Itinerary

Overview
This 10-day itinerary invites you on a soul-enriching journey through the valleys of Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Trongsa, and Bumthang. Witness the vibrant Jambay Lhakhang Drup Festival, explore centuries-old temples and dzongs, hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest, and immerse yourself in Bhutan’s rich spiritual heritage, unspoiled nature, and warm hospitality. Ideal for cultural enthusiasts and festival lovers, this trip blends Bhutan’s ancient traditions with breathtaking Himalayan beauty.

DAY 01: ARRIVE PARO – THIMPHU
The flight into Paro is among the world’s most spectacular, offering views of the highest Himalayan peaks. Upon arrival, our team will greet you at the airport. After lunch, enjoy sightseeing in Paro, including the Ta Dzong Museum, showcasing religious relics and Bhutanese heritage, and Rimpong Dzong, home to a painting of Milarepa, a revered Buddhist saint. Later, drive to Thimphu (1.5 hrs) alongside the Pachu River. Before dinner, attend a short orientation on Bhutanese etiquette. Overnight in Thimphu.

DAY 02: THIMPHU
Explore Bhutan’s vibrant capital:

• National Memorial Chorten, built in memory of the Third King
• Changangkha Temple, an ancient hilltop monastery
• Zilukha Nunnery, Bhutan’s largest nunnery with panoramic views
  If time permits, visit the Takin Preserve and the grand Tashichhodzong, seat of Bhutan’s government and religious authorities. Overnight in Thimphu.

DAY 03: THIMPHU – PUNAKHA
Drive over the scenic Dochu-La Pass (3,100m) for panoramic mountain views and descend into the subtropical Punakha Valley. Visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, Bhutan’s most beautiful fortress at the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. Then take a short walk through rice paddies to Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple dedicated to the Divine Madman, Drukpa Kunley. Overnight in Punakha/Wangduephodrang.

DAY 04: PUNAKHA – TRONGSA – BUMTHANG
Begin your scenic journey across central Bhutan. Drive via Pele La Pass (3,420m) and stop at Chendebji Chorten, a Nepalese-style stupa. Arrive in Trongsa, ancestral home of the royal family. Visit the massive Trongsa Dzong and Ta Dzong Museum, showcasing royal history. Continue through lush valleys to Bumthang, arriving in time for the Jambay Lhakhang Drup Festival’s midnight opening ceremony featuring the sacred naked dance. Overnight in Bumthang.

DAY 05: BUMTHANG
Explore spiritual landmarks:

• Kurjey Lhakhang, where Guru Rinpoche meditated
• Jambay Lhakhang, dating to the 7th century
• Jakar Dzong, overlooking the valley
• Tamshing Lhakhang, with ancient murals by Pema Lingpa
  Stroll through Jakar town, the heart of Bumthang. Overnight in Bumthang.

DAY 06: BUMTHANG
Either revisit Jambay Lhakhang Drup Festival or take an excursion to the remote Tang Valley. Hike to Ugyen Chholing Palace, now a heritage museum, and visit Tang Rimochen Lhakhang and the mystical Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake), tied to treasure discoverer Pema Lingpa. Overnight in Bumthang.

DAY 07: BUMTHANG – PUNAKHA
After breakfast, revisit Kurjey Lhakhang, then drive back to Punakha with lunch en route. Overnight in Punakha.

DAY 08: PUNAKHA – THIMPHU – PARO
Drive to Thimphu for lunch and explore local handicraft stores before continuing to Paro. On the way, visit Semtokha Dzong, Bhutan’s oldest fortress. Check into your hotel. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Paro.

DAY 09: PARO – TAKTSANG MONASTERY (TIGER’S NEST)
Take a half-day hike to Taktsang Monastery, perched 900m above the Paro valley. This iconic site is where Guru Rinpoche meditated after flying in on a tigress. Enjoy stunning views from the trail and the teahouse viewpoint. After lunch, visit the reconstructed Drukgyel Dzong, built to celebrate victory over Tibetan invaders, with views of Mount Jomolhari on clear days. Overnight in Paro.

DAY 10: DEPART PARO
After breakfast, drive to Paro International Airport. Our team will assist with departure formalities and bid you farewell.