Highlights of Bhutan

Day 1  Paro to Thimphu    
Arrive in Paro and drive to Thimphu, the tiny capital of this remote mountain kingdom.

Day 2  Thimphu    
Enjoy a tour of Thimphu. Highlights include the Folk Heritage Museum, providing a fascinating insight into the Bhutanese way of life, Tashi Choe Dzong, an impressive medieval fortress and monastery, and the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, known as the ‘Painting School’. Visit the craft shops, looking out for the splendid thangka paintings and exquisitely woven textiles.

Day 3  Thimphu to Punakha    
Leaving Thimphu, cross the Dochula Pass and take in the spectacular views of the Himalayas as you head to Punakha. Visit Punakha Dzong, which sits at the junction of two rivers and is one of Bhutan’s most impressive dzongs.

Day 4  Punakha    
This morning, explore Wangdue Phodrang and its bustling market. The afternoon is at leisure.

Day 5  Punakha to Paro    
Drive to Paro stopping en route at Simtokha Dzong, Bhutan’s oldest fortress.

Day 6  Paro    
Spend the morning exploring the charming town of Paro with a trip to the National Museum. Later, stroll down the hillside to visit beautiful Rinpung Dzong. You may even see an archery (Bhutan’s national sport) competition taking place.

Day 7  Paro    
Today’s highlight is the iconic Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery, perched on a rocky edge 900m above the valley floor. The hike up to the monastery takes 3-5 hours there and back, and offers spectacular views across the valley. Return to Paro with a stop to visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred shrines.

Day 8  Paro    
Transfer to the airport for your onward travel.