The Best Places in Bhutan

Day 2: Thimphu.

Start your guided exploration of Bhutan with a visit to the Buddha Dordenma, the massive Buddha statue located on a hilltop overlooking the highway entering Thimphu. This bronze Shakyamuni Buddha statue was completed in 2015 and is gilded in gold. It is 169 feet (51.5 meters) tall, and you will visit the 125,000 Buddha Dordenma (100,000 8 inch and 25,000 12 inch) gilded bronze Buddha statues which are placed inside the main statue. Its ornate base houses a large and beautiful meditation hall. The views of Thimphu and the surrounding Himalayan ranges are spectacular from the area around the statue.

Head into Bhutan’s largest town and proceed for a visit to the King's Memorial Chorten (Buddhist funeral monument), which is continuously circled by people, murmuring mantras and spinning prayer wheels. Construction of this landmark was the idea of Bhutan’s third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, the father of modern Bhutan. His plan was to dedicate this monument to world peace and prosperity. It was completed in 1974 after his untimely death. Today, it serves both as a memorial to the late King and as a monument of peace.

You will also visit the Folk Heritage Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of Bhutan’s living traditions, and can chose to visit the National Textile Museums. There is a break for lunch at your Lodge. You may want to change your attire at this time as the main activity today requires pants/long skirts and no bare shoulders.

Afternoon - Visit Tashichhoe Dzong, locally known as the Fortress of the Glorious Religion. Among other things, this impressive edifice is the center of the Bhutanese government. It houses the monarch’s throne room and the seat of JeKhenpo, the Chief Abbot. Although the original dzong was built in 1641 by the political and religious unifier of Bhutan, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, it was renovated and rebuilt a couple of times over the last few centuries due to damage by fire and earthquake.

When His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk moved the nation’s capital to Thimphu in 1952, he had the dzong enlarged and renovated extensively over a five-year period. Some parts of the dzong are off limits to visitors but there are plenty of fascinating area’s that you will explore. Of particular interest is the Lowering of the Flag ceremony that is performed in the early evening. After the ceremony you will return to your hotel.
(Overnight – Pemako Thimphu)

Day 3: Thimphu.

This morning you will visit the Bhutan Post Office and be transported back decades when you enter. The Bhutanese are avid letter writers and this charming building is a fascinating window into their culture. Beautiful stamps are for sale and you can even have your picture taken and have stamps printed with you on them in a very short time. Mail a note to family or friends from Bhutan with you on the stamp!

Next you will enjoy a drive to Motithang Takin Preserve. This is a preserve for Bhutan’s National Animal, the Takin, which is a very rare and endangered species that is only found in Bhutan. Imagine a goat’s head on a cow’s body with a shiny thick brownish coat to protect from the wind. The creation of the Takin is also attributed to The Divine Madman. From the preserve you will return to your lodge where there is a break for lunch.

After lunch you will visit the National Library and Archives of Bhutan. This beautiful building houses the world’s largest book (protected by a glass enclosure), many other amazing Buddhist books, and great historic photos of the royal family as well as foreign dignitaries.

Later this afternoon you will walk around the quaint and charming town of Thimphu with its boutique stores, cafés, and bars. Take a short break at the Clock Tower Square, where you might get lucky and get to watch a cultural performance. Right next to it is a great photo opportunity, the only controlled intersection in Bhutan, located where the two busiest roads meet. You will return to your hotel when you are through with this excursion.
(Overnight – Pemako Thimphu)

Day 4: Thimphu – Punakha.

You are assisted with your check-out from your lodge and driven to Dochula Pass, which lies at 10,105 feet (3,080 m). This scenic pass is home to 108 memorial Chortens (small Stupas), known as the Druk Wangyal Chortens.
There are spectacular Himalayan vistas from this pass on a clear day. The visible peaks include –

Gangkhar Puensum, the highest mountain in Bhutan at 24,836 feet (7570 m). This is widely accepted as the highest unclimbed mountain in the world.
Masagang – 23,602 feet (7,194 m)
Tsendagang – 22,835 feet 7060(6,960 m)
Terrigang – 23,163 feet (7,060 m)
Jejegangphugang – 23,484 feet (7,158 m)
Kangphugang – 23,524 feet (7,170 m)

After this you will continue on your drive to scenic Punakha. Upon your arrival in the Punakha region, you will be driven to your boutique resort that sits above Punakha and has gorgeous forest and valley views. Enjoy a slightly late lunch and then you are free to freshen up and explore the facilities and views of your lodge.

just before you arrive at Punakha, you have the option to enjoy a stop near Chimi Lhakhand and experience a walk across fields and a village to the Chimi Lhakhand Monastery, which is located on a hillock next to a beautiful, gushing river. The small monastery of Chimi Lhakhand is dedicated to the Divine Madman. This stop is not recommended for families with children, or those who may be sensitive to what they will experience here. Please note that phallus paintings and sculptures are found in parts of Bhutan and are a part of the belief system, mainly as protectors that keep away evil spirits. The scenic village you will cross includes exposure to such explicit materials, as does the monastery to a lesser extent. This is one of The Divine Madman’s legacies.
(Overnight – Dhensa Boutique Resort)

Day 5: Punakha

You are at leisure in the morning to enjoy the wonderful facilities and views of your lodge – walks around the spectacular surrounding landscape are encouraged. After a slightly early lunch you will enjoy a scenic drive to the tiny town of Punakha and proceed for a walk through the small town of Punakha with your guide and watch the locals go about their daily lives. Life here is even simpler than in Thimphu or Paro, and it takes only a short while to traverse the town.

Head further in the mid-afternoon to the awe-inspiring Punakha Dzong. All of Bhutan’s Dzong’s are a visual delight, and most are located with very scenic backdrops. Punakha Dzong (officially Pungtang Dechen Photrang Dzong) is definitely among the very best in terms of spectacularly scenic surroundings. Located on the tip of the confluence of the Pho Chhu (father) River & the Mo Chhu (mother) River, with a scenic valley and mountains forming its backdrops, arriving at this location itself brings cheer to your heart, before you even cross the 180-foot wooden cantilevered bridge to enter the massive compound.

This is the second biggest and second oldest (1637 AD) Dzong in Bhutan and was the administrative Center of Bhutan’s government until the capital was shifted to Thimphu in 1995. Explore the structures and courtyards inside the Dzong and marvel as your guide explains how life is lived in the monastery, and tells you tales about its history and importance. Enjoy a picnic sunset drink and canapes by the river with amazing vistas - your lodge will arrange a special experience for you.
(Overnight – Dhensa Boutique Resort)

Day 6: Punakha – Gangtey.

Check out from your hotel and proceed on the fairly short and extremely scenic drive to Gangtey in the Phobjikha Valley. Nestled amidst the verdant hills of the Black Mountains, the U-shaped glacial Phobjikha Valley is surrounded by rolling hills blanketed with dense forests of pine, juniper, and rhododendron, the valley opens into a vast, flat expanse that offers breathtaking views and a sense of tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere. Its meadows and wetlands teem with diverse flora and fauna, providing ample opportunities for hiking and birdwatching.

The Phobjikha Valley is also home to quaint villages where traditional Bhutanese lifestyles are preserved, offering a glimpse into the harmonious coexistence of people and nature. Development in the valley is carefully controlled to maintain its ecological balance and cultural integrity. Electricity, for instance, was only introduced to the region in recent years, a testament to the cautious approach Bhutan takes in integrating modern amenities into its rural areas.

The centerpiece of the valley, the Gangtey Monastery, stands majestically atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the valley below. This 17th-century monastery is a spiritual and architectural gem that holds deep cultural and historical significance. Built in the early 17th century, Gangtey Dzong serves as the seat of the Gangtey Trulku, a high-ranking lama in the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism.

The dzong itself as a fortress-like structure, exuding strength and serenity in equal measure. Its architecture reflects the classic Bhutanese style, with intricate woodwork, vibrant murals, and tiered roofs that blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings. Gangtey Dzong also plays a pivotal role in the spiritual life of the local community. It serves as a place of worship, meditation, and education for monks and lay practitioners alike. Monastic rituals and ceremonies, which are deeply rooted in Bhutanese Buddhist traditions, are performed here throughout the year.

From the monastery, a walk along the Gangtey Nature Trail serves as a perfect introduction to the valley's pristine environment. This easy yet rewarding hike winds through forests of blue pine, open meadows, and small streams. Along the way, the sights and sounds of nature—chirping birds, grazing cattle, and distant mountain peaks—create an unforgettable sensory experience.

You are driven to your comfortable rustic lodging and assisted with your check-in to an eco-friendly, spacious tent designed with traditional Bhutanese elements and equipped with modern amenities. The area is a nature lover’s paradise, providing opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and exploring the rich cultural heritage of the region. Due to a lack of other options that don’t cost over $1000 more per night, this fairly spartan lodging is only recommended between April and September due to the weather. Enjoy the spectacular views and rural countryside around you while you are here.
(Overnight – Gangtey Tent Resort)

Day 7: Gangtey/Phobjikha Valley

Today unfolds with a deeper dive into the valley’s cultural and natural treasures with visits to nearby villages, where the pace of life seems suspended in time. Wooden houses with intricately painted facades, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and the occasional sound of a prayer wheel. Locals, clad in their traditional ghos and kiras, go about their chores with warm smiles, greeting visitors with a sense of genuine hospitality. Visiting a traditional farmhouse offers insights into the simple yet fulfilling rural lifestyle. Sharing a cup of hot butter tea or tasting the local delicacies made from fresh, organic ingredients fosters a connection with the valley's rich culinary traditions.
Gentle to Medium Hikes Available:

Walk along a less-trodden path, the Longtey Trail, which is moderately challenging and very rewarding. This trail passes through mystical dwarf bamboo forests, eventually opening up to panoramic views of the valley. The crisp mountain air and the quiet rustling of leaves create a meditative experience, allowing one to connect with the pristine environment.

Hike to nearby Khewang Lhakhang, a smaller and extremely charming monastery nestled amidst the valley. The trail leading there passes through quaint villages and terraced fields, providing opportunities to observe farmers tending their crops and children playing in the fields. The journey itself becomes as rewarding as the destination, with the changing hues of the landscape under the afternoon sun painting a mesmerizing picture.

An optional horseback ride (advance reservation required) through the valley offers a unique perspective of its vastness and beauty. Riding along the riverbanks and through fields dotted with wildflowers creates a connection with the land, evoking a sense of timelessness.
(Overnight – Gangtey Tent Resort)

Day 8: Gangtey – Paro.

You are assisted with your check-out and driven to Paro. On the way to Paro, you have the option of stopping for a guided visit to Simtokha Dzong. This small fortress was built in 1627 and is one of the oldest in Bhutan. The fortress currently houses the Institute for Language and Culture studies. Upon your arrival near Paro, you are assisted with your check in at your lodge. Enjoy a late lunch and a short break before your next experience.

Mid-afternoon – The valley of Paro contains many amazing attractions, crowned by the awe-inspiring Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) monastery, which is on your schedule for tomorrow. Proceed on the short drive, or a delightful walk (a little over a mile), to the National Museum of Bhutan, Ta Dzong. Ta Dzong was originally a watchtower built to defend Rinpung Dzong during the local Bhutanese wars of the 17th century. It was inaugurated as Bhutan’s National Museum in 1968. It houses a wealth of artifacts ranging from about 4000 BC to modern times.

After the museum you will walk 5 minutes to the adjacent Rinpung Dzong (Fortress that sits on a Heap of Jewels). Like other Bhutanese Dzong’s, it has a long and fascinating history and is an excellent example of Bhutanese architecture. Along the wooden galleries lining the inner courtyard are fine wall paintings illustrating Buddhist lore. It was built in the 16th century by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the first spiritual and temporal ruler of Bhutan. Currently the dzong houses the monastic body of Paro, the office of the Dzongda (District Administrative Head) and Thrimpon (Judge) of Paro district. Access to the dzong is across a traditional covered cantilever bridge called Nemi Zam. You can choose to either walk or drive back to your wonderful lodge after exploring the Dzong.
(Overnight – Le Meridien Paro Riverfront)

Day 9: Paro.

Proceed for an excursion to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) monastery, the most famous Bhutanese monastery, and the nation’s signature landmark. A packed snack will be provided by your lodge for this excursion.

Perched precariously on a small bluff on the side of a mountain, 3000 feet (900 meters) above the Paro valley, its actual elevation is 10,240 feet (3120 meters). Guru Rinpoche (also known as Padmasambhava in Himalayan India, Tibet and surrounding regions) arrived here in the 8th century and meditated in a mountain cave for 3 years, 3 months, 3 weeks, 3 days and 3 hours. The original monastery was built in 1692 but has since expanded and the main building of the monastery burnt down in 1998 but has since been reconstructed.

The incredibly scenic monastery has to be experienced to be believed – no photo can do it justice. The guided trek up to, and down from, the monastery takes three to five hours, depending on whether you are fairly fit, or a very experienced, trekker. There are ponies available for those who do not want to make the trek. Even if you choose not to take the trek or even go up to the monastery, visiting this valley for its incredible views is a must.

The path to Tiger’s Nest takes you to a vantage point that is actually a little above the monastery, and there is a café located here for refreshments. This is where most of the published photos of the monastery are taken from – there is no view of the whole monastery once you actually get up to it. You will now proceed to descend for a while before climbing again to arrive at the Tiger’s Nest. Enjoy an exploration of the monastery and experience the lives of the monks that inhabit this legendary campus. The Bhutanese believe that Guru Rinpoche arrived here riding on a flying tigress, which some legends say was Queen Yeshe Tsogyal (his consort, and the mother of Tibetan Buddhism) who was transformed into a tigress for this journey. The cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated is called Pel Pfuk, and the monastery is built on the bluff adjoining it and other caves, such as Tholu Pfuk, the cave that he first entered upon arrival.

Afternoon – return to the valley and drive back to Paro, stopping at Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred shrines of the Kingdom. The original structure of this temple was constructed in the 7th century by a Tibetan king, but many repairs and renovations have occurred over the centuries. There is a small steady stream of Paro’s residents visiting the shrine to pray, and the two orange trees in its compound are said to bear fruit throughout the year. Head back to your lodging at Paro after this excursion.
(Overnight – Le Meridien Paro Riverfront)

Day 10: Paro – International Flight.

You are assisted with your check-out in the morning and driven to the airport and assisted in boarding your flight to your next destination – all flights tend to depart from Paro at some time in the morning. Bhutan has multiple daily flights to a number of cities in India, but unless you are planning to visit India, this is not an ideal solution for most guests because of India’s visa and other requirements. Flights from Bhutan cannot be ticketed in conjunction with any other airline, thereby requiring that you go through arrival and departure procedures at the connecting airport. There are fairly frequent flights to Bangkok, and two or three times a week to Singapore, both of which do not require visa’s etc. for U.S. citizens and the arrival and departure processes are easy. We are available to consult with our guests with guidance/assistance for your departure from Bhutan, and at any of the connecting countries.

Day 2: Thimphu.

Start your guided exploration of Bhutan with a visit to the Buddha Dordenma, the massive Buddha statue located on a hilltop overlooking the highway entering Thimphu. This bronze Shakyamuni Buddha statue was completed in 2015 and is gilded in gold. It is 169 feet (51.5 meters) tall, and you will visit the 125,000 Buddha Dordenma (100,000 8 inch and 25,000 12 inch) gilded bronze Buddha statues which are placed inside the main statue. Its ornate base houses a large and beautiful meditation hall. The views of Thimphu and the surrounding Himalayan ranges are spectacular from the area around the statue.

Head into Bhutan’s largest town and proceed for a visit to the King's Memorial Chorten (Buddhist funeral monument), which is continuously circled by people, murmuring mantras and spinning prayer wheels. Construction of this landmark was the idea of Bhutan’s third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, the father of modern Bhutan. His plan was to dedicate this monument to world peace and prosperity. It was completed in 1974 after his untimely death. Today, it serves both as a memorial to the late King and as a monument of peace.

You will also visit the Folk Heritage Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of Bhutan’s living traditions, and can chose to visit the National Textile Museums. There is a break for lunch at your Lodge. You may want to change your attire at this time as the main activity today requires pants/long skirts and no bare shoulders.

Afternoon - Visit Tashichhoe Dzong, locally known as the Fortress of the Glorious Religion. Among other things, this impressive edifice is the center of the Bhutanese government. It houses the monarch’s throne room and the seat of JeKhenpo, the Chief Abbot. Although the original dzong was built in 1641 by the political and religious unifier of Bhutan, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, it was renovated and rebuilt a couple of times over the last few centuries due to damage by fire and earthquake.

When His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk moved the nation’s capital to Thimphu in 1952, he had the dzong enlarged and renovated extensively over a five-year period. Some parts of the dzong are off limits to visitors but there are plenty of fascinating area’s that you will explore. Of particular interest is the Lowering of the Flag ceremony that is performed in the early evening. After the ceremony you will return to your hotel.
(Overnight – Pemako Thimphu)

Day 3: Thimphu.

This morning you will visit the Bhutan Post Office and be transported back decades when you enter. The Bhutanese are avid letter writers and this charming building is a fascinating window into their culture. Beautiful stamps are for sale and you can even have your picture taken and have stamps printed with you on them in a very short time. Mail a note to family or friends from Bhutan with you on the stamp!

Next you will enjoy a drive to Motithang Takin Preserve. This is a preserve for Bhutan’s National Animal, the Takin, which is a very rare and endangered species that is only found in Bhutan. Imagine a goat’s head on a cow’s body with a shiny thick brownish coat to protect from the wind. The creation of the Takin is also attributed to The Divine Madman. From the preserve you will return to your lodge where there is a break for lunch.

After lunch you will visit the National Library and Archives of Bhutan. This beautiful building houses the world’s largest book (protected by a glass enclosure), many other amazing Buddhist books, and great historic photos of the royal family as well as foreign dignitaries.

Later this afternoon you will walk around the quaint and charming town of Thimphu with its boutique stores, cafés, and bars. Take a short break at the Clock Tower Square, where you might get lucky and get to watch a cultural performance. Right next to it is a great photo opportunity, the only controlled intersection in Bhutan, located where the two busiest roads meet. You will return to your hotel when you are through with this excursion.
(Overnight – Pemako Thimphu)

Day 4: Thimphu – Punakha.

You are assisted with your check-out from your lodge and driven to Dochula Pass, which lies at 10,105 feet (3,080 m). This scenic pass is home to 108 memorial Chortens (small Stupas), known as the Druk Wangyal Chortens.
There are spectacular Himalayan vistas from this pass on a clear day. The visible peaks include –

Gangkhar Puensum, the highest mountain in Bhutan at 24,836 feet (7570 m). This is widely accepted as the highest unclimbed mountain in the world.
Masagang – 23,602 feet (7,194 m)
Tsendagang – 22,835 feet 7060(6,960 m)
Terrigang – 23,163 feet (7,060 m)
Jejegangphugang – 23,484 feet (7,158 m)
Kangphugang – 23,524 feet (7,170 m)

After this you will continue on your drive to scenic Punakha. Upon your arrival in the Punakha region, you will be driven to your boutique resort that sits above Punakha and has gorgeous forest and valley views. Enjoy a slightly late lunch and then you are free to freshen up and explore the facilities and views of your lodge.

just before you arrive at Punakha, you have the option to enjoy a stop near Chimi Lhakhand and experience a walk across fields and a village to the Chimi Lhakhand Monastery, which is located on a hillock next to a beautiful, gushing river. The small monastery of Chimi Lhakhand is dedicated to the Divine Madman. This stop is not recommended for families with children, or those who may be sensitive to what they will experience here. Please note that phallus paintings and sculptures are found in parts of Bhutan and are a part of the belief system, mainly as protectors that keep away evil spirits. The scenic village you will cross includes exposure to such explicit materials, as does the monastery to a lesser extent. This is one of The Divine Madman’s legacies.
(Overnight – Dhensa Boutique Resort)

Day 5: Punakha

You are at leisure in the morning to enjoy the wonderful facilities and views of your lodge – walks around the spectacular surrounding landscape are encouraged. After a slightly early lunch you will enjoy a scenic drive to the tiny town of Punakha and proceed for a walk through the small town of Punakha with your guide and watch the locals go about their daily lives. Life here is even simpler than in Thimphu or Paro, and it takes only a short while to traverse the town.

Head further in the mid-afternoon to the awe-inspiring Punakha Dzong. All of Bhutan’s Dzong’s are a visual delight, and most are located with very scenic backdrops. Punakha Dzong (officially Pungtang Dechen Photrang Dzong) is definitely among the very best in terms of spectacularly scenic surroundings. Located on the tip of the confluence of the Pho Chhu (father) River & the Mo Chhu (mother) River, with a scenic valley and mountains forming its backdrops, arriving at this location itself brings cheer to your heart, before you even cross the 180-foot wooden cantilevered bridge to enter the massive compound.

This is the second biggest and second oldest (1637 AD) Dzong in Bhutan and was the administrative Center of Bhutan’s government until the capital was shifted to Thimphu in 1995. Explore the structures and courtyards inside the Dzong and marvel as your guide explains how life is lived in the monastery, and tells you tales about its history and importance. Enjoy a picnic sunset drink and canapes by the river with amazing vistas - your lodge will arrange a special experience for you.
(Overnight – Dhensa Boutique Resort)

Day 6: Punakha – Gangtey.

Check out from your hotel and proceed on the fairly short and extremely scenic drive to Gangtey in the Phobjikha Valley. Nestled amidst the verdant hills of the Black Mountains, the U-shaped glacial Phobjikha Valley is surrounded by rolling hills blanketed with dense forests of pine, juniper, and rhododendron, the valley opens into a vast, flat expanse that offers breathtaking views and a sense of tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere. Its meadows and wetlands teem with diverse flora and fauna, providing ample opportunities for hiking and birdwatching.

The Phobjikha Valley is also home to quaint villages where traditional Bhutanese lifestyles are preserved, offering a glimpse into the harmonious coexistence of people and nature. Development in the valley is carefully controlled to maintain its ecological balance and cultural integrity. Electricity, for instance, was only introduced to the region in recent years, a testament to the cautious approach Bhutan takes in integrating modern amenities into its rural areas.

The centerpiece of the valley, the Gangtey Monastery, stands majestically atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the valley below. This 17th-century monastery is a spiritual and architectural gem that holds deep cultural and historical significance. Built in the early 17th century, Gangtey Dzong serves as the seat of the Gangtey Trulku, a high-ranking lama in the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism.

The dzong itself as a fortress-like structure, exuding strength and serenity in equal measure. Its architecture reflects the classic Bhutanese style, with intricate woodwork, vibrant murals, and tiered roofs that blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings. Gangtey Dzong also plays a pivotal role in the spiritual life of the local community. It serves as a place of worship, meditation, and education for monks and lay practitioners alike. Monastic rituals and ceremonies, which are deeply rooted in Bhutanese Buddhist traditions, are performed here throughout the year.

From the monastery, a walk along the Gangtey Nature Trail serves as a perfect introduction to the valley's pristine environment. This easy yet rewarding hike winds through forests of blue pine, open meadows, and small streams. Along the way, the sights and sounds of nature—chirping birds, grazing cattle, and distant mountain peaks—create an unforgettable sensory experience.

You are driven to your comfortable rustic lodging and assisted with your check-in to an eco-friendly, spacious tent designed with traditional Bhutanese elements and equipped with modern amenities. The area is a nature lover’s paradise, providing opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and exploring the rich cultural heritage of the region. Due to a lack of other options that don’t cost over $1000 more per night, this fairly spartan lodging is only recommended between April and September due to the weather. Enjoy the spectacular views and rural countryside around you while you are here.
(Overnight – Gangtey Tent Resort)

Day 7: Gangtey/Phobjikha Valley

Today unfolds with a deeper dive into the valley’s cultural and natural treasures with visits to nearby villages, where the pace of life seems suspended in time. Wooden houses with intricately painted facades, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and the occasional sound of a prayer wheel. Locals, clad in their traditional ghos and kiras, go about their chores with warm smiles, greeting visitors with a sense of genuine hospitality. Visiting a traditional farmhouse offers insights into the simple yet fulfilling rural lifestyle. Sharing a cup of hot butter tea or tasting the local delicacies made from fresh, organic ingredients fosters a connection with the valley's rich culinary traditions.
Gentle to Medium Hikes Available:

Walk along a less-trodden path, the Longtey Trail, which is moderately challenging and very rewarding. This trail passes through mystical dwarf bamboo forests, eventually opening up to panoramic views of the valley. The crisp mountain air and the quiet rustling of leaves create a meditative experience, allowing one to connect with the pristine environment.

Hike to nearby Khewang Lhakhang, a smaller and extremely charming monastery nestled amidst the valley. The trail leading there passes through quaint villages and terraced fields, providing opportunities to observe farmers tending their crops and children playing in the fields. The journey itself becomes as rewarding as the destination, with the changing hues of the landscape under the afternoon sun painting a mesmerizing picture.

An optional horseback ride (advance reservation required) through the valley offers a unique perspective of its vastness and beauty. Riding along the riverbanks and through fields dotted with wildflowers creates a connection with the land, evoking a sense of timelessness.
(Overnight – Gangtey Tent Resort)

Day 8: Gangtey – Paro.

You are assisted with your check-out and driven to Paro. On the way to Paro, you have the option of stopping for a guided visit to Simtokha Dzong. This small fortress was built in 1627 and is one of the oldest in Bhutan. The fortress currently houses the Institute for Language and Culture studies. Upon your arrival near Paro, you are assisted with your check in at your lodge. Enjoy a late lunch and a short break before your next experience.

Mid-afternoon – The valley of Paro contains many amazing attractions, crowned by the awe-inspiring Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) monastery, which is on your schedule for tomorrow. Proceed on the short drive, or a delightful walk (a little over a mile), to the National Museum of Bhutan, Ta Dzong. Ta Dzong was originally a watchtower built to defend Rinpung Dzong during the local Bhutanese wars of the 17th century. It was inaugurated as Bhutan’s National Museum in 1968. It houses a wealth of artifacts ranging from about 4000 BC to modern times.

After the museum you will walk 5 minutes to the adjacent Rinpung Dzong (Fortress that sits on a Heap of Jewels). Like other Bhutanese Dzong’s, it has a long and fascinating history and is an excellent example of Bhutanese architecture. Along the wooden galleries lining the inner courtyard are fine wall paintings illustrating Buddhist lore. It was built in the 16th century by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the first spiritual and temporal ruler of Bhutan. Currently the dzong houses the monastic body of Paro, the office of the Dzongda (District Administrative Head) and Thrimpon (Judge) of Paro district. Access to the dzong is across a traditional covered cantilever bridge called Nemi Zam. You can choose to either walk or drive back to your wonderful lodge after exploring the Dzong.
(Overnight – Le Meridien Paro Riverfront)

Day 9: Paro.

Proceed for an excursion to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) monastery, the most famous Bhutanese monastery, and the nation’s signature landmark. A packed snack will be provided by your lodge for this excursion.

Perched precariously on a small bluff on the side of a mountain, 3000 feet (900 meters) above the Paro valley, its actual elevation is 10,240 feet (3120 meters). Guru Rinpoche (also known as Padmasambhava in Himalayan India, Tibet and surrounding regions) arrived here in the 8th century and meditated in a mountain cave for 3 years, 3 months, 3 weeks, 3 days and 3 hours. The original monastery was built in 1692 but has since expanded and the main building of the monastery burnt down in 1998 but has since been reconstructed.

The incredibly scenic monastery has to be experienced to be believed – no photo can do it justice. The guided trek up to, and down from, the monastery takes three to five hours, depending on whether you are fairly fit, or a very experienced, trekker. There are ponies available for those who do not want to make the trek. Even if you choose not to take the trek or even go up to the monastery, visiting this valley for its incredible views is a must.

The path to Tiger’s Nest takes you to a vantage point that is actually a little above the monastery, and there is a café located here for refreshments. This is where most of the published photos of the monastery are taken from – there is no view of the whole monastery once you actually get up to it. You will now proceed to descend for a while before climbing again to arrive at the Tiger’s Nest. Enjoy an exploration of the monastery and experience the lives of the monks that inhabit this legendary campus. The Bhutanese believe that Guru Rinpoche arrived here riding on a flying tigress, which some legends say was Queen Yeshe Tsogyal (his consort, and the mother of Tibetan Buddhism) who was transformed into a tigress for this journey. The cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated is called Pel Pfuk, and the monastery is built on the bluff adjoining it and other caves, such as Tholu Pfuk, the cave that he first entered upon arrival.

Afternoon – return to the valley and drive back to Paro, stopping at Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred shrines of the Kingdom. The original structure of this temple was constructed in the 7th century by a Tibetan king, but many repairs and renovations have occurred over the centuries. There is a small steady stream of Paro’s residents visiting the shrine to pray, and the two orange trees in its compound are said to bear fruit throughout the year. Head back to your lodging at Paro after this excursion.
(Overnight – Le Meridien Paro Riverfront)

Day 10: Paro – International Flight.

You are assisted with your check-out in the morning and driven to the airport and assisted in boarding your flight to your next destination – all flights tend to depart from Paro at some time in the morning. Bhutan has multiple daily flights to a number of cities in India, but unless you are planning to visit India, this is not an ideal solution for most guests because of India’s visa and other requirements. Flights from Bhutan cannot be ticketed in conjunction with any other airline, thereby requiring that you go through arrival and departure procedures at the connecting airport. There are fairly frequent flights to Bangkok, and two or three times a week to Singapore, both of which do not require visa’s etc. for U.S. citizens and the arrival and departure processes are easy. We are available to consult with our guests with guidance/assistance for your departure from Bhutan, and at any of the connecting countries.