GENERAL INFORMATION
Tour Route: Paro - Punakha - Bumthang - Phobjikha - Thimphu - Paro
Duration: 9 days/ 8 nights
Start/ End: Paro/ Paro
Tour customize: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirement in the inquiry form)
BRIEF ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrive Paro, sightseeing
Day 2: Paro - Punakha, hike Chimi Lhakhang
Day 3: Punakha - Bumthang, attend Nimalung Festival
Day 4: Bumthang
Day 5: Bumthang - Phobjikha
Day 6: Phobjikha - Thimphu
Day 7: Thimphu
Day 8: Thimphu - Paro, hike Tiger’s Nest
Day 9: Paro Departure
FULL ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrive at Paro sightseeing
Upon arrival in Bhutan, you'll instantly feel the charm of its serene surroundings—lush green mountains, crisp air, and a calming stillness that makes you feel worlds away from the rush of modern life. After clearing airport formalities at Paro, you'll be greeted in traditional style by your guide and driver.
Your Paro sightseeing includes:
National Museum (Ta Dzong): Originally a watchtower for Rinpung Dzong, this structure was transformed into Bhutan’s National Museum in 1968. It offers stunning views over Paro Valley.
Rinpung Dzong: Built in 1645, this impressive fortress now houses the district administration and a monastic school. Its central tower (Utse) features some of the finest woodwork in Bhutan.
In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Paro.
Overnight stay in Paro.
Day 2: Paro - Punakha, hike Chimi Lhakhang
After an early breakfast, we'll drive to the scenic Dochu-La Pass (3,088m/10,130ft), pausing briefly to enjoy panoramic views and take in the beauty of the Chortens, Mani walls, and colorful prayer flags adorning the pass. Descending from the pass, we’ll reach Lobeysa village and begin a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to the “Divine Madman” – a 16th-century monk known for his eccentric teachings and humorous legends.
Next, we’ll visit Punakha Dzong, considered one of Bhutan’s most stunning fortresses. Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it lies at the confluence of the Phochu (Male) and Mochu (Female) rivers. The Dzong serves as the winter residence for the central monk body and the district’s administrative center. We'll conclude the day with a walk to Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge, located just behind the Punakha Dzong.
Overnight stay in Punakha.
Day 3: Punakha - Bumthang, attend Nimalung Festival
We begin the day early with a scenic drive to the beautiful Bumthang Valley, often regarded as the spiritual heart of Bhutan. This sacred region is home to some of the country’s oldest temples and monasteries, with legends of Guru Padmasambhava and the “tertons” (treasure-revealers) still deeply rooted in its history. Our journey takes us over Pele La Pass (3,300m), marking the traditional divide between eastern and western Bhutan.
Upon arrival in Bumthang, we head to Chumey to witness the vibrant Nimalung Festival at Nimalung Lhakhang. This annual celebration features captivating masked dances and spiritual rituals, offering a glimpse into Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage.
Overnight stay in Bumthang.
Day 4: Bumthang
Today is dedicated to exploring some of Bhutan’s most sacred Buddhist sites through visits and short hikes. We begin with Jambay Lhakhang, a 7th-century monastery built by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo as part of a network of 108 temples to subdue evil forces in the Himalayas. Its current structure dates back to the early 1900s.
A short walk brings us to Kurje Lhakhang, a revered complex of three temples. The oldest, built in 1652, is set against a cliff where Guru Padmasambhava meditated. The central temple houses a cave with the impression of his body, making it especially sacred. The third was added in the 1990s by Queen Mother Ashi Kesang. The complex is encircled by a wall of 108 chortens.
Next, we visit Tamshing Lhakhang, located across the river. Founded in 1501 by Terton Pema Lingpa, believed to be a reincarnation of Guru Rinpoche, the temple features ancient murals that were restored in the late 19th century.
After lunch, we drive to Jakar Dzong, built in 1549 by the great-grandfather of Bhutan’s first Zhabdrung. Originally a monastery, it now functions as the administrative and monastic center of Bumthang Valley.
Overnight stay in Bumthang.
Day 5: Bumthang - Phobjikha
We begin our return journey via Pelela Pass (3,300 m), with a stop at the impressive Trongsa Dzong, Bhutan’s largest fortress, built in 1647. It serves as both a monastic center and the seat of local administration. If time allows, we’ll visit the Chume Weaving Centre, where you can browse and purchase traditional woolen textiles unique to the Bumthang region.
We then drive to Gangtey/Phobjikha, a stunning glacial valley known as the winter home of the endangered black-necked cranes that migrate from the Tibetan Plateau.
Later, enjoy a walk along the Gangtey Nature Trail, considered one of Bhutan’s most scenic hikes. Beginning near the mani wall north of Gangtey Gompa and ending at Khewa Lhakhang, the 1.5-hour trek winds through pine forests and bamboo groves, offering nature lovers a peaceful and immersive experience. In the evening, take time to explore the serene Phobjikha Valley.
Overnight in Phobjikha.
Day 6: Phobjikha - Thimphu
Before heading to Thimphu, we’ll take time to explore Phobjikha Valley by visiting key sites: The Black-Necked Crane Information Center, located at the edge of the valley’s forest and wetlands, features an observation room with powerful telescopes for spotting these rare cranes.
Next, we visit Gangtey Monastery, Bhutan’s only Nyingmapa monastery, which overlooks the vast green Phobjikha Valley. The complex includes the monastery itself, monks’ living quarters, meditation halls, and schools. Afterwards, we’ll drive to Thimphu via Dochula Pass. Once in Thimphu, enjoy some time exploring the town.
Overnight stay in Thimphu.
Day 7: Thimphu
We’ll start the day visiting several key attractions:
- Buddha Point: Home to the massive Buddha Dordenma statue, perched on a hill in Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park, overlooking the southern entrance to Thimphu Valley.
- Takin Preservation Center: According to legend, the Takin was created by the Tibetan saint Drukpa Kunley, known as The Divine Madman, through mystical powers. This unique animal is Bhutan’s national symbol and is cared for at the preserve in Motithang, Thimphu.
- Zilukha Nunnery: Just 2 km from Tashichho Dzong, this nunnery offers insight into the spiritual strength and devotion of Bhutanese Buddhist women.
- Centenary Farmers’ Market: Explore this vibrant weekend market, the largest of its kind in Bhutan, where farmers from across the country sell fresh, organic produce. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
- Authentic Bhutanese Crafts Street: Wander through traditional bamboo huts showcasing a variety of local handicrafts, providing a glimpse into Bhutan’s rich artistic heritage.
Overnight stay in Thimphu.
Day 8: Thimphu - Paro, hike Tiger’s Nest
After breakfast, we’ll drive to the northern end of Paro Valley for a hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang). Perched on a sheer cliff 900 meters above the valley floor, Taktsang is one of Bhutan’s most sacred sites. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tigress in the 8th century and meditated in a cave, around which the temple was later built.
In the evening, we’ll visit a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse for a chance to interact with a local family and experience their way of life. You may also choose to enjoy a traditional hot stone bath (optional, with an extra charge) to unwind after the hike.
Overnight stay in Paro.
Day 9: Paro Departure
After an early breakfast at the hotel, you will be driven to the airport for your departure flight to your next destination. Hope you enjoyed this unique tour and wish you would enjoy other Bhutan tour packages with us.
