
The flight into Bhutan takes you close to the great Himalayas, offering dazzling scenic views of some of the world’s highest glacial peaks. As you enter Paro valley, you will sweep past forested hills with the silvery Paro Chu (Paro river) meandering down the valley below. Paro Dzong (fortress) and Ta Dzong (National Museum) on the hills above the town will be a fine sight.
Upon arrival in Paro, our tour executive will welcome you at the airport’s arrival lounge with a representative holding a signboard, and drive you to Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu — an exciting blend of tradition and modernity.
On arrival, check in at your accommodation. Rest of the day free for relaxation. Overnight in Thimphu. Dinner included.
Day 2: THIMPHUEarly morning drive to “the fortress of the glorious religion”, Tashichho Dzong — a majestic fortress that serves as the seat of Bhutan’s government.
Visit the post office in town to see or buy a wondrous collection of Bhutanese stamps and postcards.
Afternoon: Tango Excursion: Enjoy a hike to Tango Monastery at the head of the valley. En route, stop at Pangri Zampa — currently home to a well-respected astrologer. From Dodena (a 45-minute drive from Thimphu), enjoy a one-hour uphill walk to Tango. Visit the monastery and the holy caves. Tango is the residence of the 7th reincarnate of the 4th Desi (Temporal Ruler) of Bhutan, Gyalse Tenzin Rabgye.
After your descent, enjoy tea and snacks on the banks of the Thimphu River near the picturesque Cheri Zam (Cheri Bridge), one of the last remaining traditional suspension bridges in the Himalayas.
Return to hotel and spend the rest of the time at leisure. Overnight in Thimphu. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 3: THIMPHU - PUNAKHA (75 km - 3 hrs)After an early breakfast, begin your scenic drive to Punakha. En route, stop at the Dochu La Pass — a beautiful mountain pass (altitude 3,140 m) adorned with fluttering prayer flags and 108 miniature chortens (stupas). On a clear day, enjoy awe-inspiring glimpses of the towering Himalayan peaks.
On arrival, check in at the hotel. Later, visit Simtokha Dzong and Punakha Dzong — strategically built between the Phochu (Male River) and the Mochu (Female River). It serves as the winter residence of the Je-Khenpo (religious leader of Bhutan). Overnight in Punakha. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 4: PUNAKHA - PARO (125 km - 4 hrs)After breakfast, check out and travel to Paro. On arrival, check in at the hotel.
Visit Drugyel Dzong and then embark on a hike to one of Bhutan’s most venerated pilgrimage sites, Taktsang Goemba (Tiger’s Nest). According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tigress and meditated in a cave for three months, converting the Paro valley to Buddhism.
Resting at 900m above the valley floor, Taktsang is an architectural wonder. The spectacular four-hour roundtrip hike is sure to be one of your most overwhelming experiences.
Later, visit Ta Dzong (National Museum), originally a watchtower for Paro Dzong, now overlooking the Paro valley. Overnight in Paro. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 5: DEPART PAROAfter breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward journey. Breakfast included.