Bhutan Essence Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Paro → Transfer to Thimphu

  • Arrive at Paro Airport (one of the world’s most scenic landings)
  • Meet your guide and drive (~1 hour) to Thimphu

Sightseeing in Thimphu:

  • Memorial Chorten – spiritual landmark
  • Tashichho Dzong – seat of government & monastic body
  • Evening walk in town

Overnight in Thimphu

Day 2: Thimphu Cultural Exploration

Highlights:

  • Buddha Dordenma – giant Buddha overlooking valley
  • Folk Heritage Museum
  • National Institute for Zorig Chusum – traditional arts school
  • Motithang Takin Preserve – Bhutan’s national animal

Overnight in Thimphu

Day 3: Thimphu → Punakha (via Dochula Pass)

  • Drive to Punakha (~3 hours)

En route:

  • Dochula Pass – 108 stupas & Himalayan views

In Punakha:

  • Punakha Dzong – most beautiful fortress in Bhutan

Overnight in Punakha

Day 4: Punakha & Wangdue Valley

Activities:

  • Walk to Chimi Lhakhang (fertility temple)
  • Visit Punakha Suspension Bridge
  • Explore nearby Wangdue Phodrang

Overnight in Punakha

Day 5: Punakha → Paro (via Thimphu)

  • Drive back to Paro

Visit:

  • Rinpung Dzong
  • Explore Paro town

Overnight in Paro

Day 6: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Main highlight:

  • Hike to Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery)

Details:

  • ~4–6 hours round trip
  • Bhutan’s most iconic spiritual site

Optional:

  • Visit Kyichu Lhakhang (one of oldest temples)

Overnight in Paro

Day 7: Departure from Paro

  • Transfer to Paro Airport
  • Departure