Day 1 (Sept 22) - Arrival in Paro & Transfer to Thimphu

Our journey begins with a breathtaking flight into the Paro Valley, offering our first glimpse of the Himalayan peaks. Upon arrival at Paro Airport, we will be warmly greeted by our guide. From there, we'll embark on a scenic drive to Thimphu, the charming capital of Bhutan. After checking into our hotel, we will have a brief city tour to get our first taste of this unique mountain kingdom, a nation that measures its success in "Gross National Happiness."
Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 2 (Sept 23) - Thimphu Sightseeing & Festival

Today is dedicated to exploring Thimphu and experiencing one of Bhutan's most vibrant cultural events. We will immerse ourselves in the Thimphu Tshechu (Festival), held at the magnificent Tashichho Dzong. Witness a spectacle of masked dances, colorful costumes, and ancient rituals as locals gather in their finest traditional dress to socialize, receive blessings, and celebrate their heritage. It's a photographer's dream and a profound cultural experience.
Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 3 (Sept 24) - Choki Art School & Thimphu Exploration

This morning we visit the Choki Traditional Art School, a special project founded to provide free, traditional arts education to underprivileged youth. We’ll see students learning ancient crafts like painting, weaving, and carving. It’s a wonderful opportunity to support the local community and perhaps purchase some truly authentic souvenirs. After a delicious lunch at the school, we will continue our sightseeing in and around Thimphu.
Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 4 (Sept 25) - Flight to Bumthang

We will take a spectacular morning flight to Bumthang in central Bhutan. The short journey offers incredible views of the Himalayas. Bumthang is the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, dotted with some of the country's most ancient and important temples and monasteries. Upon arrival in the town of Jakar, we will check in and begin our exploration of this sacred and beautiful valley.
Overnight in Bumthang.

Day 5 (Sept 26) - Thangbi Mewang Festival & Bumthang Valley

We attend the Thangbi Mewang, a smaller, more intimate festival at a local Dzong. This event provides a wonderful contrast to the grander Thimphu Tshechu, offering a glimpse into the deep-rooted traditions of rural Bhutan. The day also includes further sightseeing in the Bumthang Valley, known for its picturesque landscapes and serene atmosphere.
Overnight in Bumthang.

Day 6 (Sept 27) - Drive to Trongsa

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Today we drive to Trongsa, a journey that takes us through stunning mountain scenery. We'll stop at a fabulous traditional shop along the way, perfect for finding unique textiles. The town of Trongsa is dominated by its spectacular Dzong, the ancestral home of Bhutan's royal family. We'll visit this architectural marvel, which seems to cling to the side of a cliff, and explore the excellent Trongsa Museum (Ta Dzong), which provides a deep insight into the history of the kingdom. Overnight in Trongsa.

Day 7 (Sept 28) - Phobjikha Valley & Gangtey

Our journey continues to the breathtaking Phobjikha Valley, a vast U-shaped glacial valley famous as the wintering home for the majestic Black-necked Crane. As our visit coincides with the beginning of their migratory season, we will keep our eyes peeled for the arrival of these revered birds. We will enjoy a gentle walk along the Gangtey Nature Trail, taking in the serene landscape. Afterwards, we'll visit a traditional farmhouse to experience the local way of life and try our hand at Bhutan's national sport, archery, as well as Khuru (a traditional dart game).
Overnight in Gangtey.

Day 8 (Sept 29) - Drive to Punakha

We drive to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan. En route, we'll visit Chimi Lhakhang, the famous "Temple of the Divine Madman," a pilgrimage site for those seeking blessings of fertility. In the afternoon, we'll visit the stunning Punakha Dzong, arguably the most beautiful in Bhutan, situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (father) and Mo Chhu (mother) rivers. We'll also explore the Kaja Throm, the local market.
Overnight in Punakha.

Day 9 (Sept 30) - Punakha Hike & Rafting

This morning we take a beautiful hike up to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten. This unique monument was built by the Queen Mother to remove negative forces and promote peace, stability, and harmony for all living beings. It stands as a stunning example of Bhutanese art and architecture, and from its location, we'll enjoy panoramic views of the entire Punakha Valley. Following our descent, we’ll enjoy a gentle rafting trip down the Mo Chu River, providing a unique perspective of the valley and the majestic Punakha Dzong from the water, complete with a picnic lunch by the riverside.
Overnight in Punakha.

Day 10 (Oct 1) - Dochula Pass & Return to Paro

We begin our drive back to Paro. Along the way, we'll stop at the Dochula Pass (10,170 ft). On a clear day, the pass offers a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range. The pass is also home to the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens, built as a memorial and tribute to Bhutanese soldiers. After taking in the views, we continue on to Paro for the evening.
Overnight in Paro.

Day 11 (Oct 2) - The Tiger's Nest Monastery

Today is the day for the grand finale: a hike to the iconic Taktshang Monastery, or "Tiger's Nest." This sacred monastery clings dramatically to a sheer cliff face nearly 3,000 feet above the Paro Valley. The hike is invigorating and the views are simply unforgettable. It is the cultural and spiritual symbol of Bhutan, and a fitting end to our exploration of this magical kingdom.
Overnight in Paro.

Day 12 (Oct 3) - Departure

After breakfast, we will be transferred to Paro Airport for our departure flight to Bangkok, filled with memories of an unforgettable journey through the Land of the Thunder Dragon.