Bhutan

Drive from Paro International Airport to Thimpu 1 hrs

Step into the kingdom of Bhutan by landing at Paro International Airport. Depending on the arrival time, we will have a quick lunch or coffee break in Paro town and continue on a picturesque one-hour drive to Thimphu. At Thimpu, immerse yourself in the vibrant streets, lively markets and the pulse of the town. We conclude our day at our hotel in Thimpu. If you arrive early, we take you to Tachogang Lhakhang enroute Thimpu. This spiritual haven pays homage to Thangtong Gyalpo, also known as 'The Iron Bridge Builder’. We walk past the iron suspension bridge and explore the confluence of the Thimphu and Paro rivers.

Explore the vibrant city of Thimpu

Today, we have a line up of interesting exploration and cultural immersion waiting us including Kuensel Phodrang / Buddha Point – 51.5 meters Shakyamuni Buddha statue and view of Thimphu valley. You can also opt for an hour’s hike around the Buddha. Besides, we also visit Memorial Chorten / Stupa – Congregation of devout Buddhists circumambulating the Chorten from dawn till dusk, Bhutan Postal Museum -make your personalized stamps with your photo and use them to send postcards to your family and friends around the world, Takin Preserve – Takin the national animal of Bhutan, Centenary Farmers Market/Kaja Throm, Craft Bazaar – single line of shops selling traditional made in Bhutan arts and crafts. If time permits, we will also explore Tashi Chho Dzong/ Fortress of Splendid Religion - office of the Golden Throne of the Dragon King.

Drive from Thimpu to Paro 1 hr

Hike to the iconic Takstang - The Tiger's Nest (3139m / 10300 ft) 4 to 5 hr

After breakfast, we gear up for an invigorating hike to the most important cultural icon of Bhutan, Taktsang Monastery. The hike is a 3-hour uphill journey rewarded with a 2-hour downhill trek. On the way, we also visit Kyichu Lhakhang, an ancient temple dating back to the 7th century.

Archery and exploration

Later, you have the options to engage in traditional archery for some Bhutanese fun, and delve into the culinary culture with a Bhutanese cooking experience, either learning the craft or creating your own delectable meal.

Farmhouse experience with traditional hot stone bath

We end our trip with a traditional hot stone bath at a farmhouse in Paro - white round stones picked up from the riversides are roasted in fire until red hot and then immersed in a wooden tub of fresh spring water sprinkled with herbs. These hot stones baths are supposed to be very curative with numerous medicinal and healing properties and has been the practice since the ancient times in Bhutan. We have a farewell dinner with our team at the hotel.

Drive from hotel to the Paro International Airport

We have out breakfast at the hotel and drive to Paro International Airport.

Drive from Paro International Airport to Thimpu 1 hrs

Step into the kingdom of Bhutan by landing at Paro International Airport. Depending on the arrival time, we will have a quick lunch or coffee break in Paro town and continue on a picturesque one-hour drive to Thimphu. At Thimpu, immerse yourself in the vibrant streets, lively markets and the pulse of the town. We conclude our day at our hotel in Thimpu. If you arrive early, we take you to Tachogang Lhakhang enroute Thimpu. This spiritual haven pays homage to Thangtong Gyalpo, also known as 'The Iron Bridge Builder’. We walk past the iron suspension bridge and explore the confluence of the Thimphu and Paro rivers.

Explore the vibrant city of Thimpu

Today, we have a line up of interesting exploration and cultural immersion waiting us including Kuensel Phodrang / Buddha Point – 51.5 meters Shakyamuni Buddha statue and view of Thimphu valley. You can also opt for an hour’s hike around the Buddha. Besides, we also visit Memorial Chorten / Stupa – Congregation of devout Buddhists circumambulating the Chorten from dawn till dusk, Bhutan Postal Museum -make your personalized stamps with your photo and use them to send postcards to your family and friends around the world, Takin Preserve – Takin the national animal of Bhutan, Centenary Farmers Market/Kaja Throm, Craft Bazaar – single line of shops selling traditional made in Bhutan arts and crafts. If time permits, we will also explore Tashi Chho Dzong/ Fortress of Splendid Religion - office of the Golden Throne of the Dragon King.

Punakha Day exploration

After breakfast, depart from Thimphu and drive to Punakha, Bhutan’s former capital. Stop at Dochula Pass (3140m) to enjoy panoramic views and visit the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens, built to honor the Fourth King. Descend to the scenic rice valley of Lobesa and visit Chhimi Lhakhang, the Fertility Monastery dedicated to the eccentric ‘Divine Madman,’ with a short hike through a village surrounded by paddy fields. Explore Punakha Dzong, Bhutan’s most stunning fortress at the confluence of two rivers, known for its rich art and history. End with a walk across the Punakha Suspension Bridge, a 160-meter-long bridge adorned with prayer flags, offering spectacular valley views. Return to Paro in the late afternoon.

Hike to the iconic Takstang - The Tiger's Nest (3139m / 10300 ft)

After breakfast, we gear up for an invigorating hike to the most important cultural icon of Bhutan, Taktsang Monastery. The hike is a 3-hour uphill journey rewarded with a 2-hour downhill trek. On the way, we also visit Kyichu Lhakhang, an ancient temple dating back to the 7th century.

Archery and exploration

Later, you have the options to engage in traditional archery for some Bhutanese fun, and delve into the culinary culture with a Bhutanese cooking experience, either learning the craft or creating your own delectable meal.

Traditional hot stone bath

We end our trip with a traditional hot stone bath at a farmhouse in Paro - white round stones picked up from the riversides are roasted in fire until red hot and then immersed in a wooden tub of fresh spring water sprinkled with herbs. These hot stones baths are supposed to be very curative with numerous medicinal and healing properties and has been the practice since the ancient times in Bhutan. We have a farewell dinner with our team at the hotel.

Drive from hotel to the Paro International Airport

We have out breakfast at the hotel and drive to Paro International Airport.

Drive from Paro International Airport to Thimpu 1 hrs

Step into the kingdom of Bhutan by landing at Paro International Airport. Depending on the arrival time, we will have a quick lunch or coffee break in Paro town and continue on a picturesque one-hour drive to Thimphu. At Thimpu, immerse yourself in the vibrant streets, lively markets and the pulse of the town. We conclude our day at our hotel in Thimpu. If you arrive early, we take you to Tachogang Lhakhang enroute Thimpu. This spiritual haven pays homage to Thangtong Gyalpo, also known as 'The Iron Bridge Builder’. We walk past the iron suspension bridge and explore the confluence of the Thimphu and Paro rivers.

Explore the vibrant city of Thimpu

Today, we have a line up of interesting exploration and cultural immersion waiting us including Kuensel Phodrang / Buddha Point – 51.5 meters Shakyamuni Buddha statue and view of Thimphu valley. You can also opt for an hour’s hike around the Buddha. Besides, we also visit Memorial Chorten / Stupa – Congregation of devout Buddhists circumambulating the Chorten from dawn till dusk, Bhutan Postal Museum -make your personalized stamps with your photo and use them to send postcards to your family and friends around the world, Takin Preserve – Takin the national animal of Bhutan, Centenary Farmers Market/Kaja Throm, Craft Bazaar – single line of shops selling traditional made in Bhutan arts and crafts. If time permits, we will also explore Tashi Chho Dzong/ Fortress of Splendid Religion - office of the Golden Throne of the Dragon King.

Drive from Thimpu to Punakha with exploration on the way

Set off on a captivating 2-hour drive to Punakha and Wangdue valleys. Along the way, we catch your breath at Dochula Pass, 3,150 meters high. On clear days, one can witness the awe-inspiring snow-capped Himalayas. We will also explore the 108 chortens, Lobesa market and the famed Chime Lhakhang, the Temple of Fertility. Marvel at the newly renovated Wangdue Dzong and take a leisurely stroll through quaint market pockets.

Explore Punakha

Embark on an enriching 2-hour hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel, treated to captivating valley vistas, terraced paddy fields, and a meandering river. Explore the awe-inspiring Punakha Dzong, a Fortress of Great Bliss, and cross the longest iron suspension bridge on foot. Behold the breathtaking valley from Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery, where engaging interactions with English-speaking nuns await. The day wraps up with a comfortable night's stay at your Punakha hotel.

Drive from Punakha to Paro

Embark on a scenic 3-hour drive back to Paro. We check-in at the hotel and catch a quick rest.

Explore Paro and visit Zuri Dzong

Prepare for an enchanting Zuri Dzong Hike, treating you to sweeping panoramic views. Explore the historic Drugyal Dzong, symbolizing victory. Later, we meander through the quaint Paro town and the vibrant markets.

Hike to the iconic Takstang - The Tiger's Nest (3139m / 10300 ft)

After breakfast, we gear up for an invigorating hike to the most important cultural icon of Bhutan, Taktsang Monastery. The hike is a 3-hour uphill journey rewarded with a 2-hour downhill trek. On the way, we also visit Kyichu Lhakhang, an ancient temple dating back to the 7th century.

Archery and exploration

Later, you have the options to engage in traditional archery for some Bhutanese fun, and delve into the culinary culture with a Bhutanese cooking experience, either learning the craft or creating your own delectable meal.

Traditional hot stone bath

We end our trip with a traditional hot stone bath at a farmhouse in Paro - white round stones picked up from the riversides are roasted in fire until red hot and then immersed in a wooden tub of fresh spring water sprinkled with herbs. These hot stones baths are supposed to be very curative with numerous medicinal and healing properties and has been the practice since the ancient times in Bhutan. We have a farewell dinner with our team at the hotel.

Drive from hotel to the Paro International Airport

We have out breakfast at the hotel and drive to Paro International Airport.

Arrival, explore Paro and briefings 1 hrs

Your flight into Bhutan offers spectacular views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest, Mt. Kanchenjunga, and Bhutan’s iconic Mt. Jomolhari. As you descend into Paro Valley, you'll be greeted by the serene landscape of forested hills, the Paro river, and the impressive Paro Dzong perched above the valley. If time allows, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, the oldest Buddhist temple in Bhutan, before ending the day with a welcome dinner and trip briefing.

Hike to Taktsang Monastery (3,140m / 10,300ft)

After breakfast, drive to the trailhead for the iconic Taktshang Monastery, or "Tiger's Nest," perched nearly 1,000 meters above Paro Valley. The scenic hike takes about two hours to reach the viewpoint cafeteria, offering breathtaking views of the monastery, and an additional hour to reach the temple itself, where your guide will explain its cultural significance. After the hike, visit the ruins of Drugyal Dzong fortress, with views of Mt. Jomolhari on clear days, and explore Kyichu Lhakhang, Bhutan’s oldest Buddhist temple, before returning to your resort for the trek preparations.

Trek from Shana to Thongsampa Camp 5 hrs | 12 kms

Your first trekking day is designed for easy acclimatization, following a gradual ascent along the river through a forest of blue pine, oak, rhododendron, and maple. The trail, though rocky and sometimes muddy, is not overly strenuous, with wooden bridges to cross and sections where the river runs close to the path. After about 4 hours of hiking through a narrowing valley, you'll reach your campsite at Thongbuzam.

Trek from Thongsampa to Thangthangka Camp 5 to On this day, you'll follow a trail that intersects with the old salt-trading route to Tibet, eventually ascending a ridge with a Buddhist chorten. As you approach the campsite after an 8-hour trek, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of Mt. Jomolhari at the end of the valley. The campsite, set in a spacious clearing, offers a breathtaking sunrise view of the sun’s rays striking the peak the next morning. | hrs

We have out breakfast at the hotel and drive to Paro International Airport.

Trek from Soi to Jahnothang Camp, and visit the Jhomolari Festival 5 to 6 hrs | 12 kms

On the third day, enjoy a leisurely trek, taking less than six hours to reach Jangothang, with scenic views of the Pachu River and tiny villages along the way. After stopping at an army outpost for permit registration, you'll arrive at the 4,080m-high campsite, offering stunning views of Mt. Jomolhari and the mystical ruins of Jangothang Dzong. The area is rich in birdlife, and you’ll have the chance to experience the vibrant Jomolhari Mountain Festival, organized by the local nomads of Lingshi and Chebisa.

Festival

Trek to twin lakes of Tshophu 3 to 4 hrs

Trek from Jangothang to Lingzhi 7 to 8 hrs | 18 kms

Trek from Lingzhi to Shodu 8 to 9 hrs | 22 kms

Trek from Shodu to Domshisa campsite 7 to 8 hrs | 16 kms

Trek from Domshisa to Dodena 5 to 6 hrs | 15 kms

Drive from Dodena to hotel in Thimpu

Explore Thimpu

Drive from Thimpu to Punakha 4 hrs

Explore Punakha

Punakha sightseeing

Drive form Punakha to Paro 4 hrs

Fly from Paro to Kathmandu