Welcome aboard! 

Today you begin your journey to this wonderful and mystical land nestled in the mighty Himalayas. On arrival in Paro you will be met by our local guide who will then transfer you to Thimphu – Bhutan’s modern Captial. 

On arrival check into your hotel and relax. Next, visit the Changangkha Lhakhang, built in the 12th century, this is the oldest temple in Thimphu. You can purchase some of the world’s most beautiful postage stamps, collector’s items and postcards at face value from the general post office, and you will also see the Bhutan National Bank. Next head to a local arts and crafts school, to visit with some local children, and then carry on to the Traditional Medicine Institute where ancient healing arts are still practiced. Finally, visit the Motithang Takin Preserve, which is a local wildlife reserve. Later, if time permits, take a stroll through the main streets to see the interesting Himalayan artifacts and textiles that make Bhutan famous.

After breakfast this morning, begin your day of sightseeing with a visit to the weekend market to see local people selling and purchasing their staples. The market also has a few souvenir shops for visitors. Then embark on a drive 12 km north of Thimphu where you will participate in an hour long hike to Cheri Monastery. 

Later, drive back to the hotel or to a local restaurant for lunch. In the afternoon observe traditional paper making from Daphnia and Edgeworthia shrub, and have a chance to purchase some beautiful writing sets from the factory. Next, visit the Handicraft Bazaar. Finally, visit Memorial Chorten built in 1974 to honor the memory of Late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, popularly known as the Father of Modern Bhutan. A multi-storied Stupa will introduce you to the vitality of Tantric Buddhism. Proceed back to your hotel

Overnight at Thimphu 

After an early breakfast in Thimphu, you will drive up to Dochula Pass (3,088m/10,130ft) stopping briefly to take in the view and admire the chortens, Mani walls, and prayer flags which decorate the highest point on the road. If skies are clear, the high Himalayan peaks towards the northeast will be revealed in all of their glory.  On arrival in Punakha, check-in at your hotel. After lunch, hike up to the Chimi Lhakhang (temple) which is on a small hilltop. Return back to your hotel

Overnight at Punakha 

Today after breakfast, you will begin with a hike up through the fields of rice along the banks of the Mo Chu to the upper end of the valley to see the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, a stunning monument recently built by the Queens. Next, you will drive towards Khuruthang, passing Punthsho Pelri Palace and several other winter homes of the royal family before reaching the impressive Punakha Dzong.This ancient fortress is the winter residence of the monastic order’s head and still serves as the administrative headquarters for the Punakha region.

Return back to your hotel this evening

Overnight at Punakha 

Today morning set off for Paro after breakfast. On arrival check into your hotel. After lunch, visit Ta Dzong, originally built as a watchtower, which now houses Bhutan’s National Museum. In the evening visit a traditional farmhouse for an opportunity to interact with a local family and gain insight into the local lifestyle and cultures.

Overnight at Paro 

After breakfast get ready for a hike to the most beautiful and spectacular Taktsang monastery. Built in 1600’s, this incredible monastery clings to the edge of a sheer rock cliff that plunges 900 meters into the valley below. After an adventurous day return back to your hotel

Overnight in Paro 

After breakfast, transfer to the airport to board your flight back home. Arrive back with wonderful memories of your holiday