Itinerary

Overview
This 11-day immersive journey offers a rich blend of Bhutan’s spiritual, cultural, and natural heritage. Centered around two major cultural events—Druk Wangyal Tsechu at Dochula and the Jakar Festival in Bumthang—this tour also includes hikes to sacred monasteries, visits to historic dzongs and temples, and travel through lush valleys and dramatic mountain passes. Discover Bhutan’s serene landscapes, colorful festivals, and deep-rooted traditions as you travel from Paro to Thimphu, Punakha, Trongsa, Bumthang, and back.

Day 01: Arrival in Paro – Drive to Thimphu
Arrive at Paro International Airport, one of the most scenic flights in the world. Enjoy views of snowcapped Himalayan peaks, alpine forests, and traditional farmhouses. Upon arrival, our team will greet you and transfer you to Thimphu. In the evening, visit Tashichhoe Dzong, the majestic fortress that houses the King’s offices and monastic body. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 02: Thimphu Sightseeing
Begin your day with visits to:

• King’s Memorial Chorten, built in honor of Bhutan’s Third King
• Buddha Dordenma, a massive golden statue overlooking the valley
• National Library, home to ancient Bhutanese texts and the world’s largest book
• Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory, where traditional paper is crafted from tree bark
• Zilukha Nunnery, Bhutan’s largest nunnery, overlooking the Thimphu Dzong
• Takin Preserve, home to Bhutan’s national animal

In the evening, enjoy a walk around Clock Tower Square and local markets. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 03: Hike to Tango Monastery (Thimphu)
Drive 14 km north of Thimphu and begin a 50-minute hike through forested hills to Tango Monastery. Founded in the 13th century and rebuilt in 1688, it is a prominent center of Buddhist learning and meditation. Return to Thimphu. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 04: Thimphu – Dochula Pass – Punakha
Drive east toward Punakha, stopping at Dochula Pass (3,100m) for panoramic mountain views and to visit the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens. Continue to Lamperi Botanical Park, home to a rich biodiversity including rhododendrons and red pandas. After lunch in Lobesa, take a short hike through rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley. Interact with locals at Lobesa village before proceeding to Punakha. Overnight in Punakha.

Day 05: Punakha Valley Sightseeing
Start your day with a visit to Walakha Nunnery, then drive north to hike to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Chorten, built by the Queen Mother in the 1990s. This 45-minute uphill walk passes suspension bridges and rice fields, offering scenic views of the valley. Overnight in Punakha.

Day 06: Punakha – Trongsa – Bumthang (197 km / ~6.5 hrs)
Travel through the Black Mountains to Central Bhutan. Cross Pele La Pass, passing by yaks and rhododendrons. Stop at Chendebji Chorten and view the vast Trongsa Dzong from the road. If time allows, visit the Ta Dzong Watchtower Museum. Continue to Bumthang, Bhutan’s spiritual heartland. Overnight in Chumey, Bumthang.

Day 07: Bumthang Sightseeing
Explore the open and sacred Bumthang Valley:

• Jakar Dzong, also known as “Fortress of the White Bird”
• Kurjey Lhakhang, where Guru Rinpoche left his body imprint
• Wangdicholing Palace, former royal residence
  Sample local cheese and honey, and explore the town. Overnight in Bumthang.

Day 08: Attend Jakar Tsechu
Today you’ll witness the colorful Jakar Festival at Jakar Dzong. The festival features sacred mask dances and concludes with Nguedup Langwa, a blessing ritual for attendees. Enjoy the festive spirit and cultural immersion. Overnight in Bumthang.

Day 09: Bumthang – Paro
Drive back to Paro, retracing the mountain route. Rest and relax upon arrival. Overnight in Paro.

Day 10: Paro Valley Sightseeing
In the morning, visit Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple), one of 108 temples built by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. Later, explore Rinpung Dzong, the district’s fortress-monastery, and the 7th-century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples. Overnight in Paro.

Day 11: Hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest)
Take a half-day hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery, perched on a cliff 1,000m above the valley floor. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche meditated here after flying in on a tigress. Rest at the cafeteria viewpoint or continue to the temple itself. Return to Paro for lunch, then enjoy shopping or a casual stroll through Paro Bazaar. Overnight in Paro.

Day 12: Departure from Paro
After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport. Our team will assist with exit formalities before bidding you farewell. Tashi Delek!