Arrival at Paro Airport - Thimphu

Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge - Upon arriving at Paro International Airport, our representative (Guide) will welcome you and drive you to Thimphu (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes). En route, visit Tachogang, where an iron chain bridge was constructed by Thang Thong Gyalpo.

Motithang Takin Preserve - Known to many as the Mini Zoo, the Motithang Takin Preserve is a small natural habitat for the Takin, Bhutan’s national animal. This rare goat-antelope species is unique to Bhutan. The preserve is a forested area that replicates the Takin’s natural environment and also houses a few musk deer and barking deer.

Thangthong Dewachen Nunnery - Also referred to as the Zilukha Nunnery, this site is home to around 60 nuns. Its serene surroundings provide a peaceful atmosphere that captivates visitors. From here, you can capture stunning views of Tashichho Dzong for a beautiful photo album.

Tashichho Dzong (Thimpu Dzong) - Tashichho Dzong, or Tashichhoedzong, is a significant fortress and monastery in Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. It serves as the seat of the Bhutanese government and houses the King’s throne room. This site is a vital religious and administrative center, playing a crucial role in Bhutan’s political and cultural life.

Changlimithang Stadium & Archery Ground - Archery
Bhutan’s glory is well-known, with its vibrant culture, festivals, and sports. The royal sport of archery, or “Da” in Dzongkha, the national language, is a key part of this. Take a stroll around downtown Thimphu.

Thimphu sightseeing

Tango Buddhist Institute - Tango Monastery, also known as Tango Cheri Monastery, is a notable Buddhist site about 14 kilometers north of Thimphu. Located on a hillside in the upper Thimphu Valley, it is a significant religious site and a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims.

National Folk Heritage Museum - The Folk Heritage Museum in Bhutan showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage and traditions. It preserves and displays the traditional lifestyle, customs, and crafts of the Bhutanese people.

Jungshi handmade paper factory - This factory uses traditional methods to produce handmade paper from the bark of the daphne tree, known locally as “Desho.” The process includes harvesting the bark, soaking it, boiling it to soften the fibers, and beating it into a pulp, which is then spread on wooden frames to dry in the sun.

Buddha Dordenma - The Buddha Dordenma, or “Buddha Point,” is a massive statue of Buddha Shakyamuni located atop a hill in Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park, overlooking Thimphu. Standing at 51.5 meters (169 feet), it is one of the world’s largest Buddha statues, made of bronze and gilded in gold.

Thimphu Handicrafts Market - The Craft Market in Thimphu is a lively place where visitors can find traditional Bhutanese handicrafts, textiles, artwork, and souvenirs. Located near the city center, it is a popular spot for tourists to purchase authentic Bhutanese goods and experience the country’s cultural heritage.

Thimphu - Punakha

Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten) - The National Memorial Chorten is a focal point for religious and spiritual activities in Thimphu. It attracts both locals and tourists who come to circumambulate, offer prayers, and receive blessings from resident monks. Inside, there are shrines dedicated to various deities and Buddhist figures, along with relics and sacred objects.

Dochula Pass - Dochula Pass, at an elevation of around 3,100 meters (10,200 feet), offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges, including the snow-capped peaks.

Chimi Lhakhang Temple - Also known as the Fertility Temple, Chimi Lhakhang is a revered monastery near Sopsokha village in the Punakha Valley. It is popular among couples seeking blessings for conception and a healthy pregnancy. Couples visit the monastery to receive blessings from the resident lama.

Punakha Dzong - Punakha Dzong, or Pungtang Dechen Photrang Dzong, is one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and important dzongs. Located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, it is an architectural masterpiece with intricate woodwork and vibrant murals.

Punakha Suspension Bridge - This 160-meter bridge spans the Phochu River, connecting Punakha Dzong with nearby villages and agricultural lands. The bridge sways gently in the wind, adding a thrill to your journey. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, river, and Punakha Dzong, making it a favorite spot for photos.

Punakha - Paro

Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten - This stunning Buddhist shrine on a ridge above the Punakha Valley offers panoramic views of the mountains and rice fields. The trail to the chorten passes through lush rice paddies, small villages, and a suspension bridge over the Mo Chhu River, providing breathtaking views along the way.

Rinpung Dzong - Paro Rinpung Dzong, set against lush green hills and towering mountains, offers breathtaking views of the landscape. Established by the Zhabdrung to defend Paro Valley against Tibetan invasions, it hosts several annual religious festivals, including the famous Paro Tsechu.

Namgay Artisanal Brewery - This microbrewery in Paro produces a variety of craft beers using locally sourced ingredients and traditional brewing techniques. Founded by Namgay, who studied brewing in Germany, the brewery offers a unique taste of Bhutan.

Paro - Bumdra Camp

Hike from Bumdra via Zangthopelri Monastery to Taktsang to Paro

Paro Taktsang - After breakfast, we can either head back into the valley or linger to soak up the view and perhaps hang some prayer flags. The descent takes us through ancient pine and rhododendron forests on a zig-zag trail, with glimpses of temples below. The path winds between temples before reaching the gardens of Zangktopelri, offering views of Taktsang monastery perched on the cliff-face below. An hour later, we reach Taktsang’s gates, cross a gorge, descend to a waterfall, and climb steps to Tiger’s Nest. We then retrace our steps to our vehicle and drive back to the hotel.

Duration: 5 to 7 hours, depending on time spent in monasteries

Difficulty: Moderate (guided with lunch)

Departure

Paro Airport Bird’s Eye View Point - In the morning, we will drive you to the airport for your onward flight.

• Bhutan Travel Insurance
• Private transportation
• Monument Fees (Dzongs & Temples) and Museum Fees
• Bottle of water in the car
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Breakfast
• Certified English speaking local guide
• 3-star accommodation

• Personal Expenses such as Laundry, Tips, etc.
• Drinks & beverages.
• Sustainable Development Fee & Visa Fee
• Flight cost