Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Local Sightseeing Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your guide and driver. After hotel check-in and a brief rest, visit Rinpung Dzong, cross the traditional cantilever bridge Nyamazam, and head to the National Museum. Later, explore the unique Dungtse Lhakhang temple and end the day with a visit to a traditional farmhouse for a hot stone bath, Bhutanese cooking session, and dinner with a local family.

Day 2: Paro to Thimphu (1-hour drive) Drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s charming capital. Visit Simply Bhutan Museum, stroll through the Craft Bazaar, explore the School of Arts and Crafts (Zorig Chusum), and end with a visit to the Takin Reserve to learn about Bhutan’s national animal.

Day 3: Thimphu Valley Exploration Begin with panoramic views from the Buddha Dordenma statue, visit the National Memorial Chorten, and browse local life at the Centenary Farmers Market. Visit the ancient Changangkha Lhakhang and conclude with the majestic Tashichho Dzong. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through town in the evening.

Day 4: Tango & Cheri Monasteries Excursion Head north of Thimphu and hike to Tango Monastery, a Buddhist university. Optionally, continue to Cheri Monastery. Return to Thimphu and spend your evening exploring shops and cafés in the capital.

Day 5: Thimphu to Punakha via Dochula Pass Drive to Punakha over Dochula Pass (3,150m), where you’ll admire the 108 chortens and mountain views. Visit Chimi Lhakhang, the Fertility Temple, then check into your hotel and explore Punakha valley.

Day 6: Excursion to Gangtey & Phobjikha Valley Enjoy a scenic drive to Gangtey and the Phobjikha Valley, winter home to Black-Necked Cranes. Visit Gangtey Monastery and stroll through the glacial valley and local villages before returning to your hotel.

Day 7: Gangtey to Trongsa Start the day with a walk along the Gangtey Nature Trail. Drive to Trongsa via Pelela Pass, stopping by charming villages and viewpoints. Arrive at Trongsa and relax at your hotel in preparation for the festival.

Day 8: Trongsa Tsechu Festival Attend the vibrant Trongsa Tsechu at Trongsa Dzong. Witness sacred mask dances, the unveiling of the Thongdrel, and colorful traditional celebrations. Engage with locals and enjoy a full cultural immersion.

Day 9: Trongsa to Bumthang – Valley of Legends Drive to Bumthang via Yotongla Pass. En route, stop at Chumey’s Yathra Weaving Center. Visit the sacred Jambay, Kurjey, and Tamzhing Lhakhangs. Explore Jakar Dzong and the Swiss Farm. Enjoy a Bumthang-style dinner in town.

Day 10: Bumthang to Punakha Retrace your journey west via Trongsa and Yotongla Pass. Arrive in Punakha after a scenic 6-hour drive and rest at your hotel.

Day 11: Punakha to Paro (via Khamsum Yulley and Nunnery) Take a morning hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten, crossing a suspension bridge and scenic pine trail. Visit the grand Punakha Dzong and the nunnery before driving back to Paro with optional Thimphu stops.

Day 12: Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) Begin the iconic hike to Taktsang Monastery, perched 900 meters above the valley. Take in the spiritual aura and dramatic views. Enjoy lunch at the cafeteria en route and visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples. Optional valley stroll or rest in the evening.

Day 13: Departure from Paro After breakfast, drive to the airport for your onward journey. Your guide and driver will bid you farewell. Tashi Delek!