Immersive Bhutan

Tour Overview:

This 6-day journey goes beyond checklists—inviting you to truly experience Bhutan like a local. Explore the iconic monasteries and fortresses, but also enjoy leisure evenings, a family dinner with locals, and even a taste of Bhutanese nightlife in Thimphu. With time for reflection, discovery, and genuine connections, this itinerary blends traditional Bhutanese hospitality with curated cultural depth.

Day 1: Arrive in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu (Welcome to Bhutan)

Highlights:

• Traditional greeting at Paro International Airport
• Scenic drive to Thimphu (1.5 hours) with a stop at Tamchog Lhakhang Iron Bridge
• Check into a boutique hotel and settle in

Afternoon Exploration:

• Visit Buddha Dordenma – 169-foot Buddha with valley views
• Walk through Centenary Farmer’s Market and the Craft Bazaar
• Get oriented with a brief on Gross National Happiness and Bhutanese customs

Evening Experience – Bhutan’s Nightlife:

• Enjoy a casual dinner at a local pub or rooftop restaurant
• Try ara (local liquor) or Bhutanese craft beer
• If you’re up for it: live music, karaoke, or a cozy local lounge

Overnight: Boutique hotel in Thimphu
Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Thimphu In-Depth – Art, Culture & Free Time

Morning:

• Zorig Chusum Institute – Witness students practicing the 13 traditional arts
• Folk Heritage Museum – A glimpse into rural Bhutanese life
• Takin Reserve – Meet Bhutan’s quirky national animal

Afternoon:

• Leisure time to explore cafés, local bookstores, or get a Bhutanese wellness massage
• Optional: Try on national dress (Gho/Kira) for a fun photo session

Evening Highlight – Dinner with a Bhutanese Family:

• Visit a Bhutanese home for a private home-cooked dinner
• Share stories, taste local dishes, and learn about family life and traditions

Overnight: Thimphu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner with local family

Day 3: Thimphu – Dochula Pass – Punakha (Spiritual & Scenic Drive)

Morning Departure:

• Head to Punakha via the stunning Dochula Pass (3,100m)
  • Stop for photos at the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens
  • Optional tea break with Himalayan views

In Punakha:

• Visit the Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility) after a short paddy-field walk
• Explore the magnificent Punakha Dzong—a masterpiece at the river confluence

Afternoon Leisure:

• Cross the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan
• Relax by the riverside or enjoy a traditional game of khuru (darts) with locals

Evening: Bonfire evening at the hotel or quiet riverside dinner

Overnight: Punakha
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Punakha – Paro (Back to the Valley of Monasteries)

Scenic Drive to Paro (Approx. 4.5 hours):

• Stop at Wangdue Phodrang for a tea break and local handicrafts

In Paro:

• Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples
• Explore Paro Rinpung Dzong and cross the picturesque cantilever bridge
• Enjoy a walking tour of Paro town—visit quaint cafés, bookshops, and artisan stores

Optional Add-On:

• Try a hot stone bath in a traditional farmhouse setting

Evening: Cultural dinner with traditional music or mask dance (on request)

Overnight: Heritage hotel in Paro
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang) – Bhutan’s Spiritual Crown

Morning Adventure:

• Early breakfast and hike to the legendary Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)
  • Duration: ~4–5 hours round trip
  • Option for horse ride (uphill only)

Why it’s Unmissable:
Perched 900 meters above the valley, this cliffside monastery is Bhutan’s spiritual jewel—filled with mystery, legend, and breathtaking beauty.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a relaxed lunch after the hike
• Visit a local farmhouse to learn how to make ema datshi (chili cheese) or sip homemade tea

Evening:

• Leisure time to pack, reflect, and enjoy a final night in the valley

Overnight: Paro
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Departure from Bhutan

Enjoy breakfast with a view before your guide transfers you to Paro International Airport for your departure. Carry home not just memories—but the peaceful spirit of Bhutan.

Meals: Breakfast
End of Tour – Tashi Delek!