Itinerary

DAY 01: ARRIVAL – PARO TO THIMPHU

Upon arrival at Paro International Airport—renowned for offering one of the world’s most scenic mountain flights—our team will greet you at the arrival terminal. After lunch, begin sightseeing with a visit to Ta Dzong, the National Museum, which showcases sacred relics, traditional arts, and Bhutanese heritage. Next, explore Rinpung Dzong, featuring murals of the great saint Milarepa, revered for his meditative achievements. In the late afternoon, drive along the Pachu River to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. Before dinner, your guide will brief you on Bhutanese customs and etiquette. Overnight in Thimphu.

DAY 02: THIMPHU EXPLORATION

Once a quiet village, Thimphu is now Bhutan’s vibrant capital. Your day begins with a visit to the National Memorial Chorten, built in honor of the Third King. Continue to the ancient Changangkha Temple and the serene Zilukha Nunnery. If visiting over the weekend, explore the local market for a firsthand look at Bhutanese life. Overnight in Thimphu.

DAY 03: CULTURE & CRAFTS IN THIMPHU

Today’s sightseeing includes the School of Arts and Crafts, where students learn Bhutan’s traditional 13 arts, and the National Library, home to scriptures from as early as the 8th century. Also visit the Traditional Paper Factory and Folk Heritage Museum to experience Bhutan’s rural life. Optional visits include the Takin Preserve, Tashichhodzong (the king’s office), or scenic hikes to Tango, Cheri, or Phajoding Monasteries. Overnight in Thimphu.

DAY 04: THIMPHU TO PUNAKHA VIA DOCHU LA

Depart Thimphu and ascend to the Dochula Pass (3,100m), where, on clear days, the Himalayan peaks are visible. Descend into the lush Punakha Valley. Upon arrival, visit Punakha Dzong, the former seat of Bhutan’s government and still a key monastic and administrative hub. Its architecture is a stunning example of Bhutanese design. Later, walk through rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, the “Fertility Temple” built in honor of Drukpa Kuenley, the Divine Madman. Overnight in Punakha or nearby Wangduephodrang.

DAY 05: PUNAKHA TO BUMTHANG VIA TRONGSA

Embark on a scenic drive to Bumthang via Trongsa, crossing the Pele La pass (3,420m). En route, stop at Chendebji Chorten, a 19th-century Nepalese-style stupa. Upon reaching Trongsa, visit the vast Trongsa Dzong and the nearby Ta Dzong Museum, which houses royal relics. Continue to Bumthang—a valley rich in temples and monasteries, with barley fields and apple orchards surrounded by towering hills. Overnight in Jakar, Bumthang.

DAY 06: SPIRITUAL HEART OF BHUTAN – BUMTHANG

Begin your spiritual journey at Kurjey Lhakhang, where Guru Rinpoche meditated. Visit Jambay Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples. After lunch, explore Jakar Dzong and Tamshing Lhakhang, home to sacred wall paintings and artifacts. Later, stroll through Jakar town. Overnight in Bumthang.

DAY 07: BUMTHANG VILLAGE EXPLORATION

Spend the day exploring rural Bhutan. Visit Tang Ugyen Chholing Palace, now a museum of traditional life. Then head to Mebartso, the sacred “Burning Lake,” where the treasure revealer Pemalingpa is believed to have discovered holy relics hidden by Guru Rinpoche. Overnight in Bumthang.

DAY 08: BUMTHANG TO GANGTEY (PHOBJIKHA VALLEY)

Drive to Gangtey through remote mountain roads, passing quaint villages and terraced fields. Enter the glacial Phobjikha Valley, a winter haven for endangered black-necked cranes (Nov–March). Visit Gangtey Goempa, a major Nyingma monastery, and enjoy time to explore this peaceful valley. Overnight in Phobjikha.

DAY 09: GANGTEY TO PARO

In the morning, enjoy birdwatching if it’s crane season, then begin your journey back to Paro. The scenic route includes crossing Dochula Pass and descending once again into the valleys. Overnight in Paro.

DAY 10: HIKE TO TIGER’S NEST MONASTERY

After breakfast, hike to the legendary Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched on a sheer cliff 900m above the valley floor. For those who prefer not to hike, horses can be arranged to reach the viewpoint cafeteria. The monastery is a sacred pilgrimage site where Guru Rinpoche meditated. After lunch, visit the recently restored Drukgyel Dzong and, weather permitting, catch a glimpse of Mt. Jomolhari. Return to Paro with optional visits to local sites. Overnight in Paro.

DAY 11: DEPARTURE FROM PARO

After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure. Your guide and driver will bid you a warm farewell. Tashi Delek and safe journey!