Arrival at Paro International Airport / Transfer to Thimphu (2334m)

National Museum of Bhutan འབྲུག་གི་འགྲེམས་སྟོན་ཁང་། - Upon arrival at Paro, the only international airport in Bhutan, guests will be warmly welcomed by the guide and driver. The journey begins with a visit to the National Museum of Bhutan, followed by a transfer to Thimphu, the capital city.

The National Museum of Bhutan is situated in the historic Paro Ta Dzong, a watchtower fortress constructed in 1649. It showcases a vast collection of ancient Bhutanese artifacts and artworks, including traditional costumes, armor, weaponry, and handcrafted daily implements. This museum offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Bhutan. The Ta Dzong was transformed into the National Museum in 1968. After the museum visit, the journey continues to Thimphu.

Thimphu - Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, is located 55km from Paro town. The drive takes approximately 2 hours, including stops along the way.

Thimphu is home to around 115,000 residents and serves as the main hub for commerce, religion, and government in Bhutan. Upon arrival, the guide will assist with hotel check-in, allowing guests to relax before enjoying their first Bhutanese meal for lunch. Depending on the flight arrival time, lunch will be arranged in either Paro or Thimphu.

Buddha Dordenma - This impressive 169-foot bronze statue of Lord Buddha is perched on a hilltop overlooking the Thimphu valley. It was constructed to commemorate the 60th birthday of the Fourth King, His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, and to promote world peace. The statue houses over 100,000 smaller Buddha statues. Construction began in 2006 and concluded in 2015.

Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre - Weaving is a vital aspect of Bhutanese culture and tradition. Visitors can observe both men and women creating intricate designs and patterns in traditional textiles. In the past, it was common for one family member to weave for the entire household.

Changlimithang Stadium & Archery Ground - Pass by the Changlimithang Archery Ground and witness a game of archery if a match is underway. Archers celebrate each successful shot with dance and song, hitting targets 145m away.

Enjoy leisure time in Thimphu town.

Hike to Tango Monastery & Sightseeing in Thimphu

Tango Buddhist Institute - After an early breakfast, embark on a 2-3 hour round-trip hike to Tango Monastery, followed by sightseeing in Thimphu.

Tango Monastery is located north of Thimphu, on the opposite side of the mountain from Cheri Monastery. The hike to Tango is relatively easy, with most of the path paved and a gentle ascent. It is approximately 14km from Thimphu town. The trail winds through forests, taking about 1.5 hours to reach the monastery. Founded in 1222 by Tibetan saint Phajo Drugom Zhigpo, who established the Drukpa Kagyu School of Buddhism in Bhutan, the monastery was later rebuilt in 1689 by Tenzin Rabgye, the 4th Temporal ruler of Bhutan.

After visiting the monastery and offering prayers, return to the base and drive to Thimphu town. Lunch will be served at the Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant or a similar venue.

National Institute for Zorig Chusum - The National Institute for Zorig Chusum, located near the Folk Heritage Museum, was established to promote and preserve Bhutan’s thirteen traditional arts and crafts. It provides Bhutanese youth with increased access to learning these skills, which are an essential part of Bhutan’s cultural heritage.

Thimphu / Transfer to Punakha Valley (1200m)

Dochula Pass - After breakfast, transfer to Punakha valley via the sacred Dochula Pass, situated at an altitude of 3150m. The drive covers 74km and takes about 2.5 hours.

Approximately 45 minutes from Thimphu, Dochula Pass offers views of some of Bhutan’s highest peaks on clear days. Before the construction of the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens (stupas) in 2004, the pass was a sacred site blessed by Buddhist saint Lam Drukpa Kunley in the late 15th century.

Continuing towards Punakha, the road descends through pine forests, transitioning from 3,150m to a warmer subtropical valley at 1,200m. Before reaching Punakha town, visit the renowned 15th-century “Temple of Fertility.”

Chimi Lhakhang Temple - Chimi Lhakhang is situated on a gentle hilltop near Sopsokha village. A 20-30 minute walk through terraced paddy fields and traditional farmhouses leads to the temple. The history of Chimi Lhakhang is linked to 16th-century Lama Drukpa Kunley, known as the “Divine Madman” for his unconventional methods of cleansing people from religious dogmatism. The temple is associated with fertility blessings, particularly for couples unable to conceive.

Punakha Dzong - After lunch, visit the 17th-century Punakha Dzong in Punakha town. Originally named Pungthang Dewa Chenpoi Phodrang, meaning “Palace of Great Bliss,” it was built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. The dzong is the second oldest and largest in Bhutan, showcasing sacred wall paintings, intricate woodwork, and Bhutanese craftsmanship.

Punakha Suspension Bridge - After visiting Punakha Dzong, walk to Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge over the Phochu river. The dzong is flanked by the glacial-fed Phochu (male) and Mochu (female) rivers.

Sightseeing in Punakha / Transfer to Phobjikha Valley (3000m)

Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten - After breakfast, hike to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Chorten on a mountain ridge, followed by a transfer to Phobjikha valley. The drive covers 80km and takes about 3 hours.

The round-trip hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten takes about 2.5 hours. Overlooking the picturesque Punakha valley, the view includes the Mochu river winding through the fertile landscape. The chorten was built over nearly 10 years under the command of Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck, one of Bhutan’s Queen Mothers, and consecrated in 1999.

A 20-minute drive from Punakha leads to the nearest road head. From there, cross a suspension bridge over the Mochu river and follow the trail through paddy fields and a short uphill climb to the site.

Gangtey Monastery - Upon arrival in Phobjikha valley, visit the renowned 17th-century Gangtey Monastery, also known as Gangtey Gonpa. Founded in 1613, it is one of Bhutan’s largest monasteries and includes a monastic college where monks study Buddhist philosophy for nine years. The annual Gangtey Tshechu festival, featuring sacred mask dances and folk performances, is held here during autumn.

Gangtey Nature Hike / Transfer Back to Paro Valley (2200m)

Gangtey Nature Trail - After breakfast, embark on an invigorating nature hike, followed by a transfer back to Paro valley. The drive covers 175km and takes about 5 hours.

The 5km trail takes approximately 3 hours, winding through woods, meadows, traditional village houses, farmlands, and streams. This nature trail offers a wonderful experience of the valley and insight into the local lifestyle, with ample opportunities for photography.

Kyichu Lhakhang - Upon reaching Paro, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, located a short drive from Paro town. Built in 659 A.D. by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, it is one of Bhutan’s oldest monasteries. The temple is part of a series of 108 temples constructed to subdue a demoness hindering the spread of Buddhism. Bhutan is home to four of these temples.

Paro / Trek to Bumdrak Monastery (3860m)

Bumdrak / Descend Back to Paro Valley via Taktsang Monastery (3120m)

Paro Taktsang - Continue the descent to visit the sacred Taktsang Monastery, Bhutan’s most iconic site. Perched on an 800-meter cliff in Paro, the round-trip hike takes 4-5 hours. Known as “Tiger’s Nest,” it is a significant monastery linked to Guru Padmasambhava, who introduced Tantric Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th century. Legend says Guru Padmasambhava flew to Taktsang on a tigress. The monastery was built in 1692 on the sacred cave where he meditated.

Lunch will be served at the Taktsang cafeteria before descending to the base, where the driver will be waiting.

Transfer to Paro International Airport for Departure

Paro International Airport - After breakfast, guests will be transferred to Paro International Airport for their onward journey. The guide and driver will bid a fond farewell.

• All internal taxes for the services listed above
• Medical treatment at a hospital in Bhutan for injuries
• All ground transportation including airport transfers
• Trekking permit and National Museum entry fee
• All meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) and light snacks
• 1 night full-service outdoor camping at 3860m
• 6 nights twin-sharing accommodation at 3-star hotels
• Experienced English-speaking licensed tour guide
• Visa Fee & Processing with e-Visa delivery in 4-5 business days

• Travel insurance is highly recommended.
• International flights. Let us know if you need help with arranging flights to and from Bhutan.
• Alcoholic beverages, laundry services, telephone call charges
• Tips to guide and driver
• Emergency evacuation
• Guide speaking other major languages can be arranged for an additional fee.
• Any other expenses of personal nature

Embark on a thrilling 8-day journey through Bhutan’s rich historical culture and the heart of its four western districts, brimming with nature’s splendor. Experience nature walks, soak in the pure natural surroundings, discover rural communities, and immerse yourself in the local culture and people.

The sixth day of your expedition leads you to one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations, Bumdrak. Located on a high-altitude meadow at 3,860m, your path weaves through vibrant green forests along age-old trails, offering stunning views of the Paro Valley. Camp at a tranquil mountain meadow embellished with sacred Buddhist structures called Chortens and flapping prayer flags. The return trip to Paro features a visit to Bhutan’s most famous site, the 17th-century Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest). This monument, perched on a rocky 800-meter cliff, is a revered site with roots tracing back to the 8th century.

• This tour can be customized and run on a private basis just for you and your group.
• We highly recommend booking at least a few months before the departure date so that we have enough time to ensure the flights are available. If you already have flight tickets to and from Bhutan, we can take bookings up to a week before the departure date. To process visa, it only takes 4-5 business days.
• There are only two airlines that connect Bhutan with the outside world and so securing air tickets can be difficult especially during the months of high season. Currently, Bhutan is connected with these cities - Bagdogra, Bangkok, Delhi, Dhaka, Guwahati, Kathmandu, Kolkata, Singapore. We recommend you book your international flights a few months in advance especially if you plan to visit during the high season months of March to May and September to November. If you need help in arranging flights to/from Bhutan, please let us know much in advance.
• After you book the tour, kindly send us clear passports copies of all the participants. A biodata page including the machine-readable zone must be seen clearly. Passports should have a minimum of 6 MONTHS validity from the day you depart from Bhutan. You may also want to check the passport requirements by your next destination country after Bhutan. A copy of your e-Visa will be emailed to you once it is approved. It only takes 4-5 business days to get visa approval and it is 100 percent guaranteed as long as we receive clear passport copies of all the participants. The actual visa will be stamped on your passport upon arrival. Send the passport copies to the Local Supplier E-mail address.
• Participants below the age of 18 years old MUST be accompanied by at least one full-paying adult.

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.