Best of Bhutan

Paro - Thimphu. Welcome to Bhutan and to the beginning of your adventure! Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your guide and begin the scenic drive to Thimphu, the capital city.

Along the way, stop at Tachogang Lhakhang, a historic 15th-century temple founded by the revered Tibetan master Thangtong Gyalpo. Legend has it he had a vision of Avalokiteshvara here, inspiring him to build both the temple and an iron suspension bridge. The present-day structure, rebuilt in the 17th century by the Fourth Druk Desi, reflects Bhutan’s rich spiritual and architectural heritage.

Next, continue to Chuzom, where the Paro and Thimphu rivers converge. At this picturesque spot, you’ll find three uniquely styled stupas -Bhutanese, Tibetan, and Nepalese - representing the region’s cultural harmony and diversity.

On arrival in Thimphu, visit the National Memorial Chorten, built in honour of the Third King, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. This iconic whitewashed stupa features vibrant murals and statues and is both a place of daily worship and a monument to world peace.

Later, explore Tashichho Dzong, an impressive fortress-monastery that serves as the summer residence of Bhutan’s Chief Abbot and the seat of the royal government. The complex houses the throne room, government offices, and central monastic body. Before your visit, witness the solemn Flag Lowering Ceremony.

This evening, enjoy an included dinner and settle into your hotel in Thimphu.

Begin your day with a drive to Kuenselphodrang (Buddha Point), where the world’s tallest seated Buddha statue—standing 169 feet tall—overlooks the Thimphu Valley. Take in the sweeping views of the city below before continuing to the Motithang Takin Preserve. Here, you’ll encounter Bhutan’s unique national animal, the takin.

Next, stop at the viewpoint of Tashichho Dzong, the grand fortress housing the King’s throne room and key government offices. Then visit the Institute of Zorig Chusum, where students master Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts, including wood carving, embroidery, and painting. Continue to the Folk Heritage Museum for insight into traditional Bhutanese rural life.

In the afternoon, explore the Royal Textile Academy and Museum, which preserves Bhutan’s rich weaving heritage and displays regal garments. Pop into the Postal Museum, where you can create a personalised postage stamp with your own photo. Then head to the Centenary Farmer’s Market to browse fresh local produce and handmade goods, and, if you're lucky, catch an exciting game of Bhutan’s national sport—archery.

Round off your day with a visit to a traditional handmade paper factory to see age-old methods still in use. Enjoy some leisure time before returning your hotel in Thimphu for dinner.

Thimphu - Punakha. Today, depart Thimphu and drive over the scenic Dochu La Pass (3,088m), where you’ll stop to admire the 108 chortens, colourful prayer flags, and sweeping Himalayan views. On a clear day, the snow-capped peaks of Masagang, Tsendegang, Terigang, and even Gangkar Puensum—the tallest mountain in Bhutan—are visible in the distance.

En route to Punakha, take a walk through terraced rice fields and a quiet village to reach Chimi Lhakhang, the 15th-century “Fertility Temple” built by the eccentric Buddhist master Drukpa Kunley.

In the afternoon, explore Punakha Dzong, a majestic fortress at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Once Bhutan’s capital and still the winter residence of the central monk body, the dzong is steeped in royal and religious history. Though it has weathered floods, earthquakes, and fire, its sacred relics have been miraculously preserved.

Stop by the Sangchen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery, perched on a ridge with views of the Punakha and Wangdue valleys. The temple houses a striking 14-foot bronze statue of Avalokiteshvara, one of Bhutan’s largest. It also serves as a training centre for young nuns in religious studies and life skills.

Later, walk across the Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge, offering sweeping views of the river valley and Punakha Dzong in the distance. The evening is at leisure, with an optional white-water rafting experience available for those seeking adventure.

Punakha - Paro. Today, you'll head back towards Paro, visiting stunning sites along the way. Visit Ta Dzong, originally built in 1656 as a watchtower for Rinpung Dzong, now home to Bhutan’s National Museum. The museum houses an impressive collection of art, armour, costumes, and artifacts reflecting Bhutanese heritage and daily life.

Next, explore Rinpung Dzong, a fortress-monastery built in 1646 by Lama Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Strategically located to protect against Tibetan invasions, it played a key role in Bhutan’s defence. Today, it stands as a symbol of cultural and spiritual strength.

Continue to Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, originally constructed in 659 AD by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. The temple was later restored in 1839 by the 25th Je Khenpo, who also added a striking statue of Avalokiteshvara with eleven heads and a thousand arms. The site remains a revered place of pilgrimage and prayer.

In the evening, enjoy some free time to wander Paro town. It’s a perfect chance to shop for handicrafts or relax in a local café.

Today is dedicated to one of Bhutan’s most iconic and spiritually significant sites – Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest. The monastery clings dramatically to a cliff face at 2,950m and is reached via a 4–6 hour roundtrip hike, depending on your pace. Along the way, enjoy sweeping views of Paro Valley and pause at a cafeteria midway up for rest and refreshments.

According to legend, Guru Padmasambhava flew to this site on the back of a tigress, subduing local demons and meditating in a cave here for three months. In 1692, the monastery was built around that very cave, and its gravity-defying position has made it one of Bhutan’s most awe-inspiring landmarks. The climb may be challenging, but the sight of Taktsang nestled in the cliffs is a moment you'll never forget.

After lunch, take a short drive up the Paro Valley to visit the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong. Once a strategic fortress built to defend the valley against Tibetan invasions in the 17th century, it is now undergoing restoration to return it to its former glory.

This evening, return to your hotel in Paro for your final overnight stay, with dinner included.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. Tour arrangements conclude here. We hope you enjoyed your journey through Bhutan — safe travels!