Arrival at Paro International Airport / Transfer to Thimphu (2334m)

National Museum of Bhutan འབྲུག་གི་འགྲེམས་སྟོན་ཁང་། - Upon your arrival at Paro International Airport, the guide and driver will accompany you on your first journey in the Kingdom of Bhutan.

The National Museum of Bhutan, situated in Paro above the Rinpung Dzong (the administrative center of Paro district), was founded in 1968. It is located in an ancient watchtower known as Paro Ta Dzong (“watchtower fortress”) built in 1649. The museum showcases numerous ancient Bhutanese artifacts and artworks, including traditional costumes, armor, weaponry, and handcrafted tools for daily use. The collection at the National Museum offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the country. Following this, you will travel to Thimphu, the capital city.

Thimphu - Thimphu is home to around 115,000 residents. This lively city is the main hub for commerce, religion, and government in Bhutan. Upon arrival in Thimphu, the guide will assist you with hotel check-in, allowing you to relax before enjoying your first Bhutanese meal for lunch.

Bhutan Postal Museum - After lunch, visit the Bhutan Postal Museum located in the heart of Thimphu. Bhutan’s postal service began in 1962, prior to which communication and mail delivery were conducted by foot messengers (road construction started in 1961). The museum was established in 2015. Philatelists will find a rich collection of stamps, stamp albums, and First Day Covers. You can even have stamps printed with your own photo. A bank is also available in the same complex for currency exchange into the local Ngultrum (Nu.).

If time allows, a visit to one of the weaving centers can be arranged.

Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre - Weaving is a vital part of Bhutanese culture and tradition. Here, you will observe both men and women weaving intricate designs and sophisticated patterns of traditional Bhutanese textiles. In the past, it was common for one family member to weave for the entire family.

Enjoy some leisure time exploring the streets of Thimphu.

Sightseeing in Thimphu / Transfer to Punakha Valley (1200m)

Buddha Dordenma - Today, you will visit some significant historical sites in Thimphu and then transfer to Punakha Valley after lunch. The impressive 169-foot-tall bronze statue of Lord Buddha is situated on a hilltop overlooking Thimphu Valley. It was constructed to commemorate the 60th birthday of the Fourth King, His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, and to promote global peace. The giant Buddha statue contains over 100,000 8-inch-tall Buddha statues of the same type. Construction began in 2006 and was completed in 2015 after nearly a decade.

Changangkha Lhakhang - Perched on a hilltop above the main town, overlooking the valley below, Changangkha Lhakhang was built in the 13th century by Lama Drugom Zhigpo, who played a crucial role in the early spread of the Drukpa school of Tibetan Buddhism to Bhutan. His son, Nyima, expanded and created many of the statues inside the temple, which are invaluable national treasures of Bhutan. Besides the magnificent statues and holy scriptures, the temple also houses Bum Gye Dring Due Sum (sixteen volumes of Astasahasrika Prajnaparamita), the original copy handwritten by Nyima himself. From here, you will drive to visit Bhutan’s only animal enclosure, the Royal Takin Preserve, located on the northern outskirts of Thimphu.

Royal Takin Preserve - The Takin (Budorcas Taxicolor) is Bhutan’s national animal. This preserve is the only animal enclosure in Bhutan. It initially began as a mini zoo for orphaned Takins and was later converted into a preserve, with its enclosure recently expanded. These unique animals are typically found at altitudes ranging from 1,000 to 4,500 meters above sea level, depending on the season, and primarily feed on grasses.

National Institute for Zorig Chusum - The National Institute for Zorig Chusum, where Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts are taught, was established to promote and preserve these arts and crafts and to provide greater access for youth to learn these skills. The thirteen arts and crafts are categorized as 1) Shing Zo (woodwork), 2) Dho Zo (stonework), 3) Par Zo (carving), 4) Lha Zo (painting), 5) Jim Zo (sculpting), 6) Lug Zo (casting), 7) Shag Zo (woodturning), 8) Gar Zo (blacksmith), 9) Troe Zo (ornament making), 10) Tsa Zo (bamboo work), 11) De Zo (paper making), 12) Tsem Zo (tailoring, embroidery, and applique), and Thag Zo (weaving).

A traditional lunch will be served at the Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant or a similar venue.

Changlimithang Stadium & Archery Ground - After lunch, pass by the Changlimithang Archery Ground and witness a game of archery if a match is in progress. You will see archers dancing and singing each time they hit the target from an impressive distance of 145m. Archery is Bhutan’s national sport. You will then drive to Punakha Valley via Dochula, a sacred mountain pass.

Dochula Pass - Approximately 45 minutes from Thimphu, stop briefly at Dochu La Pass (3,150m/10,334ft) to enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of some of Bhutan’s highest snow-capped mountains (weather permitting). This scenic mountain pass was a sacred site until 2004 when Her Majesty Grand Queen Mother Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck built 108 stupas adorning the pass. Continue driving to Punakha, where the elevation gradually drops to a warmer subtropical valley at 1,200m from an altitude of 3,150m within an hour and a half.

Chimi Lhakhang Temple - About 11km before reaching Punakha town, visit Chimi Lhakhang, popularly known as the “Temple of Fertility.” Chimi Lhakhang is located on a gentle hilltop near the village of Sopsokha, about a 20-30 minute walk through terraced rice fields and traditional farmhouses. The history of Chimi Lhakhang is linked to the 15th-century Lama Drukpa Kunley, affectionately known as the “Divine Madman” for his unconventional behavior and outrageous methods of cleansing people from religious dogmatism and egoistic self-possession by exhibiting his strong desire for sex. One of the relics of Chimi Lhakhang is a phallus. The blessing of the phallus is considered sacred, particularly for couples unable to have children, as it is believed to bring fertility, enabling them to bear offspring. Due to this belief, Chimi Lhakhang is often called the “Temple of Fertility.” You will then drive to Namgay Zam Homestay in the village of Yusakha for an overnight stay with a local family.

Punakha / Transfer to Trongsa in Central Bhutan (2200m)

Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten - After breakfast, embark on a beautiful 2.5-hour round trip hike to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Chorten. Situated on a ridge overlooking the picturesque Punakha Valley, this stunning Buddhist structure is a fine example of Bhutanese architecture used in building temples, monasteries, and Zangdogpelri (copper-colored mountains). It was constructed over nearly 10 years under the command of Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck, one of Bhutan’s Queen Mothers, and was consecrated in 1999.

It takes about a 20-minute drive from the main town of Punakha to the nearest road point. From there, you cross a suspension bridge over the Punakha Mochu River (female river), and the trail takes you through paddy fields and a short climb before reaching the chorten. The view below is breathtaking, with the glacial-fed Mochu River winding through the fertile Punakha Valley. Return to the base and visit Punakha Dzong.

After the hike, descend back to the roadhead and drive to town for lunch.

Punakha Dzong - The historic Punakha Dzong was originally known as Pungthang Dewa Chenpoi Phodrang, meaning the “Palace of Great Bliss.” It was built in 1637 AD by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel (a Tibetan Buddhist master who came to Bhutan in 1616 and founded the nation-state of Bhutan) on a small stretch of land where the Phochu and Mochu rivers converge. Punakha Dzong is the second oldest and second-largest Dzong in Bhutan and is considered a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture. The sacred wall paintings and main artifacts inside the dzong, the intricate woodworks, and the architectural structure of the dzong display fine examples of Bhutanese arts and craftsmanship, which continue to influence Bhutanese architecture to this day. After lunch, drive to Trongsa in Central Bhutan. The driving distance is 140km and takes approximately 4 hours.

Trongsa / Transfer to Bumthang Valley in Central Bhutan (2700m)

Trongsa - After breakfast, visit the largest fortress in Bhutan, Trongsa Dzong. Known as Choekhor Rabtentse Dzong, Trongsa Dzong was built in 1648 and holds a significant place in Bhutan’s history as it was from here that the ancestors of Bhutan’s Royal family emerged as the most powerful rulers in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The first and second hereditary Kings of Bhutan ruled the country from this ancient seat of power. There is a tradition that the crown prince must be invested as Trongsa Penlop (Governor of Trongsa) here at Trongsa Dzong before ascending the golden throne of the King.

Bumthang - You will then drive to Bumthang, also known as Jakar, in Central Bhutan. The journey takes you over Yotong La at 3,425m above sea level, the highest pass between Trongsa and Bumthang. The journey gradually descends to the village of Chumey, where you will stop at the Yathra weaving center (Yathra is the colorful textiles handwoven from sheep and yak hair) to gain insights into the traditional attires and weaving culture of the people of Bumthang. Continue driving towards Chamkhar, the main town of Bumthang. The valley of Bumthang is considered the cultural heartland of Bhutan and is home to some of the oldest temples and monasteries in the country. The total driving distance is 68km and takes about 2.5 hours.

Full day exploring the valley of Bumthang

Bumthang / Transfer to Phobjikha Valley (3000m)

Phobjikha Valley - After breakfast, transfer to Phobjikha Valley following the same route via Trongsa. In Trongsa, you’ll visit the Thruepang Palace.

Phobjikha is a vast U-shaped glacial valley at an elevation of about 3,000m/9,845ft and serves as a winter home for the endangered Black-necked Crane from November to March, which migrates back to the Tibetan Plateau by the beginning of the spring season. As part of the conservation effort, Phobjikha Valley has been declared a protected area.

Gangtey Monastery - After lunch in Trongsa, continue driving to Phobjikha Valley. Upon arrival, visit Gangtey Monastery, the famous landmark in the valley. The 17th-century Gangtey Monastery is popularly known as Gangtey Gonpa (gonpa literally means “remote place” and is usually a place of religious significance). Founded in 1613, this is one of the largest monasteries in Bhutan. The monastery also has a monastic college where hundreds of monks study Buddhist philosophy for 9 years. An annual religious festival, Gangtey Tshechu, is held at this majestic monastery during autumn when the harvest season is just over. A series of dazzling sacred mask dances interspersed with Bhutanese folk dances are performed during this festival.

Gangtey Nature Hike in Phobjikha / Transfer back to Paro Valley (2200m)

Gangtey Nature Trail - After a leisurely breakfast, embark on an exhilarating Gangtey Nature Hike through the pristine valley, interact with local farmers, and after lunch, transfer back to Paro Valley.

The Gangtey Nature Trail is about 5km and takes approximately 2.5 hours through the woods surrounded by splendid nature, wonderful meadows, beautiful traditional village houses, farmlands, and crystalline streams. This short nature trail provides a great sense of the valley and an understanding of the livelihood of the people living there. Along the trail, you will have the opportunity to interact with local farmers and understand their lifestyles. There are plenty of opportunities to take beautiful pictures!

After lunch, transfer to Paro. The total driving distance is 175km and takes about 5 hours.

Kyichu Lhakhang - Upon returning to Paro, visit one of the oldest temples in the Kingdom, Paro Kyichu Lhakhang. Located just a few minutes’ drive from the main town of Paro, Kyichu Lhakhang is one of Bhutan’s oldest monasteries. It is believed to have been built in 659 A.D. by King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet in his effort to construct 108 such temples across the Himalayan region to subdue the spirit of a demoness that was obstructing the spread of Buddhism.

Drive to Chelela Pass at 3900m and do a short hike to a Nunnery

Chele La Pass - After breakfast, drive to Chele La Pass, the highest motorable road point in Bhutan at an altitude of about 3,900m/12,800ft above sea level.

On a clear day, the mountain pass offers a grand view of surrounding Himalayan peaks, Paro Valley, and Haa Valley. Spend some time walking along the pass among the colorful prayer flags, enjoying the beautiful views, and appreciating the pristine environment. If interested, a prayer flag hoisting activity can be arranged. There are many types of prayers, but these particular prayer flags called Lungta (Wind Horse) are traditionally hoisted to bring peace, harmony, ward off bad luck, and clear obstacles on your path.

(OPTIONAL) From Chele La Pass, take a short, easy 1-hour hike to the Kila Goempa Nunnery, home to dozens of nuns. From there, you can enjoy an unobstructed view of Paro Valley below. The driver will pick you up just below the nunnery and drive back to Paro Valley, where you can spend some leisure time around Paro town.

Hike to the famous Paro Taktsang and later visit a beautiful farmhouse

Paro Taktsang - Today, after an early breakfast, hike to the famous 17th-century Taktsang Monastery, popularly known as the “Tiger’s Nest,” and later in the evening, visit a beautiful farmhouse for home-cooked local cuisine. Originally built in 1692, the iconic sacred site Taktsang is perched on an 800-meter rock cliff above the valley floor. The round trip hike takes about 4-5 hours for most visitors. It is recommended to start early before the sun gets stronger. One-way horse riding is available for about USD20 up to the midpoint (Taktsang Cafeteria). Horse riding on the way down is not recommended. The history of Taktsang is associated with the visit of Guru Padmasambhava (known as Guru Rinpoche), the Indian saint who came to Bhutan and introduced Tantric Buddhism in the 8th century AD. It is believed that Guru Padmasambhava flew into the cave from Kurtoe Khenpajong in eastern Bhutan, riding on a tigress. After lunch at the Taktsang Cafeteria, descend back to the base and drive to Paro town.

Transfer to Paro International Airport

Paro International Airport - After breakfast, you will be transferred to Paro International Airport according to your flight departure time. The guide and driver will bid you farewell.

• All internal taxes for the services listed above
• Medical treatment at a hospital in Bhutan if you sustain injuries while in Bhutan
• All ground transportation including round trip airport transfers
• All meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) and light snacks
• Experienced English-speaking licensed tour guide
• Entry fee for National Museum
• Twin-sharing accommodations at 3-star hotels certified by Tourism Council of Bhutan
• Visa Fee & Processing. You’ll receive your e-Visa within 4-5 business days

• Travel insurance is highly recommended.
• International flights. Let us know if you need help with arranging flights to and from Bhutan.
• Alcoholic beverages, laundry services, telephone call charges
• Gratuity to guide and driver
• Emergency evacuation
• Guide speaking other major languages can be arranged for an additional fee.
• Any other expenses of personal nature

Across the span of a 10-day voyage covering four districts in the west and two districts in the heart of Bhutan, we offer an intimate interaction with local communities, pulling back the curtain on the local lifestyle, and encouraging you to venture forth past regular tourist pursuits. This authentically engaging adventure promises to create enduring memories. Your exploration of this enchanting kingdom’s core will be guided by a private expert, immersing you in happiness amid magnificent landscapes, majestic eastern Himalayan peaks, and an untouched natural environment. These attributes single Bhutan out as the sole carbon-negative nation globally.

Shrouded by the towering Himalayas, Bhutan consciously chose to self-isolate, only permitting interactions with the world beyond its borders in the 1960s. To date, it preserves an uncanny unaffectedness by global influences, fiercely guarding its time-honored traditions.

• This tour can be customized and run on a private basis just for you and your group.
• We highly recommend booking at least a few months before the departure date so that we have enough time to ensure the flights are available. If you already have flight tickets to and from Bhutan, we can take bookings up to a week before the departure date. To process visa, it only takes 4-5 business days.
• There are only two airlines that connect Bhutan with the outside world and so securing air tickets can be difficult especially during the months of high season. Currently, Bhutan is connected with these cities - Bagdogra, Bangkok, Delhi, Dhaka, Guwahati, Kathmandu, Kolkata, Singapore. We recommend you book your international flights a few months in advance especially if you plan to visit during the high season months of March to May and September to November. If you need help in arranging flights to/from Bhutan, please let us know much in advance.
• After you book the tour, kindly send us clear passports copies of all the participants. A biodata page including the machine-readable zone must be seen clearly. Passports should have a minimum of 6 MONTHS validity from the day you depart from Bhutan. You may also want to check the passport requirements by your next destination country after Bhutan. A copy of your e-Visa will be emailed to you once it is approved. It only takes 4-5 business days to get visa approval and it is 100 percent guaranteed as long as we receive clear passport copies of all the participants. The actual visa will be stamped on your passport upon arrival. Send the passport copies to the Local Supplier E-mail address
• Youth between the ages of 13-18 MUST send us a copy of their valid Student Photo ID Card/Document to keep the discounted price. Without a copy of valid Student Photo ID Card/document, the full adult price will apply.
• Participants below the age of 18 years old MUST be accompanied by at least one full-paying adult.

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.