Classic Bhutan Tour

TBT02: 5 Days Private Tour of Paro - Thimphu - Punakha - Paro

Tour Type: Private Tour, any parts of the itinerary can be customized
Guide: English-speaking guide, experienced and knowledgeable
Driver: Private driver with a spacious air-conditioned car
Accommodation: 3-star handpicked hotels, also be open to your own choice
Meals: Authentic local cuisines and western-style food for your choice

This trip can be customized to meet your individual needs!

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Day 1 Arrival in Paro - Thimphu

Tiger’s Nest Temple

Once your flight arrives at the airport, your guide will warmly welcome and greet you, and then transfer you to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan by car. The ride takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, and we will pass some local farmhouses and villages along the road. When reaching Thimphu, your guide will directly send you to the hotel and help you check in.

After lunch, we'll then start with a visit to Buddha Dordenma Statue, one of the largest sitting Buddha statues in the world. Dominating the skyline at 169 feet tall, this golden monument radiates peace over the valley and offers spectacular panoramic views of Thimphu.

Next, we’ll visit the National Memorial Chorten, a beautiful stupa where the rhythmic humming of prayers and the spinning of golden wheels create a deeply meditative atmosphere.

Then, let's head to the Royal Takin Preserve, dedicated to the protection of Bhutan’s national animal. The Takin is a fascinating creature that looks like a unique cross between a cow and a goat, tied to local legends of the "Divine Madman". Afterward, we’ll take a short drive to the Zilukha Nunnery, where you can witness the spiritual lives of Bhutanese nuns and enjoy a peaceful view of the valley below.

We’ll conclude our day at the majestic Tashi Chho Dzong. Originally founded in 1216 AD by Lama Gyalwa Lhanangpa, this grand structure houses the throne room of the King and the central monastic body. Watching the fortress light up at dusk is the perfect way to end your introduction to the capital. Finally, we'll stroll around Thimphu town. Tonight, enjoy dinner and overnight stay at your hotel.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Thimphu Deluxe

or similar

Impressive Buddha Dordenma Statue

Takin - Bhutan's National Animal

Day 2 Thimphu - Punakha

Transfer to Punakha, stop at Dochula Pass, 108 grand stupas, Chimi Lhakhang, Punakha Dzong, suspension Bridge. (B+L+D)

Today we will drive to Punakha, the former capital city of the country to continue our Bhutan itinerary 5 days. The ride takes about 3 hours. En route, we will stop at Dochula Pass to admire the 108 grand stupas. Then move on to visit Chimi Lhakhang, also called "the temple of fertility". It is a sacred place, particularly for women seeking blessings to have children. Then, we will drive to Punakha Dzong, built in the 17th century, a masterpiece which is located in a very beautiful place with a river flowing under the monastery. It was the seat of Bhutan's government until 1955 before the capital was moved to Thimphu. Also, we will visit the nearby Suspension Bridge spanning the Mo Chu River. Enjoy dinner and overnight stay upon arrival at the hotel in Punakha.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Meri Puensum Resort Punakha

or similar

Dochula Pass, Bhutan

Our Guests at Chimi Lhakhang

Day 3 Punakha - Paro

Drive to Paro, Rinpung Dzong, Ta Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang. (B+L+D)

We will drive back to Paro after finishing the breakfast, which will take about 4-5 hours. Today's sightseeing starts from Paro Dzong, also named Rinpung Dzong. It is one of the most impressive dzongs in Bhutan and the finest example of Bhutanese architecture. It was built in 1644 as a fortress and Buddhist temple, and is now the local religious administrative center. The annual Paro Tshechus, held here in spring, is the most important local religious festival and attracts thousands of visitors. Then, we will visit Ta Dzong, the National Museum of Bhutan, which now houses over 3,000 pieces of art treasures. Our next destination is the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan where the royal family's most important celebrations are held.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tenzinling Resort Paro

or similar

Punakha Dzong

Punakha Suspension Bridge under Sunset

Day 4 Paro Hiking

Hike to Taktsang (Tiger's Nest), Ruins of Drukgyel Dzong, Aum Chencho Farm House. (B+L+D)

This morning is scheduled to visit the Taktsang (Tiger's Nest), the highlight of your 5 days tour of Bhutan. It has long been recognized as a holy place as it was said that in the 8th century, the Guru Rinpoch flew to the site of the monastery on the back of a tiger and then meditated in a cave here. This site is located in the rocky cliffs over 900 meters above the floor of Paro Valley. It is about a two-hour strenuous hike to get there, however, it is worthwhile for the spectacular view and historical interest. After that we go to the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong, which was built to honor the memory of Bhutan's victory over the Tibetan invaders. On a clear day, you can appreciate the stunning distant view of Mt. Chomolhari behind the ruins. Our last stop of the day is to visit Aum Chencho Farm house, a typical local farmhouse where you can have some homemade wine and chat with the family members to know their daily life and customs. If you are interested, we can also arrange you a one-night stay at the farmhouse.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tenzinling Resort Paro

or similar

Tiger's Nest Monastery, Paro

Waterfall along the Hiking Trails

Day 5 Departure from Paro

Hotel-airport transfer & see you off. A nice journey home! (B)

Your vacation comes to an end today. After breakfast, we will transfer you to the airport and see you off. Hope you have a nice trip home!

Meals: Breakfast