Glimpses of Bhutan

Upon completing the immigration and customs procedures, you will be warmly welcomed by Wind Horse guide and driver and ensure a smooth and pleasant start to your journey.
Transfer to your hotel.
Embark on a captivating journey through Bhutan’s history this afternoon, as you visit the National Museum and experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Rinphung Dzong, a magnificent blend of monastery and fortress. Explore the sacred 7th-century Kichu Lhakhang and the enchanting Dungtse Lhakhang, adorned with ancient murals, to delve deeper into the country’s spiritual roots. As the day draws to a close, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Paro town before retreating to your comfortable hotel for a peaceful overnight stay.

After breakfast, drive for about 2hrs till Dochula pass (3,050m). Along the way, we get the glimpse of capital Thimphu as well. At Dochula pass, we take a short break for tea and to enjoy the panoramic views of the eastern Himalayan peaks.

Continue our drive, descending about 1500m in two hours through ever changing vegetation into semi-tropical Punakha and Wangdue valley.

After lunch, visit 17th century Punakha Dzong, straddling at the confluence of Pho and Mo Chu river. Then drive short distance through idyllic countryside to Khamsum Yuley temple on Nyinzergang hill, that provides good vista of the valley and paddy fields (optional). Return to Punakha for overnight

In Wangduephodrang, visit Richengang village (recently renamed as Drinchengang), unique for cluster of houses connected with each other. Then transfer short distance and visit Chimi Lhakhang temple, dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley (1455 – 1529), popularly known as ‘the divine madman, a folk hero and a cultural icon around whom countless yarns of facts and fiction, stories and legends have been spun.
Retrace our drive back over spectacular Dochula Pass, giving us one more opportunity to view the peaks of the eastern Himalayas, on the way to capital Thimphu.

Late afternoon, visit great Tashicho Dzong and the giant Buddha statue on Kuensel phodrang ridge.

Full day to tour the capital of Bhutan, where there are lots to see and do. Visit memorial Chorten, Takin Preserve, Zilukha nunnery, a Viewpoint, followed by visit to traditional Art school (also called painting school) and visit Indigenous Hospital. In between, we can stop at the Post Office for stamps or send postcard home. See the textile academy and museum, stroll through the Farmer’s market, peek at Changlimithang ground, where you may see the archery (national game) in progress. Stroll in the core city area, and shop for souvenirs. Overnight in Thimphu.

Drive for about hour to Paro and hike to famous Taktsang (tiger’s nest) monastery (3120m/10,200ft). Visible from afar, this magical monastery clings to a vertical granite cliff 1,000 feet above the valley floor. It is one of the most amazing and important pieces of architecture in Bhutan. If for some reason, you are not able to hike, your Guide can arrange other interesting alternatives. You can also hire pony for the uphill part, till the first view point & cafeteria but you must be able to walk back downhill. While some will probably not make it all the way to the monastery, however it is worth even to try getting till the first view point. Return to Paro, where we may have more time for stroll around the town. Farewell dinner in the evening. Overnight in the hotel, in Paro valley.
Option available for tour around Paro valley for those who are not into hiking.

After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your departure. If your flight is late, we can cover more tour activities. In case of a flight delay, our guides will stay with you until your check-in .