Bhutan in Five Days- Culture, Nature & Spirituality

On Day 2, you will start your day by visiting the National Memorial Chorten, a stupa built in honor of Bhutan’s third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. You can join locals in circumambulating the chorten and soaking in the spiritual atmosphere. Next, visit the Folk Heritage Museum, a restored traditional house offering insights into rural Bhutanese life, and stop by the School of Arts and Crafts (Zorig Chusum), where students learn Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts. In the afternoon, head to the Motithang Takin Preserve, home to Bhutan’s national animal, the takin. Afterward, visit Changangkha Lhakhang, a 12th-century temple perched on a ridge above Thimphu, which offers stunning valley views and is a popular spot for locals to bless their newborns. In the evening, relax at your hotel or explore more of Thimphu’s vibrant streets. Overnight in Thimphu.

On the morning of Day 3, you will depart for Punakha, which is a 2.5-hour drive (75 km). The journey takes you through the Dochula Pass (3,100 meters), where you’ll see 108 stupas built to honor Bhutanese soldiers, with breathtaking views of the Himalayan range on clear days. In the afternoon, you will visit Punakha Dzong, also known as the "Palace of Great Happiness," located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. This fortress is one of Bhutan’s most beautiful dzongs, historically significant as the former capital of Bhutan. You will also take a short hike through rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to the Divine Madman, Drukpa Kunley, known for its fertility blessings. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful moment by the riverside or explore Punakha town. Overnight in Punakha.

On Day 4, you will drive back to Paro, a scenic 4-hour drive (130 km) that takes you through terraced fields, rivers, and forests. In the afternoon, visit the National Museum of Bhutan, housed in a historic watchtower above Paro Dzong, which showcases Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage, including artifacts, thangkas (Buddhist paintings), and traditional costumes. You will then explore Paro Rinpung Dzong, a fortress-monastery that serves as the administrative and religious center of Paro, with intricate woodwork and murals. Walk across the traditional wooden bridge to the dzong, enjoying the serene surroundings. In the evening, stroll through Paro town and visit local shops for handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Overnight in Paro.

On your final day, you will embark on a hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang Palphug Monastery), one of Bhutan’s most sacred sites. Perched on a cliff 900 meters above the Paro Valley, the monastery is said to be where Guru Rinpoche meditated in the 8th century. The hike takes about 2-3 hours uphill, with stops at viewpoints and a cafeteria halfway up, offering stunning views of the valley and the monastery. After exploring the monastery’s temples and caves, you will learn about its spiritual significance. In the afternoon, descend and enjoy lunch at the cafeteria or a nearby restaurant. Afterward, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, believed to have been built in the 7th century by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo. In the evening, reflect on your journey and enjoy a farewell dinner with traditional Bhutanese music and dance. Overnight in Paro.

On your last day, you will transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure, bidding farewell to the Land of the Thunder Dragon with unforgettable memories.