Journey from Paro to Thimphu

Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge - Tagchog Lhakhang, a temple near Paro in Bhutan, was established by the renowned Tibetan saint Thangtong Gyalpo in the 15th century. It is famous for its distinctive iron chain bridge, constructed by Gyalpo himself, which remains intact today. Visitors to Tagchog Lhakhang can enjoy its peaceful ambiance and stunning views of the surrounding scenery.

Thimphu Handicrafts Market - The Thimphu Craft Bazaar is a lively marketplace in Bhutan’s capital, showcasing a diverse range of traditional handicrafts crafted by local artisans. It offers a rich variety of items such as handwoven textiles, intricate wood carvings, and vibrant paintings, highlighting Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors to the bazaar can enjoy a unique shopping experience while supporting local artisans and preserving traditional Bhutanese art forms.

Thimphu’s Weekend Market - The Thimphu Weekend Market, known locally as Kaja Throm, is a bustling hub where locals and tourists gather to purchase fresh produce, traditional foods, and artisanal goods. Spanning both sides of the Wang Chhu River, it provides a vibrant glimpse into Bhutanese daily life and culture. The market is an excellent place to experience the flavors and traditions of Bhutan, with vendors offering everything from organic vegetables to handmade crafts.

Thimphu Sightseeing

Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten) - The Memorial Chorten in Thimphu is a prominent Tibetan-style stupa built in 1974 to honor the third King of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. It serves as a center of daily worship for many Bhutanese, who walk around the chorten, spinning prayer wheels and offering prayers. The white structure, adorned with intricate golden spires and beautiful mandalas, stands as a symbol of peace and a significant religious landmark in Bhutan’s capital.

Buddha Dordenma - The Buddha Dordenma is a colossal statue located atop a hill in Thimphu, Bhutan, standing at 54 meters tall. This magnificent bronze statue, gilded in gold, houses over 125,000 smaller Buddha statues, making it a major pilgrimage site and a symbol of peace and prosperity. Overlooking the southern entrance to Thimphu Valley, the Buddha Dordenma offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Motithang Takin Preserve - The Takin Preserve in Thimphu is a wildlife reserve dedicated to Bhutan’s national animal, the takin, a unique and rare goat-antelope. This sanctuary provides a natural habitat for the takins, allowing visitors to observe these unusual creatures in a serene, forested environment. The preserve also plays a vital role in the conservation and protection of this endemic species, promoting awareness and appreciation of Bhutan’s rich biodiversity.

Simply Bhutan Museum - Simply Bhutan is a living museum in Thimphu that offers visitors an immersive experience of traditional Bhutanese culture and lifestyle. This interactive museum showcases various aspects of Bhutanese heritage, including traditional arts, crafts, food, and architecture. Visitors can participate in cultural activities such as archery, try on traditional Bhutanese attire, and enjoy folk music and dance performances.

Tashichho Dzong (Thimpu Dzong) - This massive structure houses part of the government ministries, the office of the King, and the Throne Room. It also accommodates the State Monastic Body and the living quarters of the Chief Abbot and the senior monks.

Thimphu – Gangtey/Phobjikha

Dochula Pass - Dochula Pass, situated at an altitude of 3,100 meters, is a stunning mountain pass in Bhutan that offers panoramic views of the Himalayan range. It is renowned for the 108 memorial chortens, known as the Druk Wangyal Chortens, built in honor of Bhutanese soldiers who died in battle. Visitors to Dochula Pass can enjoy breathtaking scenery, vibrant rhododendron forests, and the tranquil atmosphere of this historical and spiritual site.

Gangtey/Phobjikha Excursion

Gangtey Monastery - Gangtey Monastery, also known as Gangtey Gonpa, is a prominent Buddhist monastery located in the Phobjikha Valley of Bhutan. Founded in the 17th century by Pema Lingpa’s grandson, it is an important center for the Nyingma school of Buddhism. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, the monastery offers stunning views and serves as a spiritual hub, especially during the annual Black-necked Crane Festival, which celebrates the arrival of these endangered birds to the valley.

Phobjikha - Punakha

Chimi Lhakhang Temple - Chimi Lhakhang, located in the Punakha district of Bhutan, is a revered Buddhist monastery dedicated to the 15th-century saint Drukpa Kunley, known as the “Divine Madman.” It is famous for its fertility blessings and colorful phallus symbols adorning the walls and houses in the nearby village of Sopsokha. Pilgrims visit Chimi Lhakhang to receive blessings for fertility, childbirth, and overall well-being, making it a unique cultural and spiritual site in Bhutan.

Punakha Dzong - The dzong resembles a giant ship resting on a still mass of water from afar. Built at the confluence of two rivers, the Pho (male) and Mo (female) rivers, the Dzong served as the capital of Bhutan until 1955 and is still home to the Chief Abbot in winter months. Constructed in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it has played a prominent role in the civil and religious history of the Kingdom. Destroyed four times by fire and an earthquake in 1897, the Dzong has been fully restored to its original splendor.

Punakha Suspension Bridge - The Punakha Suspension Bridge is one of Bhutan’s longest suspension bridges, spanning the Po Chhu River near Punakha Dzong. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the impressive Punakha Dzong itself. Crossing this bridge provides visitors with an exhilarating experience while connecting them to the natural beauty and cultural landmarks of the Punakha Valley.

Punakha Excursion

Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery - The Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery in Punakha is a picturesque Buddhist monastery known for its stunning location overlooking the Punakha Valley. Established to empower women in Buddhist practice, it offers a serene retreat with panoramic views of the Himalayas. Visitors can explore its tranquil grounds, admire traditional Bhutanese architecture, and witness daily life and religious practices of the nuns, making it a cultural and spiritual gem in Bhutan.

Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten - Built in the 1990s in honor of the Crown Prince Jigme Kheser Namgyel Wangchuk, the Chorten sits atop a ridge near the Punakha River and requires a 30-minute drive from town, followed by a 45-minute uphill hike, crossing a picturesque suspension bridge and rice fields. On the way back, enjoy a 30-minute downhill stroll.

Return to Paro

Rinpung Dzong - Rinpung Dzong, located in Paro, Bhutan, is a historic fortress monastery built in the 17th century. It serves as both a religious and administrative center, housing sacred temples and government offices. The dzong’s intricate architecture, adorned with colorful murals and intricate woodwork, reflects Bhutanese cultural and religious traditions. Rinpung Dzong is also famous for hosting the annual Paro Tsechu festival, attracting visitors from all over to witness its vibrant masked dances and religious rituals.

National Museum - The National Museum of Bhutan in Paro is housed in a traditional watchtower, known as Ta Dzong, dating back to the 17th century. It showcases Bhutanese art, cultural artifacts, and historical treasures, offering visitors a comprehensive insight into the kingdom’s rich heritage. The museum’s exhibits include religious statues, traditional clothing, ancient manuscripts, and artifacts reflecting Bhutan’s unique traditions and history, making it a must-visit for those interested in Bhutanese culture.

Hike to Taktsang

Paro Taktsang - Upon reaching Taktsang, visitors will be captivated by the architectural marvel of this most sacred Buddhist shrine in Bhutan. Perched approximately 1000m, 3000ft on a cliff overlooking the valley, it rightfully qualifies as one of Bhutan’s wonders. Tragically destroyed in a fire in early 1998, it has been rebuilt to its original glory. 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 A.D. Hence, the name, Taktshang, or the “Tiger’s Lair.”

Kyichu Lhakhang - Kyichu Lhakhang, located in Paro, Bhutan, is one of the oldest and most sacred temples in the country, dating back to the 7th century. Founded by the Tibetan Emperor Songtsen Gampo, it is revered for its historical significance and spiritual sanctity. Kyichu Lhakhang houses ancient statues, intricate frescoes, and a revered orange tree said to bear fruit throughout the year, making it a cherished pilgrimage site and cultural landmark in Bhutan.

Departure from Bhutan

Paro - Guests will be dropped at the airport for their next onward destination.

• Private transportation
• Special dietary and allergy request
• Entrance fees
• All Fees and Taxes
• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

• Alcohol and beverages
• Flight tickets
• Travel insurance
• Gratuities to guides and driver

Embark on a captivating 8-night, 9-day adventure through Bhutan for a truly enriching experience. Discover Thimphu’s unique blend of modernity and tradition, from lively markets to the tranquil Buddha Dordenma statue overlooking the valley. Travel to Punakha via the picturesque Dochula Pass, where 108 chortens lead to the magnificent Punakha Dzong at the confluence of two rivers. Explore the serene Phobjikha Valley, home to the Black-necked Crane and Gangtey Monastery, offering insights into Bhutan’s environmental and spiritual heritage. Conclude your journey with a hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang) for an unforgettable and transformative travel experience.

Guided by local experts, immerse yourself in Bhutan’s spiritual depth through monastery visits, meditation sessions, and interactions with monks. This comprehensive itinerary highlights cultural treasures and natural wonders, fostering a deep connection to Bhutan’s unique way of life.

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.