wander through picturesque valleys, marvel at majestic peaks, and visit ancient temples and fortresses steeped in history. Discover the serenity of Punakha Dzong, adorned with vibrant lavender blooms, and cross the traditional cantilever bridge. Travel through winding roads from Wangdue to Phobjikha, where lush green pastures and flat valleys invite you to embark on beautiful nature trails.
Trip Highlights
• Experience the fascinating culture and history of Bhutan, which has been closed off for centuries
• Walk in marvelous Himalayan scenery, past historic forts (dzongs) and monasteries in dramatic locations
• Comprehensive journey across Bhutan
• Meet friendly and welcoming people, in a country free of mass tourism
• Walk up to the spectacular Taktsang ‘Tiger’s Nest’ Monastery, clinging to the cliff face
• Walking in the Phobjikha Valley in the heart of Bhutan, a traditional area that sees fewer tourists
• Visit in November to see rare black-necked cranes migrating from Tibet to the Phobjikha Valley
• Explore the interesting towns of Punakha, Paro, and Thimphu, one of the world’s quietest capitals

Day 1: Arrival in Paro, Transfer to Thimphu

The journey from Paro to Thimphu covers approximately 55 kilometers and takes about 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, proceed on a 20-minute drive to Paro town (2300m). Begin your exploration with a walk to Paro Dzong, a 17th-century fortress, crossing the cantilever bridge, offering insights into Bhutanese culture.
Afterward, embark on a scenic drive to Thimphu, the capital city, situated at an altitude of 2400m. Check in at your hotel and unwind. Later, visit the Memorial Chorten, a stupa built in memory of the Third King of Bhutan, dedicated to global peace and prosperity. Observe people from all backgrounds circumambulating the chorten, and witness the elderly devotees spinning the giant prayer wheel nearby throughout the day.
In the evening, explore Tashichho Dzong, a magnificent fortress-like structure consecrated in 1969. Unlike other dzongs, it features three entrances, each serving distinct purposes, including administrative and monastic sections, and exclusive access for royalty.
Retire for the night at the hotel, rejuvenated by the cultural immersion and architectural marvels of Thimphu.

Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing

Embark on a fascinating journey through Thimphu's cultural treasures and vibrant markets. Begin with a visit to the Folk Heritage Museum, a restored three-story timber building offering insights into rural Bhutanese life. Immerse yourself in the indigenous resources cultivated within its premises.
Next, explore the National Textile Museum, preserving Bhutan's rich textile heritage under the patronage of Queen Mother Ashi Sangay Choden Wangchuck. Witness the intricate royal garments and the empowerment of women through weaving.
Experience the lively atmosphere of the Centenary Farmers' Market, where villagers gather to sell agricultural products, enlivening the banks of the river every Saturday and Sunday.
In the afternoon, delve into Bhutan's postal history at the Post Office Museum, where customized stamps commemorate the nation's progress and the reign of the fourth king.
Visit the Jungzhi Paper Factory and discover the art of traditional papermaking, using tree barks to create manuscripts and prayer books, offering an opportunity to craft personalized souvenirs.
Conclude your day with a scenic drive to Kuensel Phodrang, known as Buddha Point, featuring a majestic 169-foot bronze statue of Buddha Dordenma. Revel in the breathtaking view of Thimphu Valley, especially enchanting under the night sky.
Retire to your hotel, enriched by the cultural treasures and panoramic vistas of Thimphu.

Day 3: Phobjikha

After breakfast, journey back to Punakha Valley, once Bhutan's capital, now home to the Central Monk Body during winter. En route, pause at Dochula Pass (3150m), adorned with 108 Chortens, offering a chance to glimpse the Himalayan spine, including Gangkar Puensum, the world’s highest unclimbed peak. Traverse the breathtaking DochuLa Pass towards Gangtey, Phobjikha Valley (5 hours), witnessing the ever-changing landscapes. Stop at various points to absorb the scenery. Upon arrival, explore the ancient Gangtey Gompa, followed by a leisurely stroll to the local homes.
Rest at the hotel overnight.

Day 4: Punakha

Begin the day with a leisurely stroll in the valley and a visit to the Nature Information Center. Phobjikha Valley's highlight is the endangered black-necked crane, which resides from late October to March. Return to Punakha-Wangdue (2–3 hours), descending into the sub-tropical valley. Explore Wangdue township and its grand fortress. In the evening, embark on a gentle walk to Chimi Lhakhang (temple) through a quaint village.
Overnight in the hotel.

Day 5: Paro

Start the day with a visit to the magnificent Punakha Dzong at the junction of the Pho and Mochu rivers. Optionally, take a brief (40 minutes each way) walk to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten. On the return journey to Thimphu, explore the botanical park and surroundings for diverse flora and birdlife below Dochula Pass, where lunch can be arranged. Descend into Thimphu and proceed with a short drive to Paro.
Overnight in the hotel.

Day 6: Explore Paro

For enthusiasts of walks and off-the-beaten-path experiences, venture to Chele Pass for a hike to Kila Gompa Nunnery through enchanting forests. Near Paro, explore Bondey village's Dzongdrakha Gompa with a short walk. In Paro, explore Rinphung Dzong, the National Museum, Kichu and Dungtse temples, local homes, and the township's streets.
Overnight in the hotel.

Day 7: Paro (Half Day Excursion Of The Tiger’s Nest)

Head directly to the trailhead for the iconic hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest). Ponies are available uphill, but downhill walking is required. Alternatively, explore Paro's valley, visiting farmhouses. In the evening, wander the quaint downtown area of Paro.

Day 8: Departure

Depart for Paro International Airport after an early breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, bidding farewell as you head to your onward destination.