Day 1: Arrival in Paro & Drive to Thimphu
- Arrival at Paro Airport:
- You will arrive at Paro International Airport, Bhutan’s only international airport. Paro is surrounded by stunning mountain views and has a rich cultural heritage.
- Meet your guide and travel to Thimphu (1.5 hours drive).
- Sightseeing in Thimphu:
- Tashichho Dzong: Visit the fortress that houses the offices of the King and the Bhutanese government.
- Buddha Dordenma Statue: A giant golden Buddha statue that overlooks the Thimphu valley.
- Memorial Chorten: A stupa built in memory of the third King of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck.
- Overnight: Stay in Thimphu.
Day 2: Explore Thimphu
- Morning:
- Folk Heritage Museum: Get a glimpse of Bhutanese lifestyle and culture.
- National Library: Home to thousands of ancient manuscripts, including Buddhist texts.
- Changangkha Lhakhang: A tranquil temple located on a hilltop with views of Thimphu valley.
- Zilukha Nunnery: A quiet spot to see Buddhist nuns practicing meditation and prayers.
- Afternoon:
- National Memorial Chorten: Take a walk around this sacred site, where locals circumambulate and offer prayers.
- Textile Museum: Discover the history of Bhutanese textiles, including traditional weaving techniques.
- Overnight: Stay in Thimphu.
Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha
- Morning: After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Punakha (2.5-3 hours).
- En route, stop at the Dochula Pass, which offers panoramic views of the Himalayas. You can also visit the Druk Wangyal Chortens, a cluster of 108 stupas built in honor of the Fourth King of Bhutan.
- Afternoon:
- Punakha Dzong: One of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan, located at the confluence of the Pho and Mo rivers. It is the winter residence of the central monastic body.
- Chimi Lhakhang: Visit this fertility temple on a 20-minute walk from the road. The temple is dedicated to the “Divine Madman,” Lama Drukpa Kunley.
- Overnight: Stay in Punakha.
Day 4: Punakha to Phobjikha Valley
- Morning: Drive to Phobjikha Valley (2.5-3 hours), known for its stunning landscapes and as the winter home of the endangered black-necked cranes.
- On arrival, explore the valley, and visit the Gangtey Monastery, which overlooks the entire valley.
- Afternoon:
- Take a walk through the Phobjikha Valley and enjoy its beautiful scenery and traditional Bhutanese farmhouses.
- Visit the Black-necked Crane Information Centre to learn about the conservation efforts for these migratory birds.
- Overnight: Stay in Phobjikha.
Day 5: Phobjikha Valley to Paro
- Morning: Drive back to Paro (5-6 hours drive). Enjoy the scenic beauty on the way.
- Afternoon:
- Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong): Upon arrival in Paro, visit this majestic fortress, which is the backdrop for Bhutan’s annual Tsechu (festival).
- National Museum of Bhutan: Located in the Ta Dzong, this museum houses an impressive collection of Bhutanese art, culture, and history.
- Evening: Explore the Paro town, shop for traditional handicrafts, and enjoy Bhutanese cuisine.
- Overnight: Stay in Paro.
Day 6: Paro – Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)
- Morning: After breakfast, embark on the hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest). This monastery is perched on a cliff 900 meters above the Paro Valley and is one of Bhutan’s most sacred and famous sites. The hike takes around 4-5 hours (round trip), and it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- Afternoon: Once you return from the hike, relax and enjoy a leisurely lunch.
- Evening: You can visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, or simply enjoy the peaceful ambiance of Paro.
- Overnight: Stay in Paro.
Day 7: Departure from Paro
- Morning: Depending on your flight schedule, you can take a last stroll through Paro town or visit a local monastery.
- Transfer to Paro Airport for your flight back home, carrying wonderful memories of Bhutan.
Summary of Highlights:
- Thimphu: Tashichho Dzong, Buddha Dordenma, Memorial Chorten, National Library, Folk Heritage Museum.
- Punakha: Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang, Dochula Pass, Druk Wangyal Chortens.
- Phobjikha Valley: Gangtey Monastery, Black-necked Crane Information Centre, scenic valley walks.
- Paro: Taktsang Monastery, Rinpung Dzong, National Museum, Kyichu Lhakhang.
This itinerary ensures a perfect balance of cultural immersion, outdoor exploration, and spiritual experiences, offering a comprehensive view of Bhutan’s charm in 7 days.