This curated itinerary offers the perfect introduction to Bhutan, striking a balance between the kingdom’s iconic landmarks and its serene, untouched beauty. It captures the essential spirit of the West- from the vibrant pulse of Thimphu and balmy riverside of Punakha to the legendary heights of the Tiger’s Nest in Paro.
Day 1: Arrival at Paro airport (or preferred point of entry)-
Arrive at Paro International Airport where your guide and driver await.
Enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Thimphu and check into Zhiwaling Ascent Hotel.
Spend your evening soaking in the city’s atmosphere and dining at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Full Day Thimphu Sightseeing-
Buddha Dordenma– Gaze up at the 51-meter bronze Buddha overlooking the valley, housing 125,000 smaller gilded statues.
Textile Museum– Discover the intricate art of weaving, a craft central to Bhutanese identity and heritage.
Post Office– Visit the post office to get a stamp made with your face on it, perfect to send on postcards, letters or take back home as unique souvenirs.
Takin Preserve– Meet the Takin, Bhutan’s unique national animal, on a gentle forest walk followed by coffee under the trees.
Optional- hike to Wangditse (1-2 hours)- A gentle trail leading to one of Thimphu’s oldest monasteries, offering panoramic views of the capital.
Day 3: Full Day Thimphu Hike OR Sightseeing-
Hike to Pumola and Pajoding (day hike)- Embark on a challenging day hike to reach high-altitude monasteries and sacred alpine lakes.
OR
Centenary Farmers Market- Visit the city’s largest open air market selling fruits, vegetables and local produce.
Craft Bazaar– Browse colorful textiles, thangkas, and handmade crafts from all over the country.
VAST Art Gallery- Check out the latest exhibits featuring local Bhutan artists.
Folk Heritage Museum- Explore daily rural life in a traditional Bhutanese house.
Changyul Park- Walk along the Thimphu river or enjoy a nightcap at the city’s newest urban park and community hub.
Day 4: Thimphu to Punakha (2-3 hours) -
Head eastward to the lush valleys of Punakha and Wangduephodrang, known for their warmer, sub-tropical climate and serene river landscapes.
Dochula Pass- Stop at 3,100 meters for breathtaking 360-degree views of the Himalayas and the 108 memorial stupas. Weather permitting, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayan ranges.
Punakha Dzong- Explore “The Palace of Great Happiness,” widely considered the most beautiful fortress in the country.
Chimi Lhakhang- Take a short walk through rice paddies to the famous “Fertility Temple” of the Divine Madman.
Village Homestay- Experience authentic rural life with a traditional dinner hosted by a local family.
Optional- hike to Khamsum Yulley OR River Rafting– Thrill seekers and adventure lovers can opt to visit the stunning Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten (1-2 hour walk) or face the rapids in the Punakha rivers, offering views of the Punakha Dzong you won’t find anywhere else.
Day 5: Punakha to Paro (3-4 hours) -
Check into Hotel Zhiwaling, a fully Bhutanese-owned property celebrated for its traditional architecture and warm hospitality.
Kyichu Lhakhang- Visit one of the kingdom’s oldest and most sacred temples, dating back to the 7th century.
National Museum at Ta Dzong- Housed in an ancient watchtower, this museum houses centuries of art and artifacts that bring Bhutanese history to life.
Paro Exploration- Wind down in the charming town of Paro, known for its quaint storefronts and artisanal cafes.
Day 6: Full Day Paro-
Hike to Taktsang Monastery- Hike to Bhutan’s most iconic landmark, a monastery clinging to a cliffside 900 meters above the valley floor. According to legend Guru Padmasabhava flew to this site on the back of a tigress and meditated in the cliffside caves, subduing evil spirits and sanctifying the location.
The climb to the monastery takes approximately 3 hours at a comfortable pace. The climb down is fairly easy and can be done in an hour or less. Midway, we will pause at a scenic cafeteria for refreshments (tea and coffee). After exploring the monastery and soaking in the views, we will enjoy a packed picnic lunch.
Hot Stone Bath- Soothe your muscles after the hike in a traditional wooden tub heated by fire-roasted river stones and infused with medicinal herbs.
Farewell Shopping- Enjoy a final evening for souvenir shopping and a celebratory dinner in Paro. Don’t forget to try local beer and wine before you leave.