Itinerary

DAY 01: ARRIVAL IN PARO – TRANSFER TO THIMPHU
Experience one of the world’s most spectacular mountain flights as you arrive in Paro, surrounded by some of the highest peaks on earth. After completing customs formalities, begin your journey with an afternoon tour in Paro. Visit the Ta Dzong Museum, home to religious relics, art, and handicrafts that provide insight into Bhutan’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Then explore Rimpong Dzong, where you can see paintings of the revered saint Milarepa, known as the master of meditation. Later, travel along the Pachu River to the capital city, Thimphu (approximately 1.5 hours). Before dinner, enjoy a briefing on Bhutanese etiquette. Overnight in Thimphu.

DAY 02: THIMPHU SIGHTSEEING
Spend a full day exploring Bhutan’s lively capital. Visit the National Memorial Chorten, built as a symbol of peace and protection against negative influences. Continue to the ancient Changangkha Temple and Drubthob Monastery, which houses the Zilukha Nunnery. Discover traditional Bhutanese arts at the School for Arts and Crafts, browse scriptures at the National Library, observe papermaking at the Traditional Paper Factory, and step back in time at the Folk Heritage Museum. Time permitting, visit the Takin breeding center, home to Bhutan’s national animal, and admire the impressive Tashichhodzong fortress, the seat of government and religion. Wander through the vibrant Thimphu Market (open Friday to Sunday) to see local produce and spices. Overnight in Thimphu.

DAY 03: THIMPHU TO TRONGSA
Journey over scenic mountain passes, Dochu La (3,100m) and Pele La (3,420m), through the Black Mountain range to Trongsa (7–8 hours). En route, stop at the 18th-century Chendebji Chorten. Upon arrival, view the majestic Trongsa Dzong, perched above a deep canyon, and explore the ancestral home of Bhutan’s royal family. Overnight in Trongsa.

DAY 04: TRONGSA TO BUMTHANG
Tour Trongsa Dzong, the largest fortress-monastery in Bhutan, and visit the Ta Dzong museum displaying royal artifacts. Then drive to Bumthang (about 2.5 hours), the spiritual heartland, known for ancient palaces, temples, and monasteries. Explore Jakar Dzong (the “White Bird” fortress) and Tamshing Lhakhang, famous for its 16th-century Buddhist wall paintings. After lunch, visit Kurje Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s holiest sites, and the 7th-century Jambay Lhakhang. Overnight in Bumthang.

DAY 05: BUMTHANG TO NANG LHAKHANG TREK
Begin a gentle trek of approximately 14 km (3 to 4 hours) along the Chamkhar Chu river. Pass through serene meadows, blue pine forests, and bamboo groves, passing villages and temples along the way. Overnight at a farmhouse at 2,900 meters.

DAY 06: NANG LHAKHANG TO UGYENCHOLING TREK
Trek about 19 km (7 to 8 hours), ascending through juniper forests to the Phephe La Pass (3,360m). Descend into the Tang Valley before arriving at Ugyencholing village (2,850m). Camp overnight near the river beside the village at an altitude of 2,670 meters.

DAY 07: UGYENCHOLING TO BUMTHANG
In the morning, visit the 16th-century Tang Ugyencholing Palace, a private mansion with a museum showcasing traditional rural Bhutanese life. On the return journey, stop at Mebartso, the “Lake of Fire,” a sacred site linked to the revered treasure-finder Terton Pemalingpa. Locals often come here to make butter lamp offerings on auspicious days. Overnight in Bumthang.

DAY 08: BUMTHANG TO PUNAKHA
After breakfast, travel to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan. Upon arrival, take a leisurely stroll through the town. Overnight in Punakha.

DAY 09: PUNAKHA TO PARO VIA THIMPHU
Visit the impressive Punakha Dzong, located where the Mo Chu and Pho Chu rivers meet. Built in 1637, it served as the winter home for the chief abbot and monks. The dzong is renowned for its traditional architecture and ornately decorated pillars. Later, return to Thimphu for some shopping at handicraft and souvenir shops before continuing on to Paro. Overnight in Paro.

DAY 10: PARO – TAKTSANG MONASTERY HIKE & SIGHTSEEING
Hike approximately 1.5 to 2 hours uphill to the iconic Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched on a cliff 900 meters above the valley. For those unable to hike, horses can be arranged to the nearby cafeteria. This monastery is a vital pilgrimage site linked to Guru Rimpoche, who meditated here in the 8th century. Enjoy refreshments before returning to Paro for lunch. In the afternoon, visit Drukgyel Dzong, rebuilt after a fire, with Mount Jomolhari providing a stunning backdrop. Explore other attractions in Paro Valley before overnight stay.

DAY 11: DEPARTURE FROM PARO
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Tashi Delek!