Druk and Drukpa Bhutan Tours 

Paro to Thimphu (54 km | Approx. 1&½ Hours)

As your flight descends into Bhutan, enjoy breathtaking views of stunning Himalayan peaks. Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our guide and driver.

Begin your scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s charming capital city. En route, visit Tachog Lhakhang, a temple built in the 15th century by the legendary iron bridge builder Thangtong Gyalpo, and cross the historic iron suspension bridge nearby. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and refresh before beginning your sightseeing tour:

• Memorial Chorten – a beautiful stupa built in memory of His Majesty the Third King of Bhutan, the Father of Modern Bhutan.

• Tashichho Dzong (Fortress of the Glorious Religion) – the seat of the central monastic body, the Royal Government, and the Throne Room of His Majesty the King.

Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Thimphu

After an early breakfast, drive to the base of Phajoding Monastery, one of Bhutan’s most sacred monastic sites overlooking the Thimphu Valley. Begin your two-and-a-half-hour hike through serene pine forests and fluttering prayer flags to reach the monastery. From the top, enjoy panoramic views of the Thimphu Valley, a truly rewarding experience.

After returning to the city, continue your sightseeing with visits to:

• Takin Preserve – a small sanctuary that houses the Takin, Bhutan’s national animal, known for its unique and mythical appearance.

• Buddha Dordenma (Buddha Point) – home to one of the largest sitting Buddha statues in the world, offering a spectacular bird’s-eye view of Thimphu Valley.

Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Thimphu to Punakha (72 km | Approx. 2½ Hours)

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Punakha via the Dochula Pass (3,140 m). On a clear day, the pass offers a breathtaking view of the Himalayan range, framed by the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens, which stand as symbols of peace and remembrance.

After a brief stop at the pass, visit the Royal Botanical Garden at Lamperi, home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Continue your journey to visit Chimi Lhakhang, popularly known as the Temple of the Divine Madman or the Fertility Temple, dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenley, a revered saint known for his unorthodox methods of teaching Buddhism.

In the evening, explore the majestic Punakha Dzong, beautifully situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Built in 1637, this historic fortress once served as Bhutan’s ancient capital and remains a fine example of Bhutanese craftsmanship and architecture. Every February, the Punakha Serda procession is held here to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invasions.

Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Rafting | Punakha to Paro (125 km | Approx. 2½ Hours)

After breakfast, drive about 30 minutes north of Punakha to the road end near Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, a stunning stupa built by Her Majesty the Queen Mother and dedicated to His Majesty the King and the well-being of all sentient beings.

From here, begin your white-water rafting adventure down the scenic Mo Chhu River. No prior experience is required — just a sense of excitement and a willingness to embrace the thrill of the Himalayas!

Rafting Details:

• Route: Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten to below Punakha Dzong

• Length: 6 km (Approx. 1½ hours)

• Difficulty: Class I–II (Suitable for beginners)

• Flow: 800–1000 cfs

• Best Season: March–April and November–December

Enjoy the exhilarating ride as you float past rice terraces, traditional villages, and the majestic Punakha Dzong, offering a unique perspective of Bhutan’s natural and cultural beauty.

In the afternoon, drive back to the fertile Paro Valley, passing through scenic mountain landscapes and peaceful countryside.

Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Paro Tshechu

After breakfast, visit the Paro Dzong to witness one of Bhutan’s most vibrant and sacred festivals — the Paro Tshechu. This annual event is among the most spectacular in western Bhutan and a true celebration of the country’s rich cultural heritage.

During the Tshechu, locals from across the valley gather dressed in their finest traditional attire, transforming the festival grounds into a brilliant display of color and joy. The air is filled with spiritual chants, laughter, and the rhythm of drums and horns.

The festival features sacred mask dances (Cham) and folk performances, each with deep spiritual symbolism and historical significance. Your guide will explain the meanings behind each dance and song, offering insight into Bhutan’s living Buddhist traditions and the values they embody.

Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Paro Taktshang

After breakfast, embark on a memorable hike to the Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) — one of the most sacred and iconic Buddhist sites in the world. Drive to Ramthangkha, the end of the motorable road, from where your hike begins.

The trail climbs steadily through pine forests draped with prayer flags, offering breathtaking views of the Paro Valley below. Perched dramatically on a cliffside 800 meters above the valley floor, Taktshang Monastery is believed to be the meditation site of Guru Padmasambhava, who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th century. The monastery’s spiritual aura and majestic setting make it one of Bhutan’s most treasured landmarks.

In the afternoon, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most revered temples, built in the 7th century by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo.

In the evening, enjoy your farewell dinner at a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse, where you’ll experience warm local hospitality and reflect on the memories of your journey through the Land of the Thunder Dragon.

Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Departure

After breakfast, Druk Drukpa Tours staff will drive you to Paro International Airport for your departure. Your guide and driver will accompany you to the airport and bid you a warm farewell. 

We sincerely thank you for visiting Bhutan and for choosing Druk Drukpa Tours.

Tashi Delek! May you have a safe journey home and carry with you wonderful memories of your time in the Land of the Thunder Dragon.