This tour introduces you to the main towns and valleys of Western Bhutan, Paro, Thimphu and Punakha and provides a great variety in altitudes, ranging from 1,200m to 3,000m. Visit the summer and winter residences of the monk body at Thimphu (2,400m) and Punakha (1,200m), as well as the historic sites of the Paro valley.

Enjoy the breath-taking view of the Himalayan mountain range from the 3,000 meter Dochula Pass. Descend through rhododendron and Magnolia forests to the warmer climes of the Punakha valley and visit its beautiful Dzong. You will also take a charming walk through a small village, across the neatly terraced rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of Drukpa Kuenley, the “Divine Madman.” Couples who wish to receive a fertility blessing visit this temple without fail.

And don’t miss the exhilarating experience of walking up to Taktsang monastery (4 hours round trip). Taktsang is truly one of the wonders of Bhutan. It is possible to take a horseride up to the monastery but the descent can only be done on foot. Alternatively, if the walk does not appeal, enjoy the view of Taktsang from a distance. This hike requires a certain degree of physical fitness, so it is optional.

Throughout the tour you will visit impressive monasteries and temples where Tibetan Buddhism flourishes and red-robed monks chant their prayers. Enjoy watching traditional craftsmen and women at work and visit various folk-heritage and craft museums. Relax, unwind, chat with the locals, take photos, and browse in the shops.

Day 1     Arrive Paro. Transfer to Thimphu for sightseeing (1 hr). Visit the Chang-gangkha temple, takin   reserve, Dechenphodrang Monastic Institute and Thimphu Dzong (Trashichodzong).

Day 2     Full programme of sightseeing in and around Thimphu. Folk Heritage Museum, Institute for the 13 Traditional Arts (Zorig Chusum), Institute of Traditional Medicine, and Textile Museum & large open-air Buddha statue. Circumambulate the Memorial Chorten with the locals.

Day 3     Drive to Punakha (2½hrs). On the way stop at Dochula pass. Then descend to 1,200m and visit Chimi Lhhakhang, the temple of 15th Century Lam Drukpa Kuenley, the “Divine Madman”. Continue towards Punakha Dzong, which was the old capital of Bhutan.

Day 4     Morning in Punakha with an early morning hiking option to Khamsum Yuley Namgyal Chorten. Drive to Paro.  In Paro, visit the Ta Dzong Museum and then descend on foot to the impressive Rinpung Dzong.

Day 5     Morning Hike to Taktsang temple. In the afternoon drive towards the ruined fortress Drugyel Dzong and visit Kichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan.

Day 6     Flight departure from Paro.