- Day 01: Arrival in Paro – Sightseeing – Transfer to Thimphu
Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel for an early lunch. If arriving from Delhi or Kathmandu, enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, and other Himalayan peaks, including Bhutan’s sacred Jomolhari and Jichu Drake.
After lunch, begin your sightseeing with a visit to the ruins of Drukgyal Dzong, a historic fortress built in 1647 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Though destroyed by fire, the ruins remain a symbol of Bhutan’s past victories. On a clear day, you can enjoy stunning views of Mount Jomolhari (7,314 m) from here.
Next, stop at Satsham Chorten, offering spectacular views of Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang) perched dramatically on a cliff. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) meditated here after arriving on the back of a flying tigress in the 8th century. Though Taktsang has 13 holy sites, most visitors explore the main temple, Taktsang Pelphug, built in 1684.
On the way back, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in 659 AD by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. This sacred site marks the advent of Buddhism in Bhutan.
Continue to the National Museum (Ta Dzong), originally a watchtower of Rinpung Dzong, now home to Bhutan’s rich history and artifacts. Below the museum lies Rinpung Dzong (Fortress of the Heap of Jewels), built in 1645. The fortress houses the district administration and monastic body, with intricate Buddhist murals lining its courtyards.
After evening tea in Paro, drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, located about 60 km from Paro (approx. 2-hour drive). The journey passes the confluence of Paro and Thimphu rivers at Chuzom, where three distinct chortens (stupas) stand. A short distance ahead, see Tachogang Lhakhang, a 15th-century temple built by the great iron bridge builder Thangtong Gyalpo.
- Day 02: Thimphu Sightseeing – Transfer to Paro
After breakfast, explore Tashichho Dzong, a magnificent fortress housing the King’s office, the Throne Room, government ministries, and the monastic body. Built in 1641 and reconstructed in 1961, this stunning structure was built without nails, following Bhutanese architectural traditions.
Next, visit the National Library, home to ancient manuscripts, followed by the Institute for Traditional Medicine, where age-old healing practices like acupuncture and herbal remedies are still in use. Continue to the Painting & Woodcraft School, where students master traditional Bhutanese art, and the Textile Museum, showcasing Bhutan’s intricate weaving traditions.
Explore the Folk Heritage Museum, offering insights into Bhutan’s rural lifestyle, and visit local workshops for mask-making, metal crafts, weaving, ceramics, and handmade paper production.
After lunch, visit the Memorial Chorten, built in honor of the Third King, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, known as the Father of Modern Bhutan. Then, travel 6 km outside Thimphu to visit Simtokha Dzong, one of the oldest fortresses in Bhutan, built in 1629, and now a major center for monastic studies.
Conclude the day with a visit to the Handicrafts Emporium and local markets, where you can browse Bhutanese textiles, thangkas, wood carvings, jewelry, and unique handmade souvenirs.
In the evening, drive back to Paro.
Overnight stay in Paro.
- Day 03: Departure from Paro International Airport
After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey, taking with you unforgettable memories of Bhutan’s rich culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes.
