Day 1: Phuentsholing to Thimphu

Into the Himalayas

Your Bhutan journey begins in Phuentsholing, the gateway town on Bhutan's southern border. After permit formalities, travel through winding mountain roads towards Thimphu, passing dense forests, waterfalls and river valleys along the way.

En route, stop at Kharbandi Lhakhang, a peaceful monastery overlooking the plains of India and southern Bhutan. As the road climbs higher into the mountains, enjoy changing landscapes and glimpses of traditional villages scattered along the hillsides.

Upon arrival in Thimphu, Bhutan's capital city, take an evening stroll through the town centre and experience the atmosphere of the world's last capital without traffic lights.

Overnight: Thimphu

Day 2: Exploring Thimphu

Bhutan's Cultural and Administrative Centre

After breakfast, spend the day discovering Bhutan's capital.

Visit Buddha Dordenma, one of the largest seated Buddha statues in the world, overlooking the Thimphu Valley. Continue to Memorial Chorten, an important religious landmark where local residents gather daily for prayer and social interaction.

Explore the Motithang Takin Preserve, home to Bhutan's national animal, before visiting the Traditional Arts and Crafts School where students continue Bhutan's centuries-old artistic traditions.

Later, visit Tashichho Dzong, the seat of Bhutan's government and monastic body, and browse local handicraft stores and markets.

Overnight: Thimphu

Day 3:Thimphu to Punakha

Through the Dochula Pass

Leave Thimphu and travel across Dochula Pass (3,100 metres), one of Bhutan's most scenic mountain passes. On clear days, the pass offers panoramic views of the eastern Himalayas and is marked by 108 memorial chortens.

Descending into the warmer Punakha Valley, visit Punakha Dzong, widely regarded as Bhutan's most beautiful fortress monastery. Situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, the dzong remains one of the country's most important religious and historical sites.

Later, walk across the Punakha Suspension Bridge and enjoy views of the surrounding valley and agricultural landscapes.

Overnight: Punakha

Day 4:Punakha to Paro

Villages, Temples and Valley Landscapes

Begin the day with a visit to Chimi Lhakhang, a temple associated with the revered Buddhist master Drukpa Kunley. The walk to the temple passes through traditional villages and farmlands, offering insight into rural Bhutanese life.

Continue your journey to Paro Valley, one of Bhutan's most picturesque regions. Along the way, enjoy views of forested mountains, rivers and traditional farmhouses.

Upon arrival in Paro, spend the evening exploring the town, visiting local cafés and handicraft shops, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the valley.

Overnight: Paro

Day 5: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Bhutan's Most Sacred Pilgrimage Site

Today's highlight is the hike to Taktsang Monastery, widely known as Tiger's Nest.

Perched dramatically on a cliff face approximately 900 metres above the valley floor, Tiger's Nest is among Bhutan's most revered religious sites. The monastery is closely associated with Guru Rinpoche, who is credited with introducing Buddhism to Bhutan.

The hike offers spectacular views of the Paro Valley and an opportunity to experience the spiritual significance of one of Bhutan's most iconic landmarks. After exploring the monastery, descend back to Paro and enjoy a relaxed evening.

Overnight: Paro

Day 6:Paro to Phuentsholing

Farewell to Bhutan

Before departing Paro, visit Rinpung Dzong, a magnificent fortress monastery that has played an important role in Bhutan's history for centuries.

Continue to Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan, believed to have been built in the seventh century.

After sightseeing, begin the drive back to Phuentsholing, retracing the mountain roads through Bhutan's forests, valleys and rivers. Arrive in Phuentsholing where your Bhutan Cultural Highlights journey concludes.

Tour Ends in Phuentsholing