Arrive at Paro - Thimphu

Paro - Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, guests will be warmly welcomed by an English-speaking guide and driven to Thimphu, the capital city. The journey takes approximately one and a half hours. En route, there will be a stop at Tamchog Lhakhang, located about 30 minutes from Paro.

Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge - During the drive, visit Tamchogang, which is situated on a ridge offering a beautiful view, and then continue to Thimphu, which is about a 1 hour and 30-minute drive.

Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten) - The National Memorial was constructed in 1974 by Her Majesty Ashi Phuntsho in memory of the third King. Located in the center of the capital city, the National Memorial Chorten features numerous paintings of Tantric deities, which may be surprising to some visitors. It is a 15-minute drive from the hotel.

Motithang Takin Preserve - Known as the Mini Zoo by many, the Motithang Takin Preserve is a small natural habitat for the Takin, Bhutan’s national animal. This rare goat-antelope species is unique to Bhutan. The preserve mimics the Takin’s natural environment and also houses a few musk deer and barking deer.

Thangthong Dewachen Nunnery - Located in Thimphu, the Thangtong Dewachen Nunnery is a significant Buddhist monastery and educational institution for nuns. Founded in 1976 by the 16th Je Khenpo Sangay Chophel, it is affiliated with the Drukpa Kagyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism.

Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory - The Jungshi factory is renowned for producing traditional paper using ancient methods. Visitors can enjoy a demonstration of the paper-making process and purchase this unique paper as a memorable souvenir.

Centenary Farmers Market - Situated in the heart of Thimphu, the Centenary Farmers’ Market is a lively hub of activity, showcasing Bhutan’s rich agricultural heritage. The market offers a wide variety of fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, including staples like red rice, potatoes, chilies, and organic produce.

Clock Tower Square - Explore Bhutan’s capital city by visiting Clock Tower Square, a notable landmark adorned with intricate Bhutanese designs. Stroll towards Thimphu’s iconic traffic junction, known for its lack of traffic lights, where a white-gloved officer directs vehicles in a graceful, choreographed manner that has become a tourist attraction.

Thimphu Sightseeing

Tango Buddhist Institute - Also known as Tango Cheri Monastery, this prominent Buddhist site is located about 14 kilometers north of Thimphu. Set on a hillside in the upper Thimphu Valley, it is a significant religious site and a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims. The monastery features stunning architecture and picturesque surroundings, with several temples, prayer halls, monk quarters, and meditation centers adorned with intricate artwork and vibrant murals.

Pangri Zampa Monastery - This historic Buddhist monastery in Thimphu dates back to the 16th century. Known for its connection to astrology and traditional Bhutanese medicine, it houses an astrological institute where monks study astrology and conduct calculations for various purposes, including selecting auspicious dates for important events.

Bhutan Postal Museum - Located in Thimphu, the Bhutan Postal Museum offers fascinating insights into the history and evolution of Bhutanese postage and communication systems.

Thimphu Handicrafts Market - Also known as the Thimphu Craft Bazaar, this bustling marketplace in the heart of Thimphu is a popular tourist destination showcasing Bhutanese arts, crafts, and culture. Artisans and vendors display a wide range of handmade goods and traditional crafts.

Changlimithang Stadium & Archery Ground - Archery is a celebrated sport in Bhutan, known for its vivid culture and vibrant festivals. The royal sport of archery, or “Da” in Dzongkha, is an integral part of Bhutanese culture.

Tashichho Dzong (Thimpu Dzong) - Originally constructed in 1216 by Lama Gyalwa Lhanangpa, the Dzong was later expanded by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Known as the “fortress of glorious religion,” it was rebuilt in the 1960s by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. It now houses the secretariat building, the throne room, and the office of the King and central monk body.

Thimphu - Gangtey/Phobjikha

Buddha Dordenma - Also known as the “Buddha Point,” this massive statue of Buddha Shakyamuni is located atop a hill in Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park, overlooking Thimphu. Standing at 51.5 meters, it is one of the largest Buddha statues in the world, made of bronze and gilded in gold.

Dochula Pass - This mountain pass in Bhutan offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges, including the majestic snow-capped peaks. Visitors can see 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens.

Gangtey/Phobjikha - Punakha

Gangtey Monastery - Also known as Gangteng Monastery or Gangtey Gonpa, this Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the Wangdue Phodrang District is the main seat of the Pema Lingpa tradition within the Nyingmapa school. It is known for its breathtaking location on a hilltop in the Phobjikha Valley.

Chimi Lhakhang Temple - Known as the Fertility Temple, this revered Buddhist monastery near Sopsokha village in the Punakha Valley is popular among couples seeking blessings for fertility and childbirth. Visitors often receive a symbolic phallus as a talisman for fertility and protection.

Punakha Dzong - Also known as Pungtang Dechen Photrang Dzong, this architectural masterpiece is situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. It is one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan, featuring intricate woodwork and vibrant murals.

Punakha Suspension Bridge - Spanning 160 meters over the Phochu River, this bridge connects Punakha Dzong with nearby villages and agricultural lands. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, river, and the dzong itself.

Punakha

Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten - This stunning Buddhist shrine on a ridge above the Punakha Valley offers panoramic views of the mountains and rice fields. The trail to the chorten winds through lush rice paddies, small villages, and across a suspension bridge over the Mo Chhu River. The chorten is a magnificent example of Bhutanese architecture and craftsmanship.

Punakha - Talo Village is a charming settlement in the Punakha Valley, offering stunning views of the mountains and lush greenery. It is known for its serene atmosphere, traditional architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage.

Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery - Perched on a hilltop, this nunnery overlooks the beautiful Punakha and Wangduephodrang valleys.

Punakha - Paro

Rinpung Dzong - This striking fortress and monastery in the Paro Valley was originally built in the 15th century. It hosts several annual religious festivals, including the famous Paro Tsechu, attracting pilgrims and spectators from all over Bhutan.

Paro District - After lunch, enjoy a short hike to Zuri Dzong, offering stunning panoramic views of the Paro Valley.

Namgay Artisanal Brewery - Beer enthusiasts will enjoy visiting the Namgay Artisanal Brewery in Paro Valley to taste some of the finest brews.

Paro Taktsang

Paro Taktsang - This wooden structure stands majestically on a cliff. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche flew here on a tigress and established the monastery in the 8th Century. Built in 1692 by Gyalse Tenzin Rabgaye, the hike to Taktshang takes approximately 2-3 hours. The total journey, including the drive from the hotel, takes 5-6 hours.

Paro - Explore Paro town.

Departure

Paro - In the morning, drive to the airport for the flight to the next destination.

• Monument Fees (Dzongs & Temples) and Museum Fees included
• Stay in a minimum of 3-star accommodation certified by the Department of Tourism
• Meals covered: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
• All transport for transfers and sightseeing provided
• Licensed Bhutanese tour guide for the duration of the stay
• Travel Insurance included

• Air Transport/Flight
• Personal Expenses such as Laundry, Tips, etc.
• Drinks & beverages.
• Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
• Visa Fee
• Travel Insurance

On this tour, we will be visiting the ancient Temple and Monastery. Hiking to valley views and rural communities approximately through the scenic mountains and alpine woods. We will explore Dzongs and Museums and learn about ancient history.

We will take you to Farmhouse & experience traditional Bhutanese cuisine and their hospitality. We will be also hiking to Tiger’s Nest, the wooden structure built amazingly and stands bravely on a cliff. Stroll around the local market to buy authentic souvenirs.

If interested we will provide a Bhutanese costume to wear.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.