The Kingdom of Happiness

Enjoy your breakfast at hotel and later proceed for local day tour

• National Folk Heritage Museum: A great place to learn about Bhutan's rural life and traditions.
• Textile Museum: Learn about Bhutanese weaving and the intricate designs of the national dress.
• Zilukha Nunnery: Visit the nunnery on a hill for panoramic views of Thimphu.
• Evening stroll in Thimphu market: Walk around the lively market for souvenirs and local products.

• Today after breakfast, head to Punakha via the Dochu La Pass (3,100m), which offers spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks (on a clear day).
• Lunch at Dochula Cafe: Enjoy a meal with the mountain views.
• Continue your drive to Punakha.

Afternoon:

• Punakha Dzong: This majestic fortress sits at the confluence of two rivers and is one of Bhutan's most beautiful dzongs. Take time to explore the architecture and history of this place.
• Chimi Lhakhang: Visit the temple dedicated to the "Divine Madman" Drukpa Kunley, located on a short hike through paddy fields.

Evening dinner and overnight stay at hotel.

• Morning: Visit Wangdue Phodrang Dzong: Another beautiful dzong located about a 30-minute drive from Punakha.
• Riverside Activities: Depending on the season, you can go for a short rafting excursion on the Mo Chhu River or take a scenic walk along the riverbanks.
• Visit a Local Village: Learn about rural life in Bhutan by visiting one of the nearby villages.

Afterward, return to your hotel in Punakha for a relaxed evening.

• Today in the morning after breakfast, check out and drive to Paro (about 4 hours). Enjoy the scenic drive through the countryside.
• Check-in to your hotel in Paro.

Afternoon:

• Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong): This fortress-monastery stands on the banks of the Paro River and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Bhutan.
• National Museum of Bhutan: Housed in the old Ta Dzong (watchtower), this museum showcases Bhutan’s cultural history, with artifacts ranging from religious thangkas to weapons.

• Early breakfast and begin your hike to the Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest). This world-famous monastery is perched on a cliffside at 3,120 meters above sea level and is one of Bhutan’s most sacred sites.
• The hike takes about 4-5 hours round trip, but the views and experience are well worth it.

Afternoon:

• After returning to the valley floor, you can visit:
  • Kyichu Lhakhang: One of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan.
  • Shopping in Paro town: Stroll around Paro town for souvenirs such as Bhutanese handicrafts and textiles.

• Depending on your flight time, enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel.
• Transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure.

Additional Tips:

• Weather: Bhutan has varied weather depending on the season. It can be quite cold in the high altitudes and warm in the valleys.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable walking shoes for hikes and respectful attire for visiting temples and dzongs.
• Altitude: Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro are all located at relatively high altitudes (Thimphu is 2,320 meters). It's always good to stay hydrated and take it slow when walking around.

Enjoy your trip to Bhutan! It's a place of immense natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.