Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival – Paro to Thimphu

Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, enjoy spectacular aerial views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Bhutan’s sacred peaks—Mount Jumolhari and Jichu Drake. After meeting your guide, drive approximately 1 hour (54 km) to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. In the afternoon, visit the Post Office to personalize stamps, explore a traditional paper-making factory, and see the King’s Memorial Chorten, built in memory of the third King.
Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing

After breakfast, visit the towering Buddha Dordenma statue offering panoramic views of the valley. Explore Changangkha Monastery, the Nunnery Temple, and the School of Arts and Crafts (Zorig Chusum). Learn about Bhutanese culture at the Folk Heritage Museum and see the Takin, Bhutan’s national animal, at the mini-zoo. After lunch, visit the majestic Tashichhodzong and later stroll through Thimphu town to observe daily life.
Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha

Drive to Punakha via the scenic Dochu La Pass (3,100 m), offering views of the eastern Himalayas on a clear day. Descend through forests of rhododendron, fir, and hemlock. En route, stop at Metsina Village for a short hike through rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple. After lunch, visit the beautiful Punakha Dzong, situated at the confluence of the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu rivers.
Overnight in Punakha.

Day 4: Punakha to Gelephu

After breakfast, begin your journey to Gelephu in southern Bhutan, passing through the towns of Tsirang and Sarpang. Enjoy a scenic drive with a stop for a picnic lunch en route.
Overnight in Gelephu.

Day 5: Gelephu to Gongphu

Start the day with a drive from Gelephu to Gongphu, ascending from 280 m to 1450 m. Pass through Surey village, known for mandarin and cardamom cultivation. This region receives the highest rainfall in Bhutan, supporting rich biodiversity. Wildlife sightings may include langurs, tigers, leopards, clouded leopards, sambars, and many bird species.
Overnight at Eco-Camp.

Day 6: Gongphu to Panbang/Manas

Drive through dense subtropical forests to Panbang, passing through mixed broadleaf forests home to diverse birdlife including hornbills, barbets, doves, and woodpeckers. The campsite offers panoramic views due to its elevated location.
Overnight at Eco-Camp.

Day 7: Manas – Elephant Safari & Wildlife Viewing

Reach the core area of the Royal Manas National Park via walk, drive, or boat ride. Upon arrival, meet the elephant safari team and enjoy an unforgettable elephant-back wildlife safari. Spend time exploring the biodiversity-rich park.
Overnight at guesthouse or Eco-Camp.

Day 8: Manas – Rafting & Nature Hike

Drive 45 minutes to Panthang for an adventurous rafting trip on the Upper Mangde River (Class 3+), offering thrilling rapids and stunning views of the park and traditional Khengpa villages. In the afternoon, walk the Eco Trail through the park.
Overnight at guesthouse or Eco-Camp.

Day 9: Panbang to Trongsa

Depart Panbang and head toward Trongsa. The landscape shifts from subtropical to evergreen forests rich in flora, orchids, and medicinal plants.
Overnight in Trongsa.

Day 10: Trongsa to Phobjikha

Visit the impressive Trongsa Dzong, a marvel of Bhutanese architecture. Continue the drive to Gangtey, crossing the Lawala Pass and entering the serene Phobjikha Valley, a glacial basin known for being the winter home of the endangered black-necked cranes. Visit Gangtey Monastery and enjoy a peaceful 1.5-hour hike on the Gangtey Nature Trail through pine forests and bamboo groves.
Overnight in Phobjikha.

Day 11: Phobjikha to Paro

After breakfast, drive back to Paro, stopping at Dochula for lunch. Upon arrival in Paro, visit Rinpung Dzong, a 17th-century fortress now serving as an administrative and monastic center. Continue to Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in the 8th century.
Overnight in Paro.

Day 12: Paro – Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Hike to the legendary Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery perched on a cliff at 3,180 m. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew here on a tigress and meditated in a cave now part of the monastery. Enjoy lunch at the cafeteria on the trail. After exploring the monastery, descend and return to Paro. In the evening, visit a traditional farmhouse and enjoy a Bhutanese hot stone bath.
Overnight in Paro.

Day 13: Departure

After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure. Farewell and safe travels!