After an unforgettable flight giving you an adrenaline rush as you see views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and other famous Himalayan peaks, including the sacred Jomolhari and Mount Jichu Drake, you will land at Paro International Airport. The landing at Paro is considered as one of the most challenging and enthralling experience.

Our company representatives will receive you at the airport and drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan (1 hour). Enroute Tamchog Lhakhang as it is conveniently located on the highway between Paro and Thimphu. The temple is believed to have been founded by Thangtong Gyalpo, a legendary Tibetan saint and iron chain bridge builder which still stand today. Tamchog Lhakhang features traditional Bhutanese architectural style with intricate woodwork and murals depicting Buddhist teachings and legends.

On arrival you will be taken to your hotel for a check-in and short rest. In the evening, visit National Memorial Chorten, a stupa dedicated to world peace and honoring The Late Third King of Bhutan Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Join locals as they circumambulate the chorten, spinning prayer wheels along the way. Then drive to Tashichho Dzong. The impressive fortress-monastery is the seat of the Bhutanese government and also houses the throne room and offices of the King. 

Overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast, drive to Buddha Dordenma Statue (buddha point), a short drive from the city center. The construction started on 2006 and completed in 2015. It was initiated by His Majesty the 4th King Jigme Singye Wangchuck, who wanted to build a giant statue of Buddha to promote peace and happiness. Enjoy panoramic views of Thimphu Valley and explore the temple complex. Drive to Takin Zoo (Takin - The National Animal of Bhutan) The takin is a significant cultural symbol in Bhutan, often revered for its uniqueness and mentioned in local folklore and religious stories. Visit Folk Heritage Museum which offers insights into traditional Bhutanese rural life and culture and it exhibits of traditional artifacts, tools, and household items. Experience demonstrations of weaving, brewing local wine, and making traditional Bhutanese dishes.

After lunch, visit National Institute for Zorig Chusum (Traditional Arts) to learn about Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts, including painting, woodcarving, sculpture, and more. Visit Royal Textile Academy. It is dedicated to preserving and promoting Bhutanese textile arts. It exhibits include intricate textiles, traditional weaving techniques, and displays on the cultural significance of textiles in Bhutanese society. In the evening, stroll around Craft Bazaar. Thimphu Craft Bazaar is not only a place to shop for unique souvenirs but also a cultural hub where you can immerse yourself in Bhutan’s artistic traditions and enjoy the vibrant local atmosphere. It's a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Thimphu and wanting to experience the essence of Bhutanese craftsmanship and hospitality.

Overnight at the hotel.

Driving to Punakha offers a scenic journey through Bhutan's mountainous landscapes and cultural landmarks. Enroute stop at Dochula Pass (3,100 meters), about 30 minutes' drive from Thimphu. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the eastern Himalayas on clear days. Take some time to walk around and admire the 108 chortens (stupas) and the Druk Wangyal Lhakhang temple. Continue your journey towards Punakha. On the way visit Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Temple of Fertility. Chimi Lhakhang was built in 1499 by the Tibetan saint Drukpa Kunley. He is affectionately known as the "Divine Madman". Couples who have difficulty conceiving often visit the monastery to seek blessings from the divine power associated with Drukpa Kunley. The monastery is adorned with phallus paintings and sculptures, which are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. Phallus symbolism is common in Bhutanese culture and is considered a representation of fertility and protection.

There are several local restaurants and cafes along the route where you can stop for lunch in one of the local restaurant or a farmhouse. After lunch, visit Punakha Dzong (Fortress) built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal has played a prominent role in the civil and religious life of the Kingdom. It is ancient capital of Bhutan and one of the most majestic dzongs in the country. Admire its stunning architecture, intricate woodwork, and beautiful location at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (father) and Mo Chhu (mother) rivers. Drive to Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery which is perched on a ridge amid pine trees and overlooking valleys of Punakha and Wangduephodrang, gleams the magnificent structures of Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang(Temple). Interact with the nuns and they love to speak English with visitors and learn about the ways of the world.

Overnight at the hotel.

Traveling from Punakha to Phobjikha Valley is not just a journey but an opportunity to experience Bhutan’s diverse landscapes and natural beauty. Enjoy the scenic drive and explore the cultural and natural attractions along the way to make the most of your trip.

Depart from Punakha in the morning, ideally after breakfast. Visit the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, a picturesque fortress overlooking the confluence of the Punatsangchhu and Dangchhu rivers. Wangdue Phodrang Dzong was founded in 1638 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan. It served as a vital administrative and strategic center in the region. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant along the route. Continue the journey towards Phobjikha Valley, enjoying views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

Arrive in Phobjikha Valley in the late afternoon or early evening, allowing time to settle in and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Visit Gangtey Monastery (Gangtey Gonpa). This 17th-century monastery is one of the main attractions in Phobjikha Valley and holds significant religious importance. Visitors can attend prayers and interact with monks to gain insights into Bhutanese Buddhism and monastic life. Visit the Black-necked Crane Center to learn about the endangered black-necked cranes that migrate to the valley in winter. Enjoy Nature Trails exploring scenic hiking trails around the valley, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. 

Overnight at the hotel.

Phobjikha to Paro allows you to experience both the natural beauty and cultural richness of Bhutan.

Leave Phobjikha in the morning after breakfast. Enroute Dochula pass to have tea and coffee. Continue your journey towards Paro. Stop at Simtokha Dzong. It was built in 1629 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the founder of Bhutan, Simtokha Dzong is one of the oldest fortresses in Bhutan. Visiting Simtokha Dzong provides a glimpse into Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage, architectural prowess, and religious traditions. It’s a place where history meets spirituality, offering a serene and educational experience for travelers exploring the Thimphu region.

After lunch in Thimphu, continue your journey to Paro. After arriving Paro, visit Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong) built in 1644 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it serves both as a religious and administrative center. Then visit National Museum Situated above Paro Dzong on a hilltop. Houses a rich collection of Bhutanese art, artifacts, weapons, textiles, and thangkas (religious paintings). Offers panoramic views of Paro valley from its strategic location.

Overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast, hike to Taktshang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery, is a legendary and iconic site in Bhutan, renowned for its spiritual significance and breathtaking location. One of Bhutan’s holiest shrines and an amazing structure that crosses all boundaries of architectural masterpiece. Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) is perched some 1000m/3000ft on a cliff overlooking a valley. It is said that the legendary Indian saint Guru Padma Sambhava, flew from Tibet on the back of a tigress to tame five demons, who were opposing the spread of Buddhism in Bhutan in 746 AD. Taktshang Monastery is the ultimate pilgrim site for all Buddhist especially in Bhutan.

The hike to the monastery takes about 5hours (up and down), and follows an ancient path marked by river powered prayer wheels.

Lunch at cafeteria and towards evening, visit Kyichu Lhakhang built in the 7th century by the Tibetan Emperor Songtsen Gampo, Kyichu Lhakhang is considered one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. It is said to be one of the 108 temples built by him to subdue a demoness that was causing obstacles in the spread of Buddhism in the region. Kyichu Lhakhang in Paro and Jambay Lhakhang in Bumthang are said to be two temples of the 108 temples built by Songsen Goempo over the Himalayan area. Drive back to Paro town and allows yourself to experience the cultural richness and scenic beauty of this Bhutanese town.

Overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast, our representatives will bid you farewell to your onward destination.