Enchanting Landscapes of Bhutan

Day 1: Arrival at Paro Airport – Thimphu

The flight to Paro offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest, Kangchenjunga, and Bhutan’s own Jomolhari. Upon clearing immigration, you will be met by your guide and driver, who will escort you to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. En route, visit Tachogang Temple, known for its historic Iron Chain Bridge. Once in Thimphu, explore key sites of historical interest, including the Memorial Chorten and the largest bronze Buddha Dordenma statue in the world, which sits atop a mountain overlooking the Thimphu Valley. Later, visit the Takin Preserve to see Bhutan’s national animal. In the evening, enjoy a guided walk through the lively streets of Thimphu, browsing local shops and observing the daily life of the people.

Day 2: Thimphu

Today, delve deeper into Bhutanese traditions and culture. Begin with a visit to the Traditional Medicine Hospital to learn about ancient healing practices and observe diploma students in classrooms studying one of Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts. Continue your exploration with a visit to the Zilukha Nunnery, home to around 50 nuns, and the ancient traditional paper-making center. Afterward, head to the Centenary Farmers' Market, Bhutan’s largest weekend market, where a wide variety of fresh produce, organic rice, local snacks, spices, meats, and cheeses are sold. Later, visit Trashichodzong, the fortress housing the throne room of the King and the highest-ranking monk in Bhutan.

Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha

Depart for Punakha, stopping at Dochu La Pass (3,100 meters) for a stunning 320-degree panoramic view of Bhutan’s highest peaks, including the unclimbed Gangkar Puen Sum (7,560 meters). At the pass, enjoy the tranquility of the 108 memorial chortens and the breathtaking mountain views. Continue your journey through forests and villages to the village of Sopsokha near Lobesa. From here, hike to the 15th-century fertility monastery, Chimi Lhakhang.

Day 4: Punakha

Punakha, which served as the winter capital of Bhutan until 1951, is home to a significant monastic and government history. Visit the Punakha Dzong, built in the 17th century at the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. Despite damage from fires, floods, and earthquakes, the dzong has been fully restored to its original splendor. Later, visit Talo Village, a small, remote mountain village offering panoramic views of the Thimphu highway. Alternatively, enjoy a 3-hour hike to the Khamsum Yuley Namgyal Chorten, located on the north side of Punakha Dzong. The hike offers magnificent views of rice fields and farmlands.

Day 5: Punakha to Bumthang

Drive toward Bumthang, crossing two passes: Pele La (3,400 meters) and Yotong La (3,400 meters). Pele La marks the traditional boundary between eastern and western Bhutan. As you descend from the pass, witness the changing landscape, with rhododendron shrubs and dwarf bamboo growing in abundance. On your way, stop at a viewpoint to admire Bhutan’s largest fortress, Trongsa Dzong. Continue to Bumthang, passing through picturesque villages and farms. Visit local weavers crafting traditional Yathra woolen cloth in vibrant colors and patterns. Bumthang, often referred to as the "Switzerland of the East," is also a sacred Buddhist heartland.

Day 6: Bumthang

Spend the day in Bumthang, enjoying the valley’s scenic beauty and pleasant weather. Visit the 7th-century Jambay Lhakhang Monastery, and take a short walk to the Kurjey Monastery, located near a small stream and farmland. Later, visit Tamshing Monastery, situated across the Chamkhar Chhu River. Stop by the Swiss farm shop and café for refreshments, where you can sample local Gouda cheese and Red Panda beer, both produced by a Swiss man who settled in the area in the 1960s. Take a stroll around Chamkhar town, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

Day 7: Ura/Shingkhar Excursion

Embark on a 2-hour drive to the remote villages of Ura and Shingkhar, where traditional yak herding and potato farming are still practiced. These villages maintain a way of life that is largely untouched by modernity. Spend about 3 hours exploring the villages, visiting local homes, and temples. In the evening, return to Bumthang or Chumey for an overnight stay.

Day 8: Trongsa

Drive back to Trongsa and visit the Ta Dzong Museum, a historical museum dedicated to Bhutan’s monarchy. If time permits, explore the Trongsa Dzong, the largest and one of the most impressive dzongs in Bhutan, showcasing traditional Bhutanese architecture.

Day 9: Phobjikha

Travel to Phobjikha and Gangtey, a glacial valley that is home to the endangered black-necked cranes during the winter months. The valley is a scenic drive through oak forests and rhododendron trees. Visit the Crane Information Center to learn about the conservation efforts for the black-necked crane. You may also have the opportunity to experience the annual Crane Festival (if traveling in November). Afterward, visit Gangtey Gonpa, a 16th-century Nyingma Buddhist monastery, and take a 2-hour hike through blue pine forests and crane habitats.

Day 10: Paro

Return to Paro via Dochula Pass for another chance to admire the stunning Himalayan views. Visit Druk Wangyel Monastery, located atop the pass. Upon arrival in Paro, explore the rebuilt ruins of Drugyel Dzong and the 7th-century Kyichu Monastery. If time allows, visit the National Museum, housed in a 17th-century watchtower, and the Paro Rinpung Dzong.

Day 11: Tiger’s Nest Hike

Drive to the trailhead at Ramthangkha car park and embark on the iconic hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang Monastery). The hike is approximately about an hour and a half uphill, offering stunning views of the monastery perched on a sheer granite cliff. There are several viewpoints along the way, and the monastery, with structures built over several centuries, holds great religious significance. Afterward, descend the same trail for about 2 hours.

Day 12: Departure

After breakfast, your guide will assist you with the departure formalities. You will be driven to Paro Airport for your onward flight.