Where Every Bhutan Journey Begins with Happiness
Happiness in Every Journey, Bhutan in
Every Memory
Happiness in Every Journey, Bhutan in
Every Memory
Destinations: Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, Gangtey
Max Altitude: 3,120 m / 10,240 ft
Meal Plan: Full board (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Duration: 7 Nights / 8 Days
Experience Bhutan beyond the ordinary on a journey designed for travelers who love culture, nature, and light adventure. This unique tour combines Bhutan's rich traditions, picturesque villages, scenic mountain drives, and a collection of rewarding mini hikes that reveal the country's hidden beauty. Walk along ancient pilgrimage trails, hike through pine forests and peaceful countryside, visit sacred temples perched on hilltops, and discover remote monasteries surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. These short and enjoyable hikes are suitable for most travelers and offer some of the most spectacular views and authentic cultural encounters in Bhutan. Along the way, explore magnificent dzongs, interact with local communities, savor traditional Bhutanese cuisine, and experience the warmth of Bhutanese hospitality. From vibrant valleys and mountain passes to charming villages and spiritual landmarks, every day offers a perfect balance of cultural discovery, scenic beauty, and memorable hiking experiences.
Ideal for travelers seeking authentic Bhutanese culture, beautiful landscapes, and enjoyable mini-hiking adventures in the Land of Happiness.
| Day | Activities & Highlights | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival in Paro & Drive to Thimphu |
Elevation: Paro – 2,250m / 7,382 ft; Thimphu – 2,334m / 7,656 ft Distance: 55 km | Travel Time: approx. 1.5 hrs Your Bhutan adventure begins with a scenic drive from Paro to Thimphu, the charming capital nestled in the Himalayas. To ensure a comfortable start to your journey, today's program is kept relaxed, allowing you time to adjust to the altitude and soak in Bhutan's peaceful atmosphere. Visit the beautiful Memorial Chorten, where the rhythm of daily Bhutanese life unfolds as locals gather to offer prayers and spin prayer wheels. Continue to the majestic Tashichho Dzong, an architectural masterpiece that serves as the seat of Bhutan's government and monastic body. Later, explore the lively streets of Thimphu, a capital unlike any other. Witness one of Bhutan's most unique sights—a white-gloved traffic policeman gracefully directing traffic at the city's main junction, as Thimphu remains one of the world's few capitals without traffic lights. Spend the evening discovering local shops, cafés, and the warm charm of Bhutan's capital before settling in for the night. Sight Seeing. 1. Memorial chorten 2. Tashichoedzong 3. Explore Thimphu city. |
| Day 2 | Into Bhutan's Forests & Hidden Monasteries |
Elevation: 2,800 to 2,850 meters (9,186 to 9,350 feet) Wake up to the crisp mountain air of Thimphu and begin the day at the awe-inspiring Buddha Dordenma, a towering symbol of peace overlooking the entire valley. Surrounded by panoramic Himalayan scenery, it's the perfect place to soak in Bhutan's tranquil beauty. Leave the city behind and venture into the wilderness on a scenic hike to Cheri Monastery the hike may be little over an hour, Bhutan's first monastic retreat. The trail winds through lush pine forests, across a charming wooden bridge, and alongside a sparkling river, offering a peaceful escape into nature. The reward is a secluded monastery perched above the valley, where monks have meditated for centuries. In the afternoon, enjoy the enchanting Wangditse Nature Trail, about 1.5 hour walk , one of Thimphu's best-kept secrets. Stroll through fragrant pine forests, listen to birdsong echoing through the trees, and breathe in the fresh Himalayan air. Along the way, discover stunning viewpoints overlooking the valley, prayer flags dancing in the breeze, and a side of Bhutan that few visitors experience. Today is a celebration of Bhutan's natural beauty—an unforgettable blend of forest walks, sacred sites, spectacular views, and the simple joy of hiking through the peaceful Himalayan landscape. Sightseeing. 1. Buddha Dordenma 2. Wangditse hike 3. Cheri Monastery |
| Day 3 | Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha – Across the Himalayan Passes |
Elevation: Thimphu – 2334m/7656 ft Elevation: Punakha – 1200m/4000ft Distance: 72.8 km | Travel Time: approx. 3 hrs After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to the beautiful valley of Punakha, Bhutan's former capital. The journey takes you through winding mountain roads and breathtaking landscapes before reaching the spectacular Dochula Pass (3,100m). Adorned with 108 intricately built chortens, the pass was constructed by the Queen Mother in honor of Bhutanese soldiers. On clear days, enjoy stunning panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Descending into the fertile Punakha Valley, visit the revered Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Temple of Fertility. Built in 1499 in honor of the legendary saint Drukpa Kunley, famously known as the "Divine Madman," the temple is believed to bless couples seeking children. A pleasant walk through picturesque villages and rice fields leads to this unique and beloved monastery. Later, explore the magnificent Punakha Dzong, often regarded as the most beautiful fortress in Bhutan. Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan, the dzong stands majestically at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (Male River) and Mo Chhu (Female River). Rich in history and stunning architecture, it has played a central role in Bhutan's religious and political life for centuries. Overnight in Punakha. Sightseeing 1. Dochula pass 2. Chimmi Lhagang 3. Punakha dzong |
| Day 4 | Sacred Hills, Valley Views & Local Life |
Max Elevation: 1,950 meters (6,400 feet) Begin the day with a rewarding hike to the iconic Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a stunning hilltop temple built by the Queen Mother to promote peace and harmony in the world. The trail winds through lush rice fields and along the banks of the Mo Chhu River before ascending to the chorten, where breathtaking panoramic views of the Punakha Valley await. After lunch, drive to the serene Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery, beautifully perched on a ridge overlooking the Punakha and Wangdue valleys. Home to a community of Buddhist nuns, the temple offers a peaceful atmosphere, magnificent Himalayan vistas, and one of Bhutan's largest statues of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. In the evening, slow down and soak in the charm of Punakha town. Stroll through the local streets, interact with friendly residents, and visit the bustling vegetable market, where farmers from nearby villages bring fresh seasonal produce. It's a wonderful opportunity to experience everyday Bhutanese life and the warm hospitality of the valley. 1/Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten 2/Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery 3/explore punakha town . Overnight in Punakha. 1. Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten 2. Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunneryg 3. Explore Punakha town |
| Day 5 | Journey to the Glacial Valley of Phobjikha |
Elevation: Punakha – 1200m/4000ft Elevation: Gangtey – 3,000 meters (9,840 feet) Distance: 72-80 km | Travel Time: approx. 2.5-3.5 hrs Today, leave Punakha behind and journey through scenic mountain landscapes to the breathtaking Phobjikha Valley, one of Bhutan's most beautiful and untouched glacial valleys. En route, enjoy ever-changing views of forests, villages, and rolling hills as you ascend into the highlands. Upon arrival, visit the historic Gangtey Monastery (Gangtey Goemba), a 17th-century monastery perched on a ridge overlooking the vast valley. One of the most important Nyingma monasteries in Bhutan, it offers spectacular views and a peaceful spiritual atmosphere. Next, enjoy the famous Gangtey Nature Trail, an easy and rewarding 4 km hike through pine forests, open meadows, and traditional villages. The trail showcases the pristine beauty of Phobjikha Valley and offers plenty of opportunities to breathe in the fresh mountain air, spot local wildlife, and capture stunning photographs. Later, visit the Black-Necked Crane Information Centre, dedicated to the conservation of the rare and elegant Black-Necked Cranes that migrate from Tibet to Phobjikha every winter. Learn about their fascinating journey and the valley's importance as one of Bhutan's most treasured wildlife habitats. Spend the evening soaking in the tranquility of this magical valley, surrounded by nature, fresh mountain air, and spectacular Himalayan scenery. Sightseeing 1. Gangtey Monastery (Gangtey Goemba) 2. Gangtey Nature Trail 3. Black-Necked Crane Information Centre |
| Day 6 | From the Tranquil Valleys to Bhutan's Cultural Heart |
Elevation: Gangtey – 3,000 meters (9,840 feet) Elevation: Paro – 2200m/7200ft Distance: 161 km | Travel Time: approx. 5 hrs After breakfast, bid farewell to the serene landscapes of Phobjikha Valley and enjoy a scenic drive back to Paro, passing through picturesque mountain roads, traditional villages, and beautiful forests along the way. Upon arrival, visit the fascinating National Museum of Bhutan (Ta Dzong), a historic watchtower built in 1649 that now houses an impressive collection of Bhutanese art, artifacts, religious relics, and cultural treasures. Perched above Paro Valley, the museum also offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. As the day winds down, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Paro Town. Browse local handicraft shops, relax at cozy cafés, and experience the laid-back atmosphere of one of Bhutan's most beautiful valleys. With its traditional architecture and friendly locals, Paro provides the perfect setting for a peaceful evening. Sightseeing 1. Ta Dzong 2. Explore Paro town |
| Day 7 | Paro – Tiger’s Nest Hike and Cultural Experience |
Elevation: Tigers nest – 3120m/1040ft Distance: 12 km (Round Trip) | Travel Time: approx. 5-6 hrs After breakfast, begin the memorable hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang), one of Bhutan’s most sacred and breathtaking landmarks. Perched dramatically on a cliffside at an altitude of 3,120 meters, the monastery is believed to be the meditation site of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th century. According to legend, he arrived at this sacred site riding on the back of a flying tigress. The monastery offers spectacular views of the Paro Valley and an unforgettable spiritual experience. Later, visit the historic Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan, built in the 7th century by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. The temple is believed to be one of 108 temples constructed to subdue a demoness and spread Buddhism across the Himalayan region. Surrounded by peaceful gardens and orange trees, the temple offers a calm and spiritual atmosphere. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse dinner, where you will experience authentic local cuisine, warm hospitality, and gain insight into Bhutanese rural lifestyle and culture. 2/kichu lhagang 3/ Sightseeing 1. Tiger nest 2. Kichu Lhakhang 3. Farm House Dinner |
| Day 8 | Departure & Farewell | Today, bid farewell to the beautiful Kingdom of Bhutan as you transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey or flight back home. We hope you leave with unforgettable memories, beautiful photographs, and meaningful experiences from the Land of Happiness. Thank you for traveling with Happiness Tour and Travel — we look forward to welcoming you again in Bhutan. |
"An unforgettable journey through Bhutan's pristine landscapes and warm-hearted people." - Jane D.