DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrive in Paro

You will be met at Paro Airport by your guide. After some refreshments, we will visit Ta Dzong, an ancient watchtower that is now the National Museum of Bhutan.

At the end of the day we drive 1.5-hours to Thimphu, the tiny capital city of this remote mountain kingdom. Along the way we stop to visit the Tamchhog Lhakhang, a small private temple with a traditional iron chain suspension bridge.

Afterwards we continue to your hotel in Thimphu. With Tibet to the north and India to the south, this 'Land of the Thunder Dragon' is the last bastion of Mahayana Buddhism - with chanting red-robed monks, sacred monasteries that sit precariously on sheer cliffs, and fluttering prayer flags that line the high ridges. Check into your hotel in this scenic valley in the western interior.

Day 2: Thimphu + Tashi Choe Dzong

Enjoy a full day of sightseeing, as your guide shows you some of the most important landmarks of the city of Thimphu.

We visit the massive Tashi Choe Dzong, a Bhuddist monastery and fortress situated on the northern edge of the city with its amazing gold-leaf roof. Today this is the seat of Bhutan's government and where the king's throne room is located.

A visit to the well preserved Folk Heritage Museum will give you a fascinating insight into the local culture. Alternatively you can visit Simply Bhutan, a living museum that resembles a Bhutanese village and brings to life the traditional cuisine, dance, religion and industry. At the National Institute for Zorig Chusum (meaning '13 Crafts') you can see students creating traditional artwork.

You can also visit the Textile Museum, walk around the city and visit the bustling Farmer's Market. In the evening try 'ema-datshi' - a chilli and cheese curry that is the national dish.

Day 3:  Punakha Dzong + Khamsum Yulley Chorten

Today we leave Thimphu and drive to Punakha. Along the way we stop at Dochula Pass (3,050m). On a clear day you can enjoy spectacular views of the Himalayan ranges on the horizon.

We then descend to the warm Punakha Valley, where we visit the magnificent 17th century Punakha Dzong. Sitting at the junction of two rivers, this is one of Bhutan’s most impressive dzongs.

We also view the lovely Khamsum Yulley Chorten (stupa), which sits on a hill overlooking the Punakha Valley.

Day 4: Phobjikha Valley + Gangtey Monastery

Today we travel 37 miles (60 km) into the lovely Phobjikha Valley. This bowl-shaped glacial valley is arguably the most beautiful valley in Bhutan and is the winter home to endangered migrating black-necked cranes.

Here we visit the Gangtey Monastery, which is perched on a small hill that rises from the valley floor. We also visit the Royal Society for Protection of Nature. You might catch sight of this heavenly bird if visiting in early spring or late autumn. The wide valley provides plenty of trails to take easy walks.

Day 5: Chimi Lhakhang + Thimphu

Today we leave the Phobjikha Valley and drive back to Thimphu.

Along the way we detour to take an easy hike through paddy fields to visit the famous Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to the divine madman, Lama Drukpa Kunley. This temple is also known as the Fertility Temple, as it is a place of pilgrimage for childless couples.

Afterwards we take a short hike up the highway to visit the charming village of Rinchengang, before we slowly drive back to Thimphu.

Day 6: Buddha Dordenma + National Memorial Chorten

Today we leave Thimphu and take a short drive to see the gigantic statue of Buddha Dordenma.

We also view the National Memorial Chorten, a whitewashed stupa with a beautiful golden spire dedicated to Bhutan’s third king - Jigme Dorji Wangchuck.

In the afternoon we slowly make our way to Paro where you can stroll around the town, join a cookery class or shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs.

Day 7: Taktsang Monastery

Today enjoy a moderate hike up the mountain to view the enchanting Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) that clings dramatically on a huge rock cliff, 900m above the valley.

Wear good shoes, as you will need to walk for 2 to 3 hours (each way) through pine forests and ascend many steps, but once you get there you will be rewarded with panoramic views over the forested valley below.

In the evening we visit a traditional farmhouse.

Day 8: Fly Home

Transfer to Paro Airport for your flight home.

PRICING

Price is based on two adults sharing en-suite accommodation on a full board. All transfers and sightseeing are included. International flights are not included and will be quoted separately.

We offer a choice of hotels at different prices, so please discuss your requirements with us. All hotels are subject to availability.

It is essential that you have personal holiday insurance. The FCO should also be consulted.