“Royal Retreat in Bhutan: A 7-Day Journey of Luxury & Heritage”

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

  • 2 NIGHTS THIMPHU
  • 2 NIGHTS PUNAKHA
  • 2 NIGHTS PARO

Day 1: Arrival at Paro Airport – Transfer to Thimphu (1.5 Hours / 65 km)

  • Arrive at Paro International Airport and complete immigration formalities.
  • Meet and greet with your guide/driver from DESTINATION GLOBAL DMC.
  • Drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital.
  • Check in to your hotel and relax.
  • After lunch, visit:
    • Buddha Dordenma – A massive golden Buddha statue overlooking the valley.
    • National Memorial Chorten – A stupa for world peace.
    • Tashichho Dzong – The fortress housing the King’s office and monastic body.
    • Craft Bazaar – Explore Bhutanese handicrafts and souvenirs.
  • Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 2: Thimphu Local Sightseeing

  • After breakfast, visit:
    • Changangkha Lhakhang – A sacred temple for newborn blessings.
    • Motithang Takin Preserve – See Bhutan’s national animal, the Takin.
    • Simply Bhutan Museum – A living museum showcasing traditional culture.
    • Royal Textile Academy – Learn about Bhutanese weaving traditions.
    • Weekend Market (if it’s Friday-Sunday) – Experience local food and crafts.
  • Evening free for leisure or explore Norzin Lam Street.
  • Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha via Dochula Pass (2.5 Hours / 75 km)

  • After breakfast, drive to Punakha, the old capital of Bhutan.
  • Stop at Dochula Pass (3,100m) to see 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens and the Himalayan range (if the weather is clear).
  • Continue to Punakha, visit:
    • Punakha Dzong – The most beautiful fortress in Bhutan, located between two rivers.
    • Suspension Bridge – One of Bhutan’s longest bridges with scenic views.
  • Check in to your hotel and relax.
  • Overnight stay in Punakha.

Day 4: Punakha to Phobjikha (Gangtey Valley) Excursion – Return to Punakha

  • Early morning drive to Phobjikha Valley (Gangtey Valley) (3 Hours / 80 km one way).
  • Explore:
    • Gangtey Monastery – A famous monastery of the Nyingmapa school of Buddhism.
    • Phobjikha Valley – A glacial valley and winter home of the rare Black-necked Cranes.
    • Gangtey Nature Trail – A scenic walk through pine forests and meadows.
  • Return to Punakha by evening.
  • Overnight stay in Punakha.

Day 5: Punakha to Paro (4 Hours / 125 km)

  • After breakfast, drive back to Paro.
  • On arrival, visit:
    • Kyichu Lhakhang – One of the oldest temples in Bhutan.
    • Paro National Museum – Showcasing Bhutanese artifacts and history.
    • Paro Rinpung Dzong – A majestic fortress overlooking the valley.
  • Evening free to explore Paro town and cafes.
  • Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 6: Paro – Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang)

  • After early breakfast, hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang Lhakhang) (4-5 hours round trip).
  • Enjoy breathtaking views and visit the sacred monastery.
  • Return to Paro and relax.
  • Optional: Hot stone bath or traditional Bhutanese massage.
  • Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 7: Departure from Paro Airport

  • After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for departure.
  • End of an amazing Bhutan trip!

Inclusions:

✅ Airport transfers and transportation by DESTINATION GLOBAL DMC (SUV/Hiace/Coaster/Minibus).
✅ Accommodation in 3*/4*/5* hotels based on preference.
✅ All sightseeing and entry permits.
✅ Daily breakfast and dinner.
✅ Licensed Bhutanese guide.