13-Day Active Bhutan with Day Hikes

Fly into Paro to be met by your guide.

The great snow-capped peaks of the inner Himalayas rise up to the heavens can be seen during clear weather. As the plane approaches Bhutan, if you look down, farmhouses as dots on the hillsides can be seen. As the aircraft enters the Paro valley, you will see Paro Dzong on the hillside overlooking the Paro Chu (river), with Ta Dzong, formerly a watchtower and now the National Museum, above it.

Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Later, visit the National Museum.

Ta-Dzong (converted into the National Museum in 1968), is located on a hill overlooking Paro Dzong. Dzongs are traditionally built without nails or written plans. The cylindrical building was built in 1641 AD. by Desi Tenzin Drukda, the then Governor of Paro, as a watchtower to look over the Paro Dzong in case of invasions from the north. As was the situation in those days, invasions were common and Dzong, which was the center of administration in the state, needed to be overlooked by such watchtowers. The unique structure has six floors that go spiraling down from the top. During the olden days the building not only housed soldiers but also prisoners of war, mostly invaders. After touring the inside, enjoy the view of Paro Valley from Ta-Dzong.

Then visit the local market in Paro and enjoy walking through the lively streets filled with local shops and handicrafts. You can find traditional Bhutanese souvenirs, textiles, prayer flags, and local products while experiencing the culture and daily life of the local people.

Meals included: Dinner
Mid-Range Accommodations: Hotel Olathang (Paro)
Luxury Accommodations: Zhiwa Ling Hotel (Paro / 4-star)

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to airport for your flight to Bumthang.

Upon arrival in Bumthang, visit Chakhar Lhakhang. Besides the main road, a short distance beyond Jambay Temple is Chakhar (Iron Castle) Lhakhang. Although it is easy to mistake it for a house and drive right by, this is an interesting temple and is worth a short visit. It is one of the 108 monasteries built by him to subdue evil spirits in the Himalayan region.

Kujey Lhakhang (Kujey means, "Body imprint"). The temple to the right is the oldest and was built by Minjur Tempa in 1652. It was built around the cave in which Guru Rimpoche meditated and left his body imprint.

Tamshing Lhakhang is also known as Tamshing Lhendrup Chholing (Temple of the Good Message).

Jakar Dzong, "castle of the white bird". According to legend, when the lamas assembled in about 1549 to select a site for a monastery, a big white bird rose suddenly in the air and settled on a spur of a hill. This was interpreted as an important omen, and the hill was chosen as the site for a monastery and for Jakar Dzong. The fortress is now used as an administrative center of the valley and summer residence of Trongsa monks.

In the afternoon, we will hike up to Thangbi Valley (10 km / 2 hours hike), crossing a suspension bridge to visit the Thangbi Lhakhang built in the 14th century via an unpaved road.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mid-Range Accommodations: Bumthang Mountain Lodge (3-star)

Today, we visit Chhoka Lhakhang, also known as the Iron Castle. This historic site was originally the palace of King Sindhu Raja, who invited Guru Rimpoche to Bumthang. The present structure, called Dechen Phodrang, was built in the 14th century by the saint Dorji Lingpa, preserving its spiritual significance and unique history.

In the afternoon, we embark on the Padtsholing Monastery hike, starting from the Swiss Guest House in Jakar. This half-day, strenuous hike takes us 5.5 km uphill through forests, meadows, and local villages. Along the way, you'll encounter vibrant wildflowers, medicinal herbs, and peaceful forest paths, all while enjoying panoramic views of the Choekhor Valley. The monastery, also known as the Lotus Grove, sits atop a ridge east of Kurjue Lhakhang, in a prophesied site where the trees themselves seem to bow in welcome. The trail offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and spiritual serenity.

• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Distance: 5.5 km
• Walking time: 2-3 hours
• Highlights: Jakar Dzong, Chhoka Lhakhang, Lotus Grove Monastery, Choekhor Valley views
  

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mid-Range Accommodations: Bumthang Mountain Lodge (3-star)

Morning drive to Tang valley. Tang Valley, the most remote valley in the Bumthang district. Activities may include a 45-minute walk uphill to Ugyen Chholing Palace, built in the 16th century by the Trongsa Penlop Tshokey Dorji. The main building in the complex now features a fascinating museum offering a real insight into the lifestyle of a Bhutanese noble family. Highlights include a book of divination, a dakini dance costume made of bone.

You will also visit 14th century Tang Rimochen Lhakhang which is a 30km/1.5-hour drive from where Guru Rinpoche meditated and Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake), where some of Guru Rinpoche's treasures were found in the 15th century by the famous treasure discover Pema Lingpa. It's a good location to meditate. Picnic lunch will be arranged.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mid-Range Accommodations: Bumthang Mountain Lodge (3-star)

The route is along a spectacular winding road, crossing the 3,300-meter-high Pele La pass, and at certain times of the year it is possible to see yaks.

Trongsa Dzong was built in 1543. The intricacy of its maze of buildings on successive levels is clearly visible from the town. Beyond any doubt its size, design and position make it the most impressive Dzong in Bhutan. It is one of the most aesthetic and magnificent works of traditional Bhutanese architecture. Trongsa is the ancestral home of the Bhutanese Royal Family and the dzong there is an exquisite example of Bhutanese architecture. The watch tower overlooks the entire valley of Mangde Chhu.

Then continue driving to Gangtey/Phobjika, a glacial valley (3000m) on the western slopes of the Black Mountains, a designated conservation area bordering the Black Mountain National Park where large flocks of black-necked cranes come in winter. It is one of the most important wildlife preserves in the country and described as "the most beautiful spot in the most beautiful country in the Himalayas".

Later visit Gangtey Goenpa Monastery complex with five temples that surround the main central tower. It is one of the main seats of the religious tradition based on Pema Lingpa's revelations and one of the two main centers of the Nyingmapa school of Buddhism in Bhutan. In the evening explore the valley while walking down the streets.

In the evening, join the evening prayer session in Shedra (monastery) followed by a meditation. The Shedra is home to approximately 250 monk students ranging in age from 12-40 years old. Mainly Buddhist religious studies as well as basic English courses are taught. The monk students are also responsible for the day-to-day housekeeping tasks such as cooking, cleaning and laundry. The Evening Prayer takes place every evening from 18:30-19:15. After the prayer session the monks have free time before retiring to the rooms. It is possible to combine it with the 17:30 meditation class. After the prayer session, you are invited to discuss any topics you wish with the monks.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mid-Range Accommodations: Hotel Odiayna (Gangtey)
Luxury Accommodations: Gangtey Lodge (4-star)

Today, hike the Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park which is one of the largest protected areas in Bhutan, known for its rich biodiversity and beautiful natural landscapes. The park stretches across several districts, including Trongsa, Wangdue Phodrang, Zhemgang, and Sarpang. It provides habitat for many rare wildlife species such as the Bengal Tiger, Red Panda, and Himalayan Black Bear. A popular activity in this area is hiking through its untouched nature. After breakfast, visitors take a bumpy one-hour drive to Zizi Village, where the hike begins by crossing a river and following a path through marshlands, meadows, and forests. The trail is relatively easy with no steep climbs and passes through beautiful rhododendron forests, waterfalls, and a variety of wildflowers before reaching Khebaythang, after which hikers return along the same route.

This hike offers a peaceful experience of the park's pristine environment and scenic beauty.

Black Necked Crane Information Centre in the Phobjikha Valley offers visitors a chance to learn about these rare birds. The Centre has exhibits about the birds, their migration paths and behavior and about the ecology of the valley as a whole. In the observation room, visitors can use high-power telescopes to observe the birds.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mid-Range Accommodations: Hotel Odiayna (Gangtey)
Luxury Accommodations: Gangtey Lodge (4-star)

After breakfast, visit the local market at Wangdi. Then drive to Punakha.

Upon arrival, visit Chimi Lhakhang flanked with hundreds of prayer flags sits on a round hillock near Punakha. The monastery, built in 1499 is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kinley, also known as 'the Divine Madman' or the 'Mad Saint". He is also the saint who advocated the use of phallus symbols as paintings on walls and carved wooden phalluses on house tops.

Also visit the Punakha Dzong, located on the island of the Pho - Chu (male) river and the Mochu (female) river. Built in 1637, Punakha Dzong now serves as the administrative center of Punakha district and the central monastic body.

Later pay a visit to local farmhouse (traditional village house). The beauty of Paro valley is embellished by a cluster of quaint farmhouses. Bhutanese farmhouses are very colorful, decorative, and traditionally built without the use of single nail. All houses follow the same architectural pattern. A visit to a farmhouse is very interesting and offers a good glimpse into the lifestyle of a farmer.

Cooking Lesson:
Bhutanese cuisines are undeniably one of the easiest foods to cook and its simplicity is what makes it delicious. And what other better way to immerse in the local culture, than learning to cook like a Bhutanese. Hallmark of Bhutanese food is the generous use of cheese and chilies. The most popular dishes are Emma Datsi (literal translation would be chilies and cheese curry), Momo (dumplings), and Phaskha Paa (pork with red chilies).

Enjoy dinner at the colorful farmhouse of Paro that overlooks an amazing view. Soak in the unique ambience and indulge in a delightful interaction with the locals.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mid-Range Accommodations: Hotel Sonamgang (Punakha)
Luxury Accommodations: Dhensa Boutique (Punakha / 4-star)

After breakfast, commence hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a fine example of Bhutanese architecture and artistic traditions. An hour hike to the Chorten, through a moderately inclined trail surrounded by pine trees, this site offers a beautiful view of the Punakha Valley. The Chorten built to remove negative forces and promote peace, stability and harmony in the changing world dominates the upper Punakha Valley with commanding views across the Mo Chhu and up towards the mountainous peaks of Gasa and beyond.

Hike duration: 1-1.5 hours uphill and 30 mins downhill

Later, visit Kabesa Village and Chorten Nyingpo Lhakhang.

Kabesa Village: This very peaceful village is a perfect destination for one who loves tranquility. Located in the heart of Punakha valley, only a half hour drive away from the Punakha city center, the Kabesa Village offers tourists a sense of peacefulness with the paddy fields which are green all year round along and the river gently winding around the village.

Chorten Nyingpo Lhakhang is located on a ridgeline about 2km uphill from the Mo Chhu River. Although its name contains the word chorten, the monastery is more appropriately described as a Lhakhang, as there are no significant chortens located on-site. The main buildings of interest are the three-story Lhakhang and a long gatehouse to the east.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mid-Range Accommodations: Hotel Sonamgang (Punakha)
Luxury Accommodations: Dhensa Boutique (Punakha / 4-star)

After breakfast, drive to Thimphu via Dochu la Pass (3,088m/10,130ft). If you have a clear sky, the view of the Himalayan Mountain ranges is spectacular, and you can even see the Gasa Dzong as a white dot in the horizon. Visit the beautiful 108 chortens built on the hill by Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo for the security and well-being of His Majesty the King of Bhutan.

Hang a prayer flag at the pass: Traditionally, prayer flags are used to promote peace, compassion, strength, and wisdom. The flags do not carry prayers to gods; rather it is believed that the prayers and mantras will be blown by the wind to spread the good will and compassion into all-pervading space.

Upon arrival in Thimphu, transfer to the hotel. Today, visit Tashichho Dzong.

Tashichho Dzong located on the northern edge of the city of Thimphu, on the western bank of the Wang chu. Tashichho Dzong is Bhutan's most stately and arguably the most impressive building. It has traditionally been the seat of the Drukdesi or 'Dharma Raja', the head of Bhutan's civil government, an office which has been combined with the kingship since the creation of the monarchy in 1907, and summer capital of the country.

Note: Tashichho Dzong is open during weekdays after office hours (5pm onwards) and from 9am to 5pm on weekends.

Later, you will visit The Memorial Chorten, also known as the Thimphu Chorten, a large Tibetan-style Buddhist Monastery which is a popular landmark in the city with its golden spires and bells. It was built in 1974 to honor the memory of the third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. The architecture of the chorten has been designed to present it as one of the most visible religious structures in Thimphu.

Also visit Buddha Point - "The Buddha Dordenma" is located atop a hill in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park and overlooks the Southern entrance to Thimphu Valley. The statue fulfils an ancient prophecy dating back to the 8th century A.D that was discovered by Terton Pema Lingpa (Religious Treasure Discoverer) and is said to emanate an aura of peace and happiness to the entire world.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mid-Range Accommodations: Tashi Yoedling (Thimphu)
Luxury Accommodations: Norkhil Boutique Resort (Thimphu / 4-star)

Today, drive 40 minutes north of Thimphu and enjoy a hike to a sacred monastery. It is an hour and half hike to Cheri temple. This is the highest Buddhist learning center. Monks meditate here and the peaceful nature of the place invites wild goats too. This is a place where the illusive Goral (wild goat) can be seen.

Hike to another temple called Tango which is like a Buddhist college. It is all uphill. If want to switch this climb to a more gradual one, then do the valley walk. It will be an hour's walk-through forests following the Thimphu River. We can extend the walk through the farm road.

After the hike, visit Zilukha Nunnery. Built more than half a century ago, Zilukha Nunnery is also known as Druthob Goemba. Housing around 60 nuns in its premises, a visit to the site energizes the soul because of its peaceful surroundings. From here, there is a spectacular view of Tashichho Dzong.

Later visit the Local Market of Thimphu. The handicrafts market of Thimphu is also known as the Authentic Bhutanese Crafts Bazaar. The shops crafted from bamboo are lined neatly in row, selling colorful and beautiful authentic handicraft of Bhutan. There are almost a hundred shops in the market selling various souvenirs, authentic handcrafted apparels, bags, masks, and many more items. The products are all produced from the local villages. The market aims to preserve the Bhutanese culture and promote their traditions and handicrafts.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mid-Range Accommodations: Tashi Yoedling (Thimphu)
Luxury Accommodations: Norkhil Boutique Resort (Thimphu / 4-star)

After breakfast, drive back to Paro.

En route, visit Simtokha Dzong, officially known as "Sangkak Zabdhon Phodrang" or the Palace of the Profound Meaning of Secret Mantras. Built in 1629 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it is often said to be the first Dzong built in Bhutan and is a gateway to Thimphu Valley.

Later, visit Paro Dzong.

Paro Dzong, also known as Ringpung Dzong means 'Fortess on a heap of jewels. This impressive dzong is the finest example of Bhutanese architecture and is one of the most popular and well known dzongs in Bhutan. It is the administrative seat of the district of Paro. The dzong was built in the 16th century on the foundation of a monastery built by Guru Rinpoche. In the past, this dzong was used on numerous occasions to defend the Paro Valley from invasions by Tibet.

Later visit the Kyichu Lhakhang, an important Himalayan Buddhist Temple. Built in the 7th century, this is one of Bhutan's oldest religious sites in Bhutan. The temple is one of 108 built by Tibetan emperor Songtsen Gampo to subdue a demoness who prevented the spread of Buddhism. Temples were built across the Himalayas to pin her body down. Kyichu Lhakhang pins down her left foot and Jamba Lhakhang in Bumthang her left knee.

Guru Rimpoche visited this temple in the 8th century and concealed many spiritual treasures here. The fine statues of the Bodhisattvas and the Buddha in this temple are national treasures. The wooden floor of the sanctum is inlaid with turquoise and coral gemstones offered by pilgrims.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mid-Range Accommodations: Hotel Olathang (Paro)
Luxury Accommodations: Zhiwa Ling Hotel (Paro / 4-star)

Perched on the side of a vertical cliff at 3000 m altitude north of Paro, this monastery creates an impressive sight and is the unofficial symbol of Bhutan. It is one of the most famous Buddhist Monasteries in Bhutan and is also referred to as the "Tiger's Nest". Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche (Guru Padmasambhava) flew to this location from Khenpajong, Tibet on the back of a tigress and subdued a demon. He then meditated in a cave here for three months and emerged in eight incarnated forms (manifestations) and blessed the place. Guru Padmasambhava is known for introducing Buddhism to Bhutan. Today, Paro Taktsang is the best known of the thirteen caves in which he meditated.

The first monastery was constructed in 1694, but in 1998 a tragic fire destroyed most of the original buildings - which have since been painstakingly restored to their former glory. Taktsang Monastery is a pilgrimage site for both tourists and locals, it is a journey filled with spiritual bliss. An hour hikes up to a small wooden teahouse called Cafeteria provides close view of the monastery. A further and a rather challenging hike led you to the glorious Taktsang Monastery.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mid-Range Accommodations: Hotel Olathang (Paro)
Luxury Accommodations: Zhiwa Ling Hotel (Paro / 4-star)

After breakfast, transfer to the Paro airport to board your departure flight.

Meals included: Breakfast