BHUTAN 7 DAYS: THE KINGDOM OF HAPPINESS – SPIRITUAL JOURNEY TO TIGER’S NEST & ANCIENT DZONGS

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN PARO – TRANSFER TO THIMPHU

Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, enjoy a spectacular flight over the Himalayas. After immigration and customs, meet your English-speaking guide and transfer to Thimphu, Bhutan’s enchanting capital.

• Check-in at the hotel and relax
• Explore the vibrant Thimphu Handicraft Market
• Try on traditional Bhutanese attire (Gho for men, Kira for women)
• Visit Tashichho Dzong – the majestic fortress that serves as the seat of government and religion
• Stroll through the local handicraft market

Optional: Visit the Institute of Traditional Arts & Crafts (Zorig Chusum)

Overnight in Thimphu Meals: Dinner

DAY 2: FULL DAY EXPLORATION OF THIMPHU

Immerse yourself in Bhutan’s history, spirituality, and modern culture:

• National Library – home to ancient manuscripts
• Folk Heritage Museum – showcasing traditional rural Bhutanese life
• Bhutan Post Office – create your own personalized stamps
• Memorial Chorten – built in memory of the Third King
• Buddha Dordenma – the giant golden Buddha overlooking the valley

Optional activities: Wear traditional dress, join a yoga or cooking class, attend a lecture by a renowned scholar, or visit local handicraft exhibitions.

Overnight in Thimphu Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 3: THIMPHU – DOCHU LA PASS – PUNAKHA (Approx. 2 hours)

After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive to Punakha via Dochu La Pass (3,140m), where you can admire breathtaking views of the Himalayan range and the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens surrounded by colorful prayer flags.

En route:

• Visit the Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan
• Optional short trek to Chimi Lhakhang – the Temple of the Divine Madman, known as the fertility temple

In Punakha: Visit Punakha Dzong – widely regarded as the most beautiful dzong in Bhutan, located at the confluence of two rivers.

Overnight in Punakha Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 4: PUNAKHA EXPLORATION

Morning: Short trek to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten – a stunning stupa built to protect Bhutan and the King, offering magnificent views of the valley.

Afternoon: Visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Monastery – a spiritual center and vocational training institute for women.

Optional: Attend a blessing ceremony or join a Thangka painting class.

Overnight in Punakha Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 5: PUNAKHA – PARO VIA SIMTOKHA DZONG

Drive back to Paro via Dochu La Pass.

En route: Visit Simtokha Dzong – the oldest dzong in Bhutan, known for its profound tantric teachings.

In Paro:

• Ta Dzong (National Museum) – housing a rich collection of Bhutanese heritage
• Walk down to Rinpung Dzong with its beautiful murals and ancient artifacts

Evening Optional: Traditional dinner with a local family, Bhutanese cooking class, archery, or dart throwing.

Overnight in Paro Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 6: HIGHLIGHT – TIGER’S NEST OR CHELE LA PASS

Option A: Tiger’s Nest Trekking (Taktsang Monastery) Enjoy a 3–5 hour round-trip trek to Bhutan’s most iconic landmark – the sacred Tiger’s Nest monastery perched on a 3,000m cliff. This is a deeply spiritual experience.

Afterward: Visit a local farm for butter tea and optional hot stone bath (extra charge).

OR Option B: Chele La Pass Drive to one of the highest motorable passes in Bhutan (3,988m), adorned with colorful prayer flags and offering stunning views of Mount Jomolhari.

Then visit Kyichu Lhakhang – one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. Light 108 butter lamps and explore Paro town.

Overnight in Paro Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 7: DEPARTURE FROM PARO After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport. Bid farewell to Bhutan with beautiful memories of its rich culture, warm people, and profound inner peace.

Meals: Breakfast

PACKAGE INCLUDES:

• 6 nights hotel accommodation in twin/double sharing
• Full board meals daily (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
• Private transportation and sightseeing (Toyota Hiace or similar)
• English-speaking Bhutanese guide
• Entrance fees to all sites as per the program
• Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): USD 100 per adult per night (except for Indian nationals: INR 1,200)
• Bhutan visa fee (USD 40)
• 2 bottles of mineral water per day
• All taxes, road tolls, and parking fees
• Medical support as needed

Not Included:

• Beverages and personal expenses not mentioned in the package
• Security deposit / hotel security deposit (if required)
• International and domestic flights (optional)
• Tips for guide and driver – USD 5 per person per day
• Travel insurance

Note: The above rates are subject to change without prior notice.