On a clear day, the flight to Paro is spectacular, offering views of Everest, Kanchenjunga, and the Southern hills, or “Duars”. The descent takes you through a narrow valley with stunning scenery before opening to Paro’s lush fields and airstrip. Paro Airport’s high altitude and short runway make it unique, but pilots are expertly trained for this landing.

Upon arrival, complete immigration and meet your guide. You will transfer to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, check in at your hotel, and visit the Thangtong Dewachen Nunnery, the city’s only nunnery. If time allows, explore Trashichhoe Dzong, where you might see the national flag hoisting and march of the guards.

Overnight in Thimphu.

Today, you will start with a visit to the Hindu Temple/Durga Mandir, situated about 2.18-kilometers from Thimphu. Next, head to the Buddha Dordenma statue, a 51.5-meter tall figure offering stunning views over the capital. Enjoy a hike through Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park, which takes about one to one and half-hours and provides beautiful views of Thimphu valley and Changangkha temple. Visit Changangkha temple, a 12^th century temple known for its blessings for children and scenic views from its path. 

At the Royal Takin Reserve Center, you will see Bhutan’s national animal (the Takin), and learn about its fascinating creation legend. The Memorial stupa, dedicated to the Third King, is a bustling spot for local worship and peace. Explore Zorig Chusum, the traditional arts school, and Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre, renowned for its unique textiles. End your day with a relaxing stroll along Thimphu’s main street.

Overnight in Thimphu.

After an early breakfast, drive to Punakha, stopping at Dochula pass (3,088 meters/10,130 feet) to admire the chortens, mani walls, and prayer flags. On clear days, enjoy views of the Himalayan peaks. Embark on the Lungchhutse hike, starting from Dochula, passing through forests of hemlock, birch, and rhododendrons to Lungchhutse Goenpa, with panoramic mountain views. This moderate ten-kilometers hike takes about two and half hours one way. Descend to Punakha valley, known for its warm climate and historical significance as Bhutan’s former capital. 

Visit Chhimi Lhakhang (temple), a temple dedicated to the Divine Madman, popular with women seeking fertility. After lunch, explore Punakha Dzong, a historic fortress fully restored by the current monarch, and cross the Punakha suspension bridge, Bhutan’s second longest, offering great views of the Pho chhu river and valley.

Overnight in Punakha.

Today, explore the scenic Phobjikha valley, renowned for its migrating black-necked-cranes. Visit Gangtey Goenpa, a key site for the Nyingmapa tradition, and enjoy 2-hours hike along the Gangtey nature trail, which offers views of the valley’s diverse landscapes. Check out Khewang temple, a river-surrounded temple known for its role in combating famine. End with a visit to the Crane Information Centre to learn about the cranes’ migration and rituals before returning to Punakha.

Overnight in Punakha.

This morning, drive back to Paro, crossing Dochula pass again. En route, visit the Royal Botanical Park, Lampelri, Bhutan’s first botanical garden, featuring a wide array of rhododendrons. Take a short walk around Baritsho lake and through the garden. Also, stop by Semtokha Dzong, known for its tantric teachings. Upon arrival in Paro, check in to your hotel. After lunch, visit the National Museum, which showcases Bhutanese art, artifacts, and natural history. Explore the Mandala Display Center, where sand mandalas are created. In the evening, visit a traditional farmhouse to experience local life.

Overnight in Paro.

Drive to Chelela pass (3,988 meters), Bhutan’s highest motor able pass, through lush forests. Hike to Sky Burial at 4,200 meters for stunning views of Mt. Jomolhari and Jowo Drakey, and explore the blue poppy and other flora. Descend through rhododendron forests to Kila Goenpa Nunnery.

Stop at Bondey village for views of Dzongdrakha temple, perched on a cliff, and look out for wildlife like Himalayan Monal Pheasant. In the evening, visit Dzongdrakha temple, an alternative to Tiger’s Nest, featuring four shrines and a crystal stupa. It’s a peaceful, less touristy site.

Overnight in Paro.

Today, hike to Taktshang monastery, clinging to a cliff with stunning views and a sacred history tied to Guru Rinpochhe’s 8^th century meditation. After lunch at a nearby cafeteria, visit Kyichhu temple, a 7^th century temple built by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, and Dungtse temple, a unique chorten-shaped temple built in 1421. End the day with a guided walk around Paro.

Overnight in Paro.

Drive to Paro Airport for your flight home. We hope you leave with lasting memories and photos of Bhutan’s beauty and look forward to welcoming you back to this enchanting land.