Itineraries

5 Day Western Bhutan
Cultural Tour of Paro and Thimphu

Day 1: Arrival Transfer & Sightseeing
Arrive Paro Airport
Meet, assist, and transfer to hotel
Lunch at the hotel
Afternoon: We visit the National Museum in Ta-Dzong, which was originally the watchtower to the Paro Rinpung Dzong, but in 1968, converted to house the National Museum. It is located above the Paro Dzong overlooking Paro valley. On the way back, we take a leisurely stroll through Paro’s marketplace and its river.

Day 2: Paro Sightseeing & Thimphu Transfer
Drive to Drugyel Dzong - a ruined fortress - 16 km from Paro town.
Although in ruins, this fortress is of great historical significance as it was here that the Bhutanese finally defeated the Tibetans and repelled their invasion. From here, the peaks of Mount Jhomolhari (7329m) can be seen on a clear day. On the way back, we visit Rinpung Dzong. This massive fortress is located in the Paro valley and its approach is marked by a gentle sloping flagstone path with a beautiful covered wooden bridge with shingled roof ahead of the entrance. Built in AD 1645, today this fortress houses the administrative seat of the Paro district and the District Monk Body of around 200 monks. The central tower (utse) of the fortress with its superb woodwork is one of the most beautiful in Bhutan.

Picnic lunch at the river bank, or at the hotel

Afternoon: Transfer to the capital, Thimphu taking a drive through the winding road that wends it way above the embankments of the Paro and Thimphu rivers, a journey of 65 km taking approximately 2 hours. Arrive and check in at the hotel. Following tea at the hotel, take a leisurely stroll in the Thimphu town.

Day 3: Thimphu Sightseeing
Morning: We visit the Memorial Chorten, a huge stupa built in memory of the third King of Bhutan who reigned the country from 1952-1972. Visit the Painting and Wood Craft School where traditional art and craft is still kept alive. Visit the National Library where ancient manuscripts are preserved. Visit the Handicrafts Emporium where Bhutanese textiles and other arts and crafts are displayed and can be purchased.
Lunch at the hotel
Afternoon: Visit Simtokha Dzong. This is one of Bhutan’s oldest fortress located about 6 km from Thimphu town. It houses the country’s largest monastic school. On return, we visit Tashichho Dzong, the main secretariat building. This massive fortress houses the government’s ministries, the office of the King and the Throne Room. It also houses the State Monastic Body as well as the office and the living quarters of the Chief Abbot.
Evening: Free to do some shopping in the town

Day 4: Thimphu/Paro Transfer & Sightseeing
After an early breakfast, we take a 26 km drive up to Dochula pass. From the pass, you can enjoy a most spectacular view of the Eastern Himalayan mountain ranges. After tea/coffee at Dochula, we return to Thimphu. Next, we drive to Dechencholing, 5 km from Thimphu town where you can have a view the palace of the Queen Mother. This is where banquets to head of the states and other dignitaries are hosted. Also, visit a beautiful private monastery on top of the hill.
Lunch at the hotel
Afternoon: Return to Paro and check in at your hotel. After tea/coffee, drive to Satsam Chorten, 10 km from Paro town from where you can watch the picturesque Taktshang Monastery ‘Tigers Nest’ perched on a rocky ledge above a sheer drop of nearly 800 feet.

Day 5: Departure Transfer
After an early breakfast, we drive you to Paro Airport and see you off as you check in for departure.