Bhutan Discovery Journey

Tour Overview:

Discover the heart and soul of Bhutan in this immersive 7-day journey through the Kingdom’s most iconic destinations. Experience vibrant cities, ancient fortresses, serene valleys, and sacred monasteries, balanced with authentic local interactions—from dining with Bhutanese families to tranquil nature walks in Phobjikha Valley. This carefully paced itinerary offers a perfect blend of culture, spirituality, natural beauty, and genuine Bhutanese hospitality, giving you time not just to see, but to truly live Bhutan.

🗓️ Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu (1.5 hours)

Welcome to the Kingdom of Happiness!
Your journey begins with a scenic landing in Paro, followed by a warm greeting from your guide. Begin your Bhutan adventure with a leisurely drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s charming capital.

En Route Stop:

• Tamchog Lhakhang – Cross a 15th-century iron bridge built by the great bridge builder Thangtong Gyalpo

Thimphu Sightseeing Highlights:

• Buddha Dordenma – Witness the grandeur of the world’s largest seated Buddha statue
• Memorial Chorten – Join locals in evening prayers around this iconic stupa
• Craft Bazaar – Browse for handmade souvenirs and textiles

Evening Option:

• Experience Bhutan’s relaxed nightlife—explore rooftop cafés, music lounges, or a local pub

Overnight: Boutique hotel in Thimphu
Meals: Lunch, Dinner

🗓️ Day 2: Thimphu Full-Day Cultural Immersion

Morning Cultural Experience:

• School of Arts and Crafts (Zorig Chusum): See students practice Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts
• Takin Preserve: Meet Bhutan’s national animal, unique to the Himalayas
• Folk Heritage Museum: Step into the daily life of rural Bhutanese families

Afternoon Leisure:

• Free time to explore Norzin Lam, visit Royal Textile Academy, or enjoy a Bhutanese massage
• Optional: Try on traditional Bhutanese attire for memorable photos

Evening Highlight – Dinner with a Bhutanese Family:

• Enjoy a home-cooked meal in a local household
• Share stories and learn about Bhutanese customs, food, and family life

Overnight: Thimphu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner with Local Family

🗓️ Day 3: Thimphu – Dochula Pass – Punakha (3 hours)

After breakfast, head east toward Punakha, Bhutan’s ancient capital known for its warm climate and riverside beauty.

En Route Highlight:

• Dochula Pass (3,100m): Pause at the 108 chortens with spectacular views of the Eastern Himalayas

In Punakha:

• Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple): Take a short hike through paddy fields to this sacred temple
• Punakha Dzong: Marvel at this majestic fortress, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and historic landmarks

Optional Activity:

• Cross Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge for photos and panoramic views

Overnight: Riverside hotel or traditional lodge in Punakha
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

🗓️ Day 4: Punakha – Phobjikha Valley (2.5 hours)

Today, drive to the pristine and mystical Phobjikha Valley, home of the endangered black-necked cranes and a haven of natural peace.

Highlights:

• Gangtey Monastery: Visit one of Bhutan’s most important Nyingma Buddhist centers
• Gangtey Nature Trail: An easy 1.5-hour hike through pine forests, village paths, and wetlands

Evening:

• Relax at your eco-lodge or homestay, enjoy bonfire stories, or interact with monks at the monastery

Overnight: Eco-lodge or homestay in Phobjikha
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

🗓️ Day 5: Phobjikha – Return to Paro (5 hours)

After breakfast, enjoy a scenic return drive to Paro, passing rural villages, rivers, and mountains.

En Route Stop:

• Wangdue Phodrang: Quick tea break and local craft shopping

In Paro:

• Kyichu Lhakhang: Visit one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, built in the 7th century
• Rinpung Dzong: Explore this stunning riverside fortress and cross the iconic cantilever bridge

Evening Option:

• Try a traditional hot stone bath at a local farmhouse
• Explore Paro town for cafés, books, handicrafts, and local interaction

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

🗓️ Day 6: Paro – Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang)

Your Bhutan journey reaches its spiritual peak today with a hike to the sacred Tiger’s Nest Monastery, a highlight for every visitor.

Hike Details:

• Duration: ~4 to 5 hours round trip
• Altitude: 3,120m
• Option for horse ride on the first half of the trail

Why Visit:
Taktsang is dramatically perched on a cliffside and believed to be the meditation site of Guru Padmasambhava in the 8th century. The hike offers peace, panoramic views, and deep spiritual energy.

Afternoon:

• Return to Paro for lunch and rest
• Optional visit to National Museum (Ta Dzong) for Bhutanese history and art

Evening:

• Farewell dinner with cultural storytelling or masked dance (on request)

Overnight: Paro
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

🗓️ Day 7: Departure from Paro

After breakfast, your guide will escort you to Paro International Airport for your flight. Depart with deep memories of Bhutan’s warmth, wisdom, and wonder.

Meals: Breakfast
End of Tour – Tashi Delek!