As you fly into Paro, enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Kanchenjunga, and Bhutan’s sacred peaks, Jomolhari and Jichu Drake. Upon arrival and completing immigration, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your guide and driven along the scenic Paro and Wang Chu rivers to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Memorial Chorten, built in memory of the Third King, a hub of spiritual activity and tantric Buddhist art. In the evening, explore Trashichho Dzong, Bhutan’s administrative and religious center, home to the King’s office and Chief Abbot. Later, stroll through Thimphu’s vibrant high street before an overnight stay.

After breakfast, visit the Folk Heritage Museum, showcasing Bhutan’s rural lifestyle through artifacts in a restored three-story traditional home. Then explore the Institute of Zorig Chusum, where students master Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts over six years, including thangka painting, stone carving, and embroidery. At the Textile Museum, admire intricate weaves from Lhuentse, the royal family’s ancestral home. Learn about handmade paper crafted from daphne and edgeworthia plants, used for scriptures and souvenirs. Visit Buddha Point to see the 160-ft statue overlooking Thimphu. Explore the vibrant weekend market and conclude the day at Centenary Park, home to the 45-ft Walking Buddha. Overnight in Thimphu.

After breakfast, journey to Punakha, Bhutan’s former capital, ascending to the scenic Dochula Pass at 10,300 ft, offering stunning Himalayan views. Visit the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens, a royal tribute inspired by the Queen. Descend through colorful landscapes, prayer flags, terraced farms, and rivers to reach Punakha Valley. Explore the majestic Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal at the confluence of the Phochu and Mochu rivers. This architectural masterpiece hosted Bhutan’s first royal coronation in 1907 and the weddings of the fourth and fifth kings. Though damaged in a 1994 flood, the dzong is being fully restored. Overnight in Punakha.

After an early breakfast, take a short drive followed by a scenic one-hour hike to Khamsum Yuellay Namgyal Chorten, built by the Queen Mother to promote global peace. Then enjoy an hour of river rafting on the beautiful Mochu River, with views of alpine scenery, rare birds, and the stunning Punakha Dzong. Continue your journey to Paro. Upon arrival, visit Rinpung Dzong, a 17th-century fortress that serves both administrative and monastic purposes and remarkably survived the 1897 earthquake. Later, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. Overnight in Paro.

After breakfast, drive about half an hour to Ramthangka base and begin a hike to Bhutan’s most iconic pilgrimage site, Taktshang Lhakhang—famously known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Perched 3,000 feet above the Paro Valley, it offers breathtaking views and deep spiritual significance. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew here on a tigress and meditated in a cave, which later became the monastery. The hike to the cafeteria takes about two hours, followed by another hour to reach the monastery through spectacular landscapes. On the return, stop for lunch at the cafeteria before descending back to the base. Overnight stay at a hotel in Paro.

After an early breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey. Thank you for visiting Bhutan—Tashi Delek and safe travels!