Arrival in Paro - Thimphu

Rinpung Dzong རིན་སྤུང་རྫོང་། - The first stop is Rinpung Dzong, followed by a visit to the Paro Ta-Dzong museum, situated on a hill with a stunning view of Paro Valley. The museum features an extensive collection of treasures and artifacts that showcase Bhutan’s legendary history.

Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge - On the way, admire the Tachogang monastery, known as the “temple of the excellent horse,” constructed by Thangthong Gyalpo, the renowned iron chain bridge builder in Bhutan. Visit the Iron Chain Bridge, a remarkable example of ancient craftsmanship from the Middle Ages.

Thimphu - Sightseeing

Buddha Dordenma - In the morning, drive to Kuensel Phodrang to see the Buddha Statue, standing at 169 feet, symbolizing indestructibility. It is one of the most significant religious monuments built recently. The view of Thimphu Valley from Kuensel Phodrang is breathtaking.

Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten) - Next, visit the National Memorial Chorten, built in honor of the third King of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Elderly devotees gather throughout the day to circumambulate and turn the prayer wheels.

Motithang Takin Preserve - Drive to the Takin Enclosure to observe Bhutan’s National Animal and other endangered species.

National Institute for Zorig Chusum - Visit the Art and Craft Institute, a vocational training center where students learn some of the 13 traditional arts, preserving and developing skilled manpower.

Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan - After lunch at a local restaurant in Thimphu, visit the Royal Textile Museum, known as the “living art of Bhutan,” which houses ancient Bhutanese textiles and artifacts from various regions and tribes.

Tashichho Dzong (Thimphu Dzong) - Take a short trip to Tashichho Dzong, the “fortress of glorious religion,” which serves as the seat of the national government and the central monk body.

Thimphu to Punakha

Dochula Pass - Depart in the morning for Punakha, a drive of about 3 hours over the 3050m/10,000ft Dochula Pass. On a clear day, Dochula Pass offers a spectacular view of the eastern Himalayas, adorned with colorful prayer flags and chortens. Walk around the pass and enjoy light refreshments at the Dochula cafeteria.

Chimi Lhakhang Temple - Descend through forests of rhododendrons and magnolia, passing through the villages of Lumitsawa, Thinleygang, and the fertile valley of Lobesa. Later, take a gradual hike through rice fields for about an hour to Chimi Lhakhang, a monastery built in the 15th century and dedicated to the famous saint Drukpa Kuenley, also known as the “Divine Madman.” It is a popular pilgrimage site, especially revered by women for its fertility powers. Drive to Lobesa for lunch.

Punakha to Gangtey

Punakha Dzong - In the morning, drive through Punakha Valley to visit Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel and named Druk Pungthang Dechen Phodrang, “Palace of Great Happiness.” Punakha Dzong, the former capital of Bhutan, played a crucial role in shaping the country’s political history. It is ideally located between two rivers, Pho Chu “Male River” and Mo Chu “Female River.” Punakha remains the winter residence of the Je-Khenpo (Chief Abbot) and the central monk body.

Gangtey to Paro

Gangtey Monastery - Early in the morning, visit Gangtey Goenpa Monastery to experience meditation on the lawns of this special monastery, whose history dates back to the 7th century. The monastery is believed to hold sacred relics and religious texts from ancient masters, preserved within its walls. After a relaxed morning session, continue the journey towards Paro Valley, which can take up to 5 hours. In the evening, check in at the hotel and rest in preparation for the hike the next day.

Paro - Hiking & Sightseeing

Paro Taktsang - Drive to the north of Paro Valley to Ramthangkha and hike to Taktsang Monastery. The trail ascends through a beautiful pine forest, with many trees adorned with moss and occasional groves of fluttering prayer flags. This monastery is one of the most revered and sacred Buddhist sites worldwide. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche, the founding saint of Buddhism, flew from eastern Bhutan on a tigress and meditated here for three months.

Kyichu Lhakhang - After visiting the monastery, walk down to the cafeteria for lunch. In the afternoon, descend to the base and drive to Paro town before visiting Paro Kyichu Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan.

Paro - Departure

Paro - Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, then drive to the airport for the flight to the next destination. Farewell with hopes of meeting again. May this special trip be cherished and filled with positive energy gained throughout the journey.

• Accommodation on twin sharing/Single room according to traveler number
• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Bottled water
• English speaking accompanying guide
• In-vehicle air conditioning

• Alcoholic beverages
• Snacks
• Travel insurance.
• Telephone and internet expenses.
• Tips and gratuities.
• Emergency evacuation.
• Cost arising from unforseen events.
• Extra activities like cultural shows, kayaking, etc.

Why select Serenity Journeys Tours and Treks:
• Genuine Bhutanese experiences: Explore the true essence of Bhutan, far from the usual tourist spots.
• Customized service: Delight in a bespoke journey that caters to your individual interests and desires.
• Sustainable and ethical tourism: Help protect Bhutan’s cultural heritage and natural environment.
• Outstanding customer care: Benefit from exceptional service and assistance provided by our committed team.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.