On a clear day, the flight to Paro offers stunning views of major Himalayan peaks like Everest and Kanchenjunga, as you traverse the Southern hills and descend into the narrow Paro Valley. The approach reveals rice fields, villages, and the uniquely positioned airstrip along a river. Although landing at Paro, with its high altitude and short runway, might seem daunting, trained pilots ensure a safe experience.

Upon arrival, proceed through immigration and meet your guide. After checking into your hotel and resting, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, originally built in the 7th century and later expanded in 1968. Then head to the National Museum, which showcases Bhutanese art, artifacts, and natural history. Finish with a visit to Rinpung Dzong to see a painting of the revered saint Milarepa and a stroll across the traditional cantilever wooden bridge. (Overnight at your hotel in Paro)

Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Bhutan’s iconic cliffside temple where Guru Padmasambhava meditated in the 8th century. The 4-6 hour hike offers stunning views and is a must-do for visitors, becoming widely known in the late 90s and early 2,000s for its striking architecture. Many travelers aim to reach at least halfway. After your hike, unwind with a traditional hot-stone bath, which soothes muscles and bones after the strenuous trek. Overnight in Paro.

Drive to Shana Zampa, the trailhead, and trek through rivers, streams, and lush forests to Thangthangkha meadow (3,610m) where you’ll set up your first campsite. Enjoy a peaceful night surrounded by nature’s sounds. Overnight at Thangthangkha camp.

Hike through stunning rhododendron forests and high-altitude valleys to Jangothang (4,100m), also known as Jhomolhari camp. You’ll pass yak herder camps and enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Jhomolhari. Overnight at Jangothang camp.

Spend the day acclimatizing in Jangothang with short hikes around the area and exploring nearby herder camps. Enjoy the stunning views of Mt. Jhomolhari and Mt. Jowo Drakey as you prepare for the higher altitudes to come. Overnight in Jangothang.

Hike through pristine valleys and streams to Nyile La (4,850m), then continue to Lingzhi with views of Lingzhi Dzong, Mt. Jhomolhari (7,300m), and Jowo Drakey. Reach your campsite at Chhashi Thang (4,010m) opposite Lingzhi Dzong. Overnight at Chhashi Thang camp.

The trail crosses Mochhu (Female River) and ascends high-altitude hills to Yeli La (4,930m), offering stunning views of Jhomolhari and nearby peaks. Continue past Khedo Tsho and Jarading Thang to your campsite near Shodu (4,080m), still above the tree line. Overnight at Shodu campsite.

Hike through forests and river valleys to reach the limestone cliffs with meditation caves, where Zhabdrung is said to have meditated. The trail crosses large streams to arrive at the campsite in Barshong. Overnight at Barshong campsite.

Enjoy a day hike through mixed forests of fir, spruce, hemlock, and rhododendron, crossing steep ridges. The hike ends at Dolam Kencho meadow, where you will camp for the night. Overnight at Dolam Kencho campsite.

On the final day, trek along the Wangchhu River to Dodena, where your driver will meet you. Drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s largest and fastest-growing city. Enjoy the evening at leisure. Overnight at a hotel in Thimphu.

Today’s activities include visiting the Buddha Dordenma Statue for panoramic views of Thimphu, exploring the Memorial Chorten—a peace monument dedicated to the late king, and seeing Bhutan’s national animal, the Takin, at its reserve. You’ll also experience traditional Bhutanese culture at Simply Bhutan, an interactive museum, and browse fresh produce at the Centenary Farmers’ Market. Finish the day with a stroll through Thimphu’s main street. Overnight in Thimphu.

After breakfast, drive over Dochu-la Pass (3,088m), where you’ll enjoy stunning views of the eastern Himalayas. Descend to the village of Lobeysa/Mitsina and walk to Chhimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenley, popular among women seeking fertility. Continue to Punakha, which was Bhutan’s capital until 1955. Visit Punakha Dzong, a 1637 fortress that has been recently restored after sustaining damage from fires and an earthquake. Overnight in Punakha.

Today’s sightseeing includes a visit to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal, a chorten built for spiritual protection, accessible by a short drive from Punakha and a 30-minute hike. You’ll also explore Zomlingthang Temple, a new site combining traditional Bhutanese and contemporary art. At Sangchen Dorji Lhendrup Nunnery, perched on a ridge with great views, you’ll see a large bronze Avalokiteshvara statue and learn about the nuns’ education and skills training. Finally, you’ll visit the picturesque villages of Talo or Nobgang, known for their cleanliness and connection to the Queen Mothers of Bhutan. Overnight in Punakha.

In the morning, drive to Phobjikha Valley, a bowl-shaped area known for its colder climate compared to Punakha, and occasional winter snowfall. Phobjikha is renowned for being the winter habitat of the endangered Black-Necked Crane, which migrates from Tibet. The Crane Information Centre provides insights into these migratory birds, which arrive in late autumn and are celebrated in annual festivals. The cranes are believed to circle Gangtey Goenpa Monastery as a mark of respect and to seek protection, with local folklore recounting tales of cranes offering their gratitude by staying behind each year.

Visit Khewang Lhakhang, also known as Chulukhe, a temple founded by Trulku Penjor Gyeltshen to address famine and disease. Hike the Gangtey Nature Trail, a two-hour trek from Gangtey Monastery through Phobjikha Valley’s landscapes. Explore Gangtey Goenpa, a key Nyingmapa monastery where black-necked cranes circle during winter. Drive back to Paro, crossing Dochula Pass again, check into your hotel, and visit the National Museum to see Bhutanese art, artifacts, and natural history exhibits. (Overnight in Paro)

Drive to Paro airport for your departure from Bhutan. We hope you’ve created lasting memories and captured many photos. We look forward to welcoming you back to this enchanting Himalayan land.