As you arrive in Paro, Bhutan, be prepared for a visual feast as your flight takes you over the great Himalayan range. Gaze upon the world’s highest glacial peaks, and witness the Paro valley below with its silvery Pa Chu (Paro river), Paro Dzong (fortress), and Ta Dzong (watchtower). Our representative will greet you at the airport and transfer you to Thimphu, the modern capital of Bhutan. Relax and unwind at your Thimphu hotel.

A day filled with exploration in Thimphu awaits. Your itinerary includes visits to the National Library, home to an extensive collection of ancient Buddhist texts, manuscripts, modern academic books, and printing blocks for prayer flags. The Painting School is famed for its traditional thangkha paintings, while the Traditional Medicine Institute showcases Bhutan’s abundant herbal medicines and imparts knowledge to future practitioners. Your journey continues with visits to the Textile and Folk Heritage Museum, the stunning Memorial Chorten, Trashichhodzong, and the Handicrafts Emporium, where beautifully hand-woven and crafted products are displayed.

Set off early after breakfast and drive to the Dochula pass (3,050m). Weather permitting, feast your eyes on a panorama of high Himalayan peaks in the northeast. On a clear day, you might spot peaks like Masagang, Tsendagang, Terigang, Jejegangphugang, Kangphugang, Zongphugang, and Gangkar Puensum, Bhutan’s highest peak at 7,497m. Descend to Wangduephodrang valley, and from Dochula, it’s a long descent as you drop 1,700 meters in altitude. Your journey takes you further to Tongsa, crossing the Pelela pass (3,300m), marking the traditional boundary between the east and west. Make a stop at Chendbji Chorten, a Nepalese-style chorten built in the 18th century. Arrive in Trongsa in the late afternoon and check in at your lodge.

Begin your day with a visit to Trongsa Dzong, constructed by Shabdrung in 1647. Explore the Ta Dzong (watchtower), dedicated to King Gesar of Ling, a legendary Buddhist epic hero. Your journey continues to Bumthang, a three-hour drive from Trongsa. The road passes the Yutong La pass (3,400m) and descends into the Chumey valley, a wide, open, and cultivated area. Upon reaching Bumthang, check in at your lodge. After lunch, visit Kurje Lhakhang, Jambey Lhakhang, Tamshing Monastery, Jakar Dzong, and the Swiss Farm House. Immerse yourself in the charm and history of this region.

Embark on a deeper exploration of the enchanting Bumthang valley before proceeding to Trongsa, where you’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant famous for its traditional cuisine. As you journey towards Punakha, visit Wangduephodrang Dzong and the town en route. Spend your evening at leisure, soaking in the serene atmosphere. Overnight at your Punakha hotel.

Start your day with a visit to Punakha Dzong, a massive structure situated at the confluence of two rivers. This was the capital of Bhutan until 1955 and still serves as the winter residence of the monk body. It’s where Bhutan’s first King, Ugyen Wangchuck, was crowned in 1907. Despite damage from fires, earthquakes, and floods over the centuries, the dzong remains a resilient fortress. Later, continue to Paro, stopping to visit a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse en route, offering a glimpse into the local way of life and culture. Upon arrival in Paro, check in at your hotel for the night.

Today, dedicate a full day to exploring the Paro valley. Your itinerary includes visits to Ta Dzong, which now serves as the National Museum and was previously a watchtower for the Paro Dzong. You’ll also explore the Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong), built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. After lunch, take a trip to Drukgyel Dzong, Kichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred shrines, and enjoy a day steeped in Bhutan’s rich heritage and culture. Relax and rest at your Paro hotel.

Bid farewell to Bhutan after breakfast and drive to the airport for your onward flight. Depart with cherished memories of your incredible journey through Bhutan’s central regions and enchanting landscapes.