Tashi Delek and welcome to Bhutan! Your local guide will greet you at the only international airport in Bhutan, located in Paro (2,262 m) in Western Bhutan. Enjoy a panoramic view from the Paro Airport Bird's Eye View Point, offering sights of Paro International Airport, Paro Dzong, and Ta Dzong. Afterward, you can check in at your hotel for a restful stay as you adjust to the time difference.

Bhutan Standard Time is 6 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+6).
Example: If it's 12:00 PM in Bhutan, it's:
6:00 AM in London, UK (UTC+0)
3:00 AM in New York City, USA (UTC-5)
8:00 PM the previous day in Sydney, Australia (UTC+10)

When visiting Paro in early to mid-March, you may attend the vibrant annual Paro Tshechu Festival, celebrating Guru Rinpoche's Birthday on the 10th day of the second lunar month in the Bhutanese Calendar, sometimes starting around March 10th or 15th.

Enjoy the following complimentary experiences from the AOT:
1. Bhutan National Dress Experience: Try Gho for Men & Kira for Women, reflecting the country's textile heritage.
2. A Bottle of Bhutan Red Rice Wine: Taste this traditional fermented beverage made from red rice.

Paro Optionals (Free Time Ideas):
1.If all group members arrive at Paro Airport before noon, consider visiting Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong) and Bhutan National Museum (Ta Dzong) as your first stops (self-pay for tickets). Paro Dzong operates from 9 AM to 5 PM on weekdays and 10 AM to 4 PM on weekends. Remember, a tour guide must accompany you.
2.Paro's Local Market or Main Street: Stroll through a local market to discover Bhutanese cuisine ingredients like colorful chili peppers, dry cheese, potatoes, and apples. Or explore the cute shops along Paro's tiny main street.
3.Bhutan's National Sport (self-pay for the experience): Archery, Bhutan's cherished pastime for over 2,000 years & targets set at a 140m range (double the Olympic distance of 70m), was declared the country's National Sport in 1971.

For personalized travel advice aligned with your interests, reach out to your guide in advance.

Meals：    Dinner

Accommodation：Paro

Today, we will drive from Paro City to the starting point of the hiking route to Tiger's Nest Monastery. The hike takes about 2.5 hours one-way (5 hours round trip), with a rest at a view terrace halfway along the trail. Alternatively, you can opt for a horse ride (self-pay) from the camp base to the Taktsang Cafeteria (lunch spot).

Tiger's Nest Monastery (Taktsang Goemba, Takhtsang Lakhang, Paro Taktshang), originally constructed in 1692, stands as an iconic landmark of Bhutan. Perched on a cliff at 900m above the Paro valley, legend tells of Guru Rinpoche (a Buddhist saint) riding a tigress to the current site of the monastery, where he meditated in a cave for 3 years, 3 months, and 3 days. Today, it remains one of Bhutan's most visited tourist attractions and a sacred pilgrimage site for Bhutanese to visit at least once in their lifetime. In April, witness the breathtaking sight of high-altitude rhododendrons blooming, painting the mountains with vibrant red clouds.

Notes: 
1.Tiger's Nest Monastery Altitude: Situated at an impressive altitude of approximately 3,120 meters (10,236 feet) above sea level, this elevation may potentially lead to altitude sickness, although it is generally manageable for most guests. Rest assured, our guide is available to provide advice and support regarding high altitudes.
2. Tiger's Nest Hike: Approx. 5-6 hours, about 10 km round trip, highest altitude 3,150 m.

After the Tiger's Nest hike, it is time to explore Kyichu Lhakhang (Thousand-armed and Thousand-eyed Avalokiteshvara). This temple is one of the 108 Buddhist temples commissioned by King Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century (around 659 AD) to subdue a Tibetan witch's left leg. Inside the main hall of Kyichu Lhakhang, you can view a revered statue of an 8-year-old Shakyamuni Buddha, believed to have been crafted during the same period as the Jowo statue in the Ramoche Temple in Lhasa, Tibet, making it a national treasure of Bhutan.

Paro Optionals (Free Time Ideas):
1. Horse riding to Tiger's Nest Monastery: Horse Riding services are available to ascend partway up to Tiger's Nest Monastery, but you'll need to hike the remaining 1.5 hours to reach the monastery. Descending requires a full hike as horse riding services are not offered.
2. Bhutan Traditional Hot Stone Bath (1 hour): Complete your Bhutan experience with a traditional hot stone bath. This relaxing soak involves water heated by river stones on fire - a perfect post-hike treat.
3. Lighting Butter Lamps for blessings at Kyichu Lhakhang.

Meals：Breakfast   Lunch   Dinner

Accommodation：Paro

In the morning, we will head to Bhutan’s capital city, Thimphu (72km, about 2.5h), via the Tamchog Lhakhang Iron Bridge. After sightseeing in Thimphu City (2,360m) with visits to the Buddha Dordenma Statue (Buddha Point), National Memorial Chorten, Royal Takin Preserve, and Tashichho Dzong (Thimphu Dzong), you can have a good rest at your hotel.

Tamchog Lhakhang Iron Bridge (view Tachog Lhakhang from outside only) is situated by the Paro river on the route to Thimphu from Paro. You can see a unique iron chain bridge with colorful fluttering prayer flags. Both the Lhakhang and the iron bridge were constructed by the saint Thangthong Gyalpo (1385-1464, a Tibetan Polymath). Known as the "Iron Bridge Maker," Thangthong Gyalpo is celebrated for his enduring architectural achievements that stand to this day. If fortunate, you may witness local pilgrims performing long kowtows or full-body prostrations during their five-day journey to Tiger's Nest Monastery from Tamchog Lhakhang.

Buddha Dordenma Statue (Kuenselphodrang, Buddha Point) is a prominent landmark of Thimphu offering captivating vistas of the Thimphu Valley. Standing at 51.5 meters in height, made of bronze and gilded in gold, this statue is renowned as the largest sitting Shakyamuni statue globally, housing 125,000 smaller Buddha statues within. Completed in 2015 after nine years of construction, the statue fulfills an ancient prophecy to radiate happiness and peace worldwide. During festivals, fortunate visitors can witness Buddhist rituals like the Vajra Dance Ceremony within the statue's premises or pilgrims pray on the square in front, while also enjoying panoramic views of Thimphu city and its green or red rooftops.

National Memorial Chorten, constructed in 1974 in memory of the Third King, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk (the Father of Modern Bhutan) by his mother, is the most visited landmark in Thimphu. Conceived by Jigme Dorji, this stupa is dedicated to global peace and prosperity. Featuring Tibetan-style architecture with exquisite paintings and sculptures, the chorten showcases traditional stupa elements like the pyramidal pillar crowned by a crescent moon and sun. You can observe local Bhutanese circumambulating the chorten in a clockwise direction throughout the day for prayer.

Motithang Royal Takin Preserve (Takin Zoo, Takin Sanctuary) serves as a wildlife sanctuary for the Takin (Budorcas taxicolor), the national animal of Bhutan. Legend credits Drukpa Kunley (Divine Madman), the renowned Tibetan saint, with the creation of the Takin, a unique creature with a goat's head and a cow's body. In addition to the Bhutan Takin, you can also spot Himalayan Goral, Himalayan Serow, Himalayan Monal, Tragopan, Wild Pigs, Blue Sheep, Sambar Deer, Barking Deer, and Yaks in the area.

Tashichho Dzong (Thimphu Dzong), located on the right side of the Wangchu River in the northern part of Thimphu city, serves as the "Fortress of the glorious religion", housing the King's throne room, government offices, and the central monastic body. Initially constructed in 1641 and rebuilt by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in the 1960s, the Tashichho Dzong features two primary entrances - one leading to the administrative section to the south and the other (to the north) leading to the monastic quarter where the Thimphu Tshechu Festival (held around Sept. or Oct. yearly) and masked dances are performed.

Note: Thimphu Dzong is open to tourists from 5 PM to 6:30 PM on weekdays and from 10 AM to 4 PM on weekends. A tour guide is mandatory for visits, and security checks are conducted before entry. Lucky visitors may witness the flag descending ceremony if timed right.

You can enjoy a traditional meal at the Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant for dinner before head back to your hotel for overnight.

Thimphu Optionals (Free Time Ideas):
1. Folk Heritage Museum: If time permit, you can visit Folk Heritage Museum, a captivating window into Bhutan's rural past & established by the Queen Mother of Bhutan.
2. Simply Bhutan Museum: If time permit, you can visit Simply Bhutan Museum to explore more about Bhutan culture.
3. Bhutan Stamp Printing: Fully functional stamp printed with a self-portrait (Bhutan Post Office: Weekdays: 9AM - 5PM; Saturdays: 9 AM - 1 PM; Closed on Sundays).

Meals：Breakfast   Lunch   Dinner

Accommodation：Thimphu

This morning, we will drive to Punakha (74 km, about 2.5 hours) via Dochula Pass and Chimi Lhakhang. In Punakha (1,310 m), we can visit Punakha Dzong.

Dochula Pass (108 memorial chortens) is a place honoring 108 Bhutanese Soldiers. There are 108 stupas called the "Druk Wangyal Chortens", each representing a soldier's life lost in the war of Dec. 2003. The pass is adorned with colorful prayer flags symbolizing veneration and well wishes for peace and prosperity in Bhutan. If the weather is clear, Dochula Pass offers breathtaking views of the snow-covered Himalayas.

Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple, Chime Lhakhang) is situated on a hillock amidst rice fields and is a pilgrimage site for childless couples seeking blessings. The resident monk blesses such couples with a wooden phallus believed to aid in conception. This temple is linked to the renowned Drukpa Kunley (1455-1529, the Divine Madman, a Tibetan saint) known for using his phallus to lead people to enlightenment and defeat demons. Hence, phallic symbols are ubiquitous in the area. You can purchase phallus-themed handicraft souvenirs in various colors, shapes, and sizes here.

Punakha Dzong stands at the confluence of the Pho Chu River (father river) and Mo Chu River (mother river). Known as the "palace of great happiness or bliss," it is considered one of the most beautiful Dzongs in Bhutan. Initially constructed in 1637 by Bhutan's founder, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, it served as the administrative hub and Bhutanese officials' seat until the capital shifted from Punakha to Thimphu in 1955. Presently, the Dzong serves as the winter residence for Je Khenpo, the Chief Abbot of the Central Monastic Body. In 2011, the Dzong hosted the royal wedding ceremony of the 5th Bhutanese King, His Majesty Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, to Queen Jetsun Pema. Visitors in May can witness the stunning purple-blue jacaranda blooms surrounding the fortress. During the Punakha Tshechu Festival, experience mesmerizing masked dances and view a large thangka depicting Zhabdrung (Shabdrung, the father of Bhutan). Join locals adorned in Bhutan's national attire, with men in Gho and women in Kira, adding to the festive spirit.

Meals：Breakfast   Lunch   Dinner

Accommodation：Punakha

After a morning hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten and exploring Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery, known for its Nepali-style stupa, we will drive to Gangtey (74 km, about 2.5 hours), the winter home of the Black-Necked Cranes (Grus nigricollis), where you can immerse yourself in the beautiful Phobjikha Valley.

Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten is situated on the west bank of the Mo Chhu River. After crossing a suspension bridge, it is about a 45-minute walk from the main road to reach the Chorten (stupa). Constructed in 1990 by Ashi Tsering Yangdon Wangchuck (the mother of the 5th King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck) to dispel evil forces and promote peace in Bhutan and beyond, this Chorten represents a harmonious blend of Bhutanese art, architecture, and traditions. It took Bhutanese carpenters, painters, and sculptors nine years to complete this Bhutanese-style pagoda. Additionally, you can enjoy an excellent view of the Punakha Valley from there.

Punakha Optionals (Free Time Ideas):
Punakha Suspension Bridge: If time permit, visit one of Bhutan’s longest suspension bridges, spanning 160 meters. This experience will reward you with breathtaking views of the picturesque Punakha Valley and the glacier-fed Po Chu River flowing beneath.

Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery offers a breathtaking view of the Punakha Valley and the Wangduephodrang Valley. The nunnery complex includes a stunning white-painted stupa, modeled after the iconic Bodnath Stupa in Nepal. Initially established as a Buddhist college for nuns, the nunnery currently houses around 120 nuns. Visitors have the chance to closely observe and learn about the spiritual practices followed by the nuns.

After the visit, you will drive to Gangtey. And stay overnight in Gangtey.

Meals：Breakfast   Lunch   Dinner

Accommodation：Gangtey

This morning, we will have a light hike on the Gangtey Nature Trail (4km, 1.5-2hours) that starts from Gangtey Monastery (3,030 m) and ends in Khewang Lhakhang(2,850 m). It is the most beautiful and shortest of the existing nature trails in Bhutan. You can immerse yourselves in the beauty of the Phobjikha Valley(2,840 m) with farmhouses, dense pine forests, rhododendron forests, and bamboo plants on foot. During the winter, you may even have the bonus of seeing the rare and endangered Black-neck Cranes. In the afternoon, we will drive to the Black-necked Cranes Information Center.

Gangtey Monastery (Gangtey Goemba, Gangtey Gonpa) was first built in 1613 by Pema Thinley, the grandson, and re-embodiment of Pema Lingpa (the reincarnation of Guru Rinpoche, 1450-1521). It is a beautiful temple architecture that stands on the hilltop and offers a great spot to view the picturesque Phobjikha Valley. Legend has it that the Black-necked cranes circle the monastery three times when they arrive and three times when they leave. Every year on November 11, the Black-necked Crane Festival is held at the courtyard of Gangtey Goemba with local songs, dramas, and masked dances to celebrate the arrival of the endangered birds migrating from the Tibetan Plateau.

At the Black Necked Crane Information Centre, you can enter the observation room and use the telescope and spotting scopes to watch the Black-necked Crane (Grus nigricollis). Every year (Oct. to Feb.), over 300 cranes migrate from Sichuan/Tibet to Bhutan for their winter months in the Phobjikha Valley. As an indigenous Himalayan species, the black-necked cranes are considered the holy bird by local people, symboling longevity. The center has been instrumental in protecting and conserving the Black-necked crane and its species since 2003. It is a great place to learn more about the cranes and study their behavior.

Meals：Breakfast   Lunch   Dinner

Accommodation：Gangtey

After breakfast, you will depart from Gangtey and return to Paro (170 km, about 5 hours) via Dochula Pass again. After visiting Paro Dzong and the Bhutan National Museum, you will overnight in Paro.

Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzon), known as the "fortress of the heap of jewels," was built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and is located near the crystalline Paro Chu (Paro River). Accessible via a traditional wooden cantilever bridge, the dzong offers panoramic views of the Paro Valley. Serving as the office of the district administration and monastic body of Bhutan, the annual religious festival Paro Tsechu also takes place in its courtyard.

National Museum of Bhutan (Ta Dzong) is renowned as Bhutan's tallest building, a cylindrical structure standing 22 meters (72 feet) high with 6 floors. Originally completed in 1649 as a watchtower above the Rinpung Dzong, it was converted into the National Museum of Bhutan in 1968. The museum houses a rich collection of ancient artifacts such as pottery, armor, thangkas, masks, stamps, photos, statues, costumes, relics, stone axes, and religious paintings.

Meals：Breakfast   Lunch   Dinner

Accommodation：Paro

Time to bid farewell to Bhutan, the stunning Himalayan country. Your guide will meet you at your hotel and escort you to Paro International Airport (50 km, 1.5 h). Happiness is a destination; we hope you have found happiness and cherished memories during your trip in Bhutan with us. We eagerly anticipate your return. Tashi Delek!

Extension Ideas: If you wish to explore more of Bhutan, consider extending your trip to include other captivating destinations such as Haa and Bumthang.

Meals：Breakfast     

Accommodation：/