The flight to Paro offers a breathtaking aerial view of the Himalayan mountain range. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Spend the evening relaxing and getting your first glimpse of Bhutan’s scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere.

Today, take part in one of Bhutan’s most treasured spiritual events, the Paro Tshechu. Set against the backdrop of the impressive Paro Dzong, the festival brings together monks, villagers and visitors for several days of sacred dance and deep cultural expression.

Monks dressed in ornate silk costumes and intricate masks perform Cham dances that depict ancient stories of deities, protectors and moral teachings. Every movement carries meaning, and the atmosphere is filled with the rhythmic sounds of horns, drums and chanting. Incense fills the air as the crowd watches in quiet reverence or joyful celebration.

All around, families gather to share traditional food, children play along the temple walls, and locals greet old friends. This is more than a performance. It’s a glimpse into Bhutan’s soul, a moment where community, culture and spirituality come together.

As part of your Paro Festival Tour, this experience offers rare insight into Bhutanese Buddhist traditions and the unity of its people. After the festivities, return to your hotel and enjoy a quiet evening in Paro, taking in the calm after a day filled with color and meaning.

Your journey this day, takes you on a memorable pilgrimage to Taktsang Monastery, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest. Clinging dramatically to a sheer rock face 900 meters above the Paro Valley, this iconic landmark is one of the most spiritually significant sites in Bhutan.

The hike begins through pine forests dotted with prayer flags and small shrines. The trail gradually ascends, offering sweeping views of the valley below and glimpses of the monastery from afar. Along the way, take time to pause at traditional rest stops or the quaint teahouse halfway up, where you can enjoy refreshments and take in the scenery.

The climb takes around 4 to 5 hours round-trip, depending on your pace. As you approach Taktsang, the final steps bring you to a place of profound peace and spiritual energy. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew to this site on the back of a tigress to meditate, making it one of the holiest temples in the Himalayas.

Inside the monastery, experience the stillness of sacred chambers, flickering butter lamps and the deep hum of prayers. The views from the cliff are nothing short of awe-inspiring, with mountain ridges and pine forests stretching into the distance.

After exploring the monastery and soaking in its tranquil atmosphere, descend slowly back to the valley. Return to your hotel in Paro for a well-earned evening of rest and reflection.

Following breakfast, take a 1.5 hr drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Enjoy this scenic drive through terraced rice fields and lush forests. In 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 at a hotel in Thimphu.

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, make a visit to 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.

Thereafter, 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. Spend the night at your hotel in Thimphu.

In the morning, we drive towards Gangtey, passing through Dochula Pass (3,140m/10,362ft), which offers a stunning panoramic view of the Himalayan range, particularly on clear winter days. The charm of Dochula is further enhanced by the Druk Wangyal Chortens—108 stupas built under the patronage of Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck. East of Wangdue Phodrang, the picturesque Phobjikha Valley unfolds, with the renowned Gangtey Monastery perched on its slopes. Established in the 17th century, this monastery overlooks the tranquil valley, where the village of Phobjikha lies a few kilometers below on the valley floor. This serene and secluded valley serves as the winter haven for black-necked cranes, which migrate from the arid Tibetan plains to enjoy the milder climate. Overnight stay in Gangtey.

The day begins in the calm expanse of Phobjikha Valley, where time seems to slow with the morning mist. Walk up to Gangtey Monastery, a 17th-century stronghold of spiritual life that stands watch over the valley. Inside, discover its quiet rituals and the enduring traditions practiced by its resident monks.

Continue with a visit to the Black-Necked Crane Conservation Centre, where you can gain fascinating insights into the ecology and conservation of these majestic birds. From here, use the spotting scopes to observe the cranes, especially if you’re visiting during the winter months when they migrate to the valley.

Following lunch, uncover the charming villages scattered across the valley. Engage with the local community to learn about their traditional way of life, farming practices, and handicrafts. Stroll through the meadows and take in the serene beauty of this secluded haven.

As the day winds down, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the valley before returning to your accommodation for a relaxing evening in your hotel in Gangtey. 

Depart for Punakha today. This is a journey that takes you through alluring landscapes of lush valleys, terraced fields, and dense forests. En route, take a moment to appreciate the vibrant scenery and the serene villages that dot the route.

 In Punakha, make a visit the Punakha Dzong, an architectural masterpiece situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. This magnificent structure, often regarded as one of Bhutan’s most beautiful dzongs, holds significant historical and religious importance. Stroll through its courtyards, admire the intricate woodwork and murals, and soak in the tranquil ambiance.

End the day by checking into your accommodation and relaxing in the serene Punakha Valley.

A short hike leads you to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a striking hilltop stupa with panoramic views of the valley below. The trail offers a peaceful ascent and a chance to absorb the quiet energy of this spiritual site.

Later, continue to Chimi Lhakhang, the Temple of Fertility, built in honor of Lama Drukpa Kunley. Known for its unusual legends and deep cultural reverence, it remains a meaningful stop for many seeking blessings.

The afternoon is set aside for discovering the Punakha Valley, which is a landscape of rice terraces, village paths and warm local encounters. For a quieter moment, consider a gentle walk along the banks of the Mo Chhu or Pho Chhu before returning to your hotel in Punakha for the night.

This day, we will take on a scenic path on our vehicle back to Paro, retracing the picturesque mountain roads. After a long drive to Paro, spend your afternoon exploring this historic town. Visit the National Museum of Bhutan, housed in the Ta Dzong, to learn about Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage and history.

If time permits, take a stroll through the vibrant streets of Paro, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Enjoy the evening at leisure, preparing for the next day’s highlight—your visit to Taktsang Monastery. Overnight in Paro.

Transfer to Paro Airport for your departure flight. Reflect on your incredible journey through Bhutan and its fascinating culture, stunning landscapes, and spiritual heritage. Depart with memories that will last a lifetime.