Itinerary

1. Day 01: Arrival in Paro and Transfer to Thimphu City

   • Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide and driver. You will then embark on a scenic drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, which takes approximately 1.5 hours (55 km). The drive offers beautiful views of the Bhutanese countryside.
   • Upon arrival in Thimphu, you will check into your hotel and have time to rest. 
   • In the evening, you might explore the local markets or take a stroll around the city.

2. Day 02: Sightseeing Tour in Thimphu

   • Today, you will explore the sights of Thimphu. Your tour includes visits to:
     • Memorial Chorten: A stupa built in memory of Bhutan’s third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck.
     • Buddha Dordenma: A gigantic Buddha statue that offers panoramic views of the Thimphu Valley.
     • Tashichho Dzong: The fortress of the glorious religion, which houses the throne room and offices of the King.
     • National Library: Houses a vast collection of ancient Buddhist manuscripts.
     • Institute for Zorig Chusum: This is known as the Painting School, where students learn the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan.
     • Simply Bhutan Museum: A living museum and a photo studio.

3. Day 03: Drive from Thimphu to Punakha and Sightseeing

   • After breakfast, you will drive to Punakha, which takes about 2 to 3 hours (74 km). 
   • En route, you will stop at Dochula Pass (3,100m) to enjoy stunning views of the Himalayan range and the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens.
   • In Punakha, you will visit:
     • Punakha Dzong: Known as the "Palace of Great Happiness," it is one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan, located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.
     • Suspension Bridge: The longest suspension bridge in Bhutan offers stunning views and an adventurous walk.

4. Day 04: Drive from Punakha to Bumthang

   • Today, you will have a long but scenic drive from Punakha to Bumthang, which takes about 6 to 7 hours (216 km). The drive will take you through beautiful valleys, forests, and rural villages, offering numerous photo opportunities. 
   • Upon arrival in Bumthang, you will check into your hotel and have the evening to relax.

5. Day 05: Enjoy Ura Yakchoe Festival in Bumthang

   • You will spend the day experiencing the Ura Yakchoe Festival, a traditional Bhutanese festival celebrated with masked dances, folk songs, and religious rituals. This festival is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture and tradition. You will interact with locals and witness their vibrant customs.

6. Day 06: Flight from Bumthang to Paro and Sightseeing

   • In the morning, you will take a 35-minute flight from Bumthang to Paro, offering aerial views of the stunning landscape. After arriving in Paro, you will visit:
     • Rinpung Dzong: A fortress-monastery overlooking the Paro Valley.
     • National Museum of Bhutan: Housed in an ancient watchtower, the museum showcases Bhutanese art, artifacts, and history.

7. Day 07: Sightseeing Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (3,120m/10,236ft)

   • After breakfast, you will hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, also known as Taktsang Monastery. The hike takes about 3 to 4 hours (6.4 km) and ascends through pine forests. You will pass a waterfall and offer spectacular views of the monastery perched on a cliffside. 
   • After exploring the monastery, you will hike back down and return to Paro

8. Day 08: Transfer to the Paro International Airport – Departure

   • Today, you will be transferred to Paro International Airport for your departure flight. Your guide will assist you with the departure formalities and bid you farewell as you embark on your journey home, carrying the memories of an unforgettable experience in Bhutan.