We start with a hike to Cheri Goemba, Bhutan's first monastery established in 1620 by Ngawang Namgyal, founder of the Bhutanese state. The trail ascends about 400m through lush forests of blue pine, fir, and rhododendron.

In the afternoon, we visit Changangkha Lhakhang, perched on a ridge above central Thimphu, where parents go to receive blessings for their young children. Walk to the back kora (pilgrim path) for incredible views of the valley.

Next, the National Institute for Zorig Chusum (Arts and Crafts School), where students practice traditional arts from painting and embroidery to wood carving and clay arts.

Later, the imposing Tashichho Dzong (Thimphu Dzong), the seat of the Bhutanese government on the right side of Wangchu river. Originally built in 1216 by Lama Gyalwa Lhanangpa, don't miss the captivating flag changing ceremony at 5pm. Overnight in Thimphu.

After 2 days in Thimphu, we travel to Gangtey (Phobjikha valley). We stop at Dochula Pass (3,050m), a famous sightseeing location with wonderful panoramic views of the Himalayan mountains. The picture of 108 memorial chorten on the hillside with snowcapped mountains is breathtaking.

In Gangtey, we visit Gangtey Goemba, the only Nyingmapa monastery in this region, built in 1613. Situated on a hilltop overlooking the lush valley, it offers stunning views of the land known as the winter home of the rare Black-necked Cranes (November to March).

We follow the Gangtey Nature Trail, a scenic hike through the pristine valley, descending from the hilltop towards lovely meadows, Semchubara village, and verdant blue pine forest before ending at Khewang Lhakhang.

We also visit the Black-necked Crane Visitor Centre to learn more about these rare bird species. Overnight at hotel in Gangtey.

After breakfast, we drive to Bumthang, the Spiritual Heartland of the kingdom, where some of the country's oldest palaces, Buddhist temples and monasteries are situated.

On the way, we visit the historic Ta Dzong, the watchtower which once guarded Trongsa Dzong. Standing on a promontory above Trongsa town, it is now the National Museum with impressive collections dedicated to the Wangchuck dynasty.

Then, the imposing Trongsa Dzong, sitting high above the roaring Mange Chhu. The most majestic dzong in the whole country, built in 1644, it was the seat of power of the Wangchuck dynasty before they became rulers of Bhutan in 1907.

We visit Yathra Weaving Center in Chumey valley, famous for its unique hand-woven textile with intricate designs found only in this region. We drive slowly to Bumthang with breaks for tea. Overnight in Bumthang.

Our first destination is Jambay Lhakhang, the renowned chorten built in the 7th century – one of 108 chortens built by Tibetan King Songsten Gampo. It was also visited by Guru Rinpoche during his time in Bumthang.

We travel to the grand Kurjey Lhakhang temple complex, important due to its link with Guru Rinpoche, who meditated and left the imprint (jey) of his body (ku) on a rock in the 8th century. Near the temple is Kurjey Drupchu, where holy water is blessed by Guru Rinpoche.

Then to Tamshing Monastery (Tamshing Lhendup Chholing), built in 1501 by Pema Lingpa – the most important Nyingma goemba in Bhutan, known for its unusual design.

After lunch, Lhodrak Kharchu Monastery, blessed by Guru Rinpoche, featuring giant statues of Guru Rinpoche, Chenresig and Sakyamuni. You may walk to Chamkhar town (10 minutes downhill). Overnight in Bumthang.

In the morning, we explore the landmarks in Tang valley, the most remote of Bumthang's valleys. First destination is the sacred Mebar Tsho (The Flaming Lake). Legends say Terton Pema Lingpa jumped into the lake with a butter lamp, emerging with a chest and scroll with the lamp still burning bright.

Later, we visit Tang Ogyen Choling Palace And Museum, originally one of the 8 lings built by Longchen Rabjam (1308–1363). The Tibetan saint Dorji Lingpa (1346–1405) chose it as one of his centres. The family maintains it as a religious and cultural center, formally opened in 2001. Overnight in Bumthang.

Leaving the beautiful valleys of Bumthang, we travel to Trongsa, one of the most historic towns in Bhutan, offering wonderful views of the surrounding deep valleys.

We take a 1-hour drive to discover Kinga Rabten, the winter palace of the Second King Jigme Wangchuck, offering insight into the early days of Bhutan's monarchy. The scenic drive passes below Takse village, a huge waterfall and fertile rice terraces of the lower Mangde Chhu valley.

Just 15 minutes uphill is Karma Drubdey Nunnery, founded by Khenpo Tsultrim Gyamtso Rinpoche in 1968, today home to about 127 nuns. Overnight in Trongsa.

From the remote Trongsa valley, we head to Bhutan's former capital – Punakha, one of the most picturesque valleys where the country's two main rivers converge – the Mo Chhu and the Pho Chhu.

We see inside the striking Punakha Dzong (Palace of Great Happiness), standing at the junction of the two rivers. Built in 1637, it is the second dzong established in Bhutan. In spring, the sight is astonishing with lilac-coloured jacaranda flowers against the towering whitewashed walls.

We visit Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge – the longest of its kind in Bhutan at 160m, with multicoloured prayer flags along its length and splendid views of Punakha Dzong.

After lunch, we hike through rice terraces and pine trees to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, a unique chorten on a ridge above the valley established by Her Majesty the Queen Mother. Overnight in Punakha.

We drive back to Paro, stopping for a lovely walk through lush hillocks to see Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility), where childless women visit to pray and receive blessings. The 25-minute trail leads through Lobesa village, with views of local farmers working the fields.

In the afternoon, the renowned Paro Rinpung Dzong (Fortress of The Heap of Jewels), with towering buttressed white walls visible from anywhere in town. Erected in 1644, it is ranked as a high point of Bhutanese architecture.

Later, the National Museum of Bhutan (Ta Dzong), a former watchtower in the shape of a conch shell with 7 storeys, displaying thangkas, festival masks, textiles, weapons, and a Heritage Gallery. Overnight in Paro.

The highlight of any Bhutan journey – the hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest). Built in 1692 around the cave where Guru Rinpoche arrived on the back of a tigress and meditated for 3 months. The monastery stands on a sheer cliff at more than 3,000m. The 4.5km trail (one-way) has an elevation gain of 900m.

After trekking down, we visit Kyichu Lhakhang – one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, one of the 108 sites established by Tibetan King Songstan Gampo in the 7th century. See elderly pilgrims walking around spinning prayer wheels, and the valley's greatest treasure – a statue of Jowo Jamba from the 7th century.

We enjoy a special dinner with a Bhutanese family, chatting and savouring authentic dishes. You can try the traditional hot stone bath, or wander around the cool pubs in town. Last night in Paro.

After breakfast, your guide will accompany you to the airport for the flight to your onward destination. Tashi Delek (goodbye and good luck) – we hope to see you again!