Day 1

You’ll get off the plane at Paro International Airport and be welcomed by your guide with a Bhutanese welcome scarf called ‘chadar’. Once you’re settled in, your tour will kick off with a stop at the National Museum. It’s a great place to learn about the history and culture of Bhutan, with religious relics, artwork, and traditional handicrafts. After that, you’ll head to Rinphung Dzong, which was built in the 17th century and is now a government building and a school for monks.

Day 2

Start your day off right by taking a full-day bike ride from Paro. Along the way, you’ll take in stunning views of rivers, rice paddies, forests, and hills. After a delicious picnic in a beautiful spot, you’ll arrive at Thimphu where you can relax and take in the sights.

Day 3

On your tour of Thimphu, you’ll get to see the National Memorial Chorten, which is full of peaceful paintings and sculptures that represent the Buddhist faith. Plus, you’ll visit the Changangkha temple, Drubthob monastery, Zilukha nunnery, the School for Arts and Crafts, the National Library with priceless Buddhist manuscripts, and the Traditional Paper Factory where you can learn how paper-making is done. At the end of your day, you’ll go to the Takin Zoo, where you can see the takin, Bhutan’s national pet.

Day 4

Today you’re going on a bike ride from Thimphu to Punakha. Along the way, you’ll be passing through Dochula mountain pass, where you can take in the stunning views of the Himalayas on a clear day. You’ll be cycling through lush forests and eventually make it to Punakha, where you’ll be able to check out Punakha Dzong, which is a really cool fort built at the intersection of two rivers.

Day 5

You’ll get to check out the busy market and take a look at the Wangduephodang Dzong, which is situated at the perfect spot between two rivers. As you drive through the Pelela mountain pass, you’ll take in the view and visit the Chorten Chendibji. Then, you’ll make your way to Trongsa where you’ll get to see the amazing Trongsa Dzong.

Day 6

Start your day with a visit to the architectural wonder that is Trongsa Dzong. This complex is home to 22 temples and is a symbol of the culture of Bhutan. After that, you’ll be on your way on a bike to the valley of Bumthang which is known for its spiritual significance.

Day 7

There are lots of spiritual places to explore in Bumthang. You can visit Kurjey, Jambay, Jakar, Tamshing, and other places. Plus, you have plenty of time to check out Jakar, Bumthang’s main village.

Day 8

You’ll take a bike ride to Ura Valley, where you’ll get to enjoy lush green pastures and stunning mountain views. Highlights include the Shertang La pass and the stunning Ura Valley. A day in the Ura Valley is the perfect way to end your day in Bumthang.

Day 9

The journey continues back to Punakha, and you have opportunities for cycling stretches along the way.

Day 10

Take a leisurely drive to the three-story Chorten of Namgyal (Nyingmapa Paintings) in Khamsum. After a nice picnic by the river, you’ll head back to the Punakha area and then take a drive to Thimphu.

Day 11

Depending on how you like it, you’ll either go for a bike ride or check out the weekend market in Thimphu, where you can find all kinds of delicious Bhutanese cuisine and handmade goods. Then, you’ll cycle or take a drive to Paro.

Day 12

You hike to the famous Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest, perched dramatically on a cliff. You also visit Drukgyel Dzong and Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples.

Day 13

Your Bhutan adventure concludes with a departure from Paro International Airport, accompanied by warm wishes from your guide.