5 Days: Whirlwind Bhutan

Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu

Highlights: Tachogang Lhakhang, Buddha Dordenma

• 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. En route, stop at Tachogang Lhakhang (also known as the Temple of the Iron Bridge).

• Upon arrival in Thimphu, visit the towering Buddha Dordenma, a massive golden statue overlooking the valley.

• Explore the city’s bustling streets, handicraft markets, or relax at your hotel.

• Overnight in Thimphu.

Drive time: 1.5 hours

Day 2: Thimphu – Transfer to Punakha

Highlights: Dochula Pass, Punakha Dzong, Pho Chu Suspension Bridge, Punakha Town

• Drive to Punakha via the stunning Dochula Pass, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks and adorned with 108 chortens.

• Visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, situated at the confluence of two rivers. Learn about its historical significance and admire its intricate architecture.

• Cross the Pho Chu Suspension Bridge, hailed as the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan. The bridge is a spectacular construction connecting the mainland to the villages spread in the grand valley of Pho Chu Valley and the hilly ranges of land across the Punakha Dzong.

• Stroll to the town of Punakha, nestled amid picturesque fields.

• Overnight in Punakha.

Drive time: 2 hours

Day 3: Punakha – Transfer to Paro

Highlights: Paro Dzong, Paro Town

• After breakfast, return to Paro, enjoying the scenic landscapes along the way.

• Visit Paro Dzong (also known as Rinpung Dzong), an impressive fortress-monastery with beautiful views of the valley. It houses the district Monastic Body as well as government administrative offices of Paro Dzongkhag.

• Wander through Paro Town and shop for traditional crafts, or relax at your hotel.

• Overnight in Paro.

Drive time: 4-5 hours

Day 4: Paro – Tiger’s Nest Hike

Highlights: Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), home-cooked Bhutanese meal at a local farm stay

• Embark on a hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched dramatically on a cliff. The trek offers stunning views and an intimate look at Bhutan’s spiritual heritage.

• Spend the rest of the day exploring nearby attractions or relaxing at your hotel.

• End the day with a delicious home-cooked Bhutanese meal at a local farm stay. You can also request to try ara (or arag), a traditional Bhutanese alcoholic beverage.

• Overnight in Paro.

Day 5: Departure from Paro

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

• End of tour.