On a clear day, the flight into Paro rewards travelers with breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayas, including Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Makalu. As the aircraft descends, you’ll also glimpse Bhutan’s own striking snow-covered peaks—Jhomolhari, Jichu Drake, and Tserimgang.

After arriving at Paro Airport and completing immigration procedures, a Solitary monk travels representative will greet you. From there, we’ll embark on a scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city.In the afternoon, we’ll visit the National Memorial Chorten—a significant monument envisioned by Bhutan’s third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. In the evening, we will explore the loal markets of Thimphu.

In the morning, we’ll visit Tashichhodzong, the main government complex that includes the throne room of His Majesty the King. It also serves as the summer residence of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot) and the central monastic community.

Next, we head to the National Library, which preserves a rich collection of ancient Buddhist texts, some dating back several centuries. Close by is the Institute for Zorig Chusum—commonly known as the Painting School—where students undergo a six-year program in Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts.

After lunch, we will visit the National Memorial Chorten. It was envisioned by Bhutan’s third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, as a symbol of global peace and prosperity. The chorten was completed in 1974. We will then explore the government-run handicrafts emporium and nearby private handicrafts shops offering a wide selection of handmade goods, including intricate thangkha paintings and finely woven textiles—renowned Bhutanese specialties.

In the evening, we will drive across the scenic Dochu La Pass (3,088m / 10,130ft) en route to Punakha. On a clear day, the majestic Himalayan peaks to the northeast come into full view, including (from left to right) Masagang (7,158m), Tsendegang (6,960m), Terigang (7,060m), Jejegangphugang (7,158m), Kangphugang (7,170m), Zongaphugang (7,060m)—a table mountain dominating the remote Lunana region—and finally, Gangkar Puensum, Bhutan’s highest peak at 7,497m.

 We’ll spend the night at a local hotel.

In the morning, we will visit Punakha Dzong which served as Bhutan’s capital until 1955, and remains the winter seat of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot). This impressive Dzong was constructed in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and to this day the dzong serve as the religious and administrative center of the region. After that we will visit Chimi Lhakhang, a revered fertility monastery founded in 1499 and dedicated to the “Divine Madman,” a 16th-century eccentric monk celebrated for his colorful and humorous folklore tales.

After lunch, we will proceed to visit Wangduephodrang Dzong. Perched on a ridge above the confluence of two rivers, the striking Wangduephodrang Dzong dominates the landscape. In the 17th century, this dzong played a key role in unifying Bhutan’s western, central, and southern regions.

In the evening, we will drive to Paro, stopping en route at Semtokha Dzong. It is the first Dzong built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1627.

Upon arrival in Paro, we’ll check in at our hotel for the night.

Paro Valley is rich in cultural and historical treasures. The day begins with a visit to Ta Dzong, a former watchtower constructed in the 17th century to protect Rinpung Dzong during regional conflicts. In 1968, it was converted into Bhutan’s National Museum and now houses a fascinating collection of artifacts.From there, we will visit Rinpung Dzong.

After lunch, we will drive north through the valley to explore the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong, located 18 kilometers from Paro town. This historic site marks the location where Bhutanese forces successfully defended their territory against several Tibetan invasions in the 1600s.

We also stop at Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the kingdom’s oldest and most revered temples, believed to date back to the 7th century.In the evening, enjoy a visit to a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse for a firsthand glimpse into rural life, with the chance to engage with a local family. Afterwards, take a relaxed walk through Paro’s main street—browse handicraft shops, or unwind at a local café or bar.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Paro.

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