Begin your journey to Bhutan with breathtaking views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Kanchenjunga, and Bhutan’s sacred peaks—Mt. Jomolhari and Mt. Jichu Drake. Upon arrival in Paro, your guide will greet you and accompany you on a scenic drive to Thimphu, following the Paro and Wang Chu rivers. In Thimphu, visit the Memorial Chorten, built in memory of Bhutan’s third king and dedicated to world peace. Explore the Folk Heritage Museum, showcasing traditional Bhutanese life in a restored 19th-century farmhouse. In the late afternoon, visit Tashichhodzong, the Royal Government’s seat, and witness the evening flag lowering ceremony. Overnight stay in Thimphu.

After breakfast, visit Changangkha Lhakhang, a 12th-century hilltop temple overlooking Thimphu, dedicated to Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of compassion. Enjoy stunning valley views from its courtyard. After lunch, explore the lively weekend market to observe local culture and traditions. Stop at Centenary Park to see the 45-foot Walking Buddha statue, built by Thai artisans. Then visit the Institute of Zorig Chusum, where students are trained in Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts like thangka painting and stone carving—many of their works are available for purchase. End the day at Buddha Point (Kuenselphodrang), home to the towering 161-foot Buddha statue with sweeping views of southern Thimphu.

Today, journey eastward to Punakha, crossing the scenic Dochu La Pass at over 10,000 ft. Enjoy panoramic Himalayan views and visit the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens and Druk Wangyal Lhakhang, built for world peace. Descend through Lamperi Botanical Park, pine forests, rhododendrons, and terraced rice fields as the landscape shifts to sub-tropical. In the afternoon, visit Punakha Dzong, Bhutan’s former capital for nearly 300 years. Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung, it sits at the confluence of the Phochhu and Mochhu rivers and is famed for its architecture. The dzong hosts royal ceremonies and annual festivals, and though damaged by a flood in 1994, it has been fully restored. Overnight in Punakha.

After an early breakfast, drive to Paro with a stop at Chimi Lhakhang, the Temple of Fertility, built by a cousin of Lama Drukpa Kunlay. Couples from Bhutan and abroad visit to receive fertility blessings. After a short hike, continue to Paro and visit Drukgyel Dzong, built in 1644 to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invaders. Then explore Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, and Rinpung Dzong, a 17th-century fortress that houses monastic and administrative offices. Visit its archery grounds and, if lucky, witness a match. The dzong also hosts a major annual festival in March/April. Overnight stay in Paro.

After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. Your Bhutan journey concludes here. Thank you for joining us—Tashi Delek and safe travels!