This immersive itinerary explores the best of Western and Central Bhutan, including Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Phobjikha (Gangtey), Trongsa, Bumthang, and Haa Valley. It blends culture, nature, spirituality, and authentic local experiences for a truly unforgettable journey.
Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu
- Arrive at Paro International Airport.
- Meet your guide and drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital (about 1.5 hours).
- En route, stop at Tachog Lhakhang Iron Bridge.
- In Thimphu: Visit National Memorial Chorten and stroll around the city center.
- Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing
- Visit Buddha Dordenma (giant Buddha statue), Takin Sanctuary, Folk Heritage Museum, and National Textile Museum.
- Explore Tashichho Dzong and the School of Arts & Crafts.
- Evening walk in the local market.
- Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha
- Scenic drive over Dochula Pass (3,100m) with panoramic Himalayan views and 108 chortens.
- Descend into the lush Punakha Valley.
- Visit Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility) and Punakha Dzong, Bhutan’s most beautiful fortress.
- Overnight in Punakha.
Day 4: Punakha to Phobjikha (Gangtey)
- Morning drive to Phobjikha Valley, a glacial valley famous for black-necked cranes (in season).
- Visit Gangtey Monastery and the Black-Necked Crane Information Centre.
- Explore the valley and enjoy nature walks.
- Overnight in Phobjikha.
Day 5: Phobjikha to Trongsa
- Drive to Trongsa, stopping at scenic viewpoints.
- Visit Trongsa Dzong, the largest fortress in Bhutan, and Ta Dzong (Royal Heritage Museum).
- Explore Trongsa town.
- Overnight in Trongsa.
Day 6: Trongsa to Bumthang (Jakar)
- Drive to Bumthang, the spiritual heartland of Bhutan.
- Visit Jakar Dzong and local temples.
- Explore Bumthang town.
- Overnight in Bumthang.
Day 7: Bumthang Sightseeing
- Visit Kurjey Lhakhang, Jambay Lhakhang, and Tamshing Monastery.
- Explore Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake).
- Optional visit to a cheese factory or local farmhouse.
- Overnight in Bumthang.
Day 8: Bumthang to Paro (via domestic flight or drive)
- Morning flight (if available) or drive back to Paro, with scenic stops en route.
- In Paro: Visit Rinpung Dzong and Ta Dzong (National Museum).
- Explore Paro town.
- Overnight in Paro.
Day 9: Paro Valley Exploration
- Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples.
- Explore Drukgyel Dzong ruins.
- Optional visit to a local farmhouse for a hot stone bath and traditional lunch.
- Free time for shopping or photography in Paro town.
- Overnight in Paro.
Day 10: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang)
- Early breakfast, then drive to the base of Taktsang Monastery.
- Hike (approx. 5-6 hours round-trip) to the iconic Tiger’s Nest, perched on a cliffside.
- Lunch at the viewpoint cafeteria.
- Descend and return to Paro.
- Evening relaxation or cultural program.
- Overnight in Paro.
Day 11: Paro – Excursion to Chele La Pass or Haa Valley – Departure
- Morning excursion to Chele La Pass for panoramic Himalayan views and visit to Kila Gompa Nunnery.
- Alternatively, visit Haa Valley to explore ancient temples and rural landscapes.
- Return to Paro and transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
Highlights:
- Thimphu: Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma, Tashichho Dzong, markets
- Punakha: Dochula Pass, Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang
- Phobjikha: Gangtey Monastery, black-necked cranes (seasonal)
- Trongsa: Trongsa Dzong, Ta Dzong
- Bumthang: Jakar Dzong, Kurjey Lhakhang, Burning Lake
- Paro: Rinpung Dzong, National Museum, Kyichu Lhakhang, Tiger’s Nest
- Chele La Pass/Haa Valley: Himalayan views, ancient temples
This 11-day itinerary offers a rich blend of Bhutan’s cultural, spiritual, and natural wonders, ensuring a rewarding and unforgettable holiday