Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, a representative will greet you and escort you to your hotel. Enjoy lunch in Paro before embarking on a scenic two-hour drive along the Paro Tsang River to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. In the evening, you will have free time to explore Thimphu and relax at your hotel.
Today, explore the major landmarks of Thimphu. Visit the Memorial Chorten, a large stupa honoring a beloved king, and the National Library, home to ancient manuscripts. Explore the traditional Painting School, where artists are trained in the art of creating thankas (sacred Buddhist scrolls), and the Handicrafts Emporium for local textiles and crafts. In the afternoon, visit Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress in Bhutan, and Tashichho Dzong, the main administrative building of the country. Conclude the day with a visit to the Pangri Zampa Monastery, located just beyond Dechencholing Palace.
Depart for Punakha Valley and Wangdi village today. Stop at Dochula Pass (3100m) for a warm cup of tea or coffee, and enjoy panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas on a clear day. After lunch, visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, the former winter capital and current administrative center of the district, situated at the confluence of the Pochu and Mochu rivers. Explore Wangdiphodrang Dzong and the famous fertility temple, perched on a scenic promontory outside of Punakha.
After breakfast, return to Paro. Spend the afternoon strolling through Paro town and shopping for local handicrafts. Visit Taro Dzong in the evening. If your visit falls on a weekend, you can experience the vibrant weekend vegetable market, allowing for some free time to explore the local culture.
After an early breakfast, drive to the Taktsang entry point, located 15 kilometers from Paro Town. Enjoy a 2-hour hike to the breathtaking Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest, which clings to a sheer cliff 800 meters above the valley. According to legend, Guru Padma Sambhava arrived here on the back of a tigress in the 8th century. Have lunch at the Taktsang Cafeteria, with stunning views of the monastery. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Paro Town for your final night in Bhutan.
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward journey back home, concluding your memorable adventure in Bhutan.