| OVERVIEW OF THE TOUR |
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| PACKAGE INCLUDES |
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| PACKAGE EXCLUDES |
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| EXIT | Paro |
Distance : 54 Km, estimated driving time : 1 hr
Arrive at Paro. After completing immigration formalities, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative, who will be your dedicated guide throughout your journey.
You’ll then begin your scenic drive to Thimphu, passing through Chunzom, where the Paro River (Pachu) meets the Thimphu River (Wangchu). Along the way, enjoy a stop to walk over a charming suspension bridge, offering a view of the 15th-century iron chain bridge suspended over the Pa Chu. Take a short, peaceful walk to visit the Tachog Lhakhang, a beautiful 15th-century temple nestled at the base of a mountain along the Paro-Thimphu highway.
Once past Chunzom, the drive will follow the Wangchu River all the way to the heart of Thimphu. Upon your arrival in the city, check into your hotel and take some time to relax after your early morning flight. After lunch, you’ll set off to explore the sights of Thimphu:
Buddha Doerdenma
A 51 meter bronze Shakyamuni Buddha statue gilded in gold, overseeing the valley of Thimphu. Enjoy the panoramic view of the Thimphu valley from the site of the gigantic Lord Buddha. The site was completed in sept. 2015. We have alternative hike around the statue with beautiful view of the valley, you could prefer to hike one of the trails. These trails are popular for mountain biking/cycling.
Simply Bhutan Meuseum
The Museum is a living studio showcasing the typical life-style and practices of Bhutanese culture and tradition. You will also witness some folk dances by the team at the museum and you can disguise yourself with our national attire and try out archery (national sport).
Tashichho Dzong
The fortress was built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1641. It was enlarged by desi Tenzin Rabgay in 1694 and further renovated several times over the years. The entire Dzong was rebuilt in 1962 under the royal command of the third king, his majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. It houses the dragon throne room of the king of Bhutan,the office of the Je-khenpo (chief abbot), and other government agencies. It is also used as summer residence of the monk body.
Leisure in Town
A visit to the Craft Bazaar offers you a wonderful opportunity to experience Bhutanese culture in one place while browsing and purchasing authentic, locally made arts and crafts. With 80 vibrant stalls, the Bazaar showcases the full spectrum of Bhutan’s traditional craftsmanship, where artisans from across the country proudly display their unique creations. It’s the perfect spot to take home a piece of Bhutan's rich cultural heritage. You'll also have the chance to explore other nearby handicraft stores, each offering more treasures to discover.
In the evening explore Thimphu town on your own.
Dinner and Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu.
After breakfast, you'll set out to visit Kuenselphodrang, commonly known as Buddha Point, where Bhutan’s largest Buddha statue stands majestically on a hill, offering a stunning view of the Thimphu Valley below.
Next, enjoy a scenic 25-minute drive north from Thimphu to reach the base camp of Tango Monastery, about 14 km from the city center. The trailhead begins at the parking lot at the end of the road, inviting you to embark on a peaceful hike through a lush forest filled with oak, pine, and blooming rhododendrons. As you wander along the zig-zag trail, which lies within Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Park, keep an eye out for the playful Gray Langur monkeys and the vibrant local bird species.
After about 40 minutes of hiking, you’ll reach a Chorten (stupa), where breathtaking views open up to reveal meditation houses and the monastery ahead. A final 20-minute ascent brings you to the monastery itself. This round-trip hike covers about 2.5 km and takes around two hours at a leisurely pace.
Built in 1689 by Gyalse Tenzin Rabgyal, Tango Monastery is now a center for advanced monastic studies. The views from here are stunningly beautiful, and the atmosphere is filled with a sense of peace and tranquility. You may also have a chance to visit the monastery and enjoy meaningful interactions with the monks, adding a special touch to this serene experience.
After your visit, enjoy a leisurely walk back down the serene path to the base of Tango Monastery, where your driver will be waiting to take you back to Thimphu. Once you've returned, savor a delicious lunch before embarking on the next part of your journey with visits to some of Thimphu’s highlights:
National Memorial Chorten
Visit the National Memorial Chorten, a beautiful stupa built in 1974 in memory of the Third King of Bhutan, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, affectionately known as the father of modern Bhutan. The word ‘chorten’ translates to ‘seat of faith,’ and such monuments are often referred to as the ‘Mind of Buddha’ by Buddhists. As you explore this sacred site, you’ll have the chance to meet the local elderly generation as they perform their peaceful circumambulations, particularly in the serene mornings and evenings. It's a meaningful experience that offers a glimpse into Bhutan's spiritual traditions.
School of Traditional Painting of Arts and Crafts
Visit the School of Traditional Painting of Arts and Crafts, where students dedicate six years to mastering Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts. Here, you'll witness the preservation of Bhutan's rich artistic heritage as young artists skillfully bring to life intricate designs and timeless crafts, passed down through generations. It's a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the dedication and talent that go into maintaining these beautiful traditions.
National Textile Museum
Visit the National Textile Museum, a wonderful place to witness the art of traditional weaving being preserved and celebrated through fascinating exhibitions. The museum showcases a rich collection of old textiles, vibrant in color and intricate in design, reflecting Bhutan’s cultural heritage. You’ll also have the chance to see skilled weavers at work, creating beautiful patterns with traditional techniques. It’s a perfect spot to immerse yourself in Bhutan’s textile history and artistry.
Takin Preserve
Visit the Takin Preserve, home to Bhutan’s unique national animal, the Takin, an incredibly rare member of the goat family found only in Bhutan. These majestic creatures, which can weigh up to 550 pounds, typically roam in herds at high altitudes above 13,125 feet, thriving on a diet of grass and bamboo. At the preserve, you'll have the opportunity to see these remarkable animals in their natural environment, offering a rare glimpse into Bhutan's fascinating wildlife.
Centenary Farmers' Market
Visit the lively Centenary Farmers’ Market, open from Thursday to Sunday, where the vibrant energy of Thimphu’s residents and nearby valley dwellers comes alive. Located by the Wangchu River, this bustling weekend market offers a delightful array of local food, fresh produce, and Bhutanese arts and crafts. Open from Friday afternoon to Sunday evening, it's the perfect spot to capture great photos and experience the local culture firsthand, while mingling with the friendly people of Bhutan.
Dinner at a restaurant in Thimphu town or at your hotel and overnight at the hotel in Thimphu.
Distance: 71 km & estimated driving time: 2 hours
After breakfast, you’ll embark on a scenic journey to Punakha, passing through the stunning Dochula Pass at an elevation of 3,140 meters. Here, under clear spring skies, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges. Pause for photos at the 108 beautiful chortens built by Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck (Queen Mother of Bhutan) in honor of the security and well-being of His Majesty, the King of Bhutan.
At Dochula Pass, refresh with tea or coffee and snacks at the cozy Dochula Pass Cafeteria before continuing on to Punakha. On the way, you’ll stop for a traditional Bhutanese lunch at a farmhouse in the picturesque Lobesa village. After lunch, take a pleasant 20-minute walk through vibrant paddy fields to visit the Divine Madman’s Monastery, Chhimi Lhakhang, renowned as a fertility shrine where visitors can receive a special blessing.
Next, stroll over a traditional cantilever bridge to reach the majestic Punakha Dzong, set on the scenic island where the Pho Chu (male river) and Mo Chu (female river) meet. Just a short 15-minute walk from here lies one of Bhutan's longest suspension bridges, spanning 350 meters high above the swift Pho Chu. Draped with colorful prayer flags, this bridge connects the village on the far side of the river with Punakha Dzong, serving as a unique and practical pathway for locals.
End your day with a lovely dinner and a restful night at your hotel in Punakha.
After breakfast, you’ll start your day with a visit to Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendup Lhakhang, where you can soak in breathtaking views of the Punakha and Wangdue valleys. This scenic spot is a wonderful opportunity for capturing stunning photographs.
Next, you’ll journey through the upper Punakha Valley, taking a leisurely walk across a suspension bridge and through picturesque paddy fields to reach the beautiful Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Lhakhang. Built by Her Majesty Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck (the Queen Mother of Bhutan) to inspire peace and stability in a changing world, this temple sits atop a hill, offering a captivating view of the valley below. The gentle hike up to the temple takes about an hour, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the serene surroundings. The round trip for this hike is approximately two hours, and every step is worth the views from the top!
Enjoy a delightful riverside picnic lunch before continuing your journey with a scenic 30-minute drive to Gaselo village. Life here remains beautifully traditional, with villagers warmly welcoming visitors. Stroll through the farmhouses, exchange smiles and stories with the locals, and experience the joy and simplicity of Bhutanese farming life.
End your day with a cozy dinner and a restful night at your hotel in Punakha.
Distance: 129 km, estimated driving time: 5 hours
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Trongsa, with a relaxing lunch along the way. Your journey winds through the charming Nobding village, dense forests of oak and blue pine, and lush subtropical landscapes. You’ll travel through the stunning Pele La Pass at an elevation of 3,300 meters, passing some of the most picturesque rural scenery in Bhutan. Dotted along the route are scattered villages nestled far from the road—perfect for capturing memorable photographs. You’ll also come across open meadows, valleys with yak herders, and traditional villages as you pass the historic Chendebji Chorten (Stupa).
Upon reaching Trongsa, check into your hotel and enjoy some refreshment before heading out to explore. Start with a visit to the National Museum, located in the historic Ta Dzong (watchtower), where beautifully crafted objects bring Bhutan’s culture and history to life. You'll also have the chance to watch a documentary that offers a deeper understanding of Bhutanese history and the monarchy.
Next, explore the awe-inspiring Trongsa Dzong, built in 1644 by the revered Zhabdrung. Known as Bhutan's most impressive dzong, this architectural wonder will leave you captivated.
In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through Trongsa town to soak in the local atmosphere.
Enjoy dinner and a comfortable overnight stay at your hotel in Trongsa.
Distance: 68 km, estimated travel time: 2 hrs
After breakfast, set off for Bumthang, traveling through the scenic Yotong La Pass at an elevation of 3,400 meters. Just before reaching Bumthang, you’ll visit the vibrant Yathra Weaving Centre in Zugney Village. Here, you can observe local artisans weaving Yathra, a traditional hand-woven woolen textile featuring colorful geometric designs. Made from locally sourced sheep wool, Yathra is unique to this region and crafted into beautiful jackets, bags, and more.
Upon arrival in Bumthang, enjoy a traditional Bhutanese lunch at a welcoming farmhouse. Afterward, take a leisurely 20-minute walk to Jambay Lhakhang, an ancient temple built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo as part of his vision to spread Buddhism across the region.
Next, stroll over to Kurjey Lhakhang, where you’ll visit the oldest temple, built around a sacred cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated, leaving behind his body imprint. "Kurjey" means "body imprint," and this site holds great significance in Bhutanese spiritual history.
Following this, take a gentle walk across a charming suspension bridge to reach Tamshing Lhakhang, also known as Tamshing Lhendrup Chholing, or the "Temple of the Good Message." This serene temple offers insight into the depth of Bhutanese Buddhism.
In the evening, take time to explore Bumthang Town and soak up the local atmosphere.
End your day with a delicious dinner and an overnight stay at a cozy hotel in Bumthang Valley.
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic hour-long drive to the lush and tranquil Tang Valley, one of the four valleys of Bumthang district. Known for its remote beauty, the valley is home to friendly locals who primarily raise sheep, and at higher elevations, yaks thrive as well, due to the valley’s less fertile soil.
Upon arrival in Tang Valley, stroll through its upper villages, where you’ll have the chance to chat with residents and visit their homes, getting a true sense of life in this peaceful region.
Next, visit the Ogyencholing Heritage Museum, a former royal palace brimming with historic artifacts and treasures. This charming setting is the perfect place to pause, savor a light lunch and tea, and then enjoy a tour of the museum. Lunch will be served in a welcoming farmhouse near the museum.
On your way back to Bumthang Jakar, you’ll stop at the mystical Mebar Tsho, also known as the Burning Lake. This deep, blue lake is one of the region’s most sacred sites, holding a special connection to the renowned treasure discoverer, Terton Pema Lingpa.
After an inspiring day, enjoy dinner and a comfortable overnight stay in Bumthang.
Distance: 155 km, estimated travel time: 6 hrs
After breakfast, embark on a picturesque journey to the enchanting Phobjikha Valley, traveling through Trongsa and the scenic Pele La Pass. Phobjikha Valley is a jewel of the Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park (formerly the Black Mountains National Park), one of Bhutan’s most cherished nature sanctuaries. Each winter, the valley becomes a haven for around 300 rare and endangered black-necked cranes, a truly magical sight. The surrounding hills and mountains are home to nomadic shepherds and yak herders, and this pristine area offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s untouched, natural beauty.
Enjoy lunch along the way, taking in the spectacular views. Upon arrival in Phobjikha, check into your hotel, and unwind with some leisure time in the serene valley.
Dinner and a restful overnight stay await you at your hotel in the tranquil Phobjikha Valley.
Distance: 135 km, estimated travel time: 4 ½ hrs
After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to the historic Gangtey Monastery, followed by a scenic hike along the Gangtey Nature Trail. This gentle path offers stunning views of several charming villages in the Phobjikha Valley and concludes at the Black-Necked Crane Center. The hike takes about 30 minutes, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the valley.
At the Black-Necked Crane Center, you’ll learn about these rare and majestic birds that migrate here each winter, arriving by November and departing by March. Although most cranes will have returned to their summer grounds, you may still see a few rescued or injured cranes that remain under the center’s care. From the center, take a short walk through nearby fields and farmhouses, where you’ll have the chance to interact with locals and visit their homes.
Enjoy a delicious traditional Bhutanese lunch at one of these warm and welcoming farmhouses, offering a taste of authentic rural life.
After lunch, continue your journey to Thimphu, traveling through Wangdue Phodrang and Dochula Pass. Upon arrival in Thimphu, check into your hotel and relax.
Conclude your day with a delightful dinner and a comfortable overnight stay at your hotel in Thimphu.
Distance: 54 km, estimated travel time: 1 hr
After breakfast, set out for Paro and begin with a visit to Dzongdrakha Lhakhang, often referred to as the “mini-Taktsang.” These cliffside temples are perched above Bondey village and offer breathtaking views. Enjoy a short 15-minute walk up to the temples, where you’ll discover a unique legend—one of the temples was built around a mysterious, levitating monument. To keep this sacred relic grounded, villagers constructed a stronger temple around it, hoping it would stay rooted and not float into the sky.
After lunch, head to Paro Dzong. Park nearby and walk over Bhutan’s oldest cantilever bridge, the Rimpung Bridge, to reach Paro Rinpung Dzong. Built in 1645 to protect the valley from Tibetan invasions, this impressive fortress is now home to administrative offices and a monastic school. From the dzong, enjoy a scenic walk back down to Rimpung Bridge.
Your next stop is the National Museum, located in the historic Ta Dzong watchtower. This museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts that bring Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage to life, offering insights into the kingdom’s storied past.
In the evening, enjoy some free time to explore Paro town at your leisure.
End your day with a cozy dinner and a restful overnight stay at your hotel in Paro.
After a hearty breakfast, take a scenic 20-minute drive to the base of the iconic Taktsang Monastery, famously known as the ‘Tiger’s Nest’. Embark on a beautiful hike to the viewpoint, which takes about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on your pace. Once at the viewpoint, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the monastery clinging to the side of a cliff. Take a moment to relax and enjoy refreshments at the View Point Cafeteria, capturing memorable photos with the stunning backdrop of Taktsang.
Continue your journey with a one-hour hike further up to the monastery itself. After exploring this sacred site, descend back to the road, stopping once more for lunch at the View Point Cafeteria before continuing downhill.
Next, you’ll visit Kichu Temple, one of the 108 temples built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songsten Gampo, a spiritual and historical gem.
Following this, enjoy a visit to a traditional farmhouse in Paro Valley, where you’ll get a glimpse into the daily life of a Bhutanese farmer.
In the evening, unwind in a rejuvenating Traditional Bhutanese Hotstone Bath at a farmhouse in Paro Valley. This soothing bath uses river rocks heated to release therapeutic minerals, perfect for relieving any aches after the day’s adventures.
You will also have the chance to explore the inside of a traditional Bhutanese home, followed by a delightful Bhutanese dinner with the family, making for a warm and authentic cultural experience.
Overnight in Paro
Departure
After breakfast drive to Paro International Airport where your guide and driver will bid
you farewell and hope you had a pleasant holiday and hope to see you in Bhutan again.
