Arrive Paro International Airport. Your tour guide will meet you and take you on a short one-hour drive along the Paro and Thimphu river valleys to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, at 2320 metres. You can stop on the way to take in the magnificent Tamchhog Lhakhang, the hereditary place of worship for Bhutan’s iron bridge builder. Overnight in Thimphu.
Sightseeing in Thimphu, where you can visit the National Memorial Chorten, the National Library, the National Painting School and Changangkha Temple. Browse the striking collection of intricate textiles at the National Textile Museum and visit the Folk Museum. You may also be able to visit the weekly market. Overnight in Thimphu.
In the morning drive to Punakha via the Dochu La Pass, where we will stop for a hot drink and to enjoy views of the Eastern Himalaya ranges. In the afternoon visit Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility), built in the 15th century by the ‘Divine Mad Man’ (Lama Drukpa Kuenley). Overnight in Punakha.
Today we return to Paro. This afternoon would be a good time to visit handicraft shops for souvenirs of your trip. Or you may like to visit a local farmhouse and take tea with the farmer and his family. Overnight in Paro.
Sightseeing in Paro, including Paro Rinpung Dzong and the National Museum. After lunch visit Drukgyel Dzong (‘fortress of victory’), and the sacred Kyichu Lhakhang (temple). Overnight in Paro.
Take a day hike to the ‘Tiger’s Nest’, the sacred Taktshang monastery, and have lunch at the Taktshang cafeteria. On the way back you can visit Dumtse Lhakhang, a temple built by Thangthong Gyalpo, the iron bridge builder. Overnight in Paro.
Depart from Paro International Airport.