Transfer from Paro to Thimphu

Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge - Tagchog Lhakhang, a temple situated near Paro in Bhutan, was established by the renowned Tibetan saint Thangtong Gyalpo in the 15th century. It is famous for its distinctive iron chain bridge, constructed by Gyalpo himself, which remains intact to this day. Visitors to Tagchog Lhakhang can enjoy its peaceful ambiance and take in the stunning views of the surrounding scenery.

Thimphu Handicrafts Market - The Thimphu Craft Bazaar is a lively market in Bhutan’s capital, showcasing a diverse range of traditional handicrafts created by local artisans. It features a rich assortment of items such as handwoven textiles, detailed wood carvings, and vibrant paintings, highlighting Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors to the bazaar can have a unique shopping experience while supporting local craftsmen and preserving traditional Bhutanese art forms.

Thimphu’s Weekend Market - The Thimphu Weekend Market, known locally as Kaja Throm, is a bustling spot where locals and tourists come together to purchase fresh produce, traditional foods, and handmade goods. Spanning both sides of the Wang Chhu River, it provides a lively glimpse into Bhutanese daily life and culture. The market is an excellent place to experience the tastes and traditions of Bhutan, with vendors offering everything from organic vegetables to handcrafted items.

Thimphu sightseeing

Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten) - The Memorial Chorten in Thimphu is a notable Tibetan-style stupa built in 1974 to honor the third King of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. It serves as a focal point of daily worship for many Bhutanese, who walk around the chorten, spinning prayer wheels and offering prayers. The white structure, adorned with intricate golden spires and beautiful mandalas, stands as a symbol of peace and a significant religious landmark in Bhutan’s capital.

Buddha Dordenma - The Buddha Dordenma is an enormous statue located atop a hill in Thimphu, Bhutan, standing at 54 meters tall. This impressive bronze statue, gilded in gold, houses over 125,000 smaller Buddha statues, making it a major pilgrimage site and a symbol of peace and prosperity. Overlooking the southern entrance to Thimphu Valley, the Buddha Dordenma offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Motithang Takin Preserve - The Takin Preserve in Thimphu is a wildlife reserve dedicated to Bhutan’s national animal, the takin, a unique and rare goat-antelope. This sanctuary provides a natural habitat for the takins, allowing visitors to observe these unusual creatures in a serene, forested environment. The preserve also plays a crucial role in the conservation and protection of this endemic species, promoting awareness and appreciation of Bhutan’s rich biodiversity.

Simply Bhutan Museum - Simply Bhutan is a living museum in Thimphu that offers visitors an immersive experience of traditional Bhutanese culture and lifestyle. This interactive museum showcases various aspects of Bhutanese heritage, including traditional arts, crafts, food, and architecture. Visitors can engage in cultural activities such as archery, try on traditional Bhutanese attire, and enjoy folk music and dance performances.

Tashichho Dzong (Thimpu Dzong) - This massive structure houses part of the government Ministries, the office of the King and the Throne Room. It also houses the State Monastic Body and the living quarters of the Chief Abbot and the senior monks.

Thimphu – Gangtey/Phobjikha

Dochula Pass - Dochula Pass, situated at an altitude of 3,100 meters, is a breathtaking mountain pass in Bhutan that offers panoramic views of the Himalayan range. It is known for the 108 memorial chortens, called the Druk Wangyal Chortens, built in honor of Bhutanese soldiers who died in battle. Visitors to Dochula Pass can enjoy stunning scenery, vibrant rhododendron forests, and the peaceful atmosphere of this historical and spiritual site.

Gangtey/Phobjikha Excursion

Gangtey Monastery - Gangtey Monastery, also known as Gangtey Gonpa, is a significant Buddhist monastery located in the Phobjikha Valley of Bhutan. Founded in the 17th century by Pema Lingpa’s grandson, it is an important center for the Nyingma school of Buddhism. Surrounded by beautiful landscapes, the monastery offers stunning views and serves as a spiritual hub, especially during the annual Black-necked Crane Festival, which celebrates the arrival of these endangered birds to the valley.

Phobjikha - Punakha

Chimi Lhakhang Temple - Chimi Lhakhang, located in the Punakha district of Bhutan, is a revered Buddhist monastery dedicated to the 15th-century saint Drukpa Kunley, known as the “Divine Madman.” It is famous for its fertility blessings and colorful phallus symbols adorning the walls and houses in the nearby village of Sopsokha. Pilgrims visit Chimi Lhakhang to receive blessings for fertility, childbirth, and overall well-being, making it a unique cultural and spiritual site in Bhutan.

Punakha Dzong - The dzong resembles a giant ship resting on a still body of water from afar. Built at the confluence of two rivers, the Pho (male) and Mo (female) rivers, the Dzong served as the capital of Bhutan until 1955 and remains the winter residence of the Chief Abbot. Constructed in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it has played a significant role in the civil and religious history of the Kingdom. Despite being destroyed four times by fire and an earthquake in 1897, the Dzong has been fully restored to its original splendor.

Punakha Suspension Bridge - The Punakha Suspension Bridge is one of Bhutan’s longest suspension bridges, spanning the Po Chhu River near Punakha Dzong. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the impressive Punakha Dzong itself. Crossing this bridge provides visitors with an exhilarating experience while connecting them to the natural beauty and cultural landmarks of the Punakha Valley.

Punakha excursion

Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup nunnery - The Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery in Punakha is a beautiful Buddhist monastery known for its stunning location overlooking the Punakha Valley. Established to empower women in Buddhist practice, it offers a peaceful retreat with panoramic views of the Himalayas. Visitors can explore its tranquil grounds, admire traditional Bhutanese architecture, and witness the daily life and religious practices of the nuns, making it a cultural and spiritual gem in Bhutan.

Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten - Built in the 1990s in honor of the Crown Prince Jigme Kheser Namgyel Wangchuk, the Chorten sits atop a ridge near the Punakha River and requires a 30-minute drive from town, followed by a 45-minute uphill hike, crossing a picturesque suspension bridge and rice fields. On the way back, you’ll enjoy a 30-minute downhill stroll.

Move to Paro

Rinpung Dzong - Rinpung Dzong, located in Paro, Bhutan, is a historic fortress monastery built in the 17th century. It serves as both a religious and administrative center, housing sacred temples and government offices. The dzong’s intricate architecture, adorned with colorful murals and detailed woodwork, reflects Bhutanese cultural and religious traditions. Rinpung Dzong is also renowned for hosting the annual Paro Tsechu festival, attracting visitors from all over to witness its vibrant masked dances and religious rituals.

National Museum - The National Museum of Bhutan in Paro is housed in a traditional watchtower, known as Ta Dzong, dating back to the 17th century. It showcases Bhutanese art, cultural artifacts, and historical treasures, offering visitors a comprehensive insight into the kingdom’s rich heritage. The museum’s exhibits include religious statues, traditional clothing, ancient manuscripts, and artifacts reflecting Bhutan’s unique traditions and history, making it a must-visit for those interested in Bhutanese culture.

Hike to Taktsang

Paro Taktsang - As you reach Taktsang, you will be amazed by the architectural marvel of this most sacred Buddhist shrine in Bhutan. Perched about 1000m, 3000ft on a cliff overlooking the valley, it would rightfully qualify as one of Bhutan’s wonders. Tragically destroyed in a fire in early 1998, it has been rebuilt to its original glory. It is said that the legendary Indian saint, Guru Padma Sambhava, flew from Tibet on the back of a tigress to tame five demons who were opposing the spread of Buddhism in Bhutan in 746 A.D. Hence, the name, Taktshang, or the “Tiger’s Lair.”

Kyichu Lhakhang - Kyichu Lhakhang, located in Paro, Bhutan, is one of the oldest and most sacred temples in the country, dating back to the 7th century. Founded by the Tibetan Emperor Songtsen Gampo, it is revered for its historical significance and spiritual sanctity. Kyichu Lhakhang houses ancient statues, intricate frescoes, and a revered orange tree said to bear fruit throughout the year, making it a cherished pilgrimage site and cultural landmark in Bhutan.

Departure from Bhutan

Paro - You will be dropped at the airport for your next onward destination.

• Private transportation
• Entrance fees
• Special dietary and allergy request
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Breakfast
• All fees and/or taxes

• Alcohol and beverages
• Flight tickets
• Travel insurance
• Gratuities to guides and driver