Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive in Paro – Local Sightseeing

Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, after immigration and customs formalities, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. After lunch, explore some of Paro’s highlights including the National Museum, Zuri Dzong, and the cliffside Dzongdrakha Monastery.

Enjoy an evening stroll through Paro town.

Overnight in Paro

Day 02: Tiger’s Nest Hike – Drive to Thimphu

Begin your day with a hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang). This sacred site clings to the cliffside and offers a stunning spiritual and visual experience. The round-trip hike typically takes about three hours.

After lunch, return to the base and visit the historic Drugyal Dzong ruins. Continue your journey to Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu.

Overnight in Thimphu

Day 03: Thimphu Sightseeing

Explore Thimphu, starting with the impressive Buddha Dordenma statue offering panoramic views of the city. Optionally, enjoy a short forest hike to Changangkha Lhakhang.

Visit Zilukha Nunnery, Dechenphodrang Monastery, and the National Institute for Zorig Chusum (Traditional Arts). In the evening, enjoy local markets and archery displays.

Overnight in Thimphu

Day 04: Drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass

Travel to Punakha, stopping at the scenic Dochula Pass adorned with 108 chortens and prayer flags. Continue your descent through forests into the Punakha Valley.

En route, hike to Chimi Lhakhang, the “Temple of Fertility,” passing through Sopsokha village and rice paddies. Optionally, visit Rinchengang village known for traditional stone masonry.

Overnight in Punakha

Day 05: Punakha to Gangtey (Phobjikha Valley)

Start the day with a visit to Punakha Dzong, a majestic fortress at the confluence of two rivers. Continue to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten with a short hike through rice fields.

Drive to Gangtey via oak and rhododendron forests. On arrival, explore the serene Phobjikha Valley and visit Gangtey Monastery.

Overnight in Gangtey

Day 06: Gangtey to Bumthang

Drive to Bumthang, passing through traditional villages and scenic mountain passes. Stop at Chendebji Chorten before arriving at Trongsa to visit its impressive dzong and Ta Dzong (watchtower).

Continue to Bumthang through the Chumey Valley.

Overnight in Bumthang

Day 07: Bumthang Sightseeing

Visit Kurjey Lhakhang, Jambey Lhakhang, and Tamshing Monastery. Later, explore Jakar Dzong and take a leisurely stroll through the local market area.

Overnight in Bumthang

Day 08: Bumthang to Mongar

Begin a scenic eastward drive via Ura village and Thrumshing La Pass. Pass Sengor village, famous for its birdwatching spots, and descend into lush valleys.

Visit Mongar Dzong on arrival.

Overnight in Mongar

Day 09: Day Excursion to Lhuntse

Drive to the remote district of Lhuntse, known for dramatic landscapes and textile traditions. Visit Lhuntse Dzong, Khoma village (famed for Kishuthara silk weaving), and Takila, home to the large Guru Rinpoche statue.

Return to Mongar in the evening.

Overnight in Mongar

Day 10: Mongar to Trashigang

Drive through Kori La Pass, descending through beautiful rural landscapes. Visit Drametse Monastery, the birthplace of Bhutan’s famous mask dances. Continue to Trashigang, a bustling town in eastern Bhutan.

Overnight in Trashigang

Day 11: Day Excursion to Trashi Yangtse

Visit Gom Kora temple en route to Trashi Yangtse. Explore Doksum village, known for its weaving and old iron chain bridge. In Trashi Yangtse, visit the dzong, Chorten Kora stupa, and the traditional arts school.

Return to Trashigang in the evening.

Overnight in Trashigang

Day 12: Trashigang to Merak via Radhi

Drive to Rangjung and Radhi village, a weaving hub known for raw silk textiles. Continue to the remote highland village of Merak via a dirt road.

Overnight in a Merak homestay

Day 13: Explore Merak Valley – Return to Trashigang

Spend the day exploring Merak village, learning about the unique Brokpa culture, local traditions, and community life.

In the late afternoon, return to Trashigang.

Overnight in Trashigang

Day 14: Trashigang to Samdrup Jongkhar

Embark on a long drive toward Samdrup Jongkhar, the southeastern border town. En route, visit Sherubtse College, Zangtho Pelri temple, and the Khaling Weaving Centre and School for the Disabled.

Evening at leisure in Samdrup Jongkhar.

Overnight in Samdrup Jongkhar

Day 15: Departure via Guwahati (India)

Transfer to Guwahati Airport (India) for your onward journey. Please ensure you have a valid Indian visa for this route.