Day 1Arrive Paro Airport – Drive to Thimphu (55 km / 1 hr)
Welcome to Bhutan – The Kingdom of Happiness.
Our team will greet you warmly at Paro Airport after your arrival formalities. From here, we begin a scenic drive along the Paro River and Wang Chu River towards Thimphu, the vibrant capital of Bhutan nestled at an altitude of 2500 m.
Enjoy glimpses of rural life and your first view of Simtokha Dzong before reaching the hotel. Check-in and relax for the evening.
Overnight stay in Thimphu.
Day 2Thimphu Sightseeing
After breakfast, explore the fascinating sights of Thimphu, a city where tradition meets modernity.
Things to Do & Places to See:
• Memorial Chorten – dedicated to the Third King of Bhutan, the father of modern Bhutan.
• Buddha Dordenma – an iconic golden statue, 169 ft tall, filled with 125,000 smaller Buddhas.
• Simply Bhutan Museum – a living museum offering insight into Bhutanese culture and traditions.
• Takin Sanctuary – meet Bhutan’s rare national animal, the Takin.
• Tashichho Dzong – a grand fortress housing His Majesty’s throne room and key government offices.
Return to hotel by evening.
Overnight stay in Thimphu.
Day 3Thimphu to Punakha (83 km / 3 hrs)
After breakfast, check out and drive towards Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan. The journey takes you through beautiful mountain scenery.
Things to Do & Places to See:
• Lamperi Botanical Park – home to multiple species of vibrant rhododendrons.
• Dochula Pass (3100 m) – a scenic stop with panoramic views and 108 memorial stupas.
• Punakha Dzong – a majestic 17th-century fortress that witnessed the coronation of Bhutan’s Kings.
• Punakha Suspension Bridge – one of the longest in Bhutan, draped with colorful prayer flags over the Po Chhu River.
Overnight stay in Punakha.
Day 4Excursion to Gangtey (73 km / 2 hrs each way)
Today, embark on an excursion to Gangtey, a serene valley surrounded by rolling hills and snow-capped peaks at 3000 m.
Things to Do & Places to See:
• Enjoy stunning views of the Black Mountain ranges and the scenic Phobjikha Valley.
• Visit Gangtey Gompa, a hilltop monastery surrounded by the homes of lay monks.
• Explore the Black-Necked Crane Centre, dedicated to the preservation of this rare migratory bird.
Return to Punakha by evening.
Overnight stay in Punakha.
Day 5Punakha to Paro (121 km / 4 hrs)
After breakfast, start your journey to Paro, retracing through the picturesque Dochula Pass.
Things to Do & Places to See:
• Chuzom Viewpoint and Thamchok Lhakhang – a private temple built by the ancient saint Thangthong Gyelpo, famed for constructing iron chain bridges.
• Ta Dzong – the National Museum of Bhutan, formerly a watchtower.
• Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong) – an impressive 17th-century fortress and administrative centre.
• Explore Paro Town – enjoy local cuisine such as Ema Datshi (Bhutan’s national dish) and shop for souvenirs at the Paro Craft Market.
Overnight stay in Paro.
Day 6Paro – Hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery)
After breakfast, embark on an unforgettable hike to Taktsang Monastery, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest.
According to legend, Guru Padmasambhava meditated here after flying on a tiger’s back.
This sacred monastery is perched dramatically on a cliff face, accessible only by a 5-hour uphill hike through pine forests, offering incredible valley views.
After the hike, visit a local farmhouse and unwind with a traditional hot stone bath.
Overnight stay in Paro.
Day 7Departure from Paro
After breakfast, transfer to Paro Airport for your onward journey.
Bid farewell to the Kingdom of Happiness with beautiful memories that linger long after you return home.