Glimpse of western Bhutan

The flight to Bhutan gives you the most spectacular view of the Himalayas from above. Approaching Paro, you will be welcome with the stunning white snow peaks of the Himalaya range. You will land in Paro (altitude: 2,300 m – 7,545 ft) to travel to Thimphu. The estimated travel time to Thimphu (2,400 m – 7,874 ft) is about 1.30hrs (55 km – 34 mi) to get to the capital of Bhutan.

On the way from Paro to Thimphu, we could stop at ‘Tachogang Lhakhang’ — The Temple of the hill of the excellent horse. This ancient temple was built by Thangtong Gyalpo, Bhutanese legendary iron bridge builder. The story says that Thangtong Gyalpo was inspired by the vision of the spiritual horse Balaha (an emanation of Avalokiteshvara) when he was meditating at the very same spot of the temple.

After reaching Thimphu, we will visit the renowned National Memorial Chorten — one of Bhutan’s most prominent buildings. The chorten is the monument of world peace and prosperity. For Bhutanese, the site also serves as the memorial to their Third King, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck (1928-1972), as it was his idea to build the beautiful iconic site.

On the way, we can also visit the General Post Office. The office is loved by travellers since you can make your own stamp — the unique Bhutanese souvenir to send to your family and friends.

In the morning, we will travel to Punakha, the old capital of Bhutan. On the way, we will visit Dochula Pass (3,050 m — 10,006 ft) to enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of the Eastern Himalaya ranges. Looking out from the pass, there is nothing more beautiful than the spectacular scene of 108 chortens gracing the mountain pass and a majestic background of snowcapped mountains.

Our first destination in Punakha is Punakha Dzong (Palace of Great Happiness). Built in 1637, it is said to be the most spectacular dzong in Bhutan. The imposing site is located at the confluence of two rivers, the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu. Until the mid-1950s, it still served as Bhutan’s capital and the seat of the government. Moreover, all of Bhutan’s kings have been crowned here, and it has witnessed the memorable wedding of the King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck to Jetsun Pema in 2011.

Later, we will pass one of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan — Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge, then it is time for an easy hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten (altitude: 1,500m). After crossing a suspension bridge, it is a pleasant hike through beautiful fields of rice and pine trees. It takes about an hour from the road point to hike up to the temple, and 30-minutes downhill.

After driving back to Paro, we will hike across hillock fields to the Chimi Lhakhang, the Temple of Fertility (altitude: 1,500m – 4,921 ft). This is an easy hike, taking about 30 minutes through the rice paddy fields and small and uniquely decorated houses of Lobasa Village. If you prefer, the hike could be done in the late afternoon, so that by the time we reach the monastery, we can witness the monks doing evening prayer.

In the afternoon, we will see two different imposing dzongs of Bhutan. Paro Rinpung Dzong — Fortress on A Heap of Jewels, our next stop, is one the finest icons of Bhutanese architecture. The massive buttressed walls that tower over the town can be seen throughout the valley. The wooden galleries inside are lined with remarkable wall-paintings, illustrating Buddhist lore such as the wheel of life and the old man of long life.

Then we will visit the National Museum of Bhutan — Ta Dzong. Originally built as a watchtower in 1649, it is on top of the hill above Rinpung Dzong, overlooking the whole picturesque Paro valley. The dzong has an unusual circular construction resembling a conch shell. Converted into a museum in 1968, its extensive collection includes astonishing antique thangka paintings, weapons and armor, and a rich diversity of natural and historic artifacts.

Today, we will hike to Taktsang Monastery, or the Tiger’s Nest (highest altitude: 3,120m — 10,236 ft). The trail is about 4.5 km (3 mi), so we will be ascending approximately 900m (2,952 ft) to reach the monastery. Because of Bhutan’s mountainous landscape, we will spend 5-6 hours hiking. We will immerse totally with Bhutan pristine nature, passing through verdant forests and spectacular mountain scenery along the trail. After all, the clean air and splendid landscape are what make Bhutan a hotspot for hiking. There is no better way to truly enjoy the beauty of Bhutan scenery than hiking, the experience is once in a lifetime!

Then we will visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century. This temple marks the introduction of Buddhism in Bhutan. It is a uniquely charming spot in Paro for travelers since we can witness elderly pilgrims shuffling around the temple to spin numerous prayer wheels here.

Late afternoon is time to learn more about Bhutanese daily life, as you will enjoy a traditional meal at a farmhouse. Chatting with the locals while tasting delicious authentic Bhutanese is undeniably the coolest way to get to know Bhutan genuinely.

Aside from food, sport is also very important in the life of Bhutanese. Your guide and driver can teach you the basics of archery— Bhutan’s most popular sport.

And so, your Bhutanese journey draws to a close. After a final breakfast at the hotel, your guide will accompany you to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. As you prepare to depart, we offer you a heartfelt Tashi Delek—goodbye and good luck. May the memories of this magical kingdom stay with you always, and we sincerely hope to welcome you back again one day.