Fly to Paro and experience breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks as you descend into this happy land. The flight into the Paro valley is one of the most spectacular in the world. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your local tour executive and guide. Your tour itinerary will remain flexible to accommodate your interests. You will be transferred to Thimphu (the capital city of Bhutan) – a 65 km drive taking approximately 1 hour.
Visit the Buddha Dordhenma, a massive statue of Shakyamuni Buddha located in Thimphu, Bhutan. Standing at 169 feet (52 meters), it is made of bronze and gilded in gold, situated on the hilltop at Kunsel Phodrang Nature Park, overlooking the capital city. Zorig Chusum refers to Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts, deeply rooted in Buddhist culture and craftsmanship. Introduced by Terton Pema Lingpa in the 15th century, these artistic traditions include painting, sculpture, carving, calligraphy, weaving, masonry and metalwork among others. Simply Bhutan Museum is a living heritage museum in Thimphu, offering an immersive experience of Bhutanese culture and traditions.
Start your day by driving towards Wangditse Gompa Hike - a short and scenic trek near Thimphu, offering stunning valley views. The hike starts from Sangaygang (BBS Tower) and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours round trip, passing through a peaceful forest of blue pines. Along the way, you will see panoramic views of Thimphu, Tashichho Dzong (Thimphu Fortress), and the surrounding mountains. The Wangditse Monastery, built in the 18th century, is a quiet retreat with a rich history. It’s an easy to moderate hike, ideal for acclimatization or a relaxing nature walk. Visit Takin Centre (Motithang Takin Preserve) in Thimphu is a wildlife sanctuary dedicated to Bhutan’s national animal, the takin - a unique, goat-antelope-like creature found in the Eastern Himalayas. Continue to Changangkha Lhakhang which is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Thimphu, Bhutan. Perched on a ridge overlooking the city, this 12th-century monastery is a spiritual sanctuary for locals, especially parents who bring their newborns for blessings.
After breakfast drive to Punakha via popular Dochula pass, known for its stunning views of the Himalayas and the presence of 108 memorial chortens (stupas). It's a popular stop for tourists traveling between Thimphu and Punakha, offering breathtaking scenery and a glimpse into Bhutanese culture. Drive or Hike to Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Fertility Temple - a revered Buddhist monastery in Punakha, Bhutan. Built in 1499 by Ngawang Chogyal, it was blessed by the legendary Drukpa Kunley, the “Divine Madman,” known for his unconventional teachings. The temple is famous for its fertility blessings, where pilgrims - especially couples hoping for children - receive a unique ritual involving a wooden phallus. Continue towards Punakha Dzong, also known as Pungthang Dewa Chhenbi Phodrang ("Palace of Great Happiness"), is one of Bhutan’s most majestic fortresses. Built in 1637–38 by Ngawang Namgyal. Walk across the Punakha Suspension Bridge - one of Bhutan’s longest and most iconic suspension bridges, stretching approximately 160–180 meters across the Po Chhu River. Built with steel cables and wooden planks, it connects Punakha Dzong to nearby villages, offering breathtaking views of the lush valleys and mountains. Adorned with fluttering prayer flags, the bridge provides a thrilling yet serene experience as it gently sways with the wind. A must-visit for adventure seekers and photographers alike!
After breakfast drives make a short, adventurous hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten - a stunning and unique temple perched on a hill overlooking the Punakha Valley in Bhutan. Built to promote peace and harmony, this chorten showcases intricate Bhutanese architecture and symbolic art. The short hike to the temple takes you through picturesque rice fields, rewarding you with serene views of the valley and surrounding mountains.
Drive towards Paro. Stop by Tachog Lhakhang, meaning "Temple of the Hill of the Excellent Horse," is a sacred 15th-century temple built by the legendary Thangtong Gyalpo, Bhutan’s famous iron bridge builder. Located along the Paro-Thimphu highway, this monastery sits at the base of a mountain, offering a serene riverside setting. Visit Paro Museum (National Museum of Bhutan), perched above Paro Dzong, the National Museum of Bhutan is housed in the historic Ta Dzong, a former watchtower built in 1649. Established as a museum in 1968, it showcases Bhutanese art, artifacts, and cultural treasures, including ancient thangkas, bronze statues, traditional weapons, and historical manuscripts. Continue towards Paro Dzong, officially known as Rinpung Dzong - a majestic fortress-monastery in Paro, Bhutan. Built in 1646 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it serves as both a religious and administrative center. The dzong’s name translates to "Fortress on a Heap of Jewels," reflecting its historical and cultural significance. With its towering white walls, intricate wooden carvings, and stunning valley views, Paro Dzong is a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture. It hosts the Paro Tsechu, an annual festival featuring vibrant masked dances and religious rituals.
Early morning breakfast - Start your day by driving towards Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang) - Perched dramatically on a cliff-side at 3,120 meters, Tiger’s Nest Monastery is Bhutan’s most iconic landmark. According to legend, Guru Padmasambhava flew here on the back of a tigress and meditated in a cave, subduing evil spirits. Built in 1692, this sacred site consists of four temples, linked by wooden bridges and stairways carved into the rock. The challenging yet rewarding hike to the monastery offers breathtaking views of the Paro Valley, making it a must-visit spiritual and cultural destination. Visit Kyichu Lhakhang - One of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, Kyichu Lhakhang was built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. It is believed to be one of 108 temples constructed to subdue a demoness obstructing the spread of Buddhism. The temple houses a revered Jowo Sakyamuni statue, and its courtyard features two mystical orange trees that bear fruit year-round. Over centuries, Padmasambhava and other Buddhist masters have blessed and expanded the temple, making it a spiritual cornerstone of Bhutan.
Morning breakfast - After breakfast transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey.
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