Arrival at Paro Airport - Thimphu

Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge - Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, a representative (Guide) will warmly welcome you and drive you to Thimphu (approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes). En route, visit Tachogang, where an iron chain bridge was constructed by Thang Thong Gyalpo.

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

Thangthong Dewachen Nunnery - Also referred to as the Zilukha Nunnery, this site accommodates around 60 nuns. A visit here rejuvenates the spirit due to its serene surroundings, making it hard to leave. From this location, one can capture stunning views of Tashichho Dzong for a beautiful photo album.

Tashichho Dzong (Thimpu Dzong) - Tashichho Dzong, also known as Tashichhoedzong, is a notable fortress and monastery in Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu. It serves as the seat of the Bhutanese government and houses the King of Bhutan’s throne room. Tashichho Dzong is a vital religious and administrative hub, playing a key role in Bhutan’s political and cultural life.

Changlimithang Stadium & Archery Ground - Archery
Bhutan’s glory is well-known. The country, as beautiful as paradise, is celebrated for its vibrant culture, lively festivals, and sports enthusiasm. The royal sport of archery, or “Da” in Dzongkha, Bhutan’s national language, is integral to its identity. Enjoy a stroll around Thimphu’s downtown.

Thimphu sightseeing

Tango Buddhist Institute - Tango Monastery, also known as Tango Cheri Monastery, is a significant Buddhist site located about 14 kilometers north of Thimphu. Situated on a hillside in the upper Thimphu Valley, it is one of Bhutan’s most important religious sites and a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims.

National Folk Heritage Museum - The Folk Heritage Museum is a cultural institution in Bhutan, a country renowned for its rich cultural heritage and traditions. This museum preserves and showcases the traditional lifestyle, customs, and crafts of the Bhutanese people.

Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory - This factory produces handmade paper using traditional methods passed down through generations. The paper is made from the bark of the daphne tree, known locally as “Desho,” which is abundant in Bhutan. The process involves harvesting the bark, soaking it, boiling it to soften the fibers, and then beating it into a pulp. The pulp is spread onto wooden frames to dry in the sun.

Buddha Dordenma - The Buddha Dordenma, also called the “Buddha Point,” is a colossal statue of Buddha Shakyamuni in Bhutan. Located atop a hill in Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park, it overlooks Thimphu.

The statue stands 51.5 meters (169 feet) tall, making it one of the largest Buddha statues globally. It is crafted from bronze and gilded in gold.

Thimphu Handicrafts Market - The Craft Market in Thimphu is a lively marketplace offering a wide range of traditional Bhutanese handicrafts, textiles, artwork, and souvenirs. Situated near the city center, it is a popular spot for tourists seeking authentic Bhutanese goods and cultural experiences.

Visitors can explore stalls and shops selling locally made products, including handwoven textiles like Bhutanese silk, woolen garments, and intricately patterned fabrics. Traditional Bhutanese handicrafts such as wood carvings, bamboo products, pottery, and handcrafted metalwork are also available.

Thimphu - Punakha

Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten) - The National Memorial Chorten is a focal point for religious and spiritual activities in Thimphu. It attracts both locals and tourists who come to circumambulate the chorten, offer prayers, and receive blessings from resident monks. Inside, there are shrines dedicated to various deities and Buddhist figures, along with relics and sacred objects.

Dochula Pass - Dochula Pass is a mountain pass in Bhutan, a landlocked country in the Eastern Himalayas. It sits at an elevation of about 3,100 meters (10,200 feet) above sea level. The pass is famous for its stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges, including the majestic snow-capped peaks.

Chimi Lhakhang Temple - Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Fertility Temple, is a revered Buddhist monastery near Sopsokha village in the Punakha Valley. It is especially popular among couples seeking blessings for conception or a healthy pregnancy. Couples visit the monastery to receive blessings from the resident lama (monk).

Punakha Dzong - Punakha Dzong, also known as Pungtang Dechen Photrang Dzong, is one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and significant dzongs. Located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (father) and Mo Chhu (mother) rivers, it is an architectural masterpiece with intricate woodwork and vibrant murals. It is renowned for its impressive design, featuring whitewashed walls, red-wood beams, and traditional Bhutanese-style roofs.

Punakha Suspension Bridge - Spanning 160 meters over the Phochu River, this bridge connects Punakha Dzong with nearby villages and agricultural lands. The bridge gently sways in the wind, adding a thrill to your journey. Located a short walk from Punakha Dzong, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, river, and the dzong itself, making it a favorite spot for photos and scenery.

Punakha - Paro

Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten - The Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten is a stunning Buddhist shrine on a ridge above the Punakha Valley, offering panoramic views of the mountains and rice fields. The trail winds through lush rice paddies, small villages, and across a suspension bridge over the Mo Chhu River before ascending to the chorten. Hikers enjoy breathtaking views of the Punakha Valley and surrounding countryside.

Rinpung Dzong - Paro Rinpung Dzong is set against lush green hills and towering mountains, offering breathtaking views of the landscape. The picturesque setting enhances the dzong’s charm and allure. Established by the Zhabdrung to defend the Paro Valley against Tibetan invasions, it hosts several annual religious festivals, including the famous Paro Tsechu.

Namgay Artisanal Brewery - Namgay Artisanal Brewery is a microbrewery in Paro, Bhutan, known for producing a variety of craft beers using locally sourced ingredients and traditional brewing techniques. Founded by Namgay, who studied brewing in Germany, the brewery offers a unique taste of Bhutanese craft beer.

Paro - Bumdra Camp

Hike from Bumdra via Zangthopelri Monastery to Taktsang to Paro

Paro Taktsang - After a hearty breakfast, choose to either return to the valley or linger to enjoy the view and perhaps hang some prayer flags. Eventually, descend into the ancient pine and rhododendron forest on a zig-zag trail. During the descent, catch glimpses of temples below. The path winds across the mountainside between temples, reaching the gardens of Zangktopelri, from where you can see the ornate rooftops of Taktsang monastery perched against the cliff-face below. An hour later, arrive at the gates of Taktsang, looking across the gorge; a steep descent to a waterfall, then up steps to enter Tiger’s Nest itself. Retrace steps to begin the final descent to reach the vehicle and drive back to the hotel.

Duration: 5 to 7 hours, depending on time spent in monasteries

Difficulty: Moderate (guided with lunch)

Departure

Paro Airport Bird’s Eye View Point - In the morning, you will be driven to the airport for your onward flight.

• Private transportation
• Monument Fees (Dzongs & Temples) and Museum Fees
• Bottle of water in the car
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Breakfast
• Certified English speaking local guide
• 3-star accommodation

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

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