Taste of Bhutan

Day 01  : Arrive Paro by Air & transfer to Thimphu (55km, approx. 1.1/2 hour drive)

The flight to Paro is an incredible journey through the Himalayan range, offering breathtaking views and a thrilling descent into the Kingdom of Bhutan. Upon disembarking, you'll be greeted by refreshing mountain air, and our representative will be waiting to assist you with immigration and baggage collection. From there, we'll take a scenic drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, with a stop at Chuzom to see the confluence of the Thimphu and Paro rivers, where you'll find stupas in Tibetan, Nepalese, and Bhutanese styles.

Upon arrival in Thimphu, you'll check in at your hotel and experience a unique blend of modern development and ancient traditions. As the center of government, religion, and commerce in Bhutan, Thimphu is a city like no other, with a population of approximately 100,000 and no traffic lights - perhaps the only capital city in the world without them.

In the evening, take a stroll through the city center to explore the local sights, including the iconic Memorial Chorten, the impressive Tashichho Dzong, and the vibrant weekend market. Don't miss the opportunity to try traditional Bhutanese cuisine, such as ema datshi (chilies and cheese) or momos (dumplings).

Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu. (Altitude 2,320m)

Day 2: Thimphu – Paro (55km, approx. 1.5-hour drive)

Experience the best of Bhutan's cultural and natural heritage with our Day 2 itinerary. Begin your day by paying homage to the Memorial Chorten, also known as the Thimphu Chorten, built in 1974 to honor the third King of Bhutan. This stupa is located at the heart of Thimphu city and offers an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in Bhutan's rich history.

Next, make your way to Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang) to witness one of the largest Buddha statues in the country. The 169 feet (51.5m) tall statue is made of bronze with gold gilding and offers an incredible view of the Thimphu valley.

Continue your journey with a visit to the Changangkha Lhakhang, a 12th-century temple built by Lama Phajo Drukgom Shigpo. Located on a ridge overlooking the town, this temple is an auspicious spot for local parents to get a name for their newborns or blessings from the protector deity Tamdrin.

Travel to upper Motithang in Thimphu to witness the Takin Preserve, home to Bhutan's national animal, the takin. These unique animals look like a cross between a cow and a goat and can only be found in Bhutan and nearby areas.

After lunch, head to the National Library, which houses a collection of priceless Buddhist manuscripts. Then, visit the Institute for Zorig Chusum (Painting School) where students undergo a 6-year training course in Bhutan's 13 traditional arts and crafts. The Textile Museum provides insight into Bhutan's distinct art form, while the Folk Heritage Museum connects people with the rich Bhutanese folk heritage and rural history.

End your day's sightseeing with a visit to Trashichhoedzong, also known as "the fortress of the glorious religion." This impressive fortress/monastery houses the Secretariat building, the throne room of His Majesty the King, and various government offices.

Finally, drive back to Paro, following the Wang Chhu and Paro Chhu river valleys, before crossing through Paro town towards the north end of the valley. Stay overnight at the hotel in Paro (Altitude 2,280m).

Day 3: Paro

After breakfast, embark on a 5-hour round trip hike to Taktshang Monastery, also known as the Tiger's Nest. This monastery is one of the most famous in Bhutan and is perched on the side of a cliff 900m above the Paro valley floor. It is said that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery, which is why it is called the Tiger's Nest. This site has been recognized as a most sacred place and visited by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646 and is now visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime.

In the afternoon, visit Ta Dzong, originally built as a watchtower, which now houses the National Museum. The extensive collection includes antique thangkha paintings, textiles, weapons and armor, household objects, and a rich assortment of natural and historic artifacts.

Then, walk down the trail to visit Rinpung Dzong, meaning "fortress of the heap of jewels," which has a long and fascinating history. Along the wooden galleries lining the inner courtyard are fine wall paintings illustrating Buddhist lore, such as the four friends, the old man of long life, the wheel of life, scenes from the life of Milarepa, Mount. Sumeru, and other cosmic Mandala

Evening take a stroll around interesting city centre of Paro .

Overnight at the hotel in Paro. (Altitude 2,280m)

Day 04 : Depart Paro

After early breakfast at the hotel, drive to the airport for flight to your onward destination