Tour Information

Paro to Thimphu (1.5 hrs)

Fly into Paro International Airport. If the weather is clear, you can see the majestic eastern Himalayan peaks. One can also view Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world, as well as Bhutan’s highest peak Mt. Jomolhari.

Airport pick up and drive to Thimphu, the Capital City.  On the way, stop and visit Tamchog Monastery which is a short hike from the main road.

After lunch, a short hike to the Takin sanctuary to see our national animal.

The Folk Heritage Museum and the Post Office.

Tashichodzong which houses the Throne Room, government offices, and the residence of the Chief Abbot.  

Memorial Chorten - stupa built in memory of the Third King.

Thimphu

After breakfast, drive to Buddha Point - those who wish to meditate can do so here, and those wishing to hike can explore the new trail which is about 3.5km.

National Library - it holds a vast collection of ancient Buddhist texts, manuscripts, printing blocks for prayer flags.

School of traditional arts and crafts.

Visit Simply Bhutan to experience traditional Bhutanese activities like archery, dance and cuisine.

The Royal Textile Academy promotes and preserves the art of weaving in Bhutan.

Thimphu to Punakha (3.5 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Dochula pass (3,100m/10000 ft). On a clear day you can view the spectacular Himalayan ranges and the black mountains.  

Tea/coffee break at Dochula Cafe, visit the monastery and the 108 stupas.

Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of fertility dedicated to the divine Madman Lam Drukpa Kuenley. 

Visit the Wolakha nunnery center in Punakha if time permits.

Punakha

Khamsum Yulley stupa - the hike takes you across paddy fields and other beautiful sites.  Tea /coffee and snacks will be arranged.

Visit the Punakha dzong - built in 1637, it is the second oldest fortress.  The Dzong stands majestically on the confluence of two rivers  (the male and female river). It is the winter home for the central monastic body.  It was also the venue of the Royal Wedding of the present King and Queen.

Punakha to Bumthang Valley (6 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Bumthang.  Stop at Trongsa, for lunch at the Weeling Waterfall cafe.

Chokor Valley (Bumthang)

After breakfast, drive to Chorkor to visit other historical and religious sites - Jambay lhakhang, Kurje, Tamshing and Koenchosum monastery.

A short meditation session and butter lamp offerings can be arranged if interested.

Bumthang to Phobjikha Valley (5 hrs)

Enroute stop at the Trongsa Ta Dzong Museum.

Phobjikha valley is wide, open and beautiful! It is a natural habitat for wildlife including the nesting ground for the endangered Black - necked cranes that migrate from Central Asia in late Oct and stay until March. Perfect setting to explore and enjoy rural Bhutan.  

Visit the Gangtey monastery if interested.

Phobjikha to Paro (4.5 hrs)

After breakfast take the Nature Trail Hike, which  takes you through the rich pine forest, into the wetlands and ends at the Crane information center.   

Lunch and tea breaks will be on the drive back to Paro.

Paro

Visit the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang. The National Museum - has an interesting collection of traditional wear from different parts of the region, antique religious artifacts, textiles and weapons from  the past.

Explore Paro town and rest in the evening to prepare for the long hike tomorrow!

Paro Taktsang

After breakfast, hike to the famous Taktsang which means Tiger's nest monastery. It is built on a sheer cliff at a height of 2950m.  Considered one of the most sacred sites by Bhutanese and Varajana Buddhist around the world.

Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche, founder of Buddhism in Bhutan, flew on a tigress to this site, subdued evil in the region, meditated in the cave and spread the Buddha's teachings.

Departure

Departure from Paro International Airport.

Thank you and safe travels!