Guided Trans-Bhutan Trail and Sacred Paths of Bhutan Hiking and Walking Tour

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, begin your scenic drive to Paro, crossing the lofty Dochula Pass once more. Weather permitting, pause to take in sweeping Himalayan views framed by fluttering prayer flags and the serene Druk Wangyal Chortens, a fitting farewell to Bhutan’s central valleys. Descending into the lush Paro Valley, the landscape shifts to terraced fields, traditional farmhouses, and forested hillsides.

On arrival in Paro, visit the magnificent Rimpung Dzong, the “Fortress of the Heap of Jewels,” an architectural masterpiece built in 1644 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, the unifier of Bhutan. Dramatically positioned above the Paro Chhu River, the dzong remains a vital administrative and monastic centre. Wander through its grand courtyards, richly painted corridors, and sacred shrines as your guide brings to life the dzong’s history, symbolism, and role in Bhutanese governance and spirituality.

Drive time 3 hours

Today, we set out on a beautiful day excursion to the Haa Valley, travelling via the spectacular Chelela Pass, one of Bhutan’s highest motorable passes. The drive unfolds along winding mountain roads through dense forests of pine and rhododendron, with occasional views of cascading waterfalls and dramatic Himalayan peaks. At the pass, pause to soak in sweeping panoramic views across both the Paro and Haa valleys, a perfect setting for a relaxed picnic lunch surrounded by alpine scenery.

Descending into the secluded Haa Valley, often described as one of Bhutan’s hidden gems, visit the revered twin temples of Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple) and Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple), deeply rooted in Bhutanese legend and spiritual tradition. Continue onward to Kila Goenpa, a peaceful cliffside nunnery that is home to around 70 nuns. Perched high above the valley, the nunnery offers serene surroundings and expansive views, providing insight into monastic life and devotion in Bhutan.

In the late afternoon, return to Paro town. Spend the evening exploring its charming streets on foot, browsing handicraft and souvenir shops, and admiring locally made textiles, woodwork, and traditional art. This gentle stroll offers a relaxed conclusion to a day rich in scenery, culture, and quiet Himalayan beauty.

Start early this morning after breakfast for one of the most iconic and memorable experiences in Bhutan. Today’s highlight is an excursion to the legendary Taktsang Monastery, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest, dramatically perched on a sheer cliff face high above the Paro Valley.

Built in 1692 by Gyalse Tenzin Rabgye, the monastery is closely associated with Guru Rinpoche, who is believed to have flown to this sacred site on the back of a tigress. The steady hike through pine forests draped with prayer flags is richly rewarding, and upon arrival, the monastery’s setting and spiritual atmosphere leave a lasting impression.

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 late afternoon or early evening, enjoy a lively display of traditional Bhutanese archery, the national sport of Bhutan. Played over long distances of around 120 metres, the match is as much a social celebration as a competition, filled with laughter, song, and good-natured banter among the players.

To conclude the day, visit a local heritage farmhouse in Paro for a relaxing traditional hot-stone bath, followed by a home-style Bhutanese dinner prepared with ingredients from the Paro Valley. This warm and intimate cultural experience offers a fitting farewell to your journey through the Land of the Thunder Dragon.

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.