DAY 1

Paro and Thimphu: Beginning in the beautiful Paro Valley, you will be met at Paro Airport by your guide. Explore the formidable dzong (fortress) of Paro, the national museum as well as the famous wooden Nyamai Zam Bridge. In the late afternoon, drive to Bhutan’s quirky little capital of Thimphu, where you will visit Tashichho Zdong, a 17th century fortress which has been the seat of government since 1952.

Driving time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Overnight: Thimphu
Altitude: 2,320 m

DAY 2

Thimphu: Visit the Big Buddha statue and the Takin reserve ( to see Bhutan’s national animal). Visit the School of Traditional Arts and Crafts, the best place to see traditional arts being created, as well as the colourful Textile Museum. Don’t forget to create your own personalised postage stamps at the post office.

Driving time:  1 hour and 20 minutes
Overnight: Paro
Altitude: 2,195 m

DAY 3

Phobjikha: Leaving Thimpu, drive over the Dochu La Pass (3,140 m) before descending to the lush valley below. The road then climbs before turning off to Phobhikha via the Lawa la pass (3,250m). The road descends to a stunning and vast u-shaped valley home during the winter months to black necked cranes. Visit the impressive Gangtay Monastery dating from the early 17th century, one of the two main centres of the Nyingmapa school of Buddhism in Bhutan. Stroll through Gangtay village before walking the nature trail route through blue pines and stunning scenery.

Driving time:  5 hours
Overnight: Phobjikha
Altitude: 3,000 m

DAY 4

Punakha: Return over the Lawala Pass and descend towards the lush Punakha valley. Visit the temple of fertility at Chimi Lhakhang, and the beautiful Punakha Dzong.
Driving time: 3 hrs
Overnight: Punakha
Altitude: 1,310 m

DAY 5

Paro: Return over the Dochu la pass, passing Thimpu before reaching Paro. Visit the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang temple, one of the oldest and most sacred shrines in Bhutan.
Driving time: 4 hrs
Overnight: Paro
Altitude: 2,195 m

DAY 6

Paro: Hike to the iconic, cliff-hugging Tiger's Nest monastery. This 3-4 hour hike up through blue pines, passing water-powered prayer wheels, leads you to this holy site. The ancient monastery clings miraculously to a sheer cliff, rising 1,000 metres from the valley floor. The views are magnificent over the Paro Valley, and the only sounds to be heard are prayer flags blowing in the wind. In the afternoon, explore Paro town and have a go at archery with your guide.

Overnight: Paro
Altitude: 2,195 m

DAY 7

Depart