Your journey to Bhutan begins with a captivating flight that takes you close to the grandeur of the Himalayas. As you enter the picturesque Paro valley, you’ll be greeted by stunning landscapes and landmarks like Paro Dzong and Ta Dzong. Our representative will welcome you at the airport, and after clearing arrival formalities, you’ll be transferred to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city, where tradition and modernity harmonize. Relax at your Thimphu hotel.

This day in Thimphu offers a full schedule of captivating sights, including visits to the National Library, home to a rich collection of ancient Buddhist texts and manuscripts. The Institute for Zorig Chusum, also known as the Painting School, showcases students mastering the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. You’ll then explore the Textile and Folk Heritage Museum, offering insights into Bhutan’s material culture and way of life. The National Memorial Chorten, Trashichhodzong, and a visit to the Handicrafts Emporium round out your day with experiences that help you understand Bhutan’s rich culture and heritage.

Embark on an early journey and head to Dochu-la pass, located at 3,088m (10,130 ft). Here, admire the incredible vistas and chorten, mani walls, and prayer flags that decorate this high point. On a clear day, you’ll see majestic peaks like Masagang, Tsendagang, Terigang, Jejegangphugang, Kangphugang, Zongphugang, and Gangkar Puensum, Bhutan’s highest peak. Descend through the Wangduephodrang valley, stop for lunch in Wangduephodrang town, and continue your drive to Trongsa. As you cross the Pele-la pass (3,300m/10,830 ft), you’ll notice a dramatic change in vegetation. Make a stop at Chendebji Chorten en route and arrive in Trongsa late afternoon. Check in at your lodge.

Explore the magnificent Trongsa Dzong, a monumental fortress that played a central role in Bhutan’s history. Continue your journey to Bumthang, where you’ll travel over the Yutong-la pass (3,400m/11,155 ft). Experience a landscape of coniferous forests and a vast, open cultivated valley known as the Chumey valley. In Bumthang, settle into your lodge and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Bumthang consists of four unique valleys, each with its own charm and altitudes ranging from 2,600m to 4,000m. Explore Kurje Lhakhang, Jambey Lhakhang, Tamshing Lhakhang, and Jakar Dzong, all steeped in history. In your free time, explore the village and the small handicrafts shop at the town’s entrance.

Begin your day with a visit to Punakha Dzong, an impressive fortress situated at the confluence of two rivers. Once the capital of Bhutan, Punakha still serves as the winter residence of the central monk body. Explore Bhutan’s first King’s crowning place and learn about the dzong’s history. Continue to Paro, visiting Simtokha Dzong en route. This dzong, built in 1627, is Bhutan’s oldest and now houses the Institute for Language and Culture Studies. Check in at your Paro hotel.

Begin your day with a visit to Punakha Dzong, an impressive fortress situated at the confluence of two rivers. Once the capital of Bhutan, Punakha still serves as the winter residence of the central monk body. Explore Bhutan’s first King’s crowning place and learn about the dzong’s history. Continue to Paro, visiting Simtokha Dzong en route. This dzong, built in 1627, is Bhutan’s oldest and now houses the Institute for Language and Culture Studies. Check in at your Paro hotel.

Enjoy a full day of exploration in the Paro valley. Visit Ta Dzong, which has transformed from a watchtower to the National Museum. Then, stroll to Rinpung Dzong, built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Continue your adventure with a drive to Drukgyel Dzong and Kichu Lhakhang, an ancient temple dating back to the 7th century. Delve into Bhutan’s rich heritage and culture before a well-deserved rest at your Paro hotel.

Bid adieu to Bhutan as you drive to the airport for your onward flight. Your unforgettable journey through Bhutan’s western and central regions concludes with cherished memories.