Introduction to Bhutan

Welcome to Bhutan. You land at Paro International Airport, one of the world's most dramatic airports nestled in a mountain valley. Meet your Bhutanese guide and drive to the capital Thimphu, stopping to photograph the striking Tamchog Lhakhang with its hanging iron chain bridge. Settle into Thimphu for the evening.

• Arrive at Paro International Airport
• Meet your English speaking Bhutanese guide
• Photo stop at Tamchog Lhakhang iron chain bridge temple
• Drive to Thimphu, about 90 minutes
• Evening stroll around Clock Tower Square

• Overnight in Thimphu

Spend a full day in Bhutan's serene capital, where Buddhist spirituality blends seamlessly with modern life. Visit the towering Buddha Dordenma statue, explore the National Memorial Chorten, and watch archers compete in the national sport at the archery range.

• National Memorial Chorten and morning circumambulation
• Giant Buddha Dordenma statue with panoramic valley views
• Takin Preserve Centre, home of Bhutan's national animal
• Tashichho Dzong, the seat of government and religious authority
• Traditional craft demonstrations and folk heritage

• Overnight in Thimphu

Drive south through mountain forests toward the Gangtey Valley, stopping at the stunning Dochula Pass where 108 memorial chortens overlook the Himalayan range. In clear weather, views extend to the high snow capped peaks. Descend to the pristine Gangtey Monastery and walk the nature trail through the sacred valley.

• Scenic drive through mountain villages and forests
• Dochula Pass at 3,100 metres with 108 chortens
• Photo opportunities with Himalayan mountain vistas
• Visit Gangtey Monastery overlooking Phobjikha Valley
• Walk along the Gangtey Nature Trail through green fields

• Overnight in Gangtey

Dochula Pass weather is clearest in autumn and spring. Winter snows may occasionally close the road briefly.

Journey from the Gangtey Valley toward the warm Punakha region, arriving at the magnificent Punakha Dzong, a fortress monastery at the junction of two rivers. Explore the dzong's courtyards and sacred spaces, then visit the fertility temple of Chimi Lhakhang in the rice paddy fields.

• Drive to Punakha through terraced agricultural landscapes
• Grand tour of Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan's most beautiful fortresses
• Walk through rice paddies to Chimi Lhakhang temple
• Explore suspension bridges and river views
• Optional: Hot stone bath experience in the evening

• Overnight in Punakha

Return across the mountains to Paro, retracing the scenic route over Dochula Pass. Arrive in the Paro Valley and spend the afternoon exploring this historic town and its cultural treasures, including the striking Rinpung Dzong and National Museum.

• Scenic drive back over Dochula Pass
• Arrive in Paro and settle into your accommodation
• Visit Rinpung Dzong, fortress of the jewel
• National Museum with six floors of Bhutanese artifacts
• Evening exploration of Paro town and local shops

• Overnight in Paro

The highlight of your Bhutan journey. Hike to Taktsang or Tiger's Nest Monastery, perched impossibly on a cliff 900 metres above the Paro Valley. The round trip takes 4 to 5 hours and rewards you with one of the world's most stunning spiritual sites. Return for evening rest.

• Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery at 3,120 metres
• Rest at the midway teahouse with valley views
• Circumambulate the sacred monastery
• Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest temples
• Traditional hot stone bath in the evening

• Overnight in Paro

The Tiger's Nest hike is moderate to challenging. Sturdy hiking boots and good fitness are recommended. Ponies may be hired to assist with part of the ascent.

After a final Bhutanese breakfast, you are transferred to Paro International Airport for your onward flight, carrying the spiritual calm and mountain magic of the Thunder Dragon Kingdom with you.

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Leisure time for last minute shopping or reflection
• Departure transfer to Paro International Airport

• Tour ends