Nestled in the folds of the Eastern Himalayas, remaining in self-imposed isolation for centuries, Bhutan opened up to the world at a measured pace while preserving a unique cultural identity derived from its rich Buddhist heritage. As the world's only Mahayana Buddhist kingdom, Bhutan lives in close harmony with nature, protecting its pristine ecology, sacred mountain landscapes, and vibrant spiritual traditions.
This 07 Nights / 08 Days journey introduces you to the essential highlights of Bhutan. Explore the modernizing yet ancient capital of Thimphu, cross the panoramic Dochula Pass into the tranquil glacial valley of Gangtey (Phobjikha), discover the fertile river valley and majestic Dzong of Punakha, and conclude in Paro with the iconic pilgrimage hike to the cliffside Tiger's Nest Monastery.
Fly along the Himalayan range into Paro, enjoying spectacular aerial mountain views. Meet our representative after immigration and baggage collection, and drive to Thimphu.
Stop en route at Chuzom, the confluence of Thimphu and Paro rivers, marked by Tibetan, Nepalese, and Bhutanese style stupas, with views of the 15th-century Tschogang Lhakhang ("Temple of the Excellent Horse").
Check into your hotel in Thimphu (altitude 2,400 m), the unique capital city without traffic lights.
Evening exploratory walk along Thimphu Main Street and visit the Local Crafts Bazaar to browse hand-woven textiles, Thangkha paintings, masks, ceramics, and wood carvings.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Thimphu.
Breakfast at the hotel.
National Library: Visit the treasury housing an extensive collection of priceless Buddhist manuscripts.
Institute for Zorig Chusum: Tour the arts and crafts school where students undergo 6-year courses in Bhutan’s 13 traditional crafts.
Textile Museum: Gain insights into Bhutan's distinct textile heritage and weaving techniques.
Pangri Zampa: Take a short drive (15 km) north of Thimphu to this 16th-century monastery housing a monastic school for Buddhist philosophy and astrology.
Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang): Pay obeisance at the bronze statue of Buddha Dordenma and enjoy panoramic valley views.
King's Memorial Chorten: Visit this landmark built in 1974 in memory of the Third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, circled by devotees murmuring mantras.
Trashichhoedzong: Visit the grand fortress-monastery housing the throne room, government offices, and the summer seat of the Chief Abbot.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Thimphu.
Breakfast at the hotel and check out.
Drive towards Gangtey (Phobjikha Valley) crossing Dochula Pass (altitude 3,080 m), marked by 108 chortens and prayer flags, offering views of the eastern Himalayas on clear days.
Drive via Wangdue Phodrang to explore local markets famous for bamboo crafts and stone carvings.
Pass through dense forests of oak and rhododendron to reach the wide, flat glacial valley of Gangtey.
After lunch, take a walking tour around Gangtey village and visit Gangtey Goempa, the biggest and only Nyingmapa monastery on the western side of the Black Mountain range.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Gangtey.
Early breakfast at the hotel.
Gangtey Nature Trail: Embark on an easy 5.5 km walk (approx. 2 hours) downhill through flower meadows to Semchubara village, passing through forests and open valley past Khewal Lhakhang.
Continue drive to Punakha; check into the hotel upon arrival.
Visit Punakha Dzong, a magnificent fortress built at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, which served as Bhutan's winter capital until 1955.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Punakha.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten: Hike through terraced fields of rice, cabbages, and chilies along the Mo Chhu River to this temple consecrated in 1999.
Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang: Visit this hilltop nunnery overlooking Punakha and Wangdue valleys, home to a 14-foot bronze statue of Avalokiteshvara crafted by local artisans and a meditation training center for nuns.
Afternoon at leisure to relax and enjoy the scenic river valley.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Punakha.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Chimi Lhakhang: Excursion across rice fields and the rural village of Pana (approx. 1½ hours round-trip walk) to the famous fertility temple of Drukpa Kunley.
Drive towards Paro along the scenic highway, en route visiting Simtokha Dzong (built in 1629), the oldest fortress in Bhutan.
Arrive in Paro and check into the hotel; enjoy lunch.
Ta Dzong (National Museum): Visit the ancient circular watchtower showcasing collections of antique thangkas, textiles, weapons, and historic artifacts.
Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong): Walk down the trail to the "Fortress of the Heap of Jewels" and admire its courtyard murals.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Paro.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest): Hike (approx. 5 hours round-trip) up through pine forests to the iconic monastery perched on a granite cliff 900 m above Paro valley floor, where Guru Rinpoche meditated.
Afternoon drive to Drukgyel Dzong, a historic ruined fortress where Bhutanese warriors defended the country against Tibetan invasions, with views of sacred Mt. Chomolhari.
Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 7th-century temples built by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo marking Buddhism's introduction to Bhutan.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Paro.
Early breakfast at the hotel.
Transfer to Paro International Airport with representative assistance for exit formalities and departure flight.
Bid farewell to Bhutan with unforgettable memories.
