10 Days Of Bhutan

Discover the unspoilt Haa Valley, home to a distinct nomadic culture. Visit the Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple) and Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple), revered since the time of King Songtsen Gampo. Witness the region’s spirituality and rich heritage, particularly during the Haa Tsechu festival (8th–10th Bhutanese month). Later, explore the Haa Hospital and local trout fishery. Immerse yourself in rural life with home-cooked delicacies, the fiery local Ara brew, and optional village walks or farming activities.

Accommodation: Rigsum Resort/Haa Heritage/ Sodnam Zhingkha.

Drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s charming capital. After lunch, ascend to Buddha Dordenma atop Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park. This monumental bronze and gold statue, 51.5 meters tall, houses 125,000 smaller Buddhas and radiates peace across the valley. In the evening, wander Thimphu’s streets at leisure, observing locals in traditional dress and soaking in the city’s unhurried charm.

Accommodation: Le Meridien Thimphu.

Explore the spiritual and cultural landmarks of Thimphu (subject to opening hours):
- National Memorial Chorten – A monument to peace honoring Bhutan’s third king.
- Tashichho Dzong – Majestic fortress housing government offices and central monk body.
- National Institute of Traditional Medicine – Observe preparation of herbal remedies from local plants, minerals, and gems.
- Folk Heritage Museum – A 300-year-old family home preserving Bhutanese traditions.

Accommodation: Le Meridien Thimphu.

Drive to Punakha, ascending Dochu La Pass (3,140m) with panoramic Himalayan views. Descend through forested hills to the fertile Punakha Valley. Hike to Chimmi Lhakhang, the “Divine Madman” temple, a pilgrimage site for childless couples. In the afternoon, explore Punakha Dzong, an architectural masterpiece at the confluence of Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers.

Accommodation: Dhensa Boutique Resort (optional Six Senses/Amankora upgrade)

Start with a 45-minute hike to Khamsum Yueley Namgyel Chorten, a 2002 royal masterpiece offering sweeping valley views and intricate paintings representing three Mahayana Buddhist sects. After lunch, drive to Gangtey and the Phobjikha Valley, a glacial highland famed for black-necked cranes. Check in and enjoy the serene valley atmosphere.

Accommodation: Gangtey Lodge.

Embark on a gentle Gangtey Nature Trail, descending from Gangtey Monastery to Khewang Lhakhang, passing farmhouses, pine and rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, and panoramic valley views. In winter, observe the endangered black-necked cranes. Visit Gangtey Gonpa, founded in 1613, and in the afternoon explore the Black-necked Crane Information Centre with telescopes and spotting scopes for wildlife viewing.

Accommodation: Gangtey Lodge.

Drive to Paro, stopping for lunch in Thimphu. On arrival, visit Kyichu Lhakang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, followed by Paro Dzong, “Fortress of the Heap of Jewels.” Stroll across the traditional cantilevered bridge to the Pachu River, then check in to your hotel and relax before dinner.

Accommodation: Le Meridien Paro.

Hike through pine forests adorned with Spanish moss and fluttering prayer flags to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched 2,950m above the valley. This 17th-century monastery clings to a sheer cliff, where Guru Padmasambhava is said to have arrived on a flying tiger. Optional visit to Drukgyel Dzong ruins to witness historic Bhutanese victories. Return to your hotel for a relaxing shower and celebrate with dinner and a cultural show.

Accommodation: Le Meridien Paro.

After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. Bid farewell as the Dragon Kingdom fades behind its guardian mountains, leaving memories of Himalayan vistas, sacred monasteries, and timeless Bhutanese culture.