Royal Bhutan Discovery

Day 01Arrival in Paro – Drive to Thimphu & Capital City Introduction

Your Bhutanese adventure begins as you land at Paro International Airport, where a representative will warmly welcome you. After completing arrival formalities, enjoy a scenic drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan.

• Journey Details: Paro to Thimphu is about 50 km and takes 1.5 hours.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and begin exploring the capital:

• Visit the Memorial Chorten, a revered stupa built in honor of the Third Druk Gyalpo.
• Continue to the grand Tashichho Dzong, a fortress-monastery that houses the government offices and the summer residence of the monastic body.

Overnight stay with dinner in Thimphu.

Day 02Thimphu Sightseeing – Cultural, Natural & Artistic Gems

After breakfast, explore the city’s cultural and artistic landmarks:

• Buddha Point (Kuenselphodrang): Admire the massive Buddha Dordenma statue with panoramic valley views.
• Motithang Takin Preserve: See Bhutan’s unique national animal, the Takin.
• Changangkha Lhakhang: A 12th-century temple perched on a ridge above Thimphu.
• Simply Bhutan Museum: A living showcase of Bhutanese traditions and lifestyle.
• National Library of Bhutan: Houses ancient Buddhist manuscripts.
• Institute for Zorig Chusum: Observe students practicing Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts.

Overnight stay with dinner in Thimphu.

Day 03Thimphu to Punakha – Through Dochula Pass to the Former Capital

After breakfast, embark on a picturesque drive to Punakha, Bhutan’s former capital.

• Journey Details: Thimphu → Dochula Pass (30 km / 45 mins) → Punakha (70 km / 2–3 hrs).
• Stop at Dochula Pass (3,100 m), offering stunning Himalayan views and 108 chortens.
• Visit Chimi Lhakhang, the Temple of the Divine Madman, reached by a short walk through rice paddies.
• Explore the majestic Punakha Dzong, situated at the confluence of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.
• Walk across the scenic Punakha Suspension Bridge, one of Bhutan’s longest.

Overnight stay with dinner in Punakha.

Day 04Punakha – Excursion to Gangtey Valley

Today enjoy a long but rewarding excursion to the peaceful Gangtey (Phobjikha) Valley.

• Journey Details: Punakha to Gangtey is 75–80 km / 2.5–3 hrs one way.

Highlights:

• Gangtey Goenba: A beautiful monastery overlooking the valley.
• Gangtey Nature Trail: A gentle hike through pristine landscapes.
• Black-Necked Crane Information Centre (seasonal): Learn about these rare migratory birds that winter in the valley.

Return to Punakha for the evening.
Overnight stay with dinner in Punakha.

Day 05Punakha to Paro – Historical Forts & Scenic Stops

After breakfast, drive to Paro.

• Journey Details: Punakha to Paro is about 125 km / 3.5–4 hrs.
• Visit Simtokha Dzong, Bhutan’s oldest dzong with intricate woodwork.
• Stop at Tachog Lhakhang, built by the legendary iron bridge builder Thangthong Gyalpo.
• Pause at the Paro Airport View Point.
• Explore Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong), a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture.
• Conclude with a visit to Taa Dzong, once a watchtower, now the National Museum of Bhutan.

Overnight stay with dinner in Paro.

Day 06Paro – Taktsang Hike (Tiger’s Nest Monastery)

After an early breakfast, embark on the iconic Taktsang Hike.

• Journey Details: Drive 12 km to the base; hike uphill 2–3 hrs (moderate trek).

Visit the legendary Taktsang Lhakhang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), dramatically perched 900 m above the Paro valley floor. The hike offers unforgettable views, and the monastery’s spiritual aura makes it a true highlight of Bhutan.
Return to your hotel for rest.
Overnight stay with dinner in Paro.

Day 07Departure from Paro

After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your memorable journey through the Land of the Thunder Dragon.