Bhutan Tour

Exploring the Himalayan Haven

Arrival in Paro, Bhutan. The city of Paro is situated in a lush green valley, considered one of the most beautiful in Bhutan, at an elevation of 2,200 meters above sea level.

Upon landing, we will meet our representative at the airport and drive for about an hour to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan and its political and administrative center.

Thimphu is located at the confluence of rivers and is surrounded by coniferous forests. It is home to the royal families and important aristocracy of Bhutan. The impressive dzong, which serves as the government seat, houses the parliament and the king’s offices. The streets are adorned with numerous stupas and both large and small temples, bustling with pilgrims engaged in vibrant religious activities. Notable institutions include the National Library, the Academy of Arts, and local markets, alongside modern establishments like hotels and cafés.

Upon arrival, we will transfer to our hotel. In the evening, we will explore the main street of Thimphu and the market area.
Overnight in Thimphu.

After breakfast, we will embark on a city tour of Thimphu. We will visit the ancient library and the National Institute for Traditional Arts, known as Zorig Chusum, established in 1971 to preserve and promote various traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan.

Next, we will explore the Textile Museum, which showcases weaving culture, techniques, and various clothing styles. Following that, we will visit the Simply Bhutan Folk Heritage Museum, where we can learn about the country’s traditional lifestyle.

We will then ascend to Buddha Point for stunning views of the Thimphu Valley and the royal family residence.

Afterward, we will stop at the Memorial Chorten, where locals often turn the prayer wheels, before visiting the impressive Trashichhoedzong. This medieval fortress, perched on a hill overlooking the city, houses the offices of the king, ministers, and the central monastic body.

After the tour, we will transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Thimphu.

After breakfast, we will embark on a two-hour drive along Bhutan’s only highway that crosses the country from end to end. This scenic route takes us through mountain passes, valleys, forests, streams, and small villages adorned with temples and folk shrines. We will cross the Dochula Pass at an altitude of 3,100 meters, where, weather permitting, we can enjoy breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayas, the abode of Bhutan’s founding deities.

Continuing on, we will make a steep ascent for about an hour and a half, winding down into the Punakha Valley, which sits at an elevation of 1,300 meters. Punakha is known as the religious heart of the nation, housing the main monastic body of Bhutan within its dzong.

Upon arrival, we will visit the Punakha Dzong, the most important and beautiful dzong in Bhutan, which also houses the country’s largest monk school. In the afternoon, we will stroll through the charming streets of the town and visit the Chimi Lhakhang, a renowned temple dedicated to the legendary 14th-century monk Drukpa Kunley, known for his unconventional and playful approach to spirituality.

Following our explorations, we will transfer to our hotel.
Overnight in Punakha.

After breakfast, we will embark on a scenic hike through chili fields towards the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, a temple built to promote peace and harmony in the world.

Following our visit, we will head to the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery, situated on a high ridge among pine trees, offering stunning views of the Punakha Valley. The nunnery complex also features a higher learning center and a meditation space for the nuns. In addition to religious training, it provides skills training in areas such as tailoring, embroidery, sculpture creation, and Buddhist thangka painting.
Overnight in Punakha.

After breakfast, we will embark on a journey of approximately 4.5 hours to Paro.

Along the way, we will stop to visit Simtokha Dzong, which serves as a center for the study of the Dzongkha language and hosts courses in tantra.

Continuing our drive to Paro, upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel for some relaxation.

Later, we will visit Ta Dzong, originally built as a watchtower and now housing the National Museum. Following this, we will take a short walk to Rinpung Dzong, an impressive fortress that showcases the rich history and architecture of Bhutan.
Overnight in Paro.

After breakfast, we will embark on a hike to Taktsang Monastery, also known as the “Tiger’s Nest,” which is perched on the side of a cliff overlooking the Paro Valley. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew to Bhutan from Tibet on the back of a tiger, bringing the teachings of Buddhism with him. This monastery is considered one of the holiest sites in Bhutan.

The hike is challenging and takes approximately 5 hours, or you can ride a pony to the cafeteria and continue the ascent on foot. There is also the option to hike only halfway up.

Following our visit, we will return to Paro. Along the way, we will stop to explore the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong, where Bhutanese warriors fought against the Tibetans. We will also visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo.
Overnight in Paro.

After breakfast, we will transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule for your return journey home.