Welcome to Bhutan! Pick up at Paro International Airport. Drive on a winding road to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. At Thimphu, visit Tashichho Dzong, Bhutan’s most impressive building. It has traditionally been the seat of the Druk desi or ‘Dharma Raja’, the head of Bhutan’s civil government, an office that has been combined with the kingship since the creation of the monarchy in 1907. It houses the throne room of His Majesty the King of Bhutan and is the summer residence of the venerated monastic community. The current Dzong is the impressive result of redesigning the original medieval structure sanctioned by the Third King, His Majesty King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck when he moved the capital to Thimphu from Punakha. Overnight in Thimphu.

Highlight of the day: Blessings for longevity and cleansing rituals (Complimentary)
After breakfast, start your day with a visit to the Memorial Chorten, also known as the Thimphu Chorten. This large Tibetan-style Buddhist monument, adorned with golden spires and bells, was constructed in 1974 to honor the memory of the third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck.
Next, explore the Folk Heritage Museum, housed in a traditional three-storied building. Established in 2001, this museum offers insights into the material culture and daily life of rural Bhutanese communities through a variety of artifacts.
Continue your journey at the National Institute of Zorig Chusum and the National Library of Bhutan, which was founded in 1967 under the patronage of HM Queen Ashi Phuntso Choden. The library began with a small collection of valuable texts. Discover the art of handmade paper production at the Junghi Paper Factory, where traditional papers made from plants are utilized for religious texts, packing materials, bags, lampshades, envelopes, and calendars.
Next, visit the National Institute of Traditional Medicine, dedicated to integrating allopathic and traditional healing practices. This facility includes a large laboratory and production area that ensures the quality of medicinal components, including plants, minerals, and precious metals. They also cultivate various herbs and plants on-site for their Bhutanese medicines.
Finally, stop by the Bhutan Postal Museum, established in November 2015 to commemorate the 60th Birth Anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo Jigme Singye Wangchuck. This museum narrates the story of Bhutan’s progress and development through the evolution of its communications and postal systems.
Overnight in Thimphu.

Highlight of the day: Prayer flags hoisting at Dochula Pass (Complimentary)
After breakfast, we take the Dochula pass, located 30 km from the capital, on the way to Punakha which offers a 360-degree of beautiful panoramic view of the Himalaya mountain range. The 108 chortens that adorn the beauty of this place were built by Queen Mother to commemorate the Bhutanese soldiers who were killed when fighting the Indian rebels in 2003. The pass is also popular spiritual place for both locals and tourists because of an important temple that is located on the crest of Dochula pass.
Visit Chimi Lhakhang: located near Lobesa, Punakha stands on a round hillock and is flanked by hundreds of prayer flags. Built in 1499, this monastery is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kinley or ‘the Divine Madman’. An accomplished master of Mahamudra Buddhist Tradition, he is also known as the ‘Mad Saint’ for his unorthodox ways of teaching Buddhism by singing, humor and outrageous behavior.
Overnight in Punakha

After breakfast, we’ll make a three-hour drive to Gangtey, with a stop along the way to visit the Incense Factory in Bajo town. This family-owned business has been crafting incense for over a century, passed down through generations. (Please note: Since it is privately owned, it may close without notice and is typically closed on government holidays and weekends.)
As we continue, the road gradually ascends through lush oak, magnolia, and rhododendron forests, eventually reaching the revered Black Mountain Range, an ancient natural barrier that once divided Bhutan’s eastern and western regions. We’ll take a short break at Nubding, where you can enjoy tea and snacks while soaking in panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks, including Mount Jumolhari (7,326m/23,443ft) on clear days.
Explore Gangtey Monastery, a revered spiritual site and one of the most significant monasteries of the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism. Afterward, enjoy a walk through the breathtaking Phobjikha Valley, renowned for its stunning landscapes and as a winter home to the sacred black-necked cranes. If visiting in winter, spend an hour or so hiking around the roosting areas of these beautiful birds. The trail takes you across mostly flat terrain, winding through charming village farms. At the end of the trail, your transport will be ready to transfer you to your hotel. Arrive, unwind, and enjoy a peaceful night’s rest in Gangtey.

Today, we take a scenic drive towards Bumthang, one of the most beautiful and culturally rich regions in Bhutan. The journey is filled with stunning landscapes and historical sights. Our first stop along the way is the Chendebji Chorten, a prominent stupa built in the 18th century, located near the village of Chendebji. This serene spot is a perfect place to stretch your legs while taking in the peaceful surroundings.
Continuing our drive, we’ll pass through the picturesque village of Trongsa and its impressive Trongsa Dzong, perched dramatically on a ridge above the town. A visit to the Royal Heritage Museum in Trongsa provides fascinating insights into Bhutan’s royal history, offering an educational break during our drive.
Lunch will be served at the tranquil Willing Falls, a delightful spot perfect for a relaxing break amidst the journey. After lunch, we continue our drive towards Bumthang, arriving in the evening. We arrive at our hotel in Bumthang, where you can unwind and prepare for another day of exploring the region.
Optional Hot Stone Bath: You can experience a traditional Hot Stone Bath with advance notice. Hot stone bath is purely a Bhutanese traditional method of curing skin ailments, joint pains, hypertension, stomach disorders, arthritis, and many other minor diseases. Even if you don’t have any of these issues, after a laborious hike of the day, you will feel relaxation from the hot stone bath. Pre-booking is a requirement.

After a hearty breakfast, we begin our day in Bumthang with a walking tour to visit three of the region’s most revered temples: Jambay Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang, and Tamshing Lhakhang. These temples are rich in history and spirituality, offering insight into Bhutanese Buddhist traditions. Jambay Lhakhang, built in the 7th century by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, is an iconic pilgrimage site. Kurjey Lhakhang, with its beautiful architecture, houses the rock imprint of Guru Rinpoche, who meditated here. Tamshing Lhakhang, founded by the famous Lama Pema Lingpa, is an important center for spiritual learning and known for its sacred murals. The walk between these temples takes you through beautiful landscapes, offering a chance to enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Bumthang.
After the temple visits, we head to a traditional farmhouse where we will participate in a cooking class to prepare Ema Datshi, Bhutan’s beloved dish made with chilies and cheese. It’s a wonderful hands-on experience where you’ll learn about Bhutanese ingredients and culinary traditions. Lunch will be served with the fruits of your labor, allowing you to enjoy the delicious flavors of Bhutanese cuisine.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit the Dorjibi Weaving Centre, where you can witness the intricate art of traditional Bhutanese weaving. The center is famous for producing beautiful textiles, including handwoven fabrics and garments, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of the locals. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn about the significance of weaving in Bhutanese culture and purchase some unique souvenirs. Overnight in Bumthang.

After an early breakfast, we embark on an exciting excursion to the scenic Tang Valley, one of the most beautiful valleys in Bhutan. As we drive through the valley, the stunning landscapes unfold around us, offering views of terraced fields, traditional farmhouses, and the surrounding mountains.
Our first stop is the Burning Lake (also known as Me Bar Tsho), one of the most sacred sites in Bhutan. It is said that in the 14th century, Guru Rinpoche’s disciple, Pema Lingpa, discovered a hidden treasure in the lake, and the site has since become a pilgrimage spot for Bhutanese Buddhists. The lake’s serene beauty, combined with its spiritual significance, creates a profoundly peaceful atmosphere.
Next, we visit the Pema Choling Nunnery, an important center for nuns in the region. This peaceful nunnery provides insight into the monastic life and the role of women in Bhutanese spirituality. Here, you can interact with the nuns and learn about their daily routines, meditation practices, and the teachings they follow.
Afterward, we explore the Ogyen Cholling Palace Museum, which was once the ancestral home of the Chhoetje family, a prominent family in the region. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the family and the cultural heritage of the Tang Valley. The exhibits include traditional artifacts, clothing, and items used in the past, reflecting Bhutan’s rich cultural traditions.
For lunch, we’ll enjoy a special meal at Ogyen Cholling, prepared by the estate’s organic gardener. The lunch will feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients, offering a delightful taste of Bhutanese farm-to-table cuisine. Afterward, we’ll have some time to relax and explore the surroundings before returning to Bumthang for the night.

After breakfast, we will take a short drive to Jakar to catch a flight from Bumthang to Paro, Bhutan’s beautiful and historic town, known for its picturesque landscapes and important cultural sites. Upon arrival, we’ll begin exploring this enchanting destination.
Our first visit will be to the National Museum of Bhutan, housed in the historic Ta Dzong, an ancient watchtower that dates back to 1656. The museum, converted into its present form in 1968, offers an extensive collection of Bhutanese art, including rare bronze statues, paintings, and religious artifacts, all reflecting Bhutan’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. The museum’s exhibits give a fascinating insight into Bhutanese history, culture, and traditions, making it a must-see for any visitor.
Next, we’ll head to Rinpung Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks. This stunning fortress-monastery, built in 1646, is perched on a hilltop overlooking the Paro Chu River. Known for its grand architecture and historical significance, Rinpung Dzong serves as the administrative center of the Paro district. We will take time to explore the dzong’s beautiful courtyards, temples, and murals, all of which are intricately decorated with traditional Bhutanese art. This site also holds religious significance and offers panoramic views of the valley below.

Highlights of the day: Butter lamp offerings at the Tiger’s Nest (on the house)
Drive to Satsam Chorten for a soft hike to Taktsang Monastery. The name Taktsang means “Tiger’s Nest”. The monastery is perched on a rocky ledge with a sheer drop of nearly 800m, overlooking the Paro Valley and the river. It is said that in the second half of the 8th century, Guru Padma Sambhava known as the second Buddha in Bhutan, meditated at the spot where the monastery is situated having alighted there on the back of a flying tigress.
The hike takes about 4 hours back and forth. Once you reach the view point of the monastery you have the option to visit the monastery which takes another hour hike.
In the afternoon, we will add a fun, cultural activity by stopping at a local archery range to try your hand at Bhutan’s national sport. Archery is not only a recreational pastime but also an important part of Bhutanese culture and tradition.
After the archery session, we will visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most revered temples, built in the 7th century. To wrap up the day, we’ll head to a local farmhouse for a cozy dinner with a Bhutanese family, offering you a taste of authentic Bhutanese cuisine and the warmth of local hospitality.

Check out from your hotel. Transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure flight. Depart Bhutan with beautiful memories of your trip.