Land of Happiness

Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu
Welcome to the mystical Land of the Thunder Dragon! Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, your guide will greet you and escort you to your hotel in Thimphu. Take the day to relax and adjust to the altitude. Optional short sightseeing or light trek in Paro for acclimatization.

Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 2: Fly to Bumthang – Spiritual Heart of Bhutan
Take a domestic flight to Bumthang Valley, Bhutan’s spiritual center surrounded by pristine wildlife. Explore sacred sites linked to Guru Rimpoche, the revered Buddhist saint who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan. Visit Tamshing Goemba monastery, Kurjey Lhakhang (housing Guru Rinpoche’s footprint), Jambay Lhakhang, and Jakar Dzong. End the day with a visit to Thangbi Valley crossing its suspension bridge to see Thangbi Lhakhang.

Overnight stay in Bumthang.

Day 3: Bumthang – Flaming Lake and Ugyen Choling Palace
Travel to Tang Valley, visiting Me-Bar Tsho (Burning Lake), one of Bhutan’s holiest lakes, and the serene Pemacholing Nunnery, where nuns may perform blessings. Spend the evening at the historic Ugyen Choling Palace, home to a private museum showcasing traditional Bhutanese lifestyle and culture, and enjoy a local cultural evening with dancing and singing.

Overnight stay in Bumthang.

Day 4: Bumthang to Trongsa
Visit the Ogyen Choling Museum before driving to Trongsa, stopping frequently for photos and refreshments. Explore the spectacularly perched Trongsa Dzong, Bhutan’s most magnificently situated fortress, built into the ridge with interconnected courtyards and alleys.

Overnight stay in Trongsa.

Day 5: Trongsa to Phobjikha Valley
Drive to the breathtaking Phobjikha Valley, famous for wintering Black-necked Cranes. Stop for lunch and enjoy the stunning Pele La Pass en route. Visit Gangtey Gompa Monastery, a 17th-century site overlooking the valley.

Overnight stay in Phobjikha Valley.

Day 6: Phobjikha to Punakha
Take a morning climb to Gangtey Monastery followed by a scenic drive to Punakha. Visit the Chhimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple), surrounded by terraced fields and famed for its phallus paintings that ward off evil spirits.

Overnight stay in Punakha.

Day 7: Punakha Sightseeing
Explore the majestic Punakha Dzong, located at the confluence of two rivers and still a winter residence for Bhutan’s religious leaders. Visit the unique Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, an exquisite architectural marvel built by the third Queen Mother.

Overnight stay in Punakha.

Day 8: Punakha to Thimphu
Drive to Thimphu with a stop at Dochula Pass to admire panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas. Explore Thimphu’s highlights including the Takin Enclosure, Buddha Dordenma Statue, Heritage Museum, Textile Museum, National Memorial Chorten, Papermaking Factory, and Simtokha Dzong. Optional nightlife tour in the capital.

Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 9: Thimphu to Paro
Enjoy a morning nature climb from Buddha Dordenma to Changangkha Monastery, followed by visits to the Farmers Market, Cordyceps Tasting House, and Crafts Market. Transfer to Paro in the evening.

Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 10: Paro – Tiger’s Nest Monastery Hike
Embark on the iconic hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) perched dramatically on the cliffside. After the climb, unwind with a traditional hot stone bath in a local farmhouse in Paro Valley.

Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 11: Departure from Paro
After breakfast, bid farewell to Bhutan as you transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey. Take home unforgettable memories and cultural insights. Delek Tashi!