Thimphu – Haa Valley – Paro Valley – Taktsang Tour – 5 Days

Day 1: Arrival & Thimphu Sightseeing

Upon arrival in the picturesque Paro Valley, your first glimpse of daily life in Bhutan begins by road as we proceed to the capital Thimphu, through traditional settlements and terraces of rice fields. The capital lies in a steep valley with alpine forests and golden topped monasteries scattered throughout. Thimphu with its bustling and colorful main street, a meeting place for many and the center of commerce for most. A leisurely walking tour in the main center of this sprawling city at 2350 meters, through alleys and laneways with its tiny shops, teahouses and handicraft emporiums.

Exploring the handcrafted artisan produce at the local farmers market with freshly churned butter, forest mushrooms and a vast array of chilies both fresh and dried. This afternoon is full of opportunities including the National Textile Museum, the Memorial Chorten with locals engaged in “Kora” – a circular pilgrimage with offerings of butter lamps.

Day 2: Thimphu – Paro Valley

This morning, we commence our road trip to Paro via Haa Valley and Cheli La pass. The road to the Haa Valley is a scenic drive through small and hamlets, winding through these side valleys we make our way into the Haa Valley, the road cut into the hillsides above the Haa river. Exploration of this isolated traditional settlement, situated south of Paro and only recently opened to tourism, take in the sights of the many temples and Lhakhang dotted throughout the valley. Winding back out of the Haa Valley, ascending to Cheli La Pass at 3810 meters offers views of the magnificent Mount Jhomolhari and Haa Valley. Taking in the scenery with an offering of prayer flags, a Buddhist ritual to gain merit for the next life. Descending through oak and pine forests from the pass into the Paro Valley, an optional mountain bike ride, an exhilarating descent.

Day 3: Taktsang Monastery Half Day hike and Paro Highlights

Day 3 begins with a hike to the magnificent Taktsang Monastery at 3140 meters. Perched cliffside, it is believed this is the meditation site of Guru Rinpoche, who flew on the back of a tigress in the 8th century. An important Buddhist pilgrimage site in the Himalayas, with its stunning vistas and spectacular architecture against a backdrop of sheer granite cliff faces. After descending from Taktsang, enjoy a picnic lunch in the Paro Valley. After lunch, we drive out to the northern end of the valley to the ruins of the 17th century Drugyel Dzong. With background views of the great Jhomolhari peak, this Dzong was originally constructed to commemorate the victory over the Tibetan army. On our return to Paro town a visit to the ancient Kyichu Monastery, this 7th-century temple is highly revered not only for its antiquity but its religious importance.

Day 4: Paro Explore and Guided Walking Tour

A guided tour of the enchanting Paro Valley with the 17th century Paro Dzong towering over the valley below. The National Museum housing collections of Bhutanese treasures, colorful Buddhist artworks, and weapons from centuries gone by. 
Walking through Paro, the township is lined with willow trees, large white monument tower over the towns local archery field, over a beautiful traditional bridge and into the heart of the valley. Leisure time, perhaps indulge in a traditional Bhutanese Hot Stone bath, partake in Bhutan’s national sport ‘Da’ – archery or a scenic mountain bike ride.

Day 5: Paro departure

Today is at your leisure to discover Paro before departure.