Itinerary

Day 1: Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, our guide and driver will warmly welcome you and transfer you to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Lunch will be served in Thimphu. In the afternoon, enjoy sightseeing including visits to the National Memorial Chorten (built in memory of the third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuk), Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang) with its impressive 51.5-meter tall Buddha statue, and Tashichho Dzong, an architectural marvel housing the throne room and government offices. Dinner and overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 2: After breakfast, explore Thimphu further with visits to the Post Office to create personalized stamps, the Drupthop Dewachen Nunnery founded in 1976, and the Takin Mini-zoo to see Bhutan’s national animal. After lunch, visit the traditional paper factory to witness the making of Bhutanese Deh-sho paper and browse the vibrant Craft Bazaar showcasing authentic Bhutanese handicrafts. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll around Thimphu town. Dinner and overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 3: After breakfast, drive to Punakha valley crossing the scenic Dochula Pass (3,150m), where you’ll enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges on clear days. Stop at Lobesa village and hike to Chimi Lhakhang, the famous Temple of Fertility. After lunch, visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, renowned for its beautiful architecture and location at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Evening at leisure. Dinner and overnight stay in Punakha.

Day 4: Early morning, drive approximately five hours to Gasa, the road end point. From here, begin a four-hour trek to Koina campsite. The trail descends gradually before a steady climb past Thongchu bridge. Enjoy the serene natural surroundings and overnight camping at Koina.

Day 5: After breakfast, trek through beautiful highland terrain with gradual and occasional steep climbs to the remote village of Laya. Upon arrival, experience the traditional lifestyle and colorful attire of the Layap people. Overnight camping in Laya.

Day 6: Participate in the vibrant Royal Highlander Festival, first introduced in 2016, celebrating local culture, history, and traditions. Witness traditional offerings, epic songs, dances, and competitions involving highland animals like yaks, horses, and mastiffs. Enjoy the cultural programs performed by the Layaps. Overnight camping in Laya.

Day 7: After breakfast, trek back to Koina campsite with a packed lunch. Take in the scenic mountain views on the return trail. Overnight camping at Koina.

Day 8: Drive back to Gasa from Koina and visit Gasa Dzong, the administrative and religious center of the region. After lunch, relax and rejuvenate at the natural Gasa Hot Springs, known for their therapeutic qualities. Dinner and overnight stay at Gasa camp.

Day 9: After breakfast and farewells to the trekking crew, drive to Paro with lunch en route in Punakha or nearby. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and enjoy dinner and overnight stay in Paro.

Day 10: Drive to Ramthangka to start the hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang). Use ponies to reach the cafeteria, then hike about 1.5 hours uphill to the monastery perched 900m above the valley floor. Enjoy lunch at the cafeteria with spectacular views. On the return journey, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples built in the 7th century. Spend the evening strolling around the beautiful Paro valley. Dinner and overnight stay in Paro.

Day 11: After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey. Our guide and driver will assist you with exit formalities and bid you farewell, wishing you a safe and pleasant flight.