Bhutan Bliss: 7 Days of Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro Bhutan

Upon landing at Paro Airport, you’ll complete immigration formalities.

You’ll then be greeted by your Bhutanese guide and driven to Thimphu, Bhutan's capital.

On the way, you'll stop at Chuzom, where the Thimphu (Wang Chhu) and Paro (Pa Chhu) rivers meet.

At Chuzom, you'll see three unique stupas, each built in a distinct style—Bhutanese, Tibetan, and Nepalese.

Upon arriving in Thimphu, you'll check in to your hotel.

Enjoy an overnight stay at Thimphu.

Start your day with breakfast, followed by a city tour of Thimphu.

Your first stop will be Kuensel Phodrang, where the giant Buddha Dordenma statue sits on a hill, offering sweeping views of Thimphu.

Next, visit the National Memorial Chorten, a stupa constructed in 1974 to honor the third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, and see locals offering prayers.

Then, explore the Folk Heritage Museum, which provides a glimpse into traditional Bhutanese life and rural artifacts.

Visit Changangkha Lhakhang, one of Thimphu's oldest temples, and the Motithang Takin Reserve, dedicated to Bhutan's national animal, the Takin.

In the evening, visit Tashichho Dzong, a fortress that houses several ministries, the King’s secretariat, and the central monastic body. Overnight at your hotel in Thimphu.

After breakfast, you’ll head to Punakha.

On the way, stop at Dochula Pass, situated at an altitude of 3,100 meters.

The pass is famous for its 108 Druk Wangyal Stupas. Continue your journey to Punakha/Wangdue and, upon arrival, visit Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Temple of Fertility.

It’s a short hike that takes about 30 to 45 minutes.

Afterward, visit Punakha Dzong, located where the Mo Chhu and Po Chhu rivers meet.

Check in to your hotel afterward, and spend the evening at leisure.

Overnight stay in Punakha/Wangdue.

After breakfast, you’ll drive to Paro.

On the way, stop at the Royal Botanical Garden in Lamperi, Bhutan's first botanical park.

Continue your journey, stopping at the Immigration Check Point in Hongtsho Village to return your permit.

Make another stop at Tamchog Lhakhang, a 13th-century temple built by Thangthong Gyalpo, known as the Iron Bridge Builder.

Once you reach Paro, visit Ta Dzong, a former watchtower now converted into the National Museum, overlooking Paro Valley.

Next, visit Paro Rimpung Dzong, also known as the Fortress of the Heap of Jewels, built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal.

Walk down to Nemi Zam Bridge, a traditional cantilever bridge connecting Paro town to the Dzong.

Afterward, check in to your hotel, with the evening free for leisure.

Overnight stay in Paro.

After breakfast, set off for a visit to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest.

Located at an altitude of 3,100 meters in the Upper Paro Valley, this monastery is a significant spiritual site where Guru Rinpoche is believed to have meditated after arriving on the back of a tigress.

The hike to the monastery takes about 5 to 6 hours and is quite steep, with stairs that may not be suitable for young children or the elderly.

On your way back, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest and most sacred temples.

Overnight stay at your hotel in Paro.

After breakfast, embark on an excursion to Chele La Pass, the highest motorable pass in Bhutan.

From the pass, you’ll be treated to views of both Paro and Haa Valleys.

Continue driving to Haa Valley, where you'll visit Lhakhang Karpo, also known as the White Temple, and Lhakhang Nagpo, known as the Black Temple, both dating back to the 7th century.

You’ll also see the Haa Wangchuk Lo Dzong. Afterward, return to Paro, where you can spend the evening at leisure.

Stay overnight in Paro.

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Paro Airport for your departure. Safe travels!