Day 1: International flight to Paro, transfer to Thimpu

Upon arrival at Paro Airport, you will be given a traditional welcome. Then Proceed to the hotel for check in.

You'll begin your journey in the serene Paro Valley, which despite recent development projects still retains its rustic charm with farms and quaint hamlets. Your Bhutanese guide will accompany you on the one-hour trip to the capital, Thimphu, nestled in a broad valley between towering peaks and the Wangchu River.

This afternoon, enjoy some simple sightseeing around town. Start at the Memorial Chorten, sparkling in the sunshine with its gilded spires and the gentle chimes of religious bells. This Buddhist centre has an excellent collection of Buddhist statues from around the world. After that, go to Kuensel Phodrang where you will find the Buddha Dordenma, known for being one of the largest statues in the world - it stands at 169 feet (54 metres) tall. When the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely walk along the primary shopping street. There you will encounter folks from every background, monks, businessmen and farmers who have come to trade their goods alike.

Meal Plan: L/D

Day 02: In Thimpu, excursion to Changangkha Lhakhang

Start your day by visiting Changangkha Lhakhang, a temple that looks like a fortress and was built in the 12th century. It is located just up the hill from Thimphu and is where the Institute of 13 Arts and Crafts and the Bhutan School of Astrology are situated. Later on, take a trip to the craft fair, where you can take a look at the local merchandise and handicrafts. Finally, you can head to the post office and museum attached to it, which will take you through the history of the postal system, from early mail runners to Bhutan's prized current stamps. In the evening, go to the 17th-century Tashichho-Dzong, also called the "fortress of the glorious religion." This strong building has the king of Bhutan's throne room.

In the afternoon, hike one hour north of Thimphu to the Lhakhangs (monasteries) of Tango and Cheri. Built in the twelfth century and reconstructed in the fifteenth century, Tango Lhakhang now houses a respected tulku, a spiritual leader thought to be the reincarnation of a past spiritual leader who lived in the nineteenth century. To arrive at Cheri Lhakhang, you will traverse a conventional wooden bridge that crosses the Wangchu River. This monastery was constructed in 1620.   Meal Plan: B/L/D

Day 03: Thimpu-Phobjikha

After breakfast you'll travel to Phobjikha Valley. Once you depart from Thimphu, dense woodland will encircle you.  The road ascends slightly to Dochu La Pass, which sits at an elevation of 10,000 feet (3050 metres); at this point, you can witness breathtaking sights of mountains to the north. Proceed with driving towards the subtropical Punakha Valley. Afterwards, you will travel for another two hours to reach the icy Phobjikha valley. Here, you can explore the ancient Gangtey Goenba monastery and the Black-Necked Crane Centre, where you will gain insight into the migration of these elegant birds to Bhutan every winter.

Meal Plan: B/L/D

Day 04: Phobjikha-Punakha

Today the driver will take you to the lower altitude town of Punakha. You will feel the warmer temperature due to the lower altitude. In the valley, you will visit Chimi Lhakhang, the famous temple of the "divine madman" Drukpa Kinley. This famous fertility temple is visited by people from all over Bhutan and the world who seek blessings for having children.

Meal Plan: B/L/D

Day 05: In Punakha

After early breakfast, head towards the charming rural area located at the north side of Punakha. Commence a swift and steep trek to reach Khamsum Yuelley Chorten, which is a recently constructed stupa offering stunning sights of the valley beneath. Afterwards, come back to the bridge from where you will begin an enthralling white-water rafting activity. Since Punakha Chu is a placid river, this adventure is perfect for families. End your river journey at the magnificent Punakha Dzong, an exceptional architectural gem located at the joining of two rivers.

Meal Plan: B/L/D

Day 06: Punakha-Haa Valley

After you have had breakfast, drive back over Dochu La Pass and take the chance to appreciate the beauty of Bhutan's northern peaks once again. with the Tibetan Plateau. As you head to the hilltop Lungchutse Lhakhang, more impressive views will unfold. Follow a two-hour hike through birch, hemlock, and rhododendron trees until you reach Lungchutse Temple. Relax and appreciate a picnic lunch where the views are astonishing on a clear day! Later, descend to another retreat and monastery called Trashigang Goemba. Your vehicle will collect you from this location and transport you to the Ha Valley, where you will spend the evening in a genuine Bhutanese countryside dwelling.

Meal Plan: B/L/D

Day 07: In Haa Valley

After breakfast at your homestay, head to the northern edge of the Ha Valley, which is the most picturesque section of the valley. Our plan today consists of a leisurely walk through charming villages, taking in temples as we go. The hike should take approximately three to four hours to finish. During the afternoon, you'll explore the remarkable temple complex of Lhakhang Karpo.

Meal Plan: B/L/D

Day 08: Haa Valley-Paro

After breakfast, drive to the Paro Valley via the Chele La Pass. It's Bhutan's highest car-accessible road, at 12,500 feet (3800 meters). On your way to Paro, take a break to visit the Dzongdrakha Cliff Temples. Afterwards, explore the Paro Valley, one of Bhutan's most beautiful valleys. The roads are accompanied by willow trees and you'll encounter apple orchards, whitewashed farmhouses and temples, terraced fields and forested hills in this peaceful landscape. In the late afternoon, go to the Rinphung Dzong Fortress and the National Museum.

Meal Plan: B/L/D

Day 09: In Paro, climb to the world famous “Tiger’s Nest Monastry”

Today you will take a hike up to Taktsang Goenba. It is also known as the Tiger's Nest Monastery. It's a steep climb to this impressive monastery, but you'll see it up close once you get there. You could also hike further uphill to Zangdopelri and Ugyen Tshemo to see hidden monasteries and enjoy breathtaking views away from the tourist crowds. Upon returning to the Paro Valley, visit Bhutan's oldest temple, Khyichu Lhakhang, which dates back to the seventh century. Finally, have one last dinner before your trip ends.

Meal Plan: B/L/D

Day 10: Flight back home or your next destination from Paro

Morning breakfast at the hotel.

Our representative will be at your hotel to help you leave, making sure the process is easy and trouble-free. Remember, it's advisable to reach the airport three hours in advance of your flight's scheduled departure time to complete all necessary check-ins and security procedures.

Bon Voyage/Tashi Delek and hope to meet you again! Namaste

IMPORTANT:

If you have any interests or preferences for the sites you want to see during the tour, let us know. We would be happy to pack it in, if possible.

B = Breakfast

L = Lunch

D = Dinner