Bhutan Highlights: A 12-Day Cultural Adventure

Day 1: Arrive in Paro and Journey to Thimphu.

Welcome to Bhutan! Upon your arrival in Paro, you’ll be greeted by our representative and taken to the vibrant weekend market. Local vendors congregate here to sell fresh produce and various goods, providing a glimpse into everyday life in Bhutan. After enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, you’ll visit the Paro Dzong, a historic fortress that now houses the district administration and Monastic Body. Following a short hike to the cantilever bridge featured in the film ‘Little Buddha’, you’ll have the evening to explore Paro at your leisure before settling in for the night.

Day 2: Discover Haa Valley

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Haa Valley via the Chelela Pass. On a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Mt. Jumolhari and the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. The Haa Valley is one of Bhutan’s most untouched areas, dotted with picturesque fields and traditional farmhouses. You’ll visit a century-old farmhouse, providing insight into the lives of local families. After enjoying a picnic lunch, explore the valley, including a visit to Chundu Lhakhang before returning to Paro

Day 3: Transfer to Thimphu

This morning, you will be transferred to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Upon arrival, visit the National Library, home to invaluable manuscripts, and the Institute for Zorig Chosum, a school teaching traditional Thangka painting. After lunch, head to the Memorial Chorten, an elegant stupa honoring the 3rd King of Bhutan. Explore the 14th-century Changangkha Lhakhang and enjoy panoramic views from Sangaygang before visiting the Dupthob Lhakhang nunnery. Conclude your day at the Handicrafts Emporium, where you can shop for unique souvenirs.

Day 4: Journey to Punakha

Following breakfast, you’ll journey to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan. The drive takes you across the Dochula Pass, adorned with chortens and prayer flags. If the weather permits, enjoy breathtaking views of the Eastern Himalayas before descending into Punakha. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and have lunch before embarking on an easy hike to Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenlay, known as the “”Divine Madman.” Spend your evening at your leisure, or choose to join an optional tour.

Day 5: Transfer to Jakar

After an early breakfast, leave Punakha for Jakar. En route, stop at Wangduephodrang Dzong for stunning views, and enjoy lunch at Chendebji. As you continue, ascend to the Yutongla Pass, and stop at Chumey Village to see local weavers creating the famous “Yathra” fabric. Arrive in Jakar, your base for the next few days.

Day 6: Hike to Tharpaling Monastery

Enjoy a moderate hike through lush forests to Tharpaling Monastery, an important spiritual site established in the 14th century. After a picnic lunch here, return to your hotel in Jakar for the night.

Day 7: Explore Jambay Lhakhang and Kurjey Lhakhang

After breakfast, visit Jambay Lhakhang, believed to have been built to subdue a powerful ogress. Then, explore the three temples at Kurjey Lhakhang, which hold immense spiritual significance. After visiting the Jakar Dzong, you’ll have the afternoon to hike across the Chamkhar Valley to Tamzhing Monastery, offering splendid views of the valley.

Day 8: Return to Punakha

Depart Jakar and visit the Ta Dzong in Trongsa, now a museum highlighting Bhutan’s history. After lunch at Chendebji, continue your journey back to Punakha, where you can relax in the evening.

Day 9: Hike to Khamsum Yuelay Namgyal Choeten

After breakfast, embark on a guided hike to Khamsum Yuelay Namgyal Choeten, built for the well-being of the country. The hike takes you through beautiful rice paddies and pine forests. After enjoying the views from the choeten, visit the Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most iconic structures. In the evening, enjoy traditional Bhutanese archery with guidance from your host.

Day 10: Transfer to Paro

Today, you’ll head back to Paro, stopping for lunch at your hotel upon arrival. Enjoy a guided tour of the National Museum of Bhutan, where you can explore a rich collection of artifacts and traditional crafts. The evening is yours to enjoy as you please.

Day 11: Full-Day Excursion to Taktshang Monastery

Prepare for an exhilarating hike to Taktshang Monastery, or “Tiger’s Nest.” The trail winds through beautiful landscapes, leading you to stunning viewpoints of the monastery perched on a cliff. You’ll have the chance to relax at the Taktshang Cafeteria before enjoying a buffet lunch featuring traditional Bhutanese dishes. After your hike, return to your hotel for a restful evening.

Day 12: Departure

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your departure. Our representative will assist with check-in formalities and bid you farewell, concluding your unforgettable journey through the beautiful kingdom of Bhutan.