A Spell in Druk Yul

Upon arrival at Paro, we drive to Thimphu via the Chele La pass and the beautiful Haa valley. We spend the next two days exploring the landmarks of the capital and visit nearby shrines and monasteries. Fine views of the Eastern Himalaya, including Bhutan’s highest peak Mt. Gangar Punsum (7,520m / 24,666′), reward the drive over the Dochu La pass down to Punakha, the old capital. Here we visit the remarkable Punakha Dzong, and take a day excursion to the quaint villages of Talo, Nobgang, and Rinchengang. Back in Paro, we visit the dzongs of the beautiful Paro valley and take a day to hike to the famous Taktsang – Tiger’s Nest – monastery. Legend has it that Guru Padmasambhava, the patron saint of Bhutan, flew here from Tibet on a celestial tiger’s back.

This inclusive tour is indeed a spell in this remote, unspoiled and enchanting land.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1  Fly to Paro. Drive to Thimphu over Chele La pass and the Haa valley. Evening visit Kuenselphodrang (Buddha Point).
Day 2  Thimphu: Morning visit Pangri Zampa Lhakhang, Cheri and Taango monasteries.
Afternoon visit Zorig Chusum Institute (National Institute of Arts and Crafts), Memorial chorten, Tashichho Dzong, and Handmade paper factory OR Thimphu weekend market. Evening stroll around Thimphu town.
Day 3  Morning visit Traditional Medicine Hospital, National Library, Royal Goldsmith Workshop, and Handicraft Center.
Afternoon drive to Punakha across Dochu La pass. Visit Wangdiphodrang Dzong and marketplace en route.
Day 4  Punakha: Morning excursion to Talo and Nobgang villages.
Late afternoon visit Rinchengang village.
Day 5  Morning visit Punakha Dzong and Chimme Lhakhang.
Late morning drive to Paro visiting Simtokha Dzong en route.
Afternoon visit Ta Dzong (National Museum) and Paro Rinpung Dzong.
Day 6  Morning hike to Taktsang monastery. Visit Kyichu Lhakhang on return.
Late afternoon visit traditional Bhutanese farmhouse.
Evening stroll around Paro town.
Day 7  Early morning transfer to Paro airport. Fly to Kathmandu.