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Overview

7 days/ 6 nights

Phuntsholing, Thimphu, Punakha, Paro

Embark on the awe-inspiring Mountain Trail Expedition.
Traverse breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, immerse yourself in Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage, and embrace the thrill of adventure. From tranquil valleys to majestic peaks, this journey offers a perfect blend of natural wonder and cultural discovery—an unforgettable experience awaits.

Itinarary

Upon arrival in Bhutan’s frontier town of Phuentsholing, you will be welcomed by our representative who will assist you with the necessary formalities to enter Bhutan.

Phuentsholing serves as the primary gateway for travelers entering Bhutan by road. Situated at the northern edge of the Indian plains in West Bengal, this bustling commercial town lies at the foothills of the Himalayas. It offers a fascinating blend of Indian and Bhutanese cultures, perfectly showcasing the harmonious mingling of people and traditions.

Upon arrival, check in at your hotel.
Overnight at the hotel in Phuentsholing.

After finishing all border formalities in Phuentsholing, a scenic drive takes you to the capital, Thimphu. The entire drive is very pleasant with numerous scenic spots en route. Sights on the way include a visit to the Kharbandi Gompa, 4 km ahead of Phuentsholing. This is a beautiful monastery situated in garden of tropical plants and flowers. The monastery contains paintings depicting scenes from the life of Buddha and statues of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and Guru Rimpoche. From the monastery garden there is a splendid view of Phuentsholing and plains of West Bangal and their tea gardens beyond. Lunch would be served en route.

heck-in at the hotel on arrival.

In the evening, take an exploratory walk around Thimphu’s main street, visiting shops and local market. 

Overnight at Hotel

Thimphu, arguably one of the most distinctive capital cities in the world, serves as Bhutan’s seat of government. This vibrant city is home to the royal family, the civil service, and foreign diplomatic missions. It also hosts the headquarters of numerous internationally supported development initiatives.

Today’s full-day sightseeing tour in the Thimphu valley includes visits to:

  • National Memorial Chorten: This iconic structure was conceived by Bhutan’s third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, as a tribute to world peace and prosperity. Completed in 1974 after his untimely passing, it stands both as a memorial to the late king, known as the “father of modern Bhutan,” and as a symbol of peace.

  • Folk Heritage and Textile Museums: Established in 2001, these museums offer deep insights into Bhutanese traditional life and material culture. (Closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and government holidays.)

  • Handicrafts Emporium: A government-run establishment featuring an impressive collection of handwoven textiles and traditional crafts, alongside a small library of books on Bhutan, Buddhism, and Himalayan culture.

  • National Library: Housing an extensive range of Buddhist scriptures and manuscripts—some centuries old—as well as contemporary academic works focused on Himalayan culture and religion. (Closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and government holidays.)

  • Institute for Zorig Chusum: Also known as the Painting School, this institute offers a rigorous six-year training program covering Bhutan’s thirteen traditional arts and crafts. Visitors can observe students honing their skills. (Closed Sundays and government holidays; open Saturdays 10 am to 12 pm.)

  • Tashichhodzong: Known as the “Fortress of the Glorious Religion,” this historic Dzong was originally built in 1641 and rebuilt in the 1960s by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. It serves as the seat of several government ministries, His Majesty’s secretariat, and the central monastic body. It opens to visitors during the Thimphu Tsechu festival in autumn and when the monks relocate to their winter residence in Punakha Dzong.

In the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk along Thimphu’s main street.
Overnight at the hotel.

After an early breakfast, you will either attend the local festival or begin your journey to Punakha. The drive takes you over the scenic Dochu La Pass (3,088m/10,130ft), where you can pause to admire the 108 memorial chortens, prayer flags, and mani walls adorning the pass. On a clear day, the pass offers spectacular panoramic views of Bhutan’s eastern Himalayan peaks. Among the mountains visible (from left to right) are Masagang (7,158m), Tsendegang (6,960m), Terigang (7,060m), Jejegangphugang (7,158m), Kangphugang (7,170m), Zongaphugang (7,060m)—a flat-topped mountain dominating the remote Lunana region—and the towering Gangkar Puensum (7,497m), the highest peak in Bhutan.

En route, visit Semtokha Dzong, Bhutan’s oldest fortress built in 1627, which now functions as the Institute for Language and Cultural Studies.

Until 1955, Punakha was Bhutan’s capital and today it still serves as the winter residence of the Je Khenpo, the Chief Abbot. On arrival, visit Chimi Lhakhang, a fertility temple built in 1499 and dedicated to the eccentric 16th-century lama known as the “Divine Madman.” His unconventional teachings and humorous legends are still widely known across the country.

Later, drive back through Khuruthang, passing Puntsho Pelri Palace and several winter residences of the royal family, en route to the majestic Punakha Dzong. Constructed in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, this historic fortress served as the religious and administrative center of the region. Although it has suffered from several fires and an earthquake over the centuries, it has been beautifully restored under the current monarch’s guidance. Set at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, the Dzong remains the winter home of Bhutan’s central monastic body and continues to be the administrative seat of the Punakha district. Visitors are welcomed during the Punakha Tshechu (spring festival) and throughout the summer months.

The rest of the day is free to relax.
Overnight at the hotel.

Begin the day with a scenic hike through lush rice fields along the banks of the Mo Chhu River, making your way to the upper end of the valley to visit the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten. This exquisite monument was built by the Queen Mother and consecrated in 1999. Perched on a ridge, it offers panoramic views of the Punakha Valley and stands as a symbol of peace and harmony.

After lunch, you will continue your journey to Paro, a charming town steeped in history and dotted with sacred sites and ancient structures. The Paro Valley is known for its wide, fertile landscape and is often regarded as one of the most beautiful valleys in Bhutan.

In the evening, you may choose to explore the local town at your leisure.

Overnight at the hotel.

Day Excursion to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)

This morning, embark on a memorable hike to one of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks — Taktsang Monastery, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest. Perched dramatically on a sheer cliff face 900 meters above the Paro Valley, Taktsang is a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists around the world.

Legend holds that Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), the revered founder of Mahayana Buddhism in Bhutan, flew to this very site on the back of a tigress and meditated in a cave that the monastery now encloses.

Although the main structure was tragically damaged by fire in 1998, years of dedicated restoration have returned Taktsang to its original grandeur, preserving its spiritual and architectural significance.

After the hike, return to the hotel for rest and reflection.

Overnight at the hotel in Paro.

Departure Day

As your journey through the Kingdom of Bhutan comes to an end, we hope you depart with wonderful memories, meaningful experiences, and a deeper connection to this beautiful land. We sincerely hope to welcome you back again in the future.

After an early breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to Paro International Airport for your onward flight.

Important Note:
Please be advised that the itinerary may be subject to change based on seasonal conditions, weather, national holidays, or special events. We reserve the right to make adjustments in order to enhance your travel experience and ensure your safety and comfort. All modifications are made with your best interests in mind.

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