Experience the awe-inspiring sights of the majestic Himalayan peaks as your flight descends into Paro Valley (2,200 meters), providing your first glimpse of this enchanting country. After completing visa formalities at Paro airport, meet your personal guide and driver.

Witness the sacred temples and monasteries dotting the mountainous landscape on your journey from Paro to Thimphu.

Enroute, make a stop at Tachhog Lhakhang, the Iron Chain Bridge temple, which spans the meandering Pa Chhu (Paro River) with its famous iron chain bridge. Immerse yourself in the refreshing ambiance of cool breezes and vibrant prayer flags, creating a visual feast.

Upon reaching Thimphu (2,300 meters), check into your hotel, freshen up, and then explore the impressive Thimphu Tashichoe Dzong. Nestled in the Grand Kuenrey, this massive structure exemplifies Bhutanese architecture. Witness the daily prayers of monks in the grand room before the colossal Buddha statue.

Visit the Memorial Chorten, a prominent landmark in Thimphu, where devotees continuously circumbulate the whitewashed stupa. Observe the elderly reciting mantras and chanting prayers in profound devotion, gaining insights into Buddhist philosophy through the monument’s paintings and statues.

Experience the national sport at the local archery ground, where locals celebrate with dance and song for every successful hit.

Conclude the day with an evening stroll through Thimphu town, capturing the magical essence of the capital and glimpses of contemporary Bhutanese life. Overnight at a Thimphu hotel.

Embark on a scenic drive via Dochu-la pass at 3,100 meters, pausing to absorb the breathtaking views of Himalayan peaks and marvel at the 108 Chortens, Mani wall, and prayer flags adorning the highest point on the road. If the skies are clear, the majestic Himalayan peaks to the northeast are revealed in their full splendor. Participate in making merit by hoisting prayer flags and offering incense smoke at this elevated location. Adjacent to the 108 stupas is a temple where the golden lamp of infinity radiates.

Stop for lunch in Punakha/Nobding before continuing to Phobjikha, one of Bhutan’s most tranquil glacial valleys.

Upon arrival in Phobjikha, pay your respects at Gangtey Gonpa, the principal seat of the Pema Lingpa tradition, established in 1613. The structure perches on a hill, offering panoramic views of the picturesque glacial valley.

Explore the Gangtey Valley through the captivating Gangtey Nature Trail Hike, a short yet stunning nature trail. The hike starts from the Mani stone wall north of Gangtey Gonpa and concludes at Khewa Lhakhang, taking approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes through pine forests and small bamboo plants. This hike provides a breathtaking view of Phobjikha valley, making it a must for nature lovers. During winter months, witness the endangered Black Neck Cranes.

In the evening, participate in evening prayers or engage in a discussion on Buddhism with the knowledgeable teachers at Gangtey Buddhist Monastery. Conclude the day with dinner, joining the monks. Overnight at a hotel in Phobjikha or opt for the Monastery guesthouse.

Awaken to the melodic sound of a bell, calling the monks to their Morning Prayer.

Gangtey Monastery’s Scheduled Activities:

Engage in the Morning Prayer from 5:30 AM to 6:15 AM.

Attend an evening meditation class from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM, focusing on Samantha meditation, loving-kindness, or Vipassana.

Participate in the evening prayer from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM.

Additional activities include:

Learn Astrological Reading (Mo)

Hoist Prayer Flags

Conduct Smoke Offering/Wine Offering/Butter Lamp Offering

Enjoy a Picnic with Monks

Attend Dharma Talk

Arrange a Private Meeting with the abbot (Khenpo) of Shedra

Make a meal donation and serve food to the monks

Participate in a Dharma Talk on spiritual cleansing, guided by an authentic Buddhist master. Note that some masters may prefer their native language, but English translation will be available.

These activities, curated by Gangtey Shedra (Gangtey Buddhist University), offer visitors an opportunity to alleviate daily stress and gain insights into the compassionate Buddhist way of life. (Courtesy: Sherab Lhuendrup, Gangtey Shedra)

Overnight at a hotel in Phobjikha (Alternatively, stay in the Monastery guesthouse).

Embark on a journey to the ancient capital of Bhutan, Punakha.

Upon arrival in Punakha, stroll through the traditional houses of Sopsokha village amidst rice and mustard fields, leading to the temple of the Divine Mad Monk on a hillock. Observe unique phallus paintings on the village walls, believed to ward off evil influences and gossip.

Visit Punakha Dzong, a striking structure between the confluence of Pho Chhu (Male River) and Mo Chhu (Female River). Explore the intricate carvings and architecture, housing the kingdom’s most sacred relic, the “Rangjung Karsa-pani.”

Cross the 160-meter suspension bridge over Pho Chhu, offering spectacular views of Punakha Dzong. Enjoy the cool breeze from the rushing river.

In the evening, immerse yourself in the warm atmosphere of Punakha valley.

Overnight at a hotel in Punakha.

Take a scenic drive from Punakha to Paro, a beautiful valley in Western Bhutan with stunning Lhakhangs and monasteries perched on mountain hills. Explore the sacred Dra Karpo, a small Lhakhang on a hilltop, known for its mystical tranquility and historical significance.

Stroll through Paro town, experiencing the charm of traditional Bhutanese buildings.

Overnight at a hotel in Paro.

Fuel up with breakfast for a hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery, perched on a cliff. Explore the pristine surroundings of this holy site, named Tiger’s Lair, associated with the legendary arrival of Guru Rinpoche.

Visit the ancient Kichu Lhakhang, dating back to the 7th century, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples.

In the evening, relax with a traditional hot stone bath and try your hand at local archery, Bhutan’s national sport.

Overnight at a hotel in Paro.

Embark on a mesmerizing 7 to 8-hour hike to Chumphu Nye, located on a hilltop, offering divine tranquility and rich faunal diversity. The hike, a Pilgrim’s progress, follows the path of Guru Rinpoche and other revered figures, passing through stones, caves, waterfalls, and culminating in the sighting of the floating statue of Vajra Varahi.

Overnight at a hotel in Paro.

Our team will drop you off at the airport, bidding you farewell.

Embark on the iconic hike to Taktsang Monastery, often referred to as Tiger’s Nest. Rinpoche will lead a visualization meditation at the monastery. After descending, enjoy some free time. Conclude the day with dinner with Rinpoche.

Bid a fond farewell to the enchanting Himalayan country of Bhutan. Take with you cherished memories and the hope of returning to this land of endless enchantments.

Tashi Delek!