- Day 01: Arrival in Paro – Thimphu Sightseeing
Arrive at Paro International Airport, where you will be welcomed by our representative and driven to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. The journey takes about 2 hours, covering 60 km, and offers stunning views of the Paro Valley.
On the way, stop at Chuzom, the confluence of the Paro and Thimphu rivers, adorned with three distinct chortens. Nearby is Tachogang Lhakhang, a 15th-century temple built by the great bridge-builder Thangtong Gyalpo.
After lunch, visit Memorial Chorten, a massive stupa dedicated to the Third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, known as the Father of Modern Bhutan. Continue to Simtokha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s oldest fortresses, built in 1629, which now houses a monastic school.
Later, browse through the Authentic Bhutanese Craft Bazaar to see Bhutan’s traditional crafts, including textiles, masks, and wood carvings.
In the evening, unwind in Thimphu with the option to explore health clubs offering herbal treatments and massages.
Overnight stay in Thimphu.
- Day 02: Thimphu Sightseeing – Punakha
Start your day with a visit to Tashichho Dzong, the impressive fortress that houses the King’s office and the monastic body. Built in 1641, it was reconstructed in 1961 without the use of nails, following traditional Bhutanese methods.
Then, visit the National Library, home to ancient manuscripts, and the Institute for Traditional Medicine, where age-old healing practices are still in use. Explore Bhutanese art at the Textile Museum, and visit workshops for mask-making, weaving, and metal crafts.
In the afternoon, drive to Dochula Pass (3050m), where 108 stupas adorn the hilltop. On clear days, enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayan range
Overnight in Punakha.
- Day 03: Punakha – Wangduephodrang – Paro
Visit the grand Punakha Dzong, a fortress built in 1637 at the confluence of the Phochu and Mochu rivers. This dzong, also the winter residence of Bhutan’s monastic body, is a magnificent example of Bhutanese architecture. The fortress is steeped in history, with a legend about its design inspired by a vision from Guru Rinpoche.
Next, hike to Khamsum Yuelley Chorten, perched above the Punakha Valley. This chorten was built by Queen Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck to promote peace, stability, and the well-being of the King.
In Wangduephodrang, visit Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, built in 1639 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Located at the confluence of two rivers, the dzong is known for its mystical aura and the legend of the four ravens that signaled the spread of Buddhism.
Drive back to Paro, passing Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple dedicated to the “Divine Madman,” Drukpa Kuenley.
Overnight in Paro.
- Day 04: Paro Sightseeing
Drive up to the Drukgyal Dzong, a fortress built in 1647 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to commemorate victories over Tibetan invaders. It was destroyed by fire but has since been lovingly restored. From here, enjoy a stunning view of Mount Jhomolhari, also known as the “Mountain of the Goddess.”
Later, visit Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), perched dramatically on a cliffside 3,000 feet above the valley. This revered pilgrimage site was built around the cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated in the 8th century.
Afterward, head to Kichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, built in 659 AD by Tibetan King Srongtsen Gampo, marking the arrival of Buddhism in Bhutan.
Continue your exploration with a visit to Ta Dzong, originally a watchtower and now home to the National Museum of Bhutan. Discover Bhutan’s cultural and ecological history through its six galleries.
Overnight in Paro.
- Day 05: Departure from Paro
After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey, carrying with you lasting memories of Bhutan’s culture and landscapes.
