Glimpses of Bhutan: Explore Paro, Thimphu and Punakha

Arrival: Greeted by a representative from Charisma Bhutan Tours & Treks at Paro International Airport.

Drive to Thimphu: En route, visit these sites

• Tachong Lhakhang: A historic monastery built in the late 1300s by Tibetan saint Drupthob Thangthong Gyalpo, located on the bank of the Paa Chhu River.
• Chuzom Bridge: A unique spot to see three types of stupas in one location, perfect for photography.

Check-in: Arrive in Thimphu and check into your hotel.

Overnight: Stay in Thimphu.

After breakfast, ride around Thimphu visiting these sites.

• Visit the Buddha Dordenma Statue, the world’s tallest Buddha statue at 169 feet, offering a panoramic view of Thimphu valley.
• Explore the Textile Museum at Chubachu, showcasing Bhutanese textiles, royal collections, and traditional arts.
• Tour Tashichho Dzong, a historic fortress and the seat of the central government.
• Visit the Folk Heritage Museum to see ancient Bhutanese artifacts.
• Experience Simply Bhutan, a cultural museum highlighting Bhutan’s traditions.
• Stop by the Memorial Chorten, built in 1974 in memory of the Third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck.
• Explore the Bhutan Postal Museum and the Royal Takin Reserve.
• Conclude the day with a visit to the Craft Bazaar.

Overnight: Stay in Thimphu.

After breakfast, drive towards Punakha via Dochula Pass.

• Dochula Pass (3140m), where you can enjoy stunning views of the Eastern Himalayas and visit the 108 chortens.
• Visit Chimi Lhakhang, the Temple of Fertility, renowned for its fertility blessings.
• Explore Punakha Dzong, located at the confluence of the Phochu and Mochu rivers. It’s a historic site where the first king was crowned and the former capital of Bhutan.
• Optional: River Rafting in Punakha and a walk across the Suspension Bridge.

Overnight: Stay in Punakha.

After breakfast, drive towards Phobjikha Valley.

Phobjikha Valley, a glacial valley known for being a winter roosting spot for the endangered Black-Necked Cranes, one of the rarest and endangered species of bird which migrates during winter months (November, December, January, February) from Tibetan plateaus and northern region of India.

Explore the valley, go around for a short trail walk around Gangtey Monastery.

Optional: Attend the Black-Necked Crane Festival if your visit coincides.

Overnight: Stay in Phobjikha Valley or return to Punakha.

After breakfast, drive towards back to Paro. On the way, stopping by the Botanical Garden and Dochula Pass for fresh air and views of the Himalayas.

Paro sightseeing

• Visit Ta Dzong, a 17th-century watchtower now housing the National Museum of Bhutan.
• Explore Paro Rinpung Dzong, a historically significant fortress overlooking the Pachu River.
• Stop at the Paro Airport Viewpoint for a picturesque view of the valley.

Overnight: Stay in Paro.

After breakfast, drive to the base of Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest) and hike up to this iconic site perched 900m above Paro Valley. Horse riding facilities are available to the viewpoint (extra charges).

• Visit Drukgyal Dzong, a historic defense fortress.
• Explore Kichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in the 7th century.
• Optional: Visit a traditional farmhouse to experience Bhutanese culture and cuisine.

Overnight: Stay in Paro.

After breakfast, our guide and driver will see you off at Paro International airport for your onward destinations.