After an awe-inspiring flight into Paro International Airport—where you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas including Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Jomolhari, and Jichu Drake—you’ll experience a thrilling landing. Upon arrival, our company representatives will greet you and escort you to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital.

On the way, we’ll stop at Tamchoe Lhakhang, a historic temple believed to be one of the residences of 14th-century Buddhist master Thangtong Gyalpo, also known as the “Iron Bridge Builder.” He famously constructed 58 iron chain bridges across Bhutan and Tibet, with one still standing beside the temple today. Tamchoe Lhakhang houses many sacred relics and holds spiritual significance.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Thimphu

We begin the day with a visit to Tashichho Dzong, 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. From there, we’ll head to the Memorial Chorten, a stupa built in honor of the Third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Next, we will visit Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang), where the world’s largest seated Buddha overlooks panoramic views of Thimphu Valley. After lunch, we will tour the Arts and Crafts School, where students learn and practice traditional Bhutanese art.

In the evening, we’ll stop at Sangaygang Viewpoint for a stunning view of the city, followed by a visit to the Takin Preserve, home to Bhutan’s unique national animal. We wil then explore the National Library, known for its ancient texts and manuscripts, and the Folk Heritage Museum, which showcases traditional Bhutanese rural life. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk along Thimphu’s main street.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Thimphu

After an early breakfast, we will proceed to Punakha, a beautiful valley known for its warm subtropical climate. About 45 minutes into the drive, we will stop at the scenic Dochula Pass (3,100m), offering breathtaking views of the eastern Himalayas on clear days. The pass is also home to the 108 Druk Wangyel Chortens, built in honor of Bhutanese soldiers.

En route, we take a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang, the 15th-century temple dedicated to the eccentric saint Drukpa Kuenley, also known as the “Divine Madman.” This revered monastery is known for blessings of fertility.

After lunch, we visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, once the capital of Bhutan until 1955 and still the winter residence of the Chief Abbot. Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the fortress is a masterpiece of traditional architecture, dramatically set between the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. It houses some of Bhutan’s most sacred religious relics. Despite being damaged multiple times by fire and an earthquake, it has been fully restored to its original grandeur.

To end the day, we enjoy a gentle walk to Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge, offering stunning river views and photo opportunities.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Punakha/Wangdiphodrang

After breakfast, we’ll set out for Gangtey, traveling through Wangduephodrang. En route, we’ll pause to visit the striking Wangduephodrang Dzong, dramatically situated on a ridge at the confluence of two rivers. We’ll also stop by a local village to get a glimpse of everyday life in the area. The drive then winds through mountain roads lined with oak and rhododendron forests, crossing a high pass before descending into the picturesque Phobjikha Valley. In the evening, take a stroll through Gangtey village and explore Gangtey Gompa, the only Nyingmapa monastery in the kingdom. The day ends with a cozy overnight stay, either in a charming guest house or at a serene campsite under the open sky.

Overnight stay at Gangtey

Known as one of Bhutan’s few glacial valleys, Phobjikha is also the winter sanctuary (from November to March) for the majestic black-necked cranes, which migrate from the Tibetan Plateau. The valley’s natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it one of the country’s most captivating destinations. In the morning, we will explore the quiet charm and natural wonders of Phobjikha Valley. We will visit the Black-Necked Crane Information Centre, where, during the winter months (November to March), you may catch a glimpse of these elegant migratory birds that travel from Tibet to spend the season here.

We will proceed to Trongsa in the afternoon, crossing Pele-la pass which is (3,300m/10,830ft). Towards the evening, we will explore Trongsa market.

Overnight Stay at Trongsa

After breakfast, we’ll explore Trongsa Dzong, a striking fortress constructed in 1647 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Once the seat of power in ancient Bhutan, it remains a site of major historical importance. By tradition, every Bhutanese monarch must first serve as the Penlop (Governor) of Trongsa before becoming king.

We’ll then head to the nearby Ta Dzong, a former watchtower, before setting off on a scenic drive to Bumthang, which takes around three hours. Roughly 29 kilometers from Trongsa, we’ll ascend the Yutong La Pass at 3,400 meters above sea level. Another 13 kilometers will lead us into the wide, fertile Chumey Valley. On arrival in Bumthang, we’ll settle in at our hotel for the night.

Bumthang is one of the most sacred places in Bhutan. The area is steeped in myths and revered as a center of Buddhist heritage. Your visit includes Kurje Lhakhang, where the revered Indian saint Guru Padmasambhava subdued a local demon and left his body imprint on a rock. You’ will also explore Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. Another key site is Jakar Dzong, or “Fortress of the White Bird,” constructed in the 17th century by Tenzin Rabgay, the fourth Desi.

Additional highlights include Tamshing Lhakhang, founded in 1501 by Terton Pema Lingpa, a great discoverer of spiritual treasures. You’ll also visit Kuencho Sum Lhakhang and the mystical Mebar Tsho, or Flaming Lake, which are important sites in Bhutanese spiritual tradition. In the evening we will explore local market.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Bumthang

We’ll start the day with an early morning visit to Bumthang’s local market before beginning our journey back to Thimphu, a scenic drive of around seven hours. En route, we’ll stop for lunch at a popular restaurant in Trongsa town. The drive then continues through the mountains toward Wangduephodrang, where we’ll take a short break for tea or coffee. From there, we proceed on the final leg to Thimphu. Upon arrival, we’ll check in at the hotel, followed by dinner and an overnight stay.

Our day begins with a visit to Kyichu Monastery, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan, built in 659 A.D. by Tibetan Buddhist King Songtsen Gampo. A short drive from there will bring us to the ruins of Drugyel Dzong, or “Fortress of the Victorious Drukpa,” constructed to honor Bhutan’s victories over Tibetan invasions during the 16th and 17th centuries.

We’ll also explore the National Museum and the Paro Rinpung Dzong, a fine example of traditional Bhutanese architecture. Later, enjoy a leisurely walk through the town before settling in for the night.
Overnight stay at the hotel.

Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest, is one of Bhutan’s most sacred sites and a stunning architectural marvel. Dramatically perched on a cliff about 1,000 meters (3,000 feet) above the Paro Valley, it offers both spiritual significance and breathtaking views. According to legend, the revered Indian saint Guru Padmasambhava flew here from Tibet on the back of a tigress to subdue demons obstructing the spread of Buddhism in Bhutan in 746 A.D. Today, Taktsang is considered the ultimate pilgrimage destination for Buddhists, particularly in Bhutan.

The hike to the monastery takes roughly five hours round trip, following an ancient trail lined with prayer wheels.

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