You will arrive at Paro International Airport, Bhutan’s only international airport. Paro is surrounded by stunning mountain views and has a rich cultural heritage.
Meet your guide and travel to Thimphu (1.5 hours drive).
Sightseeing in Thimphu:
Tashichho Dzong: Visit the fortress that houses the offices of the King and the Bhutanese government.
Buddha Dordenma Statue: A giant golden Buddha statue that overlooks the Thimphu valley.
Memorial Chorten: A stupa built in memory of the third King of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck.
Overnight: Stay in Thimphu.
Day 2: Explore Thimphu
Morning:
Folk Heritage Museum: Get a glimpse of Bhutanese lifestyle and culture.
National Library: Home to thousands of ancient manuscripts, including Buddhist texts.
Changangkha Lhakhang: A tranquil temple located on a hilltop with views of Thimphu valley.
Zilukha Nunnery: A quiet spot to see Buddhist nuns practicing meditation and prayers.
Afternoon:
National Memorial Chorten: Take a walk around this sacred site, where locals circumambulate and offer prayers.
Textile Museum: Discover the history of Bhutanese textiles, including traditional weaving techniques.
Overnight: Stay in Thimphu.
Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha
Morning: After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Punakha (2.5-3 hours).
En route, stop at the Dochula Pass, which offers panoramic views of the Himalayas. You can also visit the Druk Wangyal Chortens, a cluster of 108 stupas built in honor of the Fourth King of Bhutan.
Afternoon:
Punakha Dzong: One of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan, located at the confluence of the Pho and Mo rivers. It is the winter residence of the central monastic body.
Chimi Lhakhang: Visit this fertility temple on a 20-minute walk from the road. The temple is dedicated to the “Divine Madman,” Lama Drukpa Kunley.
Overnight: Stay in Punakha.
Day 4: Punakha to Phobjikha Valley
Morning: Drive to Phobjikha Valley (2.5-3 hours), known for its stunning landscapes and as the winter home of the endangered black-necked cranes.
On arrival, explore the valley, and visit the Gangtey Monastery, which overlooks the entire valley.
Afternoon:
Take a walk through the Phobjikha Valley and enjoy its beautiful scenery and traditional Bhutanese farmhouses.
Visit the Black-necked Crane Information Centre to learn about the conservation efforts for these migratory birds.
Overnight: Stay in Phobjikha.
Day 5: Phobjikha Valley to Paro
Morning: Drive back to Paro (5-6 hours drive). Enjoy the scenic beauty on the way.
Afternoon:
Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong): Upon arrival in Paro, visit this majestic fortress, which is the backdrop for Bhutan’s annual Tsechu (festival).
National Museum of Bhutan: Located in the Ta Dzong, this museum houses an impressive collection of Bhutanese art, culture, and history.
Evening: Explore the Paro town, shop for traditional handicrafts, and enjoy Bhutanese cuisine.
Overnight: Stay in Paro.
Day 6: Paro – Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)
Morning: After breakfast, embark on the hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest). This monastery is perched on a cliff 900 meters above the Paro Valley and is one of Bhutan’s most sacred and famous sites. The hike takes around 4-5 hours (round trip), and it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Afternoon: Once you return from the hike, relax and enjoy a leisurely lunch.
Evening: You can visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, or simply enjoy the peaceful ambiance of Paro.
