| Duration | 5 |
| Max. altitude | 3100 m |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Transportation | |
| Accommodation | |
| Trip starts/ends | Paro / Paro |
Welcome to the enchanting Kingdom of Bhutan! Your adventure begins with your arrival at Paro International Airport, one of the most scenic airports in the world, nestled deep within the Paro Valley. After clearing customs and immigration, you will be warmly greeted by your local guide from Asiana Treks & Tours, who will accompany you throughout the journey. From here, you’ll embark on a scenic drive of approximately 1.5 hours to Thimphu, Bhutan’s vibrant capital city. The road meanders alongside the Paro River, flanked by lush green hills and traditional villages, offering your first glimpses of Bhutan’s pristine natural beauty and unique cultural heritage.
Upon arrival in Thimphu, check into your hotel and take some time to rest or explore the town at your leisure. Thimphu is a captivating blend of tradition and modernity, with colorful markets, ornate temples, and charming cafes. In the afternoon, your guide will take you on a gentle walking tour around Thimphu’s main sights, including the National Memorial Chorten, an important religious monument dedicated to the third king, and the vibrant Weekend Market (if timing permits), where locals sell fresh produce, handicrafts, and traditional Bhutanese textiles. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner featuring authentic Bhutanese cuisine at a local restaurant, where you’ll get your first taste of spicy ema datshi (chili cheese stew) and other delicacies.
After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, prepare for an exciting drive from Thimphu to Punakha, one of Bhutan’s most picturesque regions. The journey takes about 3 hours and crosses the dramatic Dochula Pass, situated at 3,100 meters (10,200 feet). At the pass, pause to admire the panoramic views of the eastern Himalayan peaks, including the snow-capped Gangkar Puensum, Bhutan’s highest mountain. On clear days, the vista is truly breathtaking. The pass is also renowned for its 108 memorial chortens (stupas), built in honor of Bhutanese soldiers fallen in battle, providing a powerful glimpse into Bhutan’s rich spiritual history.
Continuing downhill, you will arrive in Punakha, the ancient capital and one of the most important valleys in Bhutan. The region’s fertile landscape, fed by two rivers, is famed for its subtropical climate and rice fields. After checking into your hotel, spend the afternoon exploring the majestic Punakha Dzong, often described as the most beautiful fortress in Bhutan. Built at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, the dzong is a stunning example of Bhutanese architecture with its ornate woodwork, intricate murals, and peaceful courtyards. Later, take a relaxing stroll along the riverside or visit a nearby village to experience the warmth of rural Bhutanese life. Asiana Treks & Tours will ensure your evening ends with a cozy dinner and an opportunity to reflect on your day’s discoveries.
Today, after breakfast, you’ll begin the journey back to Paro, which will take about 4 to 5 hours by road. The drive offers another chance to soak in Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes, with terraced fields, dense forests, and traditional villages dotting the hillsides. You will pass again through the Dochula Pass, where you can stop for photos and perhaps a brief meditation amid the tranquil chortens. On the way, consider visiting the charming village of Wangdue Phodrang, where you can explore local markets and witness traditional craftspeople at work.
Arriving in Paro by afternoon, check into your hotel and take some time to refresh before setting out on a half-day cultural tour. Paro is home to some of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks, including the Rinpung Dzong, a fortress-monastery that dominates the valley with its impressive whitewashed walls and elaborate architecture. Your guide will also take you to the National Museum of Bhutan, housed in the ancient Ta Dzong watchtower. Here you can learn about Bhutan’s history, art, and natural environment through an impressive collection of artifacts, paintings, and religious relics. As the day draws to a close, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, soaking in the serene atmosphere of this beautiful Himalayan valley.
One of the highlights of any Bhutan visit awaits today: the hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang). After an early breakfast, embark on a moderately challenging trek of about 2 to 3 hours, ascending through pine forests and past charming prayer flags fluttering in the mountain breeze. The trail is peppered with small cafes where you can rest and enjoy refreshments while taking in spectacular views of the Paro valley below. The monastery clings dramatically to a cliff 900 meters above the valley floor, a breathtaking sight that never fails to inspire awe.
Upon reaching Taktsang, spend time exploring the sacred temples and courtyards, where Buddhist monks maintain daily rituals and pilgrims come from across Bhutan and beyond to pay homage. The monastery’s origins date back to the 8th century when Guru Rinpoche, credited with introducing Buddhism to Bhutan, is said to have meditated here. After soaking in the spiritual ambiance and snapping photos, descend at a leisurely pace, stopping at the cafeteria for a light lunch or tea. Return to Paro for some free time in the late afternoon to rest, shop for souvenirs, or stroll through the charming town center. End the day with a farewell dinner arranged by Asiana Treks & Tours, celebrating your unforgettable Bhutan experience.
On your final day, enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel before your guide escorts you to Paro International Airport for your departure. Depending on your flight time, you may have a little time for last-minute shopping or a final walk around Paro’s quaint streets. Asiana Treks & Tours will assist with airport formalities to ensure a smooth and hassle-free departure.
As your plane takes off, you’ll have the chance to gaze once more upon the dramatic Himalayan landscape, carrying with you memories of Bhutan’s majestic monasteries, vibrant culture, and warm-hearted people. We hope your journey with Asiana Treks & Tours has been enriching and inspiring, leaving you with a deep appreciation for this mystical kingdom. Safe travels and may the blessings of the Dragon Kingdom accompany you always.