Day 01 – Paro to Thimphu
Arrive in Paro and begin your Bhutan journey with visits to the historic National Museum and the 7th-century Kichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples. After lunch, enjoy a scenic drive to Thimphu, the charming capital. Discover Bhutan’s rich weaving traditions, visit the magnificent Buddha Dordenma overlooking the valley and, if interested, the National Memorial Chorten, before enjoying free time to explore Thimphu town.
Day 02 – Explore Thimphu
Begin the day with a refreshing hike through pristine forest to the peaceful Wangdi Tse Monastery, offering beautiful views over Thimphu Valley and the Royal Palace. After lunch, discover Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts at the Institute of Zorig Chusum. Browse the colourful Craft Bazaar and lively farmers’ market, with an optional visit to the Postal Museum where you can create a unique Bhutanese stamp featuring your own photograph.
Day 03 – Thimphu to Punakha
Journey across spectacular Dochula Pass, where on clear days Bhutan’s snow-capped Himalayan peaks dominate the horizon. An optional 1-hour hike leads to the Royal Botanical Park. Continue the journey to subtropical Punakha Valley. Visit fascinating Chimi Lhakhang, associated with the legendary “Divine Madman,” before exploring magnificent Punakha Dzong, a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture. End with a walk across Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge over the Phochu River.
Day 04 – Punakha to Phobjikha Valley
Start with a scenic hike through terraced rice fields to Khamsum Yuellay Namgyel Chorten, overlooking Punakha Valley. Transfer to pristine Phobjikha, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful glacial valleys. Visit the impressive 17th-century Gangtey Monastery, an important spiritual landmark, before setting out on the Gangtey Nature Hike through forests, traditional villages and the breathtaking landscapes of this peaceful valley.
Day 05 – Phobjikha to Paro
Visit the Black-necked Crane Visitor Centre and learn about the endangered cranes that migrate from the Tibetan Plateau to winter in Phobjikha Valley. Journey back towards Paro, stopping at the beautifully reconstructed Wangdue Phodrang Dzong and traditional Rinchengang village, known for its cluster of rammed-earth houses. Continue through Bhutan’s scenic mountain landscape, with an opportunity to see a remarkable 15th-century iron chain bridge before reaching Paro.
Day 06 – Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Today brings one of Bhutan’s most unforgettable experiences, the hike to legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched on a sheer cliff 900 metres above Paro Valley. Hike at your own pace through beautiful mountain forests and enjoy spectacular views along the way. After descending, relax in Paro before visiting a traditional farmhouse for authentic home-cooked Bhutanese cuisine, with the option of experiencing a therapeutic traditional herbal hot stone bath.
Day 07 – Departure from Paro
After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward flight.
