Arrival at Paro and Drive to Thimphu

Paro - Arrive at Paro International Airport, renowned for its breathtaking scenery, nestled among lush valleys and majestic peaks. Receive a warm welcome from the Bhutanese guide and transfer to Thimphu in a private vehicle. Relish the 1.5-hour picturesque drive to Thimphu.

Thimphu - Check into the hotel in Thimphu and unwind from the journey. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll along Thimphu’s main street, exploring handicraft shops, art galleries, and the farmer’s market.

Thimphu Tshechu Festival & City Exploration

Tashichho Dzong (Thimphu Dzong) - After breakfast, visit Tashichho Dzong Courtyard to experience the splendor of the Thimphu Tshechu Festival, celebrated annually since the 17th century by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the founder of Bhutan.

Witness monks performing masked dances that narrate Buddhist tales of compassion and enlightenment, alongside folk dances and locals adorned in their finest traditional attire (kira for women, gho for men).

Buddha Dordenma - Afternoon sightseeing includes a visit to Buddha Dordenma, one of the world’s largest Buddha statues, standing at approximately 169 feet. Explore the golden meditation halls beneath the statue, offering a view of the valley.

Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten) - Visit the Memorial Chorten, built in honor of the Third King. Experience a slice of Bhutanese life as locals gather daily for meditation and prayers.

National Folk Heritage Museum - The Folk Heritage Museum is a preserved 19th-century farmhouse showcasing the rural Bhutanese lifestyle.

National Textile Museum - Discover Bhutan’s intricate weaving tradition, regarded as one of the highest art forms.

Centenary Farmers Market - Explore the vibrant market and observe the local produce. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, witness local business interactions, and experience Bhutanese culture firsthand.

Festival Morning and Scenic Drive to Punakha

Tashichho Dzong (Thimphu Dzong) - Attend the morning session of the Thimphu Tshechu Festival for additional unique mask dances. Each day features different performances.

Dochula Pass - Depart for Punakha in the early afternoon, passing through Dochula Pass at an elevation of 3100m. Visit its 108 stupas in a misty setting and enjoy the breathtaking Himalayan panoramas.

Descend warmly into the subtropical Punakha Valley, where rice terraces and river valleys replace the mountain chill. Enjoy an evening stroll through Punakha town or along the riverside.

Punakha Valley Exploration

Punakha Dzong - Visit Punakha Dzong in the morning, also known as the ‘Palace of Great Happiness.’ This stunning fortress, built in 1637 at the confluence of two rivers, is the historical seat of Bhutan’s Kings and remains an active monastery.

Punakha Suspension Bridge - Discover one of Bhutan’s longest bridges, adorned with colorful prayer flags and offering sweeping views of the Pho Chu River.

Chimi Lhakhang Temple - After the Suspension Bridge, embark on a mini hike through terraced fields and villages to Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the ‘Fertility Temple.’ The temple is associated with Lama Drukpa Kunley, Bhutan’s eccentric ‘Divine Madman.’

In the evening, enjoy a riverside picnic, stroll through the town, or visit local craft shops.

Return to Paro

Kyichu Lhakhang - Enjoy the scenic drive back from Punakha to Paro, covering 125 km in approximately 4-5 hours. Revisit Dochula Pass along the way.

Upon reaching Paro, visit the 7th-century Kyichu Lhakhang temple, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples. Enjoy the tranquil environment. The ancient monastery is a wonderful place where elderly pilgrims circumambulate the temple, spinning prayer wheels. Legend has it that Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo built it to subdue an ogress lying across the Himalayas.

Rinpung Dzong - Rinpung Dzong stands as one of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks, blending centuries of history with stunning architecture.

The evening is free to explore Paro town’s vibrant shops, cafes, and local markets.

Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang)

Paro Taktsang - Begin the early morning hike to Tiger’s Nest, a 5-6 hour round trip. Enjoy the trail winding through pine forests adorned with prayer flags, teahouses, and dramatic viewpoints.

Taktsang Monastery, perched at an elevation of 3120 m, clings miraculously to a cliffside. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew here on a tigress to subdue local demons, making it one of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Descend and enjoy lunch in the valley.

After relaxation, indulge in a traditional hot stone bath, perfect for soothing tired muscles.

• Government fees
• Breakfast
• Tourist SIM card depending on group size.
• Meals
• Private transportation

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.