Window to Bhutan

Upon your arrival in Paro, you will be warmly welcomed by our Wind Horse guide and driver. From the airport, we will transfer you to Thimphu, a scenic journey that takes approximately 1 hour.

In the afternoon, we will tailor the sightseeing in Thimphu based on your interests and available time. One of the highlights is the Tashichho Dzong, the main center of the government and the revered kings’ throne room. Additionally, we can visit the lively Farmer’s Market, which comes alive with vibrant colors and local flavors, especially during the weekends.

Enjoy the freedom to stroll on your own or with your guide along the bustling main streets of Thimphu.

Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, offers a plethora of attractions for visitors to explore. A full day tour of Thimphu’s cultural sites and monuments encompasses a diverse range of experiences. Highlights may include:

• Memorial Chorten: Pay homage to this iconic stupa, dedicated to the memory of the Third King of Bhutan.
• Zorig Chusum – Institute of Traditional Art: Witness the preservation of Bhutan’s traditional arts and crafts through the students’ skillful craftsmanship.
• Indigenous Hospital: Learn about Bhutan’s traditional medicine system and its holistic approach to healthcare.
• Nunnery at Zilukha: Visit this serene nunnery and immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance.
• Viewpoint: Enjoy a short drive to a scenic viewpoint offering an aerial view of the capital and its picturesque suburbs.
• Takin Sanctuary: Encounter the unique Takin, Bhutan’s national animal, at this special sanctuary.
• Giant Buddha Statue: Marvel at the majestic Buddha Dordenma statue, overlooking Thimphu valley.

Additionally, there are other fascinating places to visit, such as the Textile Museum, Crafts Market Street, and the Traditional Handmade-paper factory. Depending on your interests and available time, we will tailor the itinerary to ensure you have a fulfilling and enjoyable exploration of Thimphu’s cultural treasures. Get ready for an enriching journey through Bhutan’s vibrant capital!

The scenic drive from Thimphu to Punakha, crossing the breathtaking Dochula Pass, takes approximately 3 hours. As you depart Thimphu, the road ascends to Dochula pass (3,050m), offering splendid views of the eastern Himalayan peaks. Descending into the Wangdue/Punakha valley, you’ll notice the lower elevation (around 1450m above sea level) and enjoy the sub-tropical climate.

In the afternoon, visit the impressive Punakha Dzong, majestically located at the confluence of two rivers. Afterward, a short drive through the serene countryside leads us to a brief uphill walk to Khamsum Chorten on Nyenzangang hill. The vistas from this vantage point are truly awe-inspiring, showcasing terraced rice fields, traditional houses dotting the landscape, the meandering river, and the valley surrounded by majestic mountains.

In the evening, you can indulge in a leisurely walk along the riverside, and for an extra thrill, cross the very long suspension bridge located behind Punakha Dzong. The peaceful ambiance and stunning scenery will make this a memorable and relaxing way to end the day.

Check-out of the hotel. Take a short walk into the village and visit Chimi Lhakhang temple, dedicated to Lam Drukpa Kuenley, affectionately known as “Divine Madman,” for his unconventional ways of teaching using dirty jokes.He is a folk hero and a cultural icon around whom countless yarns of facts and fiction, stories and legends have been spun. Make a brief tour of Wangdue Phodrang; view the ruins of its Dzong, drive through the town area, and return drive to Thimphu recrossing magnificent Dochula pass, with one more opportunity to see the panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayan peaks.
(If you are interested in walking, you can skip Chimi Lakhang & Wangdue this morning and instead take a beautiful hike for about 3hrs from Dochula to Trashigang monastery via Lungchuzekha monastery. The hike is quite easy or moderate. From Trashigang meet the vehicle and drive to Thimphu). After Thimphu, continue 1hr drive to Paro. Along the way, there is a nice small nunnery at Sitsina that you can visit. Upon arrival in Paro, stroll around the town and the check-into you hotel for dinner and overnight.
Overnight in hotel in Paro.

Despite its proximity to the capital and the presence of Bhutan’s sole international airport, Paro retains its rural charm. Dotted with traditional houses, lush rice fields, and meandering rivers, the valley exudes timeless charm and tranquility.
The town of Paro exudes a charming and peaceful ambiance, with traditional Bhutanese architecture adding to its allure. Paro also holds significance as one of the most revered pilgrimage sites for Buddhists, drawing devotees and spiritual seekers from far and wide. Its also boasts a plethora of tourist attractions, from ancient monasteries and temples to fascinating museums and cultural landmarks.

Whether exploring the spiritual essence of Paro or indulging in its captivating tourist offerings, visitors are bound to experience the authentic charm and cultural richness that this beautiful valley has to offer.

During our tour in Paro, we will explore this enchanting valley through a mix of short walks and drives.

We’ll begin by heading to the north end of the valley to visit the ancient Drugyal Dzong ruins, currently under repair. Along the way, we’ll also stop by the serene and ancient Kichu Lhakhang temple, boasting a history dating back to the 7th century.

Next on our itinerary is the fascinating Ta Dzong, a remarkable watchtower transformed into a captivating museum that showcases the rich tapestry of Bhutanese art and artifacts.

We’ll then proceed to visit the awe-inspiring Rinphung Dzong, a stunning architectural masterpiece that serves as both the seat of local government and a revered monastic order. Crossing the traditional cantilever bridge, we’ll explore the vibrant local vegetable market and take a leisurely stroll through the charming township.

Our exploration will conclude with a visit to a traditional farmhouse, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the authentic local way of life.

If time permits, we’ll also have the opportunity to visit the renowned Dumtse Lhakhang temple, celebrated for its exceptional murals.

The hike begins with a drive to the base of the mountain at 2,600m, where the trailhead is located. As you ascend, the trail takes you through pine and oak forests, offering refreshing natural surroundings and glimpses of the breathtaking Paro Valley below.

After an initial ascent, you’ll reach a cafeteria area to take a short break and enjoy refreshments while admiring the spectacular view of Takstang above. Continuing on the trail, you’ll encounter prayer flags, prayer wheels, small shrines, and waterfalls, adding to the spiritual ambiance of the hike. As you get closer to Takstang, the trail becomes more challenging, with steep sections and stone steps, but the anticipation of reaching the sacred monastery keeps you motivated.

Upon reaching Takstang, you’ll be rewarded with an awe-inspiring sight. The monastery clings to the cliffside, seemingly defying gravity, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche, the spiritual master who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan, meditated here in the 8th century, making this site especially revered by Bhutanese people.

Take some time to explore the monastery’s different temples and shrines, and if you wish, participate in the serene atmosphere of prayers and meditation. After soaking in the spiritual and natural beauty of Takstang, begin your descent back to the base. The hike to Takstang is not only a physical accomplishment but also a deeply rewarding and transformative experience, leaving you with cherished memories of Bhutan’s cultural and natural wonders.

The hike from the base to Takstang takes between 2 to 4 hours uphill, and with the time taken to visit and explore sights in the area, it becomes a full-day adventure.

After breakfast, transfer to Paro airport in time for your departure flight.