6-Day Bhutan Paro Tshechu Tour with Tiger's Nest and Punakha

The flight to Paro reveals scenic and breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains. If weather permits, you will be able to see Mt. Everest (8848 m, 29,198 ft) and other Himalayan mountain ranges. Once you arrive at Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative guide and then drive to Thimphu (50 km), which takes approximately an hour.

On the way, visit Tachogang Iron Chain Bridge, located along the Paro-Thimphu highway before Chhuzom. It is just a 10-minute walk from the highway and is a great spot for photography, with a stunning view and peaceful ambience.

After arriving in Thimphu, visit the National Memorial Chorten, probably one of the most popular points of interest in the city.

Lunch will be at Zombala 2 Restaurant, a popular eatery for both locals and tourists seeking authentic flavors. Try momos (dumplings), thukpa, a comforting noodle soup, and ema datshi, Bhutan's national dish made with chilies and cheese.

Walk through Bhutan's capital city, exploring Clock Tower Square, a prominent landmark adorned with intricate Bhutanese motifs, and stroll towards Thimphu's iconic traffic junction, famously known as the main traffic circle, as it has no traffic lights. Instead, you will witness a white-gloved traffic officer gracefully directing vehicles in a choreographed style that has become a tourist attraction in its own right.

Visit the Royal Takin Preserve, also known as the Mini Zoo by many, a small natural preserve for the takin - Bhutan's national animal.

The Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory is reputedly the best place to see the manufacture of traditional paper. You can buy this unique paper here, which makes for an interesting souvenir gift. The Thimphu Post Office is a delightful stop for both philatelists and travelers, offering a unique opportunity to create personalized stamps as a memorable keepsake or gift.

The Centenary Farmers Market (now Kaja Throm) is a vibrant and dynamic space, offering a diverse range of products and experiences.

Visit Tashichhodzong. This magnificent structure stands proudly on the banks of the Wang Chhu River and serves as both a religious and administrative hub of Bhutan. It now houses the secretariat building, the throne room, and the office of the King and central monk body.

Overnight in Thimphu.

The Buddha Dordenma is one of the most striking landmarks in Thimphu, Bhutan, symbolizing peace, prosperity, and harmony, and standing at an impressive height of 54 meters (177 feet). It is one of the largest Buddha statues in the world.

Drive to Punakha and stop at Dochula Pass. We won't deny the fact that Dochula is a 40-minute drive from Thimphu, but it is definitely worth the visit, especially for those who are looking for Thimphu sightseeing places. Once here, you will witness the 108 Druk Wangyal chortens.

Lungchutse Hike (2 hours): The trail to Lungchutse winds through pristine forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine trees, offering a tranquil and immersive experience in nature.

In Punakha, visit Chimi Lhakhang Temple, or Fertility Temple, the most well-known temple in Bhutan, which stands tall on a round hillock in a village called Punakha. It is famously known as the "Fertility Temple" and is visited by several childless couples from in and around Punakha District.

Then visit Punakha Dzong, one of the majestic fortresses located between Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River). Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan. Then visit the longest suspension bridge across the dzong, spanning 160 m over the Phochu River, connecting Punakha Dzong (fortress) with the nearby villages and agricultural lands.

After breakfast, take a 45-minute hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, with picturesque views of the rice terraces along the river. Khamsum Yulley Namgyal is a beautiful chorten located on a ridge at Kabesa Gewog in Punakha, overlooking several villages. It is a 30-minute drive from Khuruthang Town and a 45-minute uphill hike from the base of the hill through a suspension bridge and rice fields.

Then drive to Paro (3 and a half hours).

Later, visit Chencho Weaving Center in Paro Town. This locally run weaving center showcases the intricate art of traditional Bhutanese weaving, offering visitors a chance to witness skilled artisans at work. You can also stroll around downtown Paro for shopping or a cup of coffee.

Visit Namgay Artisanal Brewery. Did you know Bhutan has some of the most reputed and highly enjoyed brews? If you are a beer lover and want to taste some of the finest brews, you must visit the Namgay Artisanal Brewery in Paro Valley.

Overnight in Paro.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and traditions of Bhutan by attending the third day of the Paro Tshechu. The Paro Tshechu is one of Bhutan's most vibrant and culturally rich festivals. Held annually in the historic Rinpung Dzong, the festival is a blend of spirituality, tradition, and celebration.

You can attend the festival for the whole day or just half a day. After lunch, enjoy the Zuri Hike in Paro, Bhutan, a rewarding hike that offers stunning panoramic views of the Paro Valley. The hike generally takes about 1 to 2 hours round trip, depending on your pace.

Taktsang Monastery is an amazing wooden structure that stands bravely on a cliff. It is said that the great Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tigress and established this monastery when he brought the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan in the 8th century. From the road, the hike toward Taktsang follows an uphill route, and the return takes approximately 5-6 hours at an average walking pace on a clear, sunny day.

Later, we welcome you to visit Bhutanese homes for a hot stone bath. A Bhutanese hot stone bath is the perfect way to relax and wind down after a long day of sightseeing and is also believed to have numerous health benefits.

Practice archery at the farmhouse. Archery is the national sport of Bhutan. With our archery lessons, your guide will set up the targets and teach you the rules, as well as how to correctly hold the bow.

Overnight in Paro.

In the morning, drive to the airport for your flight to your onward destination.