9 Days: Bhutan Best

Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu

Highlights: 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.

• Explore Thimphu’s bustling streets and shops selling local crafts, or relax at your hotel.

• Overnight in Thimphu.

Drive time: 1.5 hours

Day 2: Exploring Thimphu

Highlights: Buddha Dordenma, Buddha Point Nature Trail, Memorial Chorten, Folk Heritage Museum, National Institute for Zorig Chusum, Institute of Astrology

• Visit the towering Buddha Dordenma, a massive golden statue overlooking the valley.

• Take a serence walk along Buddha Point Nature Trail, which begins from Buddha Dordenma. You will be walking along pines, birch and rhododendron trees, and along the trail, you will be greeted by prayer flags.

• Visit the Memorial Chorten, an iconic landmark dedicated to Bhutan’s third king.

• Step into traditional Bhutanese life and explore its history and culture at the Folk Heritage Museum.

• Watch students master Bhutan’s traditional arts and crafts at the National Institute for Zorig Chusum.

• Visit the Institute of Astrology to receive a personalised reading with a Bhutanese astrologer.

• Optional experiences include:

  • Motithang Takin Preserve: Meet Bhutan’s national animal, the takin, in a serene forest setting.

  • Thimphu Dzong (also known as Tashichho Dzong): Marvel at Bhutan’s administrative and religious centre

  • General Post Office: Create your own customised Bhutanese stamps — a unique souvenir.

  • Handmade Paper Factory: Learn the art of traditional Bhutanese paper making and shop for hand-made paper products.

  • Local Markets: Browse vibrant stalls showcasing handicrafts, textiles and fresh local produce.

• Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 3: Thimphu – Transfer to Punakha

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

Day 4: Exploring Punakha

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

• Embark on a scenic hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a stunning hilltop temple offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Punakha Valley.

• Visit the iconic 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.

• Take a leisurely walk across the Pho Chu Suspension Bridge, Bhutan's longest suspension bridge, where you will enjoy stunning views of the valley and the river below.

• 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.

Day 5: Punakha – Transfer to Phobjikha Valley

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, immersing yourself in the serene ambiance and natural beauty of the valley. enjoy its serene ambience.

• Overnight in Phobjikha.

Drive time: 3 hours

Day 6: Phobjikha – Transfer to Paro

Highlights: Black-necked Crane Museum, Tachogang Lhakhang, 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, stopping en route at Tachogang Lhakhang, the Temple of the Iron Bridge.

• Wander through Paro Town and shop for traditional crafts, or simply soak in the atmosphere.

• Overnight in Paro.

Drive time: 4-5 hours

Day 7: Paro – Tiger’s Nest Hike

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 farm stay. 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 7, and visiting Tiger's Nest and the ancient Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, on Day 8.

Day 8: Explore Paro

Highlights: Kyichu Lhakhang, Dongkola Lhakhang, Mendrup Goemba, Drakarpo, Farmers’ Market

• Step back in time at the ancient Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples.

• Marvel at the intricate architecture of Dongkola Lhakhang, tucked away in the peaceful hills of Chiphu.

• Visit Mendrup Goemba, an enchanting 15th century temple steeped in history and spiritual significance.

• Ascend to Drakarpo, a sacred religious destination perched on a hillside, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

• Experience the vibrant local culture and pick up fresh produce and locally made crafts at the Farmers’ Market.

• Overnight in Paro.

Day 9: Departure from Paro

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

• End of tour.