Day 1 Paro-Thimphu
Day 2 Thimphu
Day 3 Thimphu-Punakha
Day 4 Punakha-Paro
Day 5 Punakha-Phobjikha
Day 6 Phobjikha to Trongsa & Bumthang
Day 7 Bumthang Valley Exploration
Day 8 Bumthang to Paro (Scenic Flight)
Day 9 Tiger's Nest Hike & Relaxation
Day 10 Flight Home
Day 1: Paro (2280m) - Thimphu (2320m)
Overnight in Thimphu.
Arrive at Paro International Airport, one of the most scenic airport approaches in the world. Meet your guide and drive to Thimphu (approx. 1.5 hours), the capital city. In the afternoon, visit the Tashichho Dzong, a magnificent fortress and monastery housing the King's throne room and government offices. Explore the National Memorial Chorten, a revered stupa where Bhutanese circumambulate throughout the day. Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 2: Thimphu (2320m)
Overnight in Thimphu.
Visit the Buddha Dordenma, a gigantic Buddha statue offering panoramic views of the Thimphu Valley. Explore the Folk Heritage Museum to learn about Bhutanese rural life. Visit the National Textile Museum to see Bhutan's intricate weaving traditions. See the Motithang Takin Preserve to observe Bhutan's national animal, the Takin. Explore the local handicraft markets.
Day 3: Thimphu (2320m) – Dochu La (3140m) – Punakha (1250m)
Overnight in Punakha.
Drive to Punakha (approx. 3 hours), crossing the scenic Dochula Pass (3,100m). Enjoy breathtaking views of the eastern Himalayas from the pass, adorned with 108 stupas (Druk Wangyal Chortens). Descend into the warm Punakha Valley. Visit Chimi Lhakhang, the "Temple of Fertility," known for its unique phallic symbols.
Day 4: Punakha (1250m) – Paro (2280m)
Overnight in Bumthang.
Visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, strategically located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. It's considered one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan. In the afternoon, drive back to Paro.
Day 5: Punakha to Phobjikha Valley
Overnight in Phobjika.
Drive to the beautiful Phobjikha Valley (approx. 3 hours), a vast U-shaped glacial valley known for its unique ecosystem and as the winter roosting ground for the endangered Black-necked Cranes (best viewed from late October to March). Visit the Gangtey Monastery, a significant Nyingmapa monastery overlooking the valley. You can enjoy a gentle nature walk or bike ride through the valley.
Day 6: Phobjikha to Trongsa & Bumthang
Overnight in Bumthang.
Drive to Trongsa (approx. 2-3 hours) and visit the impressive Trongsa Dzong, the largest dzong in Bhutan and a strategic point connecting eastern and western Bhutan. Explore the Ta Dzong (Watchtower Museum), which offers insights into the dzong's history and royal Bhutanese artifacts. Continue your drive to Bumthang Valley (approx. 2-3 hours), known as the "spiritual heartland" of Bhutan, with numerous ancient temples and monasteries.
Day 7: Bumthang Valley Exploration
Overnight in Bumthang.
Discover the cultural treasures of Bumthang: Jakar Dzong, the "Castle of the White Bird," a picturesque fortress. Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in the 7th century. Kurjey Lhakhang, a complex of temples associated with Guru Rinpoche. Tamshing Lhakhang, a monastery founded by Pema Lingpa. Optionally, take a short hike around the valley or visit a local Swiss cheese farm. .
Day 8: Bumthang to Paro (Scenic Flight)
Overnight in Paro.
Fly from Bumthang (Bathpalathang Airport) back to Paro, offering spectacular aerial views of the Himalayas. (Alternatively, a long scenic drive back to Paro can be arranged over 2 days, with an overnight stop). Upon arrival in Paro, you'll have some leisure time.
Day 9: Paro (2280m)
Overnight in Paro.
Hike to Taktsang Lhakhang (Tiger's Nest Monastery). In the afternoon, enjoy some relaxation, perhaps a traditional hot stone bath.
Day 10: Paro (2280m)
You will have to wake early for breakfast before being driven to the Paro International Airport for your early return flight home.
