The flight to Paro is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular mountain flights in the Himalayas. Whether approaching along the Himalayan range from Kathmandu or flying over the lush foothills from Kolkata, the journey offers breathtaking aerial views and an exhilarating descent into this secluded kingdom. Bhutan’s first gift upon arrival is the cool, crisp mountain air, setting the tone for an unforgettable journey.

After completing immigration formalities and collecting your baggage, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel in the Paro Valley.

Nestled in the northwestern region of Bhutan, the wide and fertile Paro Valley seamlessly blends ancient heritage with contemporary life. It is home to some of the kingdom’s most revered monasteries and temples, while also housing Bhutan’s only international airport. Blessed with abundant paddy fields, Paro is justly known as the rice bowl of Bhutan.

In the afternoon, visit the impressive Rinpung Dzong - the “Fortress of the Heap of Jewels”—a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture with a rich and storied past. The dzong’s inner courtyard is adorned with exquisite wall paintings depicting Buddhist legends, including the Wheel of Life, the Four Friends, the Old Man of Long Life, scenes from the life of Milarepa, Mount Sumeru, and cosmic mandalas. Part of Bernardo Bertolucci’s acclaimed film Little Buddha was filmed within these historic walls.

Continue with a visit to the sacred Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most revered temples, dating back to the 7th century. According to legend, it is one of the 108 temples built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo to subdue a demoness believed to have hindered the spread of Buddhism across the Himalayan region. The temple complex is also famed for its magical orange tree, which bears fruit throughout the year.

As evening approaches, enjoy a gentle exploratory walk along Paro’s main street and local market, offering a first glimpse into everyday Bhutanese life.

Overnight at the hotel in Paro (Altitude: 2,280m).

After breakfast, set out on a memorable walking excursion to the legendary Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest). This rewarding hike (approximately 5 hours round trip) leads to one of Bhutan’s most iconic and sacred landmarks—a dramatic cluster of temples seemingly suspended on a sheer rock face, 900 metres above the Paro Valley. Taktsang owes its sanctity to the belief that Guru Padmasambhava flew to this site in the 8th century on the back of a tigress and meditated here, giving rise to its evocative name, Tiger’s Nest. Revered as the most sacred pilgrimage site in Bhutan, it is said that every Bhutanese strives to visit this holy place at least once in their lifetime. Along the trail, enjoy breathtaking valley views, fluttering prayer flags, and moments of quiet contemplation.

Later in the afternoon, continue towards the northwestern end of the Paro Valley, where sweeping vistas of Mount Chomolhari (7,314m) dominate the landscape. Arrive to the base of historic Drukgyel Dzong, originally built in 1644 to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invaders. Though partially destroyed by fire in 1951, the dzong has now been restored to its former grandeur, standing proudly amid an idyllic setting shaded by ancient cypress trees.
Nearby, see a giant water-driven prayer wheel, marking the route of the old mule track that once linked Bhutan with Tibet, adding a sense of historical continuity to the landscape.

A short visit to a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse offers insight into rural life. Colorful and intricately decorated, these homes are traditionally built without the use of nails, reflecting centuries-old craftsmanship. Much of Bhutan’s population continues to live in small farms and hamlets, surrounded by terraced fields of rice, maize, and buckwheat, preserving a way of life largely unchanged through generations.

Overnight at the hotel in Paro (Altitude: 2,280m).

After breakfast, visit Ta Dzong, the 17th-century watchtower overlooking Rinpung Dzong, now beautifully converted into the National Museum of Bhutan. The museum houses an exceptional collection of Bhutanese antiquities and cultural treasures, including the King’s famed “Dragon Hat”, traditional costumes from across the kingdom, and a remarkable display of painted and embroidered thangkas depicting sacred Buddhist themes.

Continue to Dungtse Lhakhang, an unusual temple uniquely built in the shape of a chorten. The interior walls are adorned with one of Bhutan’s most extraordinary collections of mural paintings, illustrating deities of the Drukpa Kagyu school of Buddhism—the kingdom’s state religion. Preserved in near-perfect condition due to the temple’s naturally dark interior, these vibrant murals are considered among the finest in Bhutan.

Later during the day, drive to the northern end of the Paro Valley to Drukgyel Dzong (2,530m). From here, begin the journey towards the trekking trailhead, following a farm road for approximately 1 to 1.5 hours through charming hamlets of traditional Bhutanese houses set amid cultivated fields.

Arrive at Shana Zam (2,850m), where there is time to stretch your legs and make final preparations for the trek. Here, you meet your dedicated trekking crew—including horsemen, cook, and support staff—and hand over your luggage before setting off on foot.

The trek begins with a gentle ascent along the valley, following the meandering course of the Pa Chhu River as you venture deeper into the pristine wilderness of Jigme Dorji National Park. The trail is scenic and unhurried, offering your first taste of Bhutan’s untouched landscapes.

After approximately 3–4 hours of walking, you arrive at Thongdu Zam (3,150 m), a tranquil forest clearing set beside the river. Though relatively short, today’s trek is rich in natural beauty and serves as a rewarding and graceful introduction to the journey ahead.

Overnight camp at Thongdu Zam (Altitude: 3,150m).

You gradually gain altitude as the trail follows the river upstream, winding through a beautiful mix of pine, oak, and spruce forests. The path gently undulates as it leads north, offering a pleasant rhythm to the walk. After crossing a bridge at 3,560 m, the trail makes a short but steep ascent to a junction of two valleys, marked by a solitary chorten. From this vantage point—weather permitting—magnificent views of Mount Chomolhari unfold at the head of the valley. Continuing along the west bank of the Paro Chhu, the trail soon levels out, and your campsite at Soi Thangthangkhaka lies just a relaxed half-hour walk ahead.

Overnight camp at Soi Thangthangkha (Altitude: 3,610m).

Continue along the Paro River as the valley gradually broadens, unfolding into a magnificent alpine landscape framed by high ridgelines and snow-capped peaks. Scattered yak-herding settlements dot this remote highland, offering a glimpse into a traditional mountain way of life.

By this stage, the trail rises above the tree line into open tundra, where hardy juniper and Rhododendron setosum thrive. Blue sheep are occasionally seen grazing on the higher rocky outcrops, adding to the wilderness experience. With the steady gain in altitude, the pace naturally slows, allowing time to absorb the dramatic surroundings.

The day concludes at a scenic campsite set below the ruins of an ancient fortress, with the majestic Mt. Jhomolhari dominating the skyline—now impressively close and awe-inspiring in its presence.

Perched beneath towering peaks, Jangothang, Bhutan’s one of the most popular campsite, takes its name from the ruins of a small fortress that crowns a nearby rock—offering trekkers history, beauty, and unforgettable Himalayan views.

Overnight camp at Jangothang (Jumolhari Base Camp) (Altitude: 4,080m).

A rest day at Jangothang opens up a world of exploration. Embark on scenic day hikes with stunning views of serene alpine lakes and snow-capped peaks, including the majestic Jumolhari and Jichu Drake. Keep an eye out for elusive Blue Sheep on the upper slopes, or trek up to Tosoh for panoramic vistas. Short hiking trails fan out in three directions: Jumolhari and its subsidiary peaks to the west, Jichu Drake to the north, and a series of unclimbed summits to the east—each offering its own adventure.

Overnight camp at Jangothang (Jumolhari Base Camp) (Altitude: 4,080m).

The journey begins by following the main valley past the last stone house, where the spectacular peak of Mt. Jichu Drake (6,989?m) comes into view. Cross the log bridge and begin a steep traverse, with Mt. Chomolhari revealing itself over the ridge above Jangothang. At 4,470?m, the trail veers left into a broad east-west glacial valley, where only grass, tundra, and small juniper bushes dot the landscape.

Passing a false summit marked by a cairn at 4,680?m, the ridge opens to striking views of Jichu Drake to the northwest. The final climb up the scree slope of Nyele La (4,870?m) takes three to four hours from camp. Known for its strong winds, Nyele La rewards trekkers with panoramic vistas before a rapid descent through scree to a stream—a perfect spot for lunch.

The trail then contours north along the hillside, eventually revealing an army camp near the river and the distant white tower of Lingshi Dzong. After a lookout at 4,360?m, the descent leads into the expansive Jaje Chhu valley, switchbacking through rhododendrons and birches to yak pastures on the valley floor. Towering above are Jichu Drake and Tserim Kang, with impressive moraines decorating their lower slopes. The day concludes at Chha Hi Thang (4,000?m), beside a large stone community hall, offering a serene setting for camp.

Overnight camp at Lingshi (Altitude: 4,000m).

The Laya–Gasa route diverges from the Chomolhari trek here, offering a challenging yet spectacular 22?km journey with over 900?m of ascent and descent. Begin by climbing toward a white chorten on the ridge above camp, then follow the deep Mo Chhu valley, crossing multiple side streams and the river itself. The trail then ascends steeply into a large side valley, zigzagging through rocks to reach a large cairn at Yeli La (4,930?m)—the trek’s high point. Narrow paths carved into rock cliffs reward trekkers with breathtaking views of Chomolhari (7,314m), Gangchhenta (6,840m), and Tserim Kang (6,789m) on clear days.

From the pass, descend into a hanging valley past a small alpine lake at 4,830?m, then follow the outflow to reach Khedo Tsho (4,720m), a larger high-altitude lake where Blue Sheep may be spotted grazing. The trail continues across the upper Jaradinthang Chhu, descending along the valley and following the river south to a chorten at 4,150?m, where the route turns east into the upper Wang Chhu valley. After crossing a log bridge and traversing a narrow sandy slope, the day concludes at Shodu (4,080?m), nestled just below the treeline—a perfect campsite to rest after a long and rewarding day.

Overnight camp at Shodu (Altitude 4,080m).

Begin the day from Shodu by crossing the river and passing an abandoned army camp, then traverse beneath steep yellow cliffs adorned with meditation caves, where the revered Zhabdrung is said to have spent time in retreat. Descend a steep stone staircase to reach the river, which you will cross six more times over the next three hours.

The trail then climbs gradually for about an hour to Barshong, home to the ruins of a small dzong and a dilapidated community hall. A designated campsite below the ruins at 3,710?m offers a scenic resting spot. For those seeking a slightly longer trek, continue another 45 minutes to Dom Shisa (“where the bear died”) for an alternative camping experience amid serene highland landscapes.

Overnight camp at Barshong (Altitude 3,710m).

The trail gently winds through dense forests of rhododendron, birch, and conifers, before dropping steeply to meet the Thimphu Chhu river. Follow the river’s left bank, climbing over ridges and descending into gullies where sparkling side streams join the main flow. The final stretch climbs around a dramatic cliff face high above the river, opening onto the serene pastures of Dolam Kencho (3,320?m). Here, you will meet your transport for a scenic one-hour drive to Thimphu, concluding the trek with memories of Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes.

The capital town of Bhutan and the centre of government, religion and commerce, Thimphu is a unique city with unusual mixture of modern development alongside ancient traditions. It is perhaps still the world’s only capital city without a traffic light.

Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu (Altitude: 2,320m).

After breakfast, take a gentle walk around the National Memorial Chorten, Thimphu’s most revered landmark. This serene white stupa, crowned with a golden spire, is a vibrant gathering place where locals come to circumambulate, spin prayer wheels, and offer prayers. The murals and statues inside offer valuable insight into Buddhist philosophy and daily Bhutanese spiritual life.

Drive onward to the majestic Buddha Dordenma, the world’s largest seated bronze Buddha, dramatically positioned at Kuenselphodrang overlooking the Thimphu Valley. Standing 201 feet tall and consecrated in 2015 to mark the 60th birth anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, the statue is set amid protected forest land and is a powerful symbol of peace and prosperity.

Continue to the Textile Museum, established in 2001 under royal patronage, where exhibitions showcase Bhutan’s rich weaving traditions, regional textiles, and traditional dress.

In the afternoon, visit the Institute for Zorig Chusum (Arts & Crafts School), an important center preserving Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts. Observe students training in painting, carving, embroidery, and other time-honored skills.

Proceed to Changangkha Lhakhang, one of Thimphu’s oldest temples, dedicated to Chenrezig with eleven heads. The temple courtyard offers panoramic views of the Thimphu Valley.

Conclude the day at Trashichhoedzong, the impressive seat of Bhutan’s government and royal offices, beautifully situated along the Wang Chhu River.

In the evening, browse the Handicrafts Emporium and Local Crafts Bazaar, featuring hand-woven textiles, thangkas, masks, wood carvings, jewellery, and other traditional crafts.

Overnight in Thimphu (Altitude: 2,320m).

After breakfast, drive to Punakha via the scenic Dochula Pass (3,088m / 10,130 ft). Stop to admire the chortens, mani wall and fluttering prayer flags at the pass. On clear days, enjoy panoramic views of Bhutan’s eastern Himalayan peaks, including Gangkar Puensum (7,570m), the country’s highest mountain.

On arrival in Punakha, enjoy a short walk to Chimi Lhakhang, the Temple of Fertility. Built in 1499 and blessed by the legendary saint Drukpa Kuenley, known as the “Divine Madman,” the temple sits atop a gentle hillock. A pleasant walk-through mustard fields and traditional villages—where houses are adorned with symbolic phallus paintings—leads to this revered site.

In the afternoon, visit Punakha Dzong, the majestic Palace of Great Bliss, dramatically located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Built in 1637, it played a central role in Bhutanese history and was the site of the coronation of Bhutan’s first king in 1907. The Dzong has been meticulously restored and remains one of Bhutan’s most impressive fortresses.

Later, cross the Punakha Suspension Bridge, one of the longest in Bhutan, offering superb views of the river, valley and surrounding countryside adorned with prayer flags.

Conclude the day with a visit to Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery, perched high on a pine-covered ridge overlooking Punakha and Wangduephodrang valleys. The temple houses impressive bronze statues and serves as a spiritual and vocational training centre for nuns.

Overnight at the hotel in Punakha (Altitude: 1,300m).

After breakfast, drive to the historic town of Wangduephodrang to visit Wangduephodrang Dzong. Founded in 1638 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the dzong is dramatically perched atop a high ridge between the Punak Tsang Chhu and Dang Chhu rivers, commanding sweeping views of the valleys below. Owing to its strategic location guarding routes to Trongsa, Punakha, Dagana and Thimphu, the Penlop of Wangduephodrang once ranked among the most powerful governors of Bhutan, after Paro and Trongsa. Severely damaged by fire in 2012, the dzong has since been meticulously restored to its former grandeur.

Continue on a scenic drive back toward Paro via the picturesque Dochula Pass, renowned for its panoramic Himalayan vistas (weather permitting). En route, visit Simtokha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s oldest fortresses, built in 1629. Local legend tells that it was constructed to subdue a malevolent spirit troubling travellers. The dzong is especially noted for its exquisite artistry, including over 300 finely carved slate panels set behind the prayer wheels in the courtyard.

Drive on to Chuzom, the confluence of the Paro Chhu and Thimphu Chhu, marked by three distinctive chortens in Bhutanese, Tibetan and Nepalese architectural styles. 

Later en route stop at Tachog Lhakhang, a sacred temple dedicated to the 13th-century saint Thangtong Gyalpo, revered as Bhutan’s legendary iron bridge builder. Reaching the temple involves crossing one of the few surviving traditional iron suspension bridges—its gentle sway and rhythmic undulation make for a memorable experience.

Arrive in Paro by late afternoon. The evening is free for shopping or leisurely exploration of Paro town.

Overnight at your hotel in Paro (Altitude: 2,280 m).

After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your flight to your onward destination.

As you bid farewell to Bhutan, carry with you lasting memories of a truly enriching journey—trekking through the pristine high Himalaya on the memorable Chomolhari Trek and equally unforgettable cultural discoveries across the valleys of Thimphu, Punakha and Paro.

This harmonious blend of adventure, spirituality and culture leaves an enduring impression, making Bhutan not just a destination visited, but an experience deeply felt and fondly remembered.