7D6N Discover Bhutan

Day 1: Paro to Thimphu, Tamchoe Lhakhang and Memorial Garden

Welcome to Bhutan. On the day of your arrival, look forward to experiencing one of the most unique and serene airports in the world. Embellished with unique installation artworks by local Bhutanese artists, the Paro Airport is an experience in itself. Enjoy a one hour drive taking you straight into the rugged mountainscape on your way to the capital of Bhutan.

On your way towards Thimphu, enjoy the breathtaking view of Tamchoe Lhakhang nestled in between the rugged mountains overlooking the crystal clear river flowing from Paro. Walk on one of Bhutan’s oldest iron bridges covered in prayer flags, and steadily make a short hike towards the majestic temple opposite the Paro-Thimphu highway.

After settling in your hotel, take a stroll in the evening enjoying the heart of Thimphu by walking along locals praying and circumambulating the capital’s famous landmark - the Memorial Stupa. The stupa was built in 1974 in memory of King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, 3rd Druk Gyalpo, who had died in 1972.

Accommodation: Peaceful Resort or similar

Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing - Semtokha Dzong, Buddha Dordenma Statue, Royal Takin Reserve and Tashichhoedzong
Visit the first fortress built in Bhutan. The drive to Semtokha takes you to the southeastern part of the capital on uphill meandering roads. This fortress sits comfortably on a hill which is believed to be where a demoness was subdued a very long time ago. Enjoy a beautiful view of the capital in the distance as you find yourself surrounded by rich pine forests in Semtokha.

This is one of the biggest Buddha statues in Asia. The statue houses over one hundred thousand smaller Buddha statues, each of which, like the Great Buddha Dordenma itself, are made of bronze and gilded in gold. The landmark has a wide space for visitors to sit and meditate without being disturbed by overcrowding visitors. The stunning 360 degree view of Thimphu valley is an experience as well.

Visit a museum-setting restaurant in the heart of Thimphu. Experience a traditional setting kitchen and other sets as you explore the myriad of rooms and courtyards etched in an interesting small space. You can also taste authentic Bhutanese meals with traditional dance performances as you enjoy a taste of Bhutanese flavours.
Travel northwest of the capital and find yourself deeper into the pine forests of upper Motithang. These forests are also home to Bhutan’s national animal, the takin. Shaped like mythical creatures, the takin is a rare sight even in Bhutan. Enjoy the tall walkways in the preserve as you breathe in the cooler air. You can also enjoy a cappuccino and croissants at the cafe at the end of the walkway slightly above the preserve.

There is no chaotic traffic in Thimphu which is why the best way to explore the capital is by walking. Find authentic souvenirs and crafts at the Craft Market. The long line of shops is an ideal walkway to enjoy glimpses of traditional Bhutanese crafts like yak textiles, bamboo basket bowls, tapestries, purses, bags and so much more.

The parallel structure in northern Thimphu is the seat of the main administrative office of the Bhutanese government and the King of Bhutan. The Dzong is also the seat of the country’s monastic body.

A visit to Bhutan is not complete without tasting authentic Bhutanese cuisine. Unlike the bland tourist-friendly flavours in most hotel food, you can enjoy the real taste of traditional flavours at some of the local restaurants in town

Accommodation: Peaceful Resort or similar

Day 3: Excursion to Punakha - Dochula Pass, Chimmi Lhakhang, Punakha Dzong, Longest Suspension Bridge

The drive from the capital towards Dochula takes you to a higher altitude and heights as you begin to sight an entire range of the Himalayas from the viewpoint in Dochula. The pass is also home to the famous landmark of the 108 stupas paying tribute to the Fourth King of Bhutan. The surrounding stillness and mist of the landscape create an ideal mountain escape in the Himalayas.

Welcome to the temple of fertility where sights and stories of the Phallus saint Drukpa Kuenley pave the path through vast rice fields. It is believed that those blessed by the phallus symbol at the temple leave with the blessing of fertility.

Many historic and significant events from Bhutan’s history has happened here. From being the winter residence of the Monastic body to witnessing the crowning and wedding of the King of Bhutan, these ancient walls of Punakha Dzong are as mesmerizing as its sacred value. This majestic structure is the only fortress to be seated at the confluence of the two rivers of the valley. Do not miss the sight of the Dzong in spring when Jacaranda blossoms embellish the ancient fortress.

There’s an exciting way to experience the glacial water rivers of Punakha. Driving along the Pho Chhu (male river) you’ll come across Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge connecting Samtengang village to the fortress. As you take in the fresh water breeze and enjoy the breathtaking landscape, you’ll also meet locals taking a stroll on the narrow long suspension bridge or making their way home from the Dzong.

Accommodation: Punakha Residency or similar

Day 4: (Option A) Explore Punakha - Khamsum Yugyal Chhorten and Punakha Dzong

Morning hike to Khamsum Yugyal Chhorten takes you through the beautiful rice fields of northern Punakha close to the glacial river descending from the northern mountains. The unique stupa was built to provide spiritual protection, peace and harmony.

After the hike, rest and recuperate near the beautiful riverside as you sight the stupa and villages in the distance. The rice fields and the gentle river breeze is ideal for a picnic after the hike

After an enjoyable meal, get ready to explore Punakha valley in a adventurous way. The gentle rafting session is one of the most popular ways to enjoy the vistas of the valley. The end of the raft ride also takes you closer to the distinct fortress of Punakha Dzong.

Day 4: (Option B) Explore Phobjikha - Phobjikha Valley, Gangtey Valley Hike and Crane Center
Take a scenic 3 hour drive to Bhutan’s most picturesque valley - Phobjikha. Home to the endangered black necked cranes and a scenic destination unlike any other place in the Kingdom.

Explore the broad scenic valley of Phobjikha close to the roosting area of the cranes via the Gangtey Valley View hike. The easy short trail takes you through village clusters, wide green meadows and ancient giant pine trees.

Phobjikha valley is a haven for sighting the elusive Black Necked Cranes. The Crane Centre by the Royal Society for the Protection of Nature has exhibits and records of Bhutan’s conservation efforts supporting the annual habitation patterns of the endangered birds. You can also see the two cranes under the care of the centre.

The valley is one of the first to start homestay programs in Bhutan. The homecooked meals here are also considered to be one of the best food served to guests visiting the valley.

Accommodation: Phuntshocholing Lodge or similar

Day 5: Return to Thimphu, Lamperi Park
Enjoy the drive back to Thimphu taking more time stopping by the local vendors selling roasted corn, rice snacks and local organic fruits from village orchards and gardens.

The beautiful park of Lamperi close to the Dochula Pass is a haven of Rhodhodendron flowers in spring. But if you’re here during the other seasons, you can explore the walkways and lakeside at the park. The forests near the pass is a beautiful exploration space as well.

As you take some time to rest back at your hotel in Thimphu, you’ll also have time to explore some other landmarks in the capital you may have missed on day one. Visit the museum at Bhutan Post showcasing the stories of Bhutan’s Stamp history and their exquisite collection. Explore the Kaja Throm market with the freshest produce from all over the country. The market also takes you to Thimphu’s popular VAST art gallery.

Accommodation: Nirvana Inn or similar

Day 6: Thimphu to Paro - Taktshang/ Tiger's Nest
Take the 3 hour hike to the most famous destination in Bhutan - The Tiger’s Nest. Perched on the rugged cliff of northern Paro at around 3120 m, Paro Taktshang is a breathtaking and an unforgettable sight you must see once in your lifetime. From the sound of horse bells on the trails to the mountain wind as the vistas of the monastery finally begin to appear close, the journey to Taktshang is as unforgettable as the destination itself.

As you finally complete your sacred hike to the Tiger’s Nest, let your body rest at a homestay close to the base of the hike. Enjoy taste of traditional tea as you experience the setting of a traditional home surrounded by small fields and the sounds of roosters and grandmothers pounding rice in the courtyard.

Paro town is a dedicated heritage town. The main lanes of two storied traditional houses are vibrant with shop colors and bright lights but the setting feels like an old town lane ideal for evening walks. Do not miss the sight of Paro Rinpung Dzong at the end of the lane shining brightly as dusk sets in.

HOT STONE BATH (Optional)

Let your body relax at the end of the Bhutan trip with a relaxing traditional hot stone bath. The river stones are heated on open fires and placed in the separated section of the hot water tub. Afternoon-picked artemesia are immersed into the hot tub emanating its medicinal properties and fresh scent. It is the perfect ending to a journey into this Kingdom in the Himalayas.

Accommodation: Nirvana Inn or similar

Day 7: Free and Easy in City before flight home

Free and Easy in Paro before flight back home.