Travel Time: 55 km / 1.5 hrs

Destination Intro: Thimphu – Bhutan’s capital, a unique blend of tradition and modernity with no traffic lights, yet full of vibrant culture.

Attractions:

• Tachogang Lhakhang & Iron Bridge – 15th-century temple built by the famous saint Thangtong Gyalpo.

• Buddha Dordenma – a gigantic 169 ft golden Buddha overlooking Thimphu Valley.

• Memorial Chorten – a stupa built in memory of Bhutan’s third king.

• Evening leisure at Clock Tower Square.

Night Stay: Thimphu

Destination Intro: Thimphu is Bhutan’s cultural heart with monasteries, museums, and markets.

Attractions:

• Tashichho Dzong – the fortress housing the King’s office.

• Folk Heritage Museum – glimpse of Bhutanese rural life.

• Changangkha Lhakhang – a 12th-century temple popular with locals for child blessings.

• Motithang Takin Preserve – see the rare Takin, Bhutan’s national animal.

• Craft Bazaar & Paper Factory – hand-made Bhutanese souvenirs.

Night Stay: Thimphu

Travel Time: 80 km / 2.5–3 hrs

Destination Intro: Punakha – Bhutan’s old capital, famous for its fertility temple, fortress, and lush valleys.

On the Way:

• Dochula Pass (3100m) – stunning panoramic Himalayan views & 108 memorial chortens.

Attractions:

• Punakha Dzong – considered Bhutan’s most beautiful fortress, located at the confluence of two rivers.

• Suspension Bridge – one of Bhutan’s longest, draped with prayer flags.

• Chimi Lhakhang (optional hike, 1.5 hrs round trip) – fertility temple dedicated to the “Divine Madman.”

Night Stay: Punakha

Travel Time: 210 km / 7–8 hrs (long, scenic drive)

Destination Intro: Bumthang (Jakar Valley) – known as Bhutan’s “spiritual heartland,” filled with ancient monasteries and legends.

En route Highlights:

• Pele La Pass (3300m) – gateway to central Bhutan.

• Trongsa Dzong – Bhutan’s largest fortress, once home to the royal family.

Arrival in Jakar (Bumthang Valley).

Night Stay: Bumthang

Destination Intro: Bumthang – a wide valley with sacred temples, rural life, and apple orchards.

Attractions:

• Jakar Dzong – “Castle of the White Bird,” overlooking the valley.

• Kurjey Lhakhang – where Guru Rinpoche meditated, leaving his body imprint.

• Jambay Lhakhang – built in the 7th century, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan.

• Tamshing Monastery – known for unique 16th-century wall paintings.

• Chamkhar Town – small market town with handicraft shops.

Optional Hike (1–2 hrs): Trail from Kurjey to Tamshing, along the river.

Night Stay: Bumthang

Travel Time: 188 km / 6.5–7 hrs

Destination Intro: Phobjikha Valley – a glacial valley famous for wintering Black-Necked Cranes and natural beauty.

Attractions:

• Gangtey Monastery – an important Nyingmapa monastery overlooking the valley.

• Scenic wetlands and village life.

Night Stay: Phobjikha

Morning Trek: Gangtey Nature Trail (2 hrs, easy walk) – through pine forests and villages, best for bird watching.

Travel Time: 190 km / 6–7 hrs

Destination Intro: Paro – a picturesque valley known for monasteries, rivers, and Bhutan’s only international airport.

Evening: Explore Paro town and handicraft market.

Night Stay: Paro

Attractions:

• Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong) – fortress of the heap of jewels, featured in films.

• Ta Dzong (National Museum) – old watchtower with historical artifacts.

• Kyichu Lhakhang – one of Bhutan’s oldest temples built in the 7th century.

• Leisure time in Paro town.

Night Stay: Paro

Main Activity:

• Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest Hike) – Bhutan’s most iconic site, perched on a cliff at 3120m.

• Trek Duration: 4–5 hrs round trip (moderate difficulty).

• Optional: Pony ride up to halfway.

Evening: Relax at the hotel or try a Bhutanese hot stone bath.

Night Stay: Paro

Breakfast: Hotel

Transfer: Hotel → Paro Airport