5-Day Bhutan Culture Tour through Thimphu, Punakha and Paro

• Upon arrival in Bhutan, clear immigration and customs, then meet our representatives for your transfer to Thimphu, the capital city. Please note that you must produce passport copies for an entry permit at the airport. There are no fees or photos required for the permits.

• Upon arrival in Thimphu, you may visit the National Memorial Stupa, Buddha Dordenma, Takin Preserve, Folk Heritage Museum, and Tashichoedzong. In the evening, you may enjoy self-guided exploration in the city.

Overnight in Thimphu.

• Drive east to Punakha, which takes about 3 hours.

• En route, stop for panoramic views of the Himalayan range from Dochula Pass (El. 3,100 m).

• Just before arriving in Punakha, take a short walk to Chimi Lhakhang (No-dog temple) through rice fields and hamlets for about an hour. In the evening, there will be time for self-guided walks from your hotel to nearby places.

Overnight in Punakha.

• Drive early from Punakha back to Paro via Dochula Pass and visit Rinpung Dzong (fortress), the ruins of Drugyal Dzong, and Kyichu Lhakhang, the oldest temple.

• Enjoy a pleasant stroll through the town in the evening.

Overnight in Paro.

• Start early, as by now we will have covered more ground on foot and be well acclimated.

• Hike to Taktsang Monastery, or Tiger's Nest, which takes about 5 hours on average for the round trip, through pine and oak forests. The uphill hike is truly worth it.

• After the hike, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, the oldest Buddhist temple in the valley, on the way back.

Overnight in Paro.

• After breakfast, drive to the airport for your return flight back home.