Bhutan at a Glance – 5 days

Altitude: 2,280m

Arrive at Paro International Airport, considered one of the world’s most spectacular mountain landings. You will be warmly welcomed by our Bhutanese representative and transferred to your luxury hotel.

After lunch, begin your Bhutanese immersion with a visit to Ta Dzong, a 17th-century watchtower that now houses Bhutan’s National Museum. Continue to the majestic Rinpung Dzong, built in 1646 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal an architectural masterpiece overlooking the Paro Valley.

Overnight in Paro

Recommended: Tashi Namgay Resort or a luxury alternative such as COMO Uma Paro / Le Méridien Paro (subject to preference).

Drive to Thimphu: 58 km | Approx. 1.5 hrs

After an early breakfast, embark on the unforgettable hike to Paro Taktsang, famously known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

Clinging dramatically to a 900-meter cliff, this sacred site marks the meditation cave of Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche), who is believed to have flown here on a tigress in the 8th century. The hike through pine forests adorned with prayer flags is both spiritual and scenic. A hillside café offers refreshments with breathtaking views.

After lunch, visit:

• Drukgyel Dzong, built to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invaders.
• Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples.

Drive onward to Thimphu, Bhutan’s charming capital.

Overnight in Thimphu

Recommended: Hotel Migmar or luxury upgrade to Taj Tashi / Six Senses Thimphu.

Drive: 76 km | Approx. 3 hrs each way

Punakha Altitude: 1,310m

Travel east over the scenic Dochula Pass (3,140m), where 108 memorial chortens stand against panoramic Himalayan views on clear days. Continue to the picturesque Punakha Valley and hike to Chimi Lhakhang, known as the Temple of Fertility, associated with the legendary “Divine Madman,” Lama Drukpa Kunley.

After lunch, explore the magnificent Punakha Dzong, dramatically located at the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. Once the seat of Bhutan’s government, it remains one of the most beautiful dzongs in the country.

Return to Thimphu in the evening.

Overnight in Thimphu

After breakfast, explore Bhutan’s capital city:

• National Memorial Chorten
• National Library of Bhutan
• Folk Heritage Museum
• Traditional Painting School (Institute for Zorig Chusum)
• Sangaygang Viewpoint
• Takin Preserve Centre (home of Bhutan’s national animal)

After lunch, visit the grand Buddha Dordenma, one of the tallest Buddha statues in the world, offering serene valley views.

Conclude with a visit to Tashichho Dzong, the seat of Bhutan’s government and monastic body. If visiting on a weekend, enjoy the vibrant local market and perhaps witness Bhutan’s national sport archery.

Evening drive back to Paro.

Overnight in Paro

After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey, carrying with you memories of a kingdom that measures success in happiness.