Things to do in

Punakha District

Explore the mystical allure of Bhutan with our comprehensive itineraries, ranging from 3 to 7 days. Each journey is meticulously planned to immerse you in the nation's rich cultural tapestry, breathtaking landscapes, and spiritual heritage, ensuring an unforgettable experience in the Land of the Thunder Dragon. 3 Days Itinerary: Quick Bhutan Encounter In three days, dive into the heart of Bhutan with visits to Thimphu and Paro, culminating in the iconic hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery. This swift tour is perfect for those seeking a brief yet profound glimpse of Bhutanese marvels. 4 Days Itinerary: Essential Bhutan Highlights Extend your stay to four days, exploring the historical and natural wonders of Thimphu and Paro, including the serene Tiger’s Nest. Ideal for travelers wishing to balance adventure with cultural immersion in a short timeframe. 5 Days Itinerary: Bhutan’s Cultural Depths The five-day tour delves deeper into Bhutan’s ethos, covering Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro. This itinerary is designed for those eager to explore the historical complexities and natural beauty of these regions comprehensively. 6 Days Itinerary: Extended Exploration Over six days, journey through the enchanting landscapes of Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro, with ample time for in-depth cultural experiences. This extended tour allows for a relaxed pace and thorough exploration of Bhutan's heritage. 7 Days Itinerary: The Ultimate Bhutan Experience Our most extensive seven-day tour offers an all-encompassing journey through Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro, with a special focus on local interactions and hidden gems. It’s the ultimate itinerary for those who wish to fully immerse themselves in the magic of Bhutan.

Bhutan, or Druk Yul, in the eastern Himalayas, emerges as an increasingly recognized peaceful mountain retreat. Celebrated for its ancient cultural heritage, encompassing monasteries, dzongs, temples, and fortresses, Bhutan also captivates with its pristine Himalayan beauty, gracious hospitality, traditional costumes, tranquil streets, lush greenery, and cascading waterfalls. This versatile destination offers diverse activities, including trekking, water sports, wildlife exploration, and heritage site visits, ensuring a fascinating experience for all types of travelers. Day by day Itinerary Day 1: Arrival in Paro, Transfer to Thimphu Paro, Bhutan, situated at an elevation of 2,250 meters (7,382 feet), marks the commencement of your journey in this picturesque valley renowned for its cultural richness, breathtaking landscapes, and historical landmarks. Here's an overview of the initial stage of the Bhutan Magical Tour. Day 2: Sightseeing in Thimphu, Drive to Punakha After savoring the first breakfast in the "happiest country in the world," embark on a journey to explore Bhutan's rich cultural heritage. You will explore - -Pangri Zampa Monastery: -Bhutan Heritage Museum - Zorig Chusum, also known as the Arts & Crafts School or Painting School. - Buddha Point, country's largest Buddha statue, providing breathtaking views of the Thimphu Valley. -Tashichho Dzong, the "Fortress of the Glorious Religion," and drive to Punakha. (2-3 hours drive) Day 3: Sightseeing of Punakha Valley After enjoying your breakfast in the punakha valley. You will explore - Punakha Dzong -Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten -Talo Village -Nalanda Buddhist College -Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang and drive back to paro in the evening. Day 4: Hike to tigernest Monastery (takshang) Embark on a memorable day with a leisurely breakfast before heading to Satsam Chorten. En route, pause at the 7th-century Kyichu Lhakhang, a sacred temple representing the introduction of Buddhism to Bhutan by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. Upon reaching the trail-head, commence a walking excursion to Taktshang Monastery, perched 900m above the Paro valley floor on a cliffside. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on a tigress, meditating at this sacred site, earning it the name 'Tiger’s Nest.' This revered destination is a must-visit for all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime. After exploring the monastery, savor lunch at the base of Tiger’s Nest before returning to the hotel. Please note that due to its location, reaching the Tiger’s Nest Monastery involves a hiking journey, taking approximately four to five hours for the round trip, requiring a reasonable level of fitness. Day 5: Departure to Paro airport See you until we meet again

Day 01: Arrive at Paro - Thimphu Once you arrive at the Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by our English speaking guide and drive to Thimphu, the capital city. It is one and a half hour drive. On the way visit Tamchog Lhakhang, which is located on the ridge with a beautiful view. After reaching Thimphu, check-in to hotel. After lunch, visit the National Memorial Chorten where we see elderly people pray and circumambulate the stupa. Paper Factory where you will see how Bhutanese traditional handmade paper is made;Visit archery ground to see local people playing archery and you can walk along Norzin Lam, the main Thimphu downtown and later visit Tashichho Dzong (Fortress) known as “fortress of the glorious religion,”. It houses the main secretariat building and the central monk body. Overnight in Thimphu. Day 02: Thimphu - Gangtey After breakfast,visit Kuensel Phodrang where big buddha statue is built; Motithang Takin Preserve also known as the Mini Zoo where you will see Bhutan’s typical national animal;Crafts Bazaar which you will find local authentic Bhutanese made crafts. Visit weekend market to see local people gathered at the market. Drive to Gangtey which is around 3 – 4 hours. On the way stop over the Dochu-La pass (3,100 meters), which on a clear day offers an incredible view of Himalayan peaks snowclad mountains from the pass. The beauty of this place is further enhanced by the Druk Wangyel Chorten – 108 stupas. Drive further to Phobjikha Valley via Punakha/Wangdue. On arrival in Gangtey, visit Crane information Center where you get information about the valley. Phobjikha is one of Bhutan’s few glacial valleys and offers incredible scene. Day 03: Gangtey - Punakha After breakfast, hike across Gangtey Nature Trail which is one and a half hours and enjoy the breathtaking view of Phobjikha valley. Visit Gangtey Gompa dating back to the 17th century, Later drive back to Punakha, do river rafting (extra cost), visit Chimi Lhakhang, temple of Fertility blessed by Lam Drukpa Kuenley, who is known as the Divine Madman for his eccentric behaviours. Day 04: Punakha - Paro After breakfast 45 minutes hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel chorten with the picturesque view of the rice terraces along the river. Then visit Punakha Dzong one of the majestic fortresses which is located between Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River). Then visit longest suspension bridge across the dzong. Later drive to Paro. Day 05: Paro After breakfast hike to Taktsang Monastery, the wooden structure stands bravely on a cliff in the upper Paro Valley. The walk of approximately 2 to 2.5 hours one way. After lunch visit Paro National Museum. Next, visit the Paro Rinpung Dzong. Later in the evening visit Farmhouse to experience traditional Bhutan to taste Bhutanese cuisine and dip into Traditional hot stone bath. And also practice archery. Day 06: Departure In the morning drive to the Airport for flight to your onward destination.

Day 1: Arrive Paro International Airport Thimphu Cultural Sights & Acclimatization Day! •Drive to Thimphu (60km/ 1hr). Thimphu is a charming capital city nestled at the heart of Himalayas •Mothithang Takin Preserve. Takin is the national animal of Bhutan, • Buddha Dordenma Statue. This giant statue is the biggest sitting Buddha in the world. •General Post Office. You can create personalized postage stamps with your own photos. •Memorial chorten built in the memory of the third kind of Bhutan. •The Tashichhoe Dzong, the main secretariat building is the office of the King. •In the evening walking tour around Thimphu city. Overnight Thimphu (Alt; 2320m) Day 2: Discovering Punakha & Wangdue (78km/ 2.5hr) •En route stop by Dochula pass (3150m) to enjoy spectacular views of the eastern Himalayan mountain range. •Stroll around 108 stupas and enter Drukwangyel (Royal temple). • Chimi lhakhang, a solitary “fertility temple” where a childless couple who comes to pray is usually blessed with a child. •Visit the Punakha Dzong, "Palace of the Great Happiness". This beautiful fortress lies between two rivers, the Pochu and Mochu, male and female river. •Walk on the 200m suspension bridge above Phochu river to Gidagom village . •In evening, time at your leisure. Overnight Punakha (Alt; 1240m) Day 3: Paro Sightseeing & Detour (135km/ 3-4hr) •After breakfast drive to Paro via stopping for mountain view at Dochula again if the weather is clear. •On arrival, check in hotel followed by Paro sightseeing •Ta Dzong, an ancient Watch Tower turned into one of the best museums of Asia. •Rinpung Dzong “Fortress of the heap of Jewels.” •On the way back, visit Kichu lhakhang, built in 629 AD by a Tibetan king. •Witness an archery match at national stadium played by locals with lots of hue & cry. •In evening, time at your leisure, free to shop for souvenir at Paro town. Interact with the friendly locals. Overnight Paro (Alt; 2280m) Day 4 : Excursion to Mystical Taktsang •After a wholesome breakfast, spend the day hiking up the forested path to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest, Bhutan’s most famous and scenic icon. Tiger’s Nest clings to sheer cliffs of 900m above Paro valley. The climb is steep and takes about 4-5hrs round trip. (Ponies & horses optional) •Lunch at the hillside cafe with close Tiger’s Nest view. •In evening, authentic Bhutanese farewell dinner at a typical village home with local liquor called “Ara.” •Hot stone bath, optional. River rocks are heated and dunked into a large wooden tub with herbs. This type of bath is considered to have medicinal properties of healing. Overnight Paro (Alt; 2280m) Day 5: Depart from Paro International Airport Our representative will bid you farewell at the airport. TashiDelek!

Day 1 : Arrival in Paro and Thimpu Sightseeing (Max Altitude: 2334 m / 7657 ft) On the first day of your trip, you will be arriving in Paro via Paro International Airport. After your immigration formalities you will be received by our representative . You will then be escorted on a two hours drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. On your way you will visit the Memorial Stupa built in the memory of the third King of Bhutan. You will then be visiting Buddha Dordenma, a gigantic Shakyamuni Buddha statue in the mountains of Bhutan celebrating the 60th anniversary of fourth King Jigme Singye Wangchuck built in 2005 and completed in 2015. It is a 52-meter-high statue built with 125000 smaller buddha statues. You will end your day with a visit to Tashichho Dzong, a Buddhist monastery and fortress on the northern edge of the city. It has traditionally been the seat of the Druk Desi (or “Deb Raja”), the head of Bhutan’s civil government, an office which has been combined with the kingship since the creation of the monarchy in 1907. A hotel in Thimpu will be your night halt. Accommodation: '3 Star' Category Hotel Meals: Lunch and Dinner Day 2 : Thimpu-Punakha Roundtrip (Max Altitude: 2800 m / 9185 ft) On the second day of your trip, you will be on a 7-8 hour round trip from Thimpu to Punakha, the capital of Bhutan until 1955. On your way you will be stopping at Dochula Pass for a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and scenic views of beautiful landscapes. During the trip you will also be visiting Chimi Lhakhang Temple of Fertility and the Punakha Dzong, a beautiful fortress built by Zhandrung in 1637. A hotel back in Thimpu will be your halt for the night. Accommodation: '3 Star' Category Hotel Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Day 3 : Drive back to Paro and visit Paro Taktsang (Min Altitude: 2200 m / 7218 ft) Day three of your tour begins with a 1-2 hour drive back from Thimpu to Paro. At Paro you will drive up to the base camp of Taktsang and then hike up to the most famous monastery (Tiger’s Nest) in the entire kingdom of Bhutan perched on the edge of a steep cliff, about 900 meters above Paro Valley. The Temple was blessed by Guru Rinpoche in the 8th Century after he meditated there for 3 years, 3 months and 3 days. On your way back you will also be visiting the Kichu Temple, one of the oldest (c. 7th Century) in Paro. In the evening, you will be visiting one of the farm houses in Paro to experience Bhutanese life-style with organic Bhutanese Dinner and the very famous Hot-Stone Bath before your night halt. Accommodation: '3 Star' Category Hotel Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Day 4 : Final Departure On day four you will be bided a final farewell. We will then drop you back to the Paro International Airport two hours before your final departure. Meals: Breakfast

Day 01 : Arrival at Paro – Thimphu Once you arrive at the Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by our English speaking guide and drive to Thimphu, the capital city. It is one and half hour drive. On the way visit Tamchogang where old Iron Chain bridge is built. After reaching Thimphu, check-in to hotel. After lunch, visit National Memorial Chorten where we see elderly people pray and circumambulate the stupa. Later visit Tashichho Dzong (Fortress) known as “fortress of the glorious religion,”. It houses the main secretariat building and the central monk body. Overnight in Thimphu. Day 02 : Thimphu - Punakha After breakfast, visit Kuensel Phodrang where big Buddha Statue is built. From there you get the best view of Thimphu valley with the mountain behind. And visit Motithang Takin Preserve also known as the Mini Zoo where you will see Bhutan’s typical national animal; visit Handmade Paper Factory where you will see how Bhutanese traditional handmade paper is made. After lunch drive to Punakha, on the way stop over the Dochu-La Pass (3,100 meters), which on a clear day offers an incredible view of Himalayan peaks snowclad mountains from the pass. The beauty of this place is further enhanced by the Druk Wangyel Chorten - 108 stupas. Overnight in Punakha. Day 03 : Punakha – Paro After breakfast 45 minutes hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel chorten with the picturesque view of the rice terraces along the river. Then visit Punakha Dzong one of the majestic fortress which is located between Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River). Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan. And visit longest Suspension Bridge across the Dzong. After lunch visit to Chimi Lhakhang, temple of Fertility blessed by Lam Drukpa Kuenley, who is known as the Divine Madman for his eccentric behaviors'. He is also considered a symbol of fertility and many childless couples go to his temple for blessing. Later drive back to Paro. Overnight in Paro. Day 04 : Paro After breakfast hike to Taktsang Monastery - Tiger’s Nest, the wooded structure stands bravely on a cliff in the upper Paro Valley. The walk of approximately 2 to 2.5 hours one way. It is said that the great Guru Rinpoche have flown here on the back of a tigress and set up this monastery when he brought the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan in the 8th Century. After lunch visit Paro National Museum. Next, visit the Paro Rinpung Dzong. Later in the evening visit Farmhouse to experience traditional Bhutan to taste Bhutanese cuisine and dip into Traditional hot stone bath. Overnight in Paro. Day 05 : Departure. In the morning drive to the Airport for flight to your onward destination.

Day 01: Arrive at Paro - Thimphu Once you arrive at the Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative (Guide) and then drive to Thimphu (50km) which takes approximately an hour. On the way visit Tamchog Lhakhang, which is located on the ridge with a beautiful view. In Thimphu visit: National Memorial Chorten The Motithang Takin Preserve also known as the Mini Zoo Zilukha Nunnery Archery ground to see local folks playing their traditional game. Tashichhodzong Day 02: Thimphu Sightseeing Tango Buddhist Institute: Set around 14 kilometers away from the city center, Thimphu. Visit the College of Astrology and seek and find out your Astrology Birth Chart. The Jungshi Handmade paper factory The National Institute for Zorig Chusum, The Authentic Bhutanese Crafts Bazaar The Centenary Farmers Market Day 03: Thimphu - Gangtey/Phobjikha Dordenma Buddha statue Drive to Gangtey and stop at Dochula Pass. On arrival in Gangtey, hike across Gangtey Nature Trail which is one and a half hours. And visit Crane information Center where you get information about the valley. Day 04: Gangtey/Phobjikha - Punakha After breakfast, Visit Gangtey Gompa dating back to the 17th century Later, drive back to Punakha. Visit Chimi Lhakhang famously known as the “Fertility Temple” Visit Chorten Nyingpo Day 05: Punakha After breakfast 45 minutes hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel chorten with the picturesque view of the rice terraces along the river. Then visit Punakha Dzong, one of the majestic fortresses that sits at the confluence of the Mo Chhu (Female) and Pho Chhu (Male) rivers. Punakha Suspension Bridge is the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan measuring 180 m in length. After lunch, drive to Talo village. Talo Village is a picturesque settlement located in the Punakha District of Bhutan. And then The Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery is perched on a hilltop Day 06: Punakha - Paro After breakfast, drive to Paro. Visit Dra Karpo Lhakhang, one of the many sacred monasteries in Paro is Dra Karpo which means splitting of rock. The National Museum Visit Namgay Artisanal Brewery. They brew many styles of beer. Day 07: Paro Taktsang Taktsang Monastery Rinpung Dzong Day 08: Departure In the morning drive to Airport for your onward destination.

Embark on a transformative journey through the enchanting kingdom of Bhutan, where spirituality, culture, and natural beauty converge in a mesmerizing blend. Over the course of five days, immerse yourself in the wonders of this Himalayan realm. Begin in Paro, where the iconic Paro Taktsang, the Tiger’s Nest monastery, perches majestically on a cliffside. Journey onwards to Thimphu, Bhutan’s lively capital, where vibrant markets and the grandeur of Tashichho Dzong await. Traverse scenic mountain roads to Punakha, the ancient capital, where the magnificent Punakha Dzong stands proudly against a backdrop of rice fields and rivers. Explore the serene Chimi Lhakhang, dedicated to the Divine Madman. Throughout your expedition, soak in the rich tapestry of Bhutanese culture, from its intricate architecture to its vibrant festivals. Delve into the country's deep spiritual heritage, where happiness is not just a pursuit but a way of life. Join us on this captivating voyage as we uncover the secrets of the Land of the Thunder Dragon, leaving you enchanted and inspired by its timeless allure.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL Upon landing in Nepal, our representative will receive and escort you to your hotel. A welcome dinner awaits, followed by a brief tour overview to help you prepare. DAY 2: KATHMANDU HERITAGE SITE TOUR Explore Kathmandu, home to 7 UNESCO World Heritage sites. Experience its rich diversity in food, culture, and traditions, and visit centuries-old Hindu and Buddhist cultural sites, historical temples, and monuments. DAY 3: DRIVE TO POKHARA Journey to Pokhara through vibrant villages, scenic views, and along the Trishuli River. In Pokhara, visit Phewa Lake and Rara Lake and enjoy distant views of snow-covered mountains. Overnight at a hotel. DAY 4: DRIVE TO NAYAPUL AND TREK TO TIKHEDHUNGA Start with breakfast, then drive to Nayapul. Trek towards Poonhill, passing Modi Khola, and through forests of rhododendrons and oak. Reach Tikhedhunga and rest in a cozy teahouse. DAY 5: TREK TO GHOREPANI After breakfast, trek uphill to Ulleri. Enjoy views of the Magar village and snow-capped mountains. Arrive at Ghorepani, which offers views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and more. Overnight in a teahouse. DAY 6: TREK TO POONHILL AND GHANDRUK Witness a mesmerizing sunrise at Poonhill, with panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I-IV, Nilgiri, and more. Trek through alpine forests to Ghandruk, the largest Gurung village, and rest in a teahouse. DAY 7: TREK TO NAYAPUL AND DRIVE TO POKHARA Trek to Bhirethanti from Ghandruk, passing rhododendron forests and the Modi Khola. Drive to Pokhara for a relaxing evening, and possibly cycle around the city. Overnight in Pokhara. DAY 8: POKHARA TO KATHMANDU Drive back to Kathmandu, approximately 6-7 hours. Explore the city or rest at the hotel. In the evening, participate in a spiritual prayer at Pashupatinath Temple. Overnight in a hotel. DAY 9: DEPARTURE TO PARO - THIMPU Transfer to the airport for your flight to Paro, Bhutan. Enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas en route. Sightsee in Paro, visiting Ta Dzong Museum, Rimpong Dzong, and drive along the Pachu River to Thimpu. Overnight in a hotel in Thimpu. DAY 10: THIMPHU Explore Thimphu, starting with the National Memorial Chorten, followed by visits to Changangkha Temple, Zilukha Nunnery, and the School of Arts and Crafts. Visit the National Library, Folk Heritage Museum, traditional paper factory, Takin’s pen, and Tashichhodzong. Overnight in Thimphu. DAY 11: THIMPHU – PUNAKHA Drive to Punakha via Dochu-La pass. Visit Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang, and explore Wangdue Phodrang. Overnight in Punakha. DAY 12: PUNAKHA – THIMPHU – PARO Hike through rice fields to Khamsum Yueley. Visit Wangdue Phong and Semtokha Dzong, Bhutan’s oldest. DAY 13: HIKE TO TIGER’S NEST Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), a key Buddhist pilgrimage site. Visit Drukgyel Dzong and Kyichu Lhakang. Overnight in a hotel in Paro. DAY 14: DEPART PARO Transfer to the airport for your flight to Kathmandu and onward destination. Namaste, and until next time!

Day 01: Paro – Thimphu The flight to Paro reveals scenic and breathtaking views of Himalayan Mountains of the world. Once you arrive at the Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative (Guide) and then drive to Thimphu (approx. 1hr 30m). On the way visit Tachog gang where an iron chain bridge. After arriving in Thimphu visit:- Day 02: Thimphu After breakfast, visit Kuensel Phodrang where big buddha statue is built; visit National Memorial Chorten where we see elderly people pray and circumambulate the stupa; Paper Factory where you will see how Bhutanese traditional handmade paper is made; Motithang Takin Preserve where you will see Bhutan’s typical national animal. Hike to Wangdue Tse Lhakhang where you get a beautiful view of Thimphu Valley. Crafts Bazaar where you will find authentic Bhutanese made crafts. Visit Tashichho Dzong (Fortress) known as “fortress of the glorious religion,”. It houses the main secretariat building and the central monk body. National Institute for Zorig Chusum or the School of Arts and Crafts is an Institute where students undertake a six-year course on the 13 traditional arts & crafts. Later, visit the archery ground to see local people playing archery and you can walk along Norzin Lam, the main Thimphu downtown. Day 03: Thimphu – Gangtey/Phobjikha Drive to Gangtey which is around 3 – 4 hours. On the way, stop over the Dochu-La Pass (3,100 meters), which on a clear day offers an incredible view of Himalayan peaks snowclad mountains from the pass. The beauty of this place is further enhanced by the Druk Wangyel Chorten – 108 stupas. Drive further to Phobjikha Valley via Punakha/Wangdue. On arrival in Gangtey, visit Crane information Center where you get information about the valley. Day 04: Gangtey/Phobjikha – Punakha. Overnight in Punakha. After breakfast, hike across Gangtey Nature Trail which is one and a half hours and enjoy the breathtaking view of Phobjikha valley. Visit Gangtey Gompa dating back to the 17th century. Later, drive back to Punakha. Later, visit Chimi Lhakhang, temple of Fertility. Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan. Then visit Punakha Dzong, one of the majestic fortresses which is located between Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River). And visit the longest Suspension Bridge across the Dzong. Overnight in Punakha. Day 05: Punakha – Paro After breakfast 45 minutes hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel chorten with the picturesque view of the rice terraces along the river. Then drive to Paro and visit the Paro Rinpung Dzong. Day 06: Paro Enjoy full day sightseeing around Paro. Taktsang Monastery The wooden structure built amazingly, stands bravely on a cliff. National Museum (Ta Dzong) Ta Dzong is located on a ridge, overlooking the Rinpung Dzong Farmhouse visit We welcome you to visit Bhutanese homes for dinner with them and experience their hospitality. Day 07: Paro Departure In the morning drive to airport for departure.