DAY 1

Start your day at Rinpung Dzong, a fortress that used to protect the valley from Tibetan raiders and now serves as an administrative center and modern monastery. Make sure to check out the Ugyen Pelri Palace, a beautiful example of traditional Bhutanese architecture. Then, visit the National Museum to explore the country’s cultural treasures, including an impressive art collection, costumes, and handmade items.

DAY 2

Visit the renowned Bhutan Post with its distinctive metal and silk stamp designs, followed by a tour of the National Library, where you can explore the priceless Buddhist manuscripts. Then, explore the rural life of the 19th century at the Museum of National Folk Heritage, which provides a glimpse into the lives of nineteenth-century households. Following lunch, you can meet the national animal of Bhutan, the Takin, and take in the awe-inspiring views of the 160-foot-tall Buddha statue at the iconic Chorten Monument.

DAY 3

Experience the beauty of the Himalayan landscape as you embark on a journey along the twisting mountain road through the Dochula mountain pass to the Punakha valley. On clear days, you will be able to take in the stunning panoramic view of the snow-capped Himalayas, including Jejekangphu Gang and Gangkhar Puensum. Explore the new Druk Wangyel Chorten, and take a 20-minute stroll to the “Fertility Temple” or “Chimi Lakhang”, a place believed to bless couples without children.

DAY 4

Take a drive through the scenic Pelela Mountain Pass and the majestic Black Mountains on your way to Bumthang. Along the way, you’ll pass by yak villages and enchanting forests before arriving at Trongsa area, where you’ll encounter the Chendebji Chorten and Trongsa Dzong. Make sure to check out the Ta Dzong, which has been converted into a museum for the history of Bhutan’s monarchy.

DAY 5

Explore the Wangdicheng Palace, which was once the abode of the royal figurehead, King Ungyen Wangchuk. Afterward, embark on a journey to the Holy Land, where three temples are situated atop a rock face, encircled by a 108-chorden wall. Continue your journey in the afternoon by taking a drive to the picturesque Tang Valley village Ura, where you will come across a cluster of houses and a temple dedicated to the teachings of Guru Rinpoche.

DAY 6

Make your way to Gangtey, known as the wintering haven for rare black-necked cranes migrating from Tibet, China, and Siberia. Witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of these majestic birds circling over the Goemba (Monastery) before descending into the valley’s marshy terrain, a sacred ritual for the locals. Gangtey also offers a chance to explore the diverse wildlife of Black Mountain National Park and visit the crane information and observation center for an up-close encounter with these exotic avian wonders.

DAY 7

Head back from Gangtey to Paro and make a pit-stop at the Royal Botanical Park. This park is famous for its collection of 46 species of Rhododendron and its rich ecological diversity. Upon your return to Paro, check out the Dungtse Lhakhang, an ancient temple with history dating all the way back to 1421.

DAY 8

Reward yourself with breathtaking views in Bhutan’s Takstang Monastery, commonly referred to as ‘Tiger’s Nest’. You will be able to explore the ancient ruins of the Drukgyal Dzong, a fortress that once protected the Paro Valley, with the majestic Mt. Jumolhari in the background. At the end of the day, you will have the opportunity to visit the Kyichu Temple, which is part of a complex built in the seventh century to suppress local legends.

DAY 9

Begin your journey in the Haa Valley by visiting Haa Dratshang, renowned for its annual Tshechu Festival, and take a guided tour of the Lhakhang Kharpo (White Chapel) and Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Chapel). Afterwards, embark on a hike to the Shek Drak Retreat Center, and proceed to Takchu Gobeba, where you will be able to take in the breathtaking views of the valley. Cap your day off at a local farmhouse where you will witness the traditional Bhutanese lifestyle and relax in the therapeutic hot stone bath.

DAY 10

After breakfast, your guide will drop you off at the airport to take you on your next flight.