Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Drive to Thimphu

Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be warmly received by our team and transferred to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, just over an hour’s drive away. Thimphu, home to approximately 100,000 people, blends tradition and modernity in a unique setting. Depending on your arrival time, you may visit a local monastery or the National Memorial Chorten – a sacred stupa where elderly Bhutanese gather to pray, spin prayer wheels, and make circumambulations.

Overnight in Thimphu

Day 2: Discover Thimphu’s Spiritual and Cultural Sites

Start your day with a visit to Changangkha Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Thimphu, dating back to the 12th century. It sits above the city, offering scenic views and spiritual resonance. Then, visit the Zilukha Nunnery, one of Bhutan’s largest, where you can observe nuns engaged in prayer and learn about their role in community service and spiritual education.

Next, explore Pangri Zampa Lhakhang, nestled in a quiet meadow near the river. This temple, tied to the founder of Bhutan, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, now serves as an astrology school for state clergy. You’ll have an opportunity to learn about Bhutanese astrology—and even receive a personal reading.

For those interested, a visit to meet Dorji Phagmo, the female reincarnate believed to embody longevity and compassion, can be arranged. It offers a rare glimpse into Bhutan’s spiritual lineage.

Overnight in Thimphu

Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha via Dochula Pass

Travel to the lush Punakha Valley, with a scenic stop at Dochula Pass (3,200m), where 108 chortens mark the summit. On a clear day, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the eastern Himalayas, including Bhutan’s highest peaks.

As you descend into the valley, stop to visit Chimi Lhakhang, famously associated with the “Divine Madman,” Drukpa Kunley. Known for his eccentric teachings and unique blessing rituals, the monastery is popular among couples seeking fertility blessings.

Later, visit the stunning Punakha Dzong, a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture situated at the confluence of two rivers. In the evening, a meeting can be arranged with Kathok Rinpoche, a revered spiritual teacher, to gain insight into Bhutan’s Buddhist philosophy.

Overnight in Punakha

Day 4: Punakha and Wangdue – Monastic Learning & Farm Life

This morning, visit the Nalanda Buddhist Institute, a small monastic college nestled in the hills. Interact with monks and learn about their education and lifestyle, supported largely through community effort.

Later, visit a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse to witness the rhythms of rural life—ploughing, weaving, and daily cooking—offering a window into Bhutan’s agrarian culture.

Overnight in Punakha

Day 5: Drive to Gangtey (Phobjikha Valley)

Travel to the pristine Phobjikha Valley, home to the endangered Black-Necked Cranes that migrate here each winter. Visit the sacred Gangtey Monastery, a major seat of the Nyingma Buddhist school and closely linked to the revered Tertön (treasure revealer) Pema Lingpa.

The tranquil landscape, often shrouded in mist, complements the spiritual depth of the monastery.

Overnight in Gangtey

Day 6: Gangtey to Khotokha – Return to Punakha

After a relaxed morning, descend towards Wangdue and make a detour to Khotokha Valley, a lesser-known, pristine area reached via a rough road. Visit Rinchenling Shedra, one of Bhutan’s significant Buddhist colleges, where you can interact with young monks and scholars.

Return to Punakha in the evening.

Overnight in Punakha

Day 7: Punakha to Paro via Thimphu

Drive back to Paro, stopping in Thimphu for lunch and any last-minute sightseeing or shopping. In Paro, visit the Rinpung Dzong, a fortress that played a major role in Bhutanese history.

In the evening, a special meeting can be arranged with Khenpo Tashi, a historian and former Director of the National Museum. A monk himself, he will share fascinating insights into Bhutanese culture and spirituality.

Overnight in Paro

Day 8: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Embark on the iconic hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), perched on a cliff 900 meters above the Paro Valley. This sacred site is where Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) is said to have meditated in the 8th century after flying here on the back of a tigress. The hike offers spectacular views and a deep spiritual experience.

Overnight in Paro

Day 9: Paro – Cultural Exploration & Living Treasures Ceremony

Begin the day with a visit to Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, believed to be one of 108 built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo to subdue a Himalayan demoness.

In the evening, experience a special cultural event:
“The Living Treasures of Bhutan”, a two-hour ceremonial program including:

• Tah Goen Thruesel: Sprinkling of blessed water for purification
• Marchang Ceremony: Auspicious wine offering to deities
• Gegthray Fire Dance: A traditional masked dance to dispel negative energy
• Pazap Dance: Warrior’s victory celebration
• Lugar Shay: Folkloric dances and music
• Shingshay Pem: Ritual dance of celestial beings
• Shukdrel Phunsum Tshogpa: Traditional tea offering ceremony
• Kaago and Jab Thrue: Final blessings for longevity and well-being by an esteemed lama

Overnight in Paro

Day 10: Departure

Transfer to Paro International Airport in time for your outbound flight. We bid you farewell with warm wishes and hope your journey through Bhutan leaves lasting memories.