Itinerary Details
Your journey begins with your arrival at Paro, but unlike many other destinations, the experience starts even before landing. The flight to Paro is an adventure in itself, offering breathtaking views as you soar over the majestic Himalayan range. On a clear day, you can witness famous peaks like Jomolhari and Jichu Drake in Bhutan, making this one of the most scenic flights in the world.
Upon landing at Paro’s charming and intimate airport, you will be warmly greeted by a Rahhalah representative.
In the afternoon, you'll visit Paro Dzong, a fortress built in 1646 that once served as a military stronghold. Today, it houses government offices and religious institutions, a common evolution for the historic Dzongs (fortresses) in Bhutan.
Next, you'll explore the National Museum, once the watchtower of the Dzong, which now exhibits an impressive collection of Bhutanese artifacts, including paintings, thankas, statues, and antiques that provide insight into the country's rich cultural heritage.
Your day will conclude with visits to two of Paro's most iconic sites: Kyichu Lhakhang, the oldest temple in Bhutan, and Drukgyel Dzong. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Paro's streets, soaking in the town's quaint charm. Despite its provincial feel, with colorful buildings, minimal traffic, and unique local shops, Paro is Bhutan’s second-largest city and home to its only international airport.
Overnight: Paro Haven resort https://www.havenbhutan.com/ or similar
Embark on a hike to the sacred Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched at 2,900m (10,000 ft) on a sheer cliff above Paro Valley. Considered one of the holiest Buddhist sites, legend says Guru Rinpoche, the founder of Buddhism in the Himalayas, arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated for three months. For over 1,200 years, Taktshang has served as a revered place of pilgrimage and spiritual refuge.
The hike takes about 4-6 hours in total. A one-hour ascent from the parking area brings you to the tea house, followed by another 1.5-hour climb to the monastery, which you can enter. On the return hike, stop for lunch at the tea house. Photographers will be in paradise with stunning views, waterfalls, meditation caves, prayer wheels, prayer flags, and stupas along the way.
Overnight: Paro Haven resort https://www.havenbhutan.com/ or similar
After an early breakfast, drive to Thimphu (approximately 1.5 hours).
Today’s itinerary includes visits to the following sites: Tashichho Dzong: This impressive Buddhist monastery and fortress sits on the northern edge of Thimphu. Built along the western bank of the Wangchuk River, it has historically served as the seat of Bhutan’s government, combining the roles of religious and administrative leadership. Originally constructed in 1641 and later rebuilt by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in the 1960s, Tashichho Dzong now houses the throne room, the King’s secretariat, various government ministries, and the Central Monk Body. It is a key site during the Thimphu Tshechu festival held every autumn. Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang): Home to the Great Buddha Dordenma, the tallest sitting Buddha statue in the world, this site offers stunning views of the Thimphu Valley. The massive bronze statue, completed in 2015 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Bhutan’s fourth king, houses over 100,000 smaller Buddha statues. It is located amidst the Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park, a serene forest area surrounding the statue. National Memorial Chorten: Built in honor of Bhutan’s third king, H.M. Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, known as the "Father of Modern Bhutan," this Tibetan-style stupa was erected as a symbol of world peace and prosperity. Though the king could not complete the project during his lifetime, the Royal Family and Cabinet fulfilled his vision after his death in 1972. The Chorten, with its unique design and vivid Tantric deity paintings inside, is a significant religious site in Thimphu.
Overnight: Thimphu - Pema by the Realm http://www.realmbhutan.com/ or similar.
This morning, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight (approximately 1.5 hours drive), or you can choose to extend your journey with an optional visit to Punakha.
Optional extension to Punakha
Thimphu - Wangditse hike ( approx one and a half hours long) Wangditse hike is one of the easiest hike in Thimphu. Venture through the flavors and scents of thick pine forest along the side of Thimphu valley leading to the glorious Wangditse temple. It is one and half hour - easy hike crossing local apple farms and houses which could be exciting for the kids. The trail further takes into trees of oak, pine, and rhododendron which accompany you throughout the hike while occasionally opening to the view of the Buddha Dordenma statue, Tashichoe Dzong and Thimphu valley.
After lunch drive up to the beautiful Dochula Pass (3,100m), located on the road from Thimphu to Punakha. Spend some time taking in the stunning 360-degree panoramic views of the Himalayan Mountain range. On clear winter days, the snow-capped peaks create a breathtaking backdrop to the 108 chortens (Buddhist shrines) that grace the pass, also known as Druk Wangyal, a spiritual site for locals and visitors alike.
Continue your journey to Punakha.
Upon arrival, visit the historic Punakha Dzong, which has played a significant role in Bhutanese history. Serving as the capital from 1637 to 1907, it hosted the first national assembly in 1953. Punakha Dzong, the second oldest and second largest in the country, is known for its grandeur and imposing structure.
Accommodation in Punakha.: Dhensa Boutique Resort https://dhensa.com/ or similar.
After breakfast, depart for an early morning visit to Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Fertility Temple. Nestled on a scenic hill in the Punakha District, this Buddhist monastery was established over 500 years ago by Ngawang Choegyel, the 14th Drukpa hierarch. The temple's stupa, a meditation hall, was built by the “Divine Madman,” the eccentric yogi and saint Drukpa Kunley, who is said to have blessed the entire region. Renowned throughout Bhutan as a fertility-inducing sanctuary, Chimi Lhakhang attracts thousands of visitors each year who seek guidance in conceiving, as well as a blessing from the saint with the "magic thunderbolt of wisdom." Many tourists share inspiring stories of visiting the temple and subsequently being blessed with a child.
Next, visit Rinchengang, a unique village known for its tightly clustered traditional houses, creating narrow passageways barely wide enough to walk through. Located across from the Wangdi Phodrang Dzong and adjacent to the Wangchhu River, the village’s charming topography features an array of homes perched on a small hillock, providing a stunning view of the imposing dzong. Rinchengang is one of Bhutan’s oldest villages, dating back to the 16th century. Optional Activity:
You can choose to add a rafting adventure to your day. Bhutan offers limited but safe rafting opportunities. The Pho Chu River is the most popular, featuring a 16 km course with fifteen Class II-IV rapids. Alternatively, the Mo Chu River offers a gentler 10 km course with ten Class II-III rapids.
(Please note: Rafting is not included in the package. The cost per boat is approximately 200 USD, with the final cost per person depending on group size. Kindly inform your guide in advance if you'd like to include this activity in your itinerary).
Accommodation in Punakha.: Dhensa Boutique Resort https://dhensa.com/ or similar.
After breakfast head back to Paro, where you can enjoy the afternoon and exploring the town at your leisure..
Overnight: Paro Haven resort https://www.havenbhutan.com/ or similar
Departure from Paro (B)
