Glimpse of the Kingdom

Itinerary

Arrive at Paro International Airport, where our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. If flying from Delhi or Kathmandu, enjoy breathtaking aerial views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Bhutan’s sacred peaks like Jomolhari and Jichu Drake.

After lunch, visit the Drukgyal Dzong, a fortress built in 1647 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. The dzong was destroyed by fire in the early 1950s and has been recently restored to its former glory, offering a glimpse into Bhutan’s rich history and architectural grandeur.

Next, stop at Satsham Chorten for a spectacular view of Tiger’s Nest Monastery perched on a cliff with a sheer drop of nearly 4000 ft. The monastery is one of Bhutan’s most venerated pilgrimage sites, believed to be the meditation site of Guru Padmasambhava in the 8th century.

On the way back, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, built in 659 AD by Tibetan King Srongtsen Gampo, marking the advent of Buddhism in the country.

In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the Paro town market.

Overnight stay in Paro.

After breakfast, visit the National Museum (Ta Dzong), originally a watchtower, now home to Bhutanese art and historical artifacts. Below the museum lies the Rinpung Dzong, a fortress of “the heap of jewels,” decorated with beautiful murals depicting Buddhist lore.

After lunch, drive to Thimphu, following the scenic route along the Paro River to Chuzom, the confluence of the Paro and Thimphu rivers, marked by three distinct chortens. En route, glimpse the Tachogang Lhakhang, a 15th-century temple associated with the legendary bridge builder Thangtong Gyalpo.

Arrive in Thimphu and check into your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a relaxed walk through the capital city.

Overnight in Thimphu.

Start the day with a visit to Tashichho Dzong, the impressive fortress housing the King’s office, government ministries, and monastic quarters. Next, explore the National Library, home to ancient Buddhist manuscripts, and the Institute for Traditional Medicine, where age-old healing practices are still preserved.

Continue to the Institute for Zorig Chusum, where students learn Bhutan’s traditional arts, and the Textile Museum, showcasing exquisite Bhutanese weaving. Visit local craft workshops for mask-making, weaving, ceramics, and handmade paper.

After lunch, visit the sacred Memorial Chorten, built in honor of the Third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Then drive to Simtokha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s oldest fortresses and now a center for Buddhist studies.

Wrap up with a visit to the Authentic Bhutanese Craft Bazaar, a vibrant market featuring around 80 stalls offering a curated selection of handmade Bhutanese handicrafts. The bazaar showcases the country’s dedication to preserving its traditional art forms while catering to contemporary market demands.

Evening drive to Paro.

Overnight in Paro.

After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey, carrying with you lasting memories of Bhutan’s culture and landscapes.

Includes