Hidden Land of Happiness

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro
Welcome to Bhutan! Upon arrival at Paro International Airport (2,280m), you'll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, visit the impressive Paro Rinpung Dzong, a fortress-monastery that exemplifies traditional Bhutanese architecture. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through Paro town to acclimate to the altitude. O/N at Hotel in Paro.

Day 2: Paro - Taktsang Monastery Hike
Today's highlight is the iconic hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest), perched dramatically on a cliff 900 meters above the valley floor. This sacred site dates back to 1692 and is where Guru Rinpoche first brought Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th century. The round-trip hike takes 4-5 hours with stunning views throughout. Horses are available for part of the ascent. In the afternoon, visit the National Museum housed in the ancient Ta-Dzong watchtower, followed by Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest temples built in the 7th century. O/N at Hotel in Paro.

Day 3: Paro to Thimphu
After breakfast, drive to Thimphu (1.5 hours). Visit the towering Buddha Dordenma statue (51.5 meters tall) offering panoramic views of the Thimphu valley. Explore the Memorial Chorten, built in 1974 in memory of the third king, where locals continuously circumambulate while spinning prayer wheels. Visit the Folk Heritage Museum to understand traditional Bhutanese lifestyle, and if time permits, visit a traditional paper-making factory or the National Textile Museum. O/N at Hotel in Thimphu.

Day 4: Thimphu Exploration
Spend a full day discovering Thimphu's cultural treasures. Visit Tashichho Dzong, the impressive fortress housing the throne room and offices of the king (exterior only during summer). Explore the National Institute for Zorig Chusum where students learn Bhutan's 13 traditional arts and crafts. Visit Simply Bhutan Museum for an interactive cultural experience. If visiting on a weekend (Friday-Sunday), explore the vibrant farmers' market. End the day at Changangkha Lhakhang, one of Thimphu's oldest temples with stunning valley views. O/N at Hotel in Thimphu.

Day 5: Thimphu to Punakha via Dochula Pass
Journey to Punakha (3 hours), crossing the scenic Dochula Pass (3,100m) adorned with 108 memorial chortens. On clear days, enjoy spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks including Gangkar Puensum (7,570m), Bhutan's highest mountain. Visit Punakha Dzong, arguably Bhutan's most beautiful fortress, situated at the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. In the afternoon, take a pleasant walk through rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple dedicated to Drukpa Kunley, the Divine Madman. O/N at Hotel in Punakha.

Day 6: Punakha to Gangtey
Drive to the beautiful Phobjikha Valley (3-4 hours), also known as Gangtey. This glacial valley is the winter home of rare black-necked cranes that migrate from Tibet. Visit Gangtey Monastery, perched on a hilltop overlooking the valley. Take a leisurely walk on the Gangtey Nature Trail, passing through forests and offering magnificent valley views. The valley is also known for its rich flora and fauna. O/N at Hotel in Gangtey.

Day 7: Gangtey to Bumthang
Today's journey takes you deeper into central Bhutan, passing through the dramatic Pele La pass (3,300m) and stopping at Trongsa Dzong, an imposing fortress built in 1648 that controlled trade between east and west Bhutan. Continue through the Yotong La pass (3,425m) to reach Bumthang (approximately 6 hours total drive). Bumthang, at 2,600m, comprises four beautiful valleys and is considered Bhutan's spiritual heartland. O/N at Hotel in Bumthang.

Day 8: Bumthang Exploration
Spend a full day exploring Bumthang's sacred sites. Visit Jambay Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest monasteries dating from the 7th century. Explore Kurje Lhakhang, built around the cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated and left his body print. Visit Tamshing Lhakhang, founded in 1501 by Pema Lingpa, Bhutan's greatest treasure discoverer. In the afternoon, visit a local farmhouse to experience traditional Bhutanese hospitality, including a hot stone bath if desired. O/N at Hotel in Bumthang.

Day 9: Bumthang to Paro
Early morning, drive back to Paro (approximately 8-9 hours with stops). This long but scenic drive retraces your route through central Bhutan, offering opportunities to stop at viewpoints and visit any sites you may have missed. Arrive in Paro by late afternoon and relax at your hotel. O/N at Hotel in Paro.

Day 10: Departure from Paro
After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey. Your guide will assist with departure formalities, bidding you farewell with memories of Bhutan's hidden treasures and warm hospitality.