Embrace the Soul of Bhutan

At Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by your professional guide and driven to Thimphu, the capital city. The one-hour journey includes a stop at Tamchog Lhakhang Monastery, where you can admire the reconstructed 13th-century iron bridge and enjoy the crisp mountain air.

On arrival in Thimphu, you will check into your hotel and take some rest before heading out in the evening. If time permits, you will visit the National Memorial Chorten, built in honor of Bhutan’s third king, followed by the Royal Takin Preserve, dedicated to Bhutan’s national animal and steeped in folklore.

The day concludes with a welcome dinner of authentic Bhutanese cuisine at a local restaurant, with the option to explore Thimphu’s lively nightlife, including cozy bars, live music, and craft beers.

Drive time: 1 hour

After breakfast, begin your day with a drive to Kuensel Phodrang, home to the iconic 169-ft Buddha Dordenma statue overlooking the valley. From here, enjoy sweeping views of Thimphu city before setting off on a refreshing 6 km nature hike that leads to Changangkha Temple, a serene 12th-century temple perched on a ridge. This gentle walk is a perfect way to stretch your legs and ease into Bhutan’s hiking culture.

Head back to town for lunch at one of Thimphu’s popular cafés, where you can savour healthy meals while observing the relaxed lifestyle of Bhutan’s urban residents. In the afternoon, explore some of the capital’s cultural treasures: the Folk Heritage Museum, a preserved 19th-century farmhouse offering insight into traditional Bhutanese life, and the Royal Textile Academy, which showcases exquisite handwoven textiles and the artistry of local weavers.

Later, stroll along the Crafts Bazaar, a lively street market featuring handicrafts and textiles made entirely in Bhutan. If it’s the weekend, we’ll also visit the Centennial Farmers Market and Kaja Thorm market, where locals gather to buy fresh produce and regional specialties, offering you an authentic glimpse into Bhutanese daily life.

After an early breakfast, you will drive for about an hour to Dochula Pass (3140m), where hikers are greeted with panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges that mark Bhutan’s northern border. At the top, surrounded by fluttering prayer flags, stands the Druk Wangyal Chortens – 108 stupas built in honor of the Fourth King.

From here, begin your hike on the Trans-Bhutan Trail, descending through old rhododendron forests to Lamperi Botanical Park and then on to Thinleygang village. This stretch, known as the Mad-man trail, follows in the footsteps of the 14th-century monk Drukpa Kunley, the “Divine Madman,” famous for his unconventional practice of Buddha Dharma.

Continue descending to Toeb Chandana village, where a picnic lunch will be served near the stupas. The trail then winds through pine forests to Sew Drangsa village, a traditional resting spot for Bhutan’s monastic body during seasonal migrations.

Later, drive down to the scenic rice valley of Lobesa. Here you will visit the Chhimi Lhakhang, also called the Fertility Monastery, dedicated to Drukpa Kunley. The short hike to the temple passes through a beautiful village and lush paddy fields. To end the day, you will meet a local artist who will give a live demonstration of traditional Thangka painting.

Elevation Gain: Descending from Dochula Pass (3140m) to valley (~1200–1300m in Punakha)

Your day begins with sightseeing combined with easy day hikes. You will drive to Kabesa Valley to visit the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Stupa, which requires a scenic 45-minute hike through paddy fields to the hilltop. From here, admire the majestic valley views and explore this unique masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture. From this point, you may also opt for another rewarding hike, starting from the riverside and crossing a suspension bridge to the opposite side of the Mo Chu River. A picnic lunch will be served on the banks of the Punakha River, where you may also witness locals enjoying archery, Bhutan’s national sport.

In the afternoon, visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, considered the most beautiful fortress in Bhutan. Standing at the confluence of two rivers, it serves as the winter residence of the monastic order’s leadership and the administrative center of Punakha. With an expert guide, you’ll learn about the fortress’s art, architecture, and history. Later, proceed to the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery, perched atop a ridge among pine trees with sweeping views of the valleys. Here, you’ll have the chance to interact with the nuns, who are always eager to converse in English and share their perspectives.

Elevation Gain: 3000m

After breakfast, begin a scenic drive toward Phobjikha Valley (Gangtey). The highway follows the Dang Chuu River, winding through bamboo and oak forests. Just before crossing Pele La Pass, a side road leads into the hidden valley, famously called “Switzerland of the East.”

At the pass, embark on an exclusive hike along the ridges, offering stunning views of the valley. This easy descending trail of about 6 km leads to Gangtey Gompa monastery. Phobjikha is a glacial valley, home to the endangered Black-necked cranes in winter, and also serves as Bhutan’s potato basket, blending agriculture with wildlife conservation.

In the afternoon, visit the Black-necked Crane Information Centre to learn about the species and observe them through telescopes. Explore Kewang (Lhakhang) temple, hike around Phobjikha village, and interact with local farmers, including visits to some homes. Overnight stay in a beautiful resort with valley views.

Drive Time 3 hours

After breakfast, drive to Haa Valley via Chelela Pass, embarking on a captivating day excursion through one of Bhutan’s hidden gems. The scenic drive winds along mountain roads, offering panoramic views of cascading waterfalls, verdant forests, and snow-capped peaks, with a perfect spot for a picnic lunch. From the pass, enjoy sweeping views over the valleys of Haa and Paro.

The journey continues through thick forests and alpine meadows, alive with birdsong and occasional sightings of grazing yaks. Fluttering prayer flags, ancient trees, and vibrant landscapes add to the beauty as you descend into the valley. The scenery shifts gradually from high alpine terrain to the gentle rolling fields of Haa.

In the valley, discover quaint villages where locals greet you warmly. Stay overnight in a traditional farmhouse, experiencing ancient Bhutanese architecture, storytelling with your host, local snacks, and an authentic glimpse of Bhutanese rural life.

Drive time 5 hours

After breakfast, set out to discover the beauty of the remote Haa Valley, one of Bhutan’s least-visited gems. The valley is dotted with traditional villages, terraced fields, and monasteries that offer an authentic glimpse of rural life. You will also have the option to go on a hike, with two trails catering to different preferences:

Option 1: Juneydrak Hermitage Hike This is the longer and more rewarding trek of the day, taking about 3 hours roundtrip. The trail covers roughly 1 km with an elevation gain of 350–400 m. It leads you through thick forests and prayer-flag-lined paths up to the Juneydrak Hermitage, a cliffside meditation site where Guru Rinpoche is said to have meditated. The views over the Haa Valley from the top are breathtaking.

Option 2: Katsho Goemba Hike This is a shorter and gentler alternative, taking about 1–1.5 hours roundtrip. The trail is around 1.5 km with an elevation gain of 150–200 m. The path winds through small villages and farmland before reaching Katsho Monastery (Goemba), where you can interact with monks and enjoy quiet valley views. It’s ideal for those preferring a lighter walk while still experiencing the spiritual ambiance of Haa.

Later, explore Haa town, interact with locals, and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this valley before returning to your accommodation.

Option 1: Juneydrak Hermitage Hike ~ Elevation Gain: 350–400 m Option 2: Katsho Goemba Hike ~ Elevation Gain: 150–200 m

After an early hike in Haa Valley, drive back to Paro via Chele La Pass, stopping along the way for scenic photo opportunities. En route, visit Kila Goenpa, a nunnery home to about 70 nuns, before continuing to Paro town.

On arrival, enjoy a leisurely day visiting Paro’s main attractions. Explore Rimpung Dzong, the “Fortress of the Heap of Jewels,” built in 1644 by Zhabdrung, and immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture at the National Museum, home to treasured collections of art, artifacts, textiles, stamps, and statues. Then, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest Buddhist temples, dating back to the 8th century.

In the evening, experience local life at a heritage farmhouse, enjoying traditional Paro cuisine and, optionally, a hot-stone bath. The drive from Haa to Paro takes approximately 2.5 hours, allowing for a relaxed scenic journey.

Drive time 2.5 hrs

Start your day early with breakfast before embarking on Bhutan’s most iconic hike – the trek to Taktshang Monastery, famously known as Tiger’s Nest. Perched on a cliff at 3,120 meters, this sacred monastery was built in 1692 and remains one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Bhutan. The 4–5 hour round trip covers steep ascents but rewards you with breathtaking views of the Paro Valley, while your guide enriches the journey with fascinating legends and history.

In the evening, immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture by watching a traditional archery match, the national sport of Bhutan, filled with music and cheer. Later, visit a heritage farmhouse in Paro to enjoy a rejuvenating hot-stone bath and savor an authentic Bhutanese dinner prepared with local ingredients. This perfect blend of adventure, spirituality, and cultural warmth makes for a memorable finale to your Bhutan journey.

After breakfast at your hotel, your driver will transfer you to Paro International Airport for your onward journey. As you bid farewell to Bhutan, carry with you memories of its serene landscapes, sacred monasteries, and warm-hearted people.