On a clear day, the flight into Paro offers stunning views of the towering Himalayan peaks, including Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Makalu. As the plane descends, you’ll also catch sight of Bhutan’s own snow-capped mountains—Jhomolhari, Jichu Drake, and Tserimgang. Upon landing at Paro Airport and completing the necessary formalities, you’ll be welcomed by A Solitary Monk Travels representative. From there, we begin our scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s vibrant capital—a fascinating mix of traditional heritage and contemporary life.

Once we arrive in Thimphu, we’ll check in at our hotel. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the National Memorial Chorten, a prominent monument envisioned by Bhutan’s third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. We’ll then head to Tashichhodzong, the grand seat of Bhutan’s government which houses the King’s office, Throne Room, key ministries, and the living quarters of the Chief Abbot. It was originally constructed in 1641 and later restored by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in the 1960s.

After breakfast, we’ll continue exploring the capital, visiting sites that offer insight into Bhutan’s traditional literature and craftsmanship.
Today’s itinerary includes:
• Institute for Zorig Chusum (also called the Painting School): A six-year academy where students master Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts. (Closed on Sundays and government holidays.)
• National Library: Home to a valuable collection of ancient Buddhist manuscripts. (Closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and government holidays.)
After these visits, we’ll head to Paro for lunch. Upon arrival, we’ll explore:
• Ta Dzong: Originally a watchtower and now it is Bhutan’s National Museum.
• Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong): Perched above Paro Valley, this fortress-monastery was built in 1646 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. It serves as both the monastic center and the civil administration office. (Closed on Sundays and government holidays.)
• Kyichu Lhakhang: A 7th-century temple—one of the 108 built by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo—celebrating the introduction of Buddhism to Bhutan.
We’ll spend the night at the hotel in Paro.

In the morning, we’ll prepare for our trek to Taktsang Monastery, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest. Perched dramatically on a cliff side about 900 m above Paro Valley, this sacred monastery is linked to the legendary story of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), the father of Bhutanese Buddhism. According to tradition, he flew to this very cave in the 8th century on the back of a tigress—thought to be his consort Yeshe Tsogyal—and meditated there.

Although most of the complex was destroyed by fire on April 19, 1998— meticulous restoration efforts overseen by the government and the Fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, saw it rebuilt by 2005.Upon returning from this spiritual and scenic experience, we’ll head back to the hotel.

Overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Paro Airport for your departure flight.