10 Days: Bhutan Odyssey

Highlights: Tachogang Lhakhang, Thimphu Town

Arrive at Paro International Airport, where you’ll be greeted by your guide.
Begin your journey with a scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s vibrant capital.
Stopping en route at Tachogang Lhakhang, the Temple of the Iron Bridge.
Explore Thimphu’s bustling streets and shops selling local crafts, or relax at your hotel.
Overnight in Thimphu.

Drive time: 1.5 hours

Highlights: Buddha Dordenma, Memorial Chorten, Motithang Takin Preserve, National Institute for Zorig Chusum, Institute of Astrology

Visit the Buddha Dordenma, a massive golden statue overlooking the valley.
Visit the Memorial Chorten, an iconic landmark dedicated to Bhutan’s beloved third king.
Meet Bhutan’s national animal, the Takin, at the Motithang Takin Preserve and learn about its interesting origin story. The Takin is a fascinating creature said to be part goat and part cow.
Watch students master Bhutan’s traditional arts and crafts at the National Institute for Zorig Chusum.
Visit the Institute of Astrology and receive a personalised reading from a Bhutanese astrologer.
Optional experiences:
- Folk Heritage Museum: Step into traditional Bhutanese life and immerse yourself in its rich history and culture.
- National Library: Admire the stunning Bhutanese Architecture and explore books about Bhutan.
- General Post Office: Create your own personalised Bhutanese stamps using your photo and mail a postcard for a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
- Handmade Paper Factory: Learn the art of traditional Bhutanese paper making and shop for handmade paper products.
- Local Markets: Stroll through vibrant stalls showcasing handicrafts, textiles and fresh local produce.
Overnight in Thimphu.

Highlights: Dochula Pass, Chimi Lhakhang, Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery, Khuruthang Goemba

Drive to Punakha via the stunning Dochula Pass, which offers panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. The pass is adorned with 108 chortens, creating a serence and spiritual atmosphere.
Explore Chimi Lhakhang (also known as the Temple of Fertility), a sacred site nestled amid picturesque fields.
Visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery, an institute for higher learning for nuns, offering spectacular views of Punakha Valley. This nunnery is on a hilltop overlooking the Punakha valley.
Discover Khuruthang Goemba, a Buddhist monastery in the heart of Khuruthang.
Overnight in Punakha.

Drive time: less than 2 hours

Highlights: Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, Punakha Dzong, Pho Chu Suspension Bridge

Embark on a scenic hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a beautiful hilltop temple overlooking the Punakha Valley.
Visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, a historic and architectural marvel situated at the confluence of the Pho and Mo Chhu rivers. Learn about its historical significance and admire its intricate architecture.
Cross the Pho Chu Suspension Bridge, Bhutan's longest suspension bridge, and enjoy the tranquil countryside.
Relax at your hotel or stroll through the nearby villages, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of Punakha.
Optional experiences include:
- For a thrilling experience, enjoy water rafting on the Pho or Mo Chhu river. Prices range from USD $100–150 per boat.
Overnight in Punakha.

Highlights: Pele La Pass, Chendebji Chorten, Trongsa Dzong, Royal Heritage Museum, Trongsa town

Begin your journey to Trongsa, enjoying stunning views of forests and valleys along the way.
Along the way, stop at Pele La Pass which offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Known for its spiritual significance, the pass is also marked by colourful prayer flags.
Visit Chendebji Corten, which is constructed in the style of Nepalese stupas. It is believed to house the remains of a demon subdued by the first king of Bhutan.
Visit the majestic Trongsa Dzong, the largest fortress in Bhutan, which played a significant role in Bhutan’s history.
Visit the Royal Heritage Museum and delve into Bhutan’s royal history and culture at this fascinating museum.
Stroll through Trongsa town and soak in the historic ambiance.
Overnight in Trongsa.

Drive time: 3 to 4 hours

Highlights: Gangteng Monastery, Gangtey Valley

Drive to the pristine Phobjikha Valley, a glacial valley known for its breathtaking landscapes and its role as the winter home of the black-necked cranes.
Visit Gangteng Monastery, one of the Bhutan’s largest and most significant monasteries. During the winter migration, black-necked cranes circle the monastery three times upon arrival and departure — a mesmerising spectacle rooted in local beliefs.
Take a peaceful walk through the scenic trail of Gangtey Valley and enjoy its serene ambience.
Overnight in Phobjikha.

Drive time: 2 to 3 hours

Highlights: Black-necked Crane Museum, Drakarpo, Paro Town

After breakfast, visit the Black-necked Crane Museum to learn about the rare and endangered black-necked cranes that inhabit the valley. Black-necked cranes can be spotted in the meadows of the valley during winters.
Return to Paro, enjoying the scenic view along the way.
En route, stop and take a hike up to Drakarpo, a sacred religious destination perched on a hillside, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
Take a leisurely stroll through Paro Town and shop for traditional crafts, or simply soak in the atmosphere.
Overnight in Paro.

Drive time: 4 to 5 hours

Highlights: Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), traditional hot stone baths, home-cooked Bhutanese dinner at a farm stay

Embark on a hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), Bhutan's most iconic landmark perched dramatically on a cliffside. The hike offers stunning views and an intimate look at Bhutan’s spiritual heritage.
After your hike, unwind with a rejuvenating hot stone bath. A unique Bhutanese tradition perfect for relaxation after your hike up to Tiger's Nest.
End the day with a delicious home-cooked Bhutanese meal at a local farmhouse. You can also request to try ara (or arag), a traditional Bhutanese alcoholic beverage.
Overnight in Paro.
Optional experience:
- Luxury Campsite Above Tiger’s Nest: For an extraordinary adventure, spend the night at a luxury campsite above Tiger’s Nest (available at an additional cost). This will involve a 5-6 hours hike up to the campsite on Day 8, and visiting Tiger's Nest and the ancient Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, on Day 9.

Highlights: Chele La Pass, Kila Goemba

Take a scenic drive to Chele La Pass, one of Bhutan’s highest motorable passes, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, including Mount Jomolhari. Enjoy the crisp mountain air and vibrant prayer flags adorning the pass.
Hike (1 to 1.5 hours) up to Kila Goemba, a serene nunnery perched on a cliff below Chele La Pass. The hike offers stunning vistas and an opportunity to experience the peaceful monastic life. Spend time exploring the nunnery and its surroundings.
Wander through Paro town for last-minute shopping or visit additional nearby sites as per your interest.
Optional experiences include:
- Experience the vibrant local culture and pick up fresh produce and locally made crafts at the Farmers’ Market.
Overnight in Paro.

Drive time: 3.5 to 4 hours

After breakfast, your guide will accompany you to Paro International Airport for your onward journey.
End of tour.