BHUTAN & TIBET

 Welcome to Bhutan – a country where Gross National Happiness takes precedence over GDP. Your Bhutan experience begins with a spectacular flight into Paro, offering panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas, including Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Bhutan's sacred peak, Mount Jomolhari (7,326 m).

As you step off the aircraft, breathe in Bhutan’s first gift – crisp, unpolluted mountain air. After clearing immigration and collecting your baggage, you will be warmly greeted by our local representative.

En route to Thimphu, the charming capital city (alt. 2,320 m), stop at Chuzom, the confluence of Paro and Thimphu rivers, where you'll witness three distinct styles of stupas – Tibetan, Nepalese, and Bhutanese – symbolizing the spiritual diversity of the Himalayas. Nearby, glimpse Tamchog Lhakhang, a 15th-century temple built by the iron-bridge builder Thangtong Gyalpo.

Upon arrival in Thimphu, check into your hotel and begin exploring the world’s only capital without traffic lights.

Afternoon sightseeing highlights:

Motithang Takin Preserve: A peaceful sanctuary dedicated to Bhutan’s national animal, the Takin – a unique, goat-antelope hybrid found only in the Eastern Himalayas.

Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang): Home to one of the tallest Buddha statues in the world** (51.5 meters), offering sweeping views over the Thimphu Valley.

King’s Memorial Chorten: A revered monument built in memory of King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the third king of Bhutan, often referred to as the “Father of Modern Bhutan.” Locals gather here to chant mantras and spin prayer wheels, creating a serene atmosphere of devotion.

Trashichhoedzong: An imposing fortress and Buddhist monastery that serves as the seat of Bhutan's civil government and summer residence of the Chief Abbot and monastic body.

Overnight: Hotels in Thimphu

Meals Included: Lunch and Dinner

 After breakfast, set out for Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan, journeying through picturesque mountain roads.

En route, stop at Dochula Pass (3,080 m). On clear days, this viewpoint offers a panoramic vista of the snowcapped Himalayan peaks, including Masanggang (7,194 m), Bhutan’s highest mountain. The pass is adorned with 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens, built in memory of Bhutanese soldiers who lost their lives in 2003.

Upon reaching Punakha, check into your hotel and get ready to explore the spiritual and architectural marvels of the valley.

Sightseeing highlights:

Punakha Dzong: Often referred to as the most beautiful dzong in Bhutan, this fortress is situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (Father River) and Mo Chhu (Mother River). Built in 1637, it was the seat of government until the mid-20th century and remains the winter residence of the central monastic body.

Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple): Enjoy a scenic walk through terraced rice fields and traditional villages to reach this temple, dedicated to Drukpa Kunley, the Divine Madman. Known for its unusual rituals, the temple is believed to bless couples seeking fertility.

Spend your evening by the riverbanks, strolling through Punakha village and interacting with the warm-hearted locals.

Overnight: Overnight in Punakha.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

 After a hearty breakfast, embark on your return journey westward to Paro, one of Bhutan’s most scenic valleys.

En route, visit Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress in Bhutan, built in 1627. Now serving as a Buddhist language and cultural institute, the dzong is richly decorated with ancient carvings and sacred murals.

Upon arrival in Paro, check into your hotel and proceed on a cultural exploration.

Afternoon sightseeing highlights:

Ta Dzong (National Museum): Originally a watchtower built in 1649 to defend Rinpung Dzong, it now houses an impressive collection of ancient Thangka paintings, textiles, weaponry, and rare natural artifacts that narrate Bhutan’s rich history.

Rinpung Dzong: Also known as the “Fortress of the Heap of Jewels,” this iconic dzong is famed for its architecture and stunning murals. A short downhill walk across a traditional wooden bridge completes the experience.

Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

 After an early breakfast, set off on a spiritual pilgrimage to Taktshang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest, one of the most revered and photographed landmarks in Bhutan.

Clinging to a sheer cliffside 900 meters above the Paro valley, the monastery is believed to be the site where Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) meditated after arriving on the back of a tigress in the 8th century. The round-trip hike takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, and every step is worth it for the breathtaking views, serenity, and spiritual energy.

In the evening, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan, dating back to the 7th century. Built by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, this temple marks the introduction of Buddhism into Bhutan.

Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

 After breakfast, our representative will escort you to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. As you bid farewell to this mystical kingdom, carry with you not just souvenirs, but unforgettable memories of Bhutan’s hospitality, spirituality, and timeless beauty.

Overnight: N/A
Meals Included: Breakfast