Day 01: Arrive in Paro and drive to Thimphu

• Altitude in Thimphu: 2,320m
• Distance: 55km
• Estimated travel time: 1.30 hour

Welcome to Bhutan, the stunning Himalayan kingdom where hidden beauty awaits at every turn. Each step you take will unveil unique cultural experiences, captivating historical tales, and the enchantment of tranquility.

As your plane descends towards Paro (2,280m), you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking view of the Himalayan peaks. Upon arrival, our guide will warmly welcome you and escort you to Thimphu. 

Your Bhutan adventure has now begun!

Thimphu, Bhutan’s lively capital and largest city, lies in the heart of the western central region. Proclaimed the capital by the third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, in 1961, it transformed into the country’s administrative and economic hub. While the city center bustles with modern buildings, just beyond lies the serenity of blue pine forests. Thimphu gracefully blends Bhutanese culture with embracing modernity.

After checking into your hotel and a short break, it’s time to explore the capital city.

The first destination will be the striking National Memorial Chorten. Originally, it was a monument erected to promote global peace and prosperity. The site was later dedicated to memorializing the Late Third King, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck (1928-1972).

Next, you’ll visit the Buddha Point (Buddha Dordenma Statue), perched atop a hill in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park. This colossal Shakyamuni statue, standing at an impressive 51.5 meters, is one of the tallest Buddha statues in the world. Visible from afar, it was constructed to fulfill an ancient prophecy believed to emanate peace and happiness globally. Seeing the statue and feeling the essence of tranquility in this area is a profound moment for every visitor.

Then you’ll lay eyes on the grand Tashichho Dzong (or Thimphu Dzong), its whitewashed walls and iconic red-and-gold triple-tiered roofs an architectural marvel. Originally built in 1641 and reconstructed in 1965, this dzong has served as the seat of Bhutan’s government since 1962, when the capital moved from Punakha. Situated along the western bank of the Wang Chhu River, it offers breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls and terraced farmlands.

Next, you’ll venture to Motithang, a picturesque north-western suburb of Thimphu, to tackle the Wangditse Nature hike (2,400m). This trail meanders through enchanting forests of oak, blue pine, and rhododendron. Spanning 2.5km one way, the hike is relatively easy and takes about 2 hours to complete.

In the afternoon, your journey continues to the picturesque Motithang suburb for the Wangditse Nature hike (2,400m). This relatively easy 2.5km trail winds through enchanting forests of oak, blue pine, and rhododendrons. It will take 2 hours to complete, and provide an excellent time for a forest bath – where you can stay close and absorb the energy of nature. 

Along the way, you’ll stop at the Motithang Takin Preserve (Royal Takin Preserve) to see Takin – Bhutan’s unique national animal with its distinct cow-goat hybrid appearance. You’ll also visit the ancient Druk Wangditse Lhakhang, one of Thimphu’s oldest and most significant heritage temples.

The hike is adorned with vibrant strings of prayer flags, adding a splash of color to the scenic route. You can stop and soak in the breathtaking views of the Samteling Palace, Tashichho Dzong, and the entirety of Thimphu Valley. This hike promises not only a delightful walk through nature but also a journey through some of Bhutan’s most cherished landmarks.

Late in the afternoon, it will be nice to experience the dynamic atmosphere of Thimphu’s lively streets. The bustling streets are filled with the sounds of bustling markets, the tantalizing aromas of local eateries, and the rhythmic beats of music from nightclubs. Together, these elements paint a vivid and welcoming picture of the city’s dynamic atmosphere.

You will stay overnight at the hotel for the first night.

Day 02: Thimphu to Punakha

• Altitude in Punakha: 1,300m
• Distance: 75km
• Estimated travel time: 3hrs

Today’s journey takes you east from Thimphu to the historic Punakha Valley, the former capital of Bhutan until 1952 Thimphu took over. Since it’s one of the nation’s warmest valleys, Punakha promises breathtaking Himalayan vistas, invigorating treks, and serene temples.

Your first stop will be the renowned Dochula Pass, situated at an elevation of 3,050m. Praised as one of the most picturesque mountain passes, the view is breathtaking. The sight of 108 chortens dotting the hillside against the backdrop of mighty snowcapped Himalayan peaks in the distance will surely be one of your favourite memories of Bhutan.  

Then, you will hike to Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility). As you cross the gently rolling hillock fields, feel the crisp mountain air filling your lungs with each step. After a 30-minute climb, ascending 20 meters, you’ll reach the temple perched at 1,500m. This sacred site holds profound significance, especially for women hoping to conceive or those recently blessed with newborns. They come to receive the monk’s blessings to aid fertility and wish for a healthy child. Don’t worry if you come here without looking for fertility or blessings, you are still welcome here. This is still a nice experience which lets you learn more about the Bhutanese culture. 

Continuing on, you’ll embark on an approximately one-hour trek through idyllic scenery – winding paths lined with swaying rice paddies and fragrant pine forests. 

Your last destination of the day will be the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, an architectural jewel on a ridge 1,500m above Punakha Valley. A quintessential example of Bhutanese design, this chorten mesmerizes with its gilded spire and ornately carved walls.  Its location on the crest offers breathtaking views of Punakha Valley — take a moment to soak in the panorama!

You will spend the night at the hotel in Punakha.

Day 03: Punakha Drubchen Festival (Punakha Dromchoe Festival)

The highlight of our tour is witnessing the sacred Punakha Drupchen Festival, held from the 7th to 9th day of the 1st month of the Bhutanese lunar calendar at the majestic Punakha Dzong.

A drubchen or drubchoe is a religious performance requiring intensive recitation and meditation over an extended period. It is a consecration ceremony signifying that the structure has been blessed by the enlightened Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, dakinis and dakas, protecting it henceforth from malevolent and demonic spirits. A drubchoe invokes the principal deities to continue granting their protective blessings upon humans and all other beings.

The Punakha Drubchen was first instituted in 17th-century Bhutan to celebrate its victory over invading Tibetan forces and to propitiate the powerful guardian deity Yeshe Goenpo. 

A central highlight is the three-day extended pazap festival, where warrior performers (pazaps) attired for combat brandish weaponry and stage elaborate battle reenactments accompanied by resounding trumpets, fireworks and rousing war cries. These dramatic performances recreate their triumph over the repelled Tibetan invasions.

For the reenactments, 136 pazaps were summoned from Wang Tsochengyé or the eight great blocks of Wang from Thimphu (Kawang, Chang, and Mewang), and Punakha (Baap, Kabjisa, Shengana, Tewang, and Toeb). They take up the role of pazap, or noble warrior, and reenact war scenes from the era of Zhapdrung Ngakwang Namgyel (1595-1651). 

Pazaps were selected based on requirements and individual interest, with three chosen by the tsokpa (chiwog representatives) from each village. They were joined by zimpons (leader-generals) and eight gups (chieftain-representatives of Zhabdrung) who guided the warriors during the war. 

This long-standing tradition originated with Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, who is said to have deceived the Tibetans into believing the revered Ranjung Kharsapani relic at the heart of the conflict had been discarded in the river.

The festivities commence with the seven-day Gönpé Wangchen esoteric ceremony. After its conclusion, the gups, pazaps and zimpons gather at Punakha a day prior, setting up camps and performing a purifying ritual bath in the Mo River. Traditionally, gewog leaders collected a rice tax called “Güpi Kamtré” from villagers to fund food provisions for the three-day dromchoe event. However, today pazaps receive an allowance from the government.

The pazaps don vibrant crimson robes folded like ghos at the waist along with black jackets, red-and-white paneled khamar kabné scarves, tsoklham boots, heavy iron helmets with banners and patang swords. The zimpons garb themselves in patterned ghos, white skirts and dhar nyenga – woven five-colored chest scarves. The gups symbolically transform into red-robed monks for the dromchoe’s duration, embodying the warriors once sent by Zhabdrung to safeguard each clan.

On the first day, following the zhukdrel pünsum tsokpa and marchang ceremonies, His Holiness the Jé Khenpo, the representative of the Zhapdrung, reads out the Zhapdrung’s edict to the assembled pazaps: “I have placed my trust in the people of Wang Tsochengyé, and together we must defeat the enemies from Tibet through craft and shrewdness.”

On the second day, the pazaps wake early and circumambulate Punakha Dzong three times before gathering near the lake. There, the zimpön (leader-generals) demonstrate through actions and songs how to engage the enemy forces. 

On the third day, eight elite pazaps perform the sacred groundbreaking ceremony before the Jé Khenpo in the courtyard. Four of these zimpön then perform the bé cham, the divine war dance with drawn swords invoking deities’ protection, at the Kabgön where Zhapdrung once resided – offering their solemn oaths to overcome the foes. The pazaps then pour forth from the dzong in groups, shouting fierce battle cries. Eight generals representing the chieftains ride on horseback through the front and rear gates, taking strategic positions around the dzong’s four sides.

Meanwhile, the pazaps maintain a bewildering cycle – entering through the front, exiting the rear, and re-entering the front again in a seemingly endless procession. This was Zhapdrung’s clever trick to deceive the Tibetans into believing a vast army lay waiting. This military theater culminates in a sacred procession as hundreds of crimson-hatted Drukpa Kagyü monks emerge amidst blaring horns and thundering drums. 

At the Mo River’s banks, the Jé Khenpo, donning a black hat and apron bearing the fearsome visage of the wrathful Gönpo, performs the sacred lü chok ritual. He casts handfuls of oranges into the river waters, symbolically immersing the precious Rangjung Kharsapani relic – reenacting the very actions of Zhapdrung himself centuries ago at this hallowed site.

Embodying the Zhapdrung, the Jé Khenpo then leads the pazaps back to the dzong in a triumphant procession. Upon reaching the foot of the stairs, the zimpons are pulled from their mounts and carried up the steps in a ceremonial parade into the courtyard. There, the climax sees the zimpons perform the sacred bé cham war dances with drawn swords before the Jé Khenpo. Finally, the Gyalpö Sungkhorp issues his rousing command to the pazaps.

For the people of Wang Tsochengyé, Dromchö commemorates their profound connection to this defining victory over foreign invasion. They celebrate it fervently, receiving jinlap blessings and auspicious religious strings from His Holiness. These memorialize how the farsighted Zhapdrung secured the sacred relic and Punakha Dzong, through his brilliant strategies, decisively defeated the Tibetan forces.

Watching the Punakha Drubchen festival is a captivating experience, offering a unique glimpse into Bhutan’s vibrant traditions and storied history!

After the festival, you’ll head to the iconic Punakha Dzong (Palace of Great Happiness), situated at the confluence of the Po and Mo rivers. This magnificent structure was Established in 1637 by Ngawang Namgyal, the first Zhabdrung Rinpoche, making it the second-oldest dzong in Bhutan. It impresses visitors with six floors, including a central tower (or utse), surrounded by lush green landscapes. Acted as the seat of government til 1955, Punakha Dzong now remains the winter home of the state monk body, and the venue for the coronation of every Bhutanese king.

From Punakha Dzong, it’s a short distance to reach the Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge. Stretching 160 meters, it is Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge. Like many bridges in the country, lines of prayer flags are hung on both sides of this bridge. Walk across and enjoy the serene views of Punakha Dzong, as well as the picturesque valleys and villages.

You will stay overnight at the hotel in Punakha.

Day 04: Punakha sightseeing

Today you will venture outside of central Punakha to visit the renowned Nalanda Buddhist Institute, about an hour’s drive from town.

Nalanda Buddhist Institute, locally called Daley Goenpa or Dalida, is a prestigious monastic school in the western Punakha District with a rich legacy tracing back over 250 years. Situated below Talo Monastery along the highway, it gets its name “Nalanda” meaning “insatiable giving” from the ancient Nalanda University in India.

The place was founded by the 9th Je Khenpo Shakya Rinchen. He was believed to be a reincarnation of Rechung Dorje Drakpa, one of Milarepa’s two extraordinary disciples in the Kagyu Buddhist tradition.

Shakya Rinchen, also known as Gyalwang Shakya Rinchen, was from Sha Rueb Samchokha in the Wangdue Phodrang Dzongkhag. Rechung had traveled to India to receive profound teachings, which he passed on to Milarepa, helping them be immersed in the Kagyu school. At that time, the ancient Nalanda University in India was a sacred place of Buddhist learning.

There’s also a story about how the institute’s location was chosen. Shakya Rinchen witnessed eight vultures flying to the present location and took it as an omen, believing they represented the eight original panditas (scholars) of Nalanda University. He later had a dream where those eight scholars appeared and gave teachings. Considering this meaningful coincidence, he founded Nalanda Monastery here to emulate that great Indian university.

The sprawling Nalanda complex features an architecturally impressive two-story lhakhang dating back to Shakya Rinchen’s time as its oldest structure. Unlike typical lhakhangs, it has no encircling prayer wheels, reflecting its role as a scholarly institution. The whitewashed building has large rabsel windows adorned with metalwork tracing Buddhist symbols like the endless knot and Dharma wheel.

Downhill from the lhakhang stands the more elaborate three-story Sonam Gatshel temple built in a mandala shape resembling a dzong’s utse tower. The rest of the complex comprises classroom buildings and dormitories for the faculty and students of this esteemed monastery.

After exploring Nalanda’s ancient monuments, we will drive up to the village of Talo at 2,314m elevation to visit another significant site – Talo Sangacholing Monastery, or Talo Gompa. This prominent monastery perches on the hills above Punakha at 2,800m. It has a special tie to Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, the revered founder of Bhutan, as well as an essential Drukpa Kagyu Monastery.

Established in 1767 by Chogtul Jigme Singye, the fourth Lam Thripa reincarnation, Talo gained fame under Jigme Drakpa II’s leadership in the early 1800s. As the third “mind incarnation” of Zhabdrung, Jigme Drakpa made Talo the main seat for future Zhabdrung reincarnations. He also adopted the Tibetan deity Pehar as the monastery’s guardian spirit and instituted its annual tshechu festival.

The monastery’s interior revealed the incredible skills of Bhutanese artisans. Ornate statues, shrines like Neten Chudru Lhakhang, and vivid murals depicting 10,000 images of Zhabdrung adorned the walls. Below the statue of Tshapami there is a Namsey Tsherim that is sealed for public display. Inner walls of the momastery are painted with Zhabdrung’s images substituting 10,000 Zhabdrung statues.

After visiting Talo Monastery, you will take an easy 3km hike descending 413m from Talo village down to Nobgang village. This trail was once an ancient path connecting Punakha and Talo. The hike will offer beautiful views of the Punakha Valley below and Nobgang itself, as you trek through rhododendron and oak forests with chances to spot barking deer and birds.

Nobgang has its own sacred history tied to the 9th Je Khenpo Shakya Rinchen in the 18th century. While meditating at Jachong Karmo cliff, he saw a glittering light emanating from a distant hill. Following the light, he discovered it was a precious gem (norbu), giving Nobgang (“hill of the precious gem”) its name. Deeming the gem sacred, Shakya Rinchen built the Pelri Dorji Dhen temple, now known as Tsuglakhang, on that hill.

The hill’s sacredness attracted many lamas and teachers who built hermitages around the main temple. You will notice Nobgang’s unique houses, constructed differently than typical Bhutanese village architecture, as you stroll through. The village will have an air of serenity befitting its origins from Shakya Rinchen’s sacred discovery centuries ago.

The hike from the monasteries of Talo down to Nobgang will be a chance to experience Punakha’s natural beauty and religious history.

You will have lunch at a traditional restaurant in Nobgang village, getting to experience this area’s unique local cuisine. Dishes they may serve include:

• Ezey Nyergu – Also known as the “nine essential ingredient ezey”, this is a specialty of Nobgang that the local ladies take pride in. The recipe has been passed down for generations from mothers to daughters and grandmothers.
• Gegew – A hearty stew where two different meats (pork and beef) are cooked together with shukam (dried chilies), vermicelli noodles, and spring onions.
• Jatsa Gondo – This crispy egg dish is a rare Bhutanese delicacy that even most locals haven’t tried. It’s a specialty prepared in Nobgang for festivals, rituals and family events as part of a grand feast.
• Meakhu – A traditional rice snack made by soaking rice, pounding it into a flour, rolling it flat, and then frying it crisp.

Dining at this Nobgang village restaurant will allow you to sample some unique historic dishes passed down over centuries in this region.

After lunch, you will head to the historic Nobgang Tshulhakhang temple in the village. This temple holds profound significance, marking an important exodus epidemic event in Nobgang’s past.

Hiking the trail around Nobgang hilltop that connects to the route from Talo and down towards Punakha town, you’ll learn about the temple’ origin. 

In the 18th century, when the 9th Je Khenpo Shakya Rinchen was meditating at Jachong Karmo cliff north of the valley, he saw a glittering light emanating from a distant hill.

As Shakya Rinchen followed the shining light, he discovered it was actually coming from a precious gem (norbu), hence giving Nobgang (“the hill of the precious gem”) its name. Deeming the gem sacred, His Holiness built the Pelri Dorji Dhen on that hill, which today is known as the Tshulhakhang.

The compact Tshulhakhang complex will comprise a central hall fronted by a small rectangular courtyard. Ancillary buildings will line the north and south sides, while a small gatehouse stands to the east. Just beyond the courtyard, you will find scattered chortens in a meadow overlooking the majestic Himalayan peaks and Punakha Valley below.

Later, you will stop at the impressive Sangchen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang. This is a combined temple and nunnery perched on a ridge overlooking the Toebesa, Punakha and Wangduephodrang valleys.

The lhakhang complex comprises a double-storied temple, a large chorten resembling Nepal’s Boudhanath stupa, and an adjacent nunnery. This site was consecrated by His Holiness the Je Khenpo in a ceremony attended by the 4th King, royal family members, and hundreds from Punakha.

Inside the temple, there is an immense 14-foot bronze statue of Avalokiteshvara as the main centerpiece. Other sacred statues include Guru Padmasambhava, Gautama Buddha, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, Tsela Namsum, the 21 Taras, and Tsepamey (Buddha of longevity).

Meanwhile, the nunnery complex initially housed 41 nuns across its 70 rooms. It now serves as a permanent higher learning and meditation center, providing religious training as well as life skills like tailoring, embroidery, statue-making, and thangka painting.

A unique highlight is the skillfully carved black marble surrounding the stupa, depicting the 84 Mahasiddhis, 16 Arhats, and great lamas of the Drukpa Kagyu lineage. This intricate artwork adds to the sacred atmosphere.

With its multiple facets, Sangchen Dorji Lhuendrup showcases both Bhutan’s Buddhist spiritual arts and its enduring monastic education traditions.

You will spend the night at the hotel in Punakha.

Day 05: Punakha to Paro

• Distance: 125km
• Estimated travel time: 4hrs

Leaving Punakha, you’ll be coming back to Paro – where it all began. This enchanting town sits alongside the Paro (or Pa) Chhu River and is adorned with some of the world’s most ancient monasteries and temples. With a history that traces back to the 7th century, Paro is steeped in captivating myths and folklore, adding an extra layer of intrigue to our adventure.

You will first travel to Paro Rinpung Dzong, also known as the Fortress of the Heap of Jewels. This magnificent complex is celebrated as the finest example of Bhutanese architecture and includes courtyards, temples, offices, and residential areas. Its towering white walls can be seen from almost every corner of Paro. The dzong is also the location of the famous Paro Tsechu festival, which is held annually.

After that, you will explore the National Museum of Bhutan, which is located in Ta Dzong. Originally a watchtower during times of conflict, Ta Dzong was later transformed into the National Museum. The museum’s impressive collections include Bhutanese thangkas, festival masks for Tshechu dances, textiles, weapons, armor, and much more.

The last site today will be Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples constructed in the Himalayas. Legend has it that the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo erected these temples in just one day to subdue a demon tigress that sought to halt the spread of Buddhism in the region. This historic temple also welcomed Guru Padmasambhava in the 8th century. Kyichu Lhakhang is hailed as one of the most awe-inspiring temples in the area.

You will spend the night at the hotel in Paro.

Day 06: Paro sightseeing

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, you will hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery, or the Tiger’s Nest, one of the holiest sites in Bhutan. This awe-inspiring monastery is perched on a steep 900-meter cliff, offering breathtaking views of the lush Paro Valley. The uphill trek, lasting around 3 hours, treats you to stunning vistas of the valley and the towering Himalayan peaks.

According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew to this location on the back of a tigress and spent time meditating in a cave, emerging in eight different forms. This captivating tale gives the monastery its evocative name, “Tiger’s Nest.”

Upon reaching the revered complex, you will be amazed by its unique architecture, featuring four large temples with golden roofs, eight symbolic tunnels, and residential quarters intricately built into the cliff face.

In the late afternoon, you will attend a cooking class to learn the art of preparing classic dishes such as Ema Datshi, red rice, Jasha Maru, and Phaksha Paa. Following the cooking class, enjoy dinner with a local family at their farmhouse for an authentic taste of Bhutanese cuisine.

To cap off this culturally enriching day, take a traditional hot stone bath. Just like the locals have done for ages, you can unwind by soaking in herb-infused, mineral-rich warm waters, which is an ancient practice beneficial for health and rejuvenation.

The Taktsang monastery will mark the final stop of your spiritually and culturally immersive journey through Bhutan.

You will spend the last night at the hotel in Paro.

Day 07: Depart Paro

It is time to say farewell to Paro and the beautiful country of Bhutan. We hope that, with the assistance of our guide and driver, you have had a great trip. We hope to welcome you back to our country. Tashi Delek!