12 Days in Historic Central Bhutan

Explore Thimphu’s cultural treasures:
- National Memorial Chorten – A monument to world peace honoring Bhutan’s third king.
- Bhutan National Library – A repository of ancient texts, newspapers, and local knowledge.
- Folk Heritage Museum – A 300-year-old house preserving traditional Bhutanese life.
- Tashichho Dzong – Majestic fortress housing government offices and monks.
- National Institute of Traditional Medicine – Witness preparation of herbal and mineral remedies still used for local healthcare.

Accommodation: Le Meridien Thimpu.

Journey to Punakha, crossing Dochu La Pass (3,140m), adorned with prayer flags and panoramic Himalayan vistas. In spring, rhododendrons paint the mountains in vivid color. Descend into the fertile Punakha Valley and hike to Chimmi Lhakhang, dedicated to the “Divine Madman,” a pilgrimage site for childless couples.

Accommodation: Dhensa Boutique Resort.

Optional upgrades: Amankora Punakha | Six Senses Bhutan.

Visit Punakha Dzong, perched at the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. This historic fortress, built in 1637, has hosted royal coronations and assemblies and houses sacred relics.

Later, drive to Sangchen Dorji Lhundrup Chholing, a hilltop nunnery. Interact with the nuns and enjoy views of Avalokiteshvara’s temple, its stupa, and intricately carved slate religious figures.

Accommodation: Dhensa Boutique Resort. 

Optional upgrades: Amankora Punakha| Six Senses Bhutan.

Drive across Pele La Pass (3,300m), the traditional boundary between east and west Bhutan. Stop at Chendbji Chorten, modeled after Swayambhunath Stupa, with painted eyes at the four cardinal points.

Explore Trongsa Dzong, built in 1648, the ancestral seat of Bhutanese kings. Continue to Bumthang via Yotong La Pass (3,400m), descending into the fertile Chumey Valley.

Overnight: Yugharling Resort.

Optional upgrades: Amankora Bumthang| Six Senses Bumthang.

Explore Bumthang, Bhutan’s spiritual heart across four valleys: Ura, Chumey, Tang, and Choekhor:
- Jakar Dzong – Historic fortress founded in 1549.
- Jambay Lhakhang – One of Bhutan’s oldest temples, built by King Songtsen Gampo.
- Kurjey Lhakhang – Houses Guru Padmasambhava’s sacred body print.
- Tamzhing Monastery – Founded by Terton Pema Lingpa, renowned for its artistry.
- Khencho Sum Lhakhang – Temple of the three Buddhas (past, present, future).
- Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake) – Legendary lake where sacred treasures were discovered by Pema Lingpa.

Accommodation: Yugharling Resort.

Drive to Phobjikha Valley, a tranquil basin and winter refuge of the black-necked cranes. Visit Gangtey Monastery, a 17th-century sanctuary, and explore the village and valley, absorbing the serenity of rural Bhutan.

Accommodation: Gangtey Lodge. 

Re-cross Dochu La Pass, stopping for lunch in Thimphu. Upon arrival in Paro, visit Kyichu Lhakang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, followed by Paro Dzong, the “Fortress of the Heap of Jewels.” Stroll across the traditional cantilevered bridge spanning the Pachu River.

Accommodation: Le Meridien Paro.

Visit Ta Dzong, the former watchtower now housing the National Museum, then walk to Rinpung Dzong, built in 1646. Cross the traditional Nemi Zam bridge to admire its architecture and observe daily life. Rinpung Dzong hosts the annual Paro Tshechu festival each spring.

Accommodation: Le Meridien Paro.

Embark on a scenic hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest). The trail winds through pine forests, moss-draped trees, and fluttering prayer flags. Perched dramatically on a cliff 900m above the valley, this 17th-century monastery is the legendary site where Guru Padmasambhava arrived on a flying tiger. Return to your hotel to relax and celebrate this extraordinary journey.

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.