Upon arriving at Paro International Airport, a tour representative will greet you and accompany you on a transfer to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Along the way, you’ll stop at Chuzom, where the Paro and Thimphu rivers meet, and see Tschogang Lhakhang, “the temple of the excellent horse.” After arriving in Thimphu and checking into your hotel, you’ll have the rest of the day free to explore the city. Take a leisurely walk through Thimphu’s Main Street and visit the Local Crafts Bazaar, where you can purchase traditional Bhutanese items like hand-woven textiles, Thangkha paintings, and more.
– Overnight in Thimphu.
Start your day with breakfast and embark on a sightseeing tour of the Thimphu valley. Your stops include the National Library, which houses priceless Buddhist manuscripts, and the Institute for Zorig Chusum, where students learn Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts. You’ll also visit the Textile Museum, offering insight into Bhutanese art forms, and Simply Bhutan, a living museum encapsulating Bhutanese cultural heritage. After lunch, visit Pangri Zampa, one of Bhutan’s oldest monasteries, and later, enjoy panoramic views of Thimphu from Buddha Point (Kensal Phodrang). The day will end with visits to the Memorial Chorten and Trashichhoedzong, one of the country’s most important fortresses.
– Overnight in Thimphu.
After breakfast, drive to Punakha, passing through the scenic Dochula Pass (3080m) where, on a clear day, you can enjoy stunning views of the Eastern Himalayas. You’ll take a walk to Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the temple of fertility, where childless couples often come to pray. The walk will take you through picturesque paddy fields and quaint villages, providing an authentic glimpse of rural life. After checking into your hotel in Punakha, you’ll visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, located at the confluence of two rivers.
– Overnight in Punakha.
After breakfast, you’ll transfer back to Paro. Along the way, stop at Simtokha Dzong, a fortress steeped in religious significance. Once you’ve checked into your hotel in Paro, you’ll visit the National Museum, housed in Ta Dzong, an ancient watchtower. The museum’s rich collection includes antique Thangkha paintings, textiles, and artifacts. Next, explore Rinpung Dzong, a fortress with a storied history and beautifully painted galleries depicting Buddhist teachings.
– Overnight in Paro.
Today’s highlight is an excursion to the famous Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest). Perched on the edge of a cliff 900m above the Paro valley, this sacred site offers breathtaking views. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew to this location on the back of a tigress to meditate, hence the name “Tiger’s Nest.” After the hike, you may opt to visit Drukgyel Dzong, a fortress with historical significance, and enjoy views of the sacred Chomolhari Mountain. End the day with a visit to Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in the 7th century.
– Overnight in Paro.
Enjoy one last breakfast in Bhutan before your transfer to Paro Airport for your onward flight. As you leave, you’ll carry with you memories of Bhutan’s pristine landscapes, sacred monasteries, and welcoming people.