Journey through the historic and scenic western valleys, visiting famous sites like the Punakha Dzong, Dochula Pass, and Paro’s ancient temples.
Embark on a journey through Western Bhutan, a region rich in cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and spiritual significance.
This enchanting area is home to iconic destinations such as Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha, where ancient monasteries, majestic fortresses, and vibrant festivals await discovery.
Traverse through lush valleys, visit the sacred Tiger’s Nest Monastery perched high on a cliff, and experience the serene beauty of Bhutan's natural environment.
Western Bhutan offers a unique blend of tradition and tranquility, making it an unforgettable destination for those seeking both adventure and spiritual enrichment.
The flight to Paro is renowned as one of the most spectacular mountain flights in the world. Passengers are treated to breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and other towering peaks such as Jomolhari, Jichu Drakey, and Tserim Gang.
Upon arrival, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to Thimphu. On the way, you can stop to walk across the 14th-century suspension bridge that leads to the beautiful Tachhogang Temple perched on a hilltop. After visiting the temple, continue your journey towards Thimphu. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel, then take a leisurely walk around the town to explore its charm and vibrant atmosphere. Overnight hotel
After breakfast, visit Buddha Point, which offers a panoramic view of Thimphu town and the surrounding valleys. Next, explore the Memorial Chorten, built in memory of the 3rd King of Bhutan. Continue to the Painting School, where students learn 13 different arts and crafts unique to Bhutan. You can also visit the Textile Museum to see various textiles from across the country. Additionally, visit the Changlimithang Archery Ground to witness an archery match, Bhutan's national sport.
After lunch in town, visit the zoo to see the Takin, Bhutan's national animal. Later, enjoy a leisurely walk of an hour to Wangditse Temple, offering stunning views of Thimphu town. In the evening, visit Trashichho Dzong and take a stroll through the craft market to see local products. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast, depart from Thimphu and head towards Punakha and Wangdue. Along the way, stop at Dochula Pass to take in the stunning views and capture some photos. The pass is adorned with 108 Druk Wangyel Chortens, constructed to commemorate the stability and progress brought to Bhutan by His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Fourth King.
As you descend from the pass, you'll notice significant changes in vegetation. Upon reaching the lower elevations of Punakha and Wangdue, the landscape is dominated by cacti, banana plants, poinsettias, and other semi-tropical flora. Continue your drive to Punakha and visit Punakha Dzong. Built in 1637 at the confluence of the Po Chu (male river) and Mo Chu (female river), this fortress-monastery serves as the winter residence of Bhutan's spiritual leader, the Je Khenpo, or Head Abbot, along with the Central Monk Body, which includes over 350 monks. Punakha Dzong is widely regarded as the most beautiful dzong in Bhutan.
Later, hike across the suspension bridge to reach Khamsum Yuley Namgyel Temple, which overlooks the picturesque Punakha Valley. This temple was built for the current king. On your way back to the hotel, stop at Lobesa and take a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the "No Dogs Temple," nestled in the scenic valley. Here, you can visit the temple of Bhutan's foremost saint, Lama Drukpa Kuenley, popularly known as the "Divine Madman."
In the morning, visit Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, originally built in 1638. Although the dzong was tragically destroyed by fire in June 2012, reconstruction began in 2014 and was completed in 2022. The dzong now houses the district administration and is home to about 200 monks.
On the way back, take a short hike to Rinchengang Village, believed to be one of the oldest villages in Bhutan. The village's unique topography adds to its charm, with traditional houses clustered neatly on a tiny hillock overlooking the imposing Wangdue Phodrang Dzong.
Afterward, drive to Paro and enjoy dinner at a local farmhouse. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast, drive for 15 minutes to the starting point of the hike to Takshang Monastery, famously known as the "Tiger's Nest." This site, visited and sanctified by Guru Rimpoche, is one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in the Himalayas, attracting many great Buddhist masters over the years. The monastery was built in 1692 AD by the fourth temporal ruler of Bhutan, over the cave where Guru Rimpoche and his consort, Khandro Yeshi Tshogyal, meditated. Perched on a rocky cliff that towers 800 meters above the valley, the monastic complex stands at an elevation of 2950 meters above sea level.
On your return, stop at Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. And also visit, Paro Rinpung Dzong, one of the most significant structures in Bhutan. This fortress-monastery, perched atop a hill, provides stunning views of the Paro Valley and serves as the district’s administrative center. After exploring the dzong, you'll hike down to the bridge, where you can admire the traditional Bhutanese architecture and design. In the evening, take a leisurely walk around Paro town. Overnight at the hotel.
Altitude at the temple: 3150m, Drive: 15min, Distance from parking and back: 7km
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