Western Bhutan Tour

Arrive at Paro International Airport. After clearing immigration and customs, meet your guide and begin the scenic drive to Thimphu (approx. 1.5 hours).

After lunch, visit:

• National Memorial Chorten, built in memory of the Third King of Bhutan
• Changangkha Lhakhang, an ancient temple overlooking the Thimphu valley
• Motithang Takin Preserve, home of Bhutan’s national animal

In the evening visit Tashichho Dzong, which houses government offices and the central monastic body.

Overnight in Thimphu.

Explore Bhutan’s capital city and cultural attractions.

Visit:

• National Library of Bhutan, housing ancient Buddhist manuscripts
• National Institute for Zorig Chusum, where students learn traditional arts and crafts
• Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan, showcasing Bhutanese weaving traditions

If visiting during the weekend, explore the lively Centenary Farmers Market, where local farmers sell organic produce and handicrafts.

Overnight in Thimphu.

Drive to Punakha via the scenic Dochula Pass (3,100m). On clear days, enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan mountains. At Dochula you can see the famous 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens. Continue to Punakha and walk through rice fields to visit Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Temple of Fertility.

Overnight in Punakha.

Hike through the countryside to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, built by the Queen Mother for the protection of Bhutan and peace in the world. Later visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful fortresses located at the meeting point of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers.

Overnight in Punakha.

Drive back to Paro. Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, believed to have been built by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo.

Overnight in Paro.

Visit the historic Rinpung Dzong, a fortress monastery built in 1646. Later drive to the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong, built to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invaders.

Overnight in Paro.

Today you will hike to the famous Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest). The monastery is perched dramatically on a cliff about 900 meters above Paro Valley. According to legend, Guru Padmasambhava flew to this site on the back of a tigress and meditated in a cave here. The hike offers spectacular views and is considered one of Bhutan’s most memorable experiences.

Over night in Paro

Transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure flight. Your Bhutan journey concludes with unforgettable memories.

Tashi Delek!