Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our local team and begin your scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city. En route, you’ll stop at Tachogang Lhakhang, a revered 14th-century temple founded by the great yogi and engineer Thangtong Gyalpo. Here, you can walk across the historic iron chain bridge he built, suspended over the Pa Chhu river which is a remarkable feat of medieval engineering and a spiritual site in itself. Continuing the drive, you’ll pass through lush valleys and traditional villages before arriving in Thimphu. Check in to your hotel and relax. Overnight in Thimphu.

After an early breakfast, we attend the first day of Tshechu which is held in the courtyard of Tashichho Dzong. This is the main Secretariat Building where the government ministries, office of His Majesty the King, Throne Room, offices and living quarters of the monk body and its chief abbot are housed. We return to the hotel for lunch and again spend the rest of the day watching Tshechu dances.

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, 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.

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.

After breakfast, spend the day exploring the tranquil Phobjikha Valley and its cultural treasures. Begin with a visit to the Gangtey Monastery, an iconic 17th-century structure perched on the slopes of the valley. Learn about its spiritual importance and the unique traditions upheld by the 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.

In the afternoon, explore 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. Overnight in Gangtey.

After breakfast, depart for Punakha, a journey that takes you through stunning 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.

Upon arrival in Punakha, 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. Overnight in Punakha.

Start your day with a short hike to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a stunning stupa perched atop a hill. The hike offers scenic views of the valley and an opportunity to experience the spiritual aura of this sacred site.

Later, visit the Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the “Temple of Fertility.” Dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley, the temple is a unique and revered site, especially for couples seeking blessings for fertility.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Punakha Valley, with its terraced rice fields, traditional villages, and friendly locals. You might also opt for a relaxing riverside walk along the Mo Chhu or Pho Chhu to further soak in the beauty of this idyllic region. Overnight in Punakha.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive back to Paro, retracing the picturesque mountain roads. Upon arrival in 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.

After breakfast at the hotel, we take Takstang Monastery hike which is 4 hours out and back trip that offers spectacular views of this sacred monastery perched on a cliff face 900m above the valley floor. If time permits, we can pay a visit to the national museum housed in Ta Dzong (watchtower) and dominating Paro Dzong. It is a fine example of Bhutanese historic architecture. We can also take an opportunity to visit a farm house as well.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey.