Bhutan Dragon Kingdom

Welcome to Bhutan! On arrival at Paro airport, you’ll be met by our expert local guide. After a short transfer and time to refresh, we begin our introduction to this remarkable Himalayan kingdom.

Our first stop is Ta Dzong, a historic circular watchtower that once protected the valley from invasion. Today, it houses the National Museum of Bhutan, showcasing an impressive collection of cultural artifacts, thangka paintings, and ancient relics, offering a strong foundation for understanding Bhutan’s unique identity.

Next, we visit Paro Rinpung Dzong, a striking example of traditional Bhutanese architecture. Originally built as a fortress, the dzong has long served as both a center for governance and a residence for monks. After exploring the inner courtyards and sacred halls, we take a short walk down to the cantilevered wooden bridge that spans the Pachhu River, a scenic spot that completes our first cultural encounter.

In the evening, we settle into our hotel and regroup for a pre-trip briefing to discuss the days ahead.

Overnight: Hotel

In the morning, we make the short drive to the base of Taktsang Monastery, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest Bhutan’s most iconic site. Clinging dramatically to a granite cliff some 600 metres (2,000 feet) above the Paro Valley, Taktsang is not only architecturally astonishing but also deeply sacred.

According to legend, Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) flew to this spot on the back of a tigress in 747 CE, in the wrathful form of Guru Dorje Drolo, to subdue the spirits of the region. The monastery was later built around the cave where he meditated.

The hike begins with a steep ascent through pine, oak and rhododendron forest. After about an hour, we pause at a teahouse offering excellent views of the monastery perched across the gorge. From here, a further one hour climb brings us to a chorten directly opposite the monastery for an even closer look.

The final approach involves descending and re-ascending a series of 700 steps, crossing a prayer-flag-draped gorge before reaching the monastery itself. Take time to soak in the spiritual atmosphere and spectacular setting before retracing your steps back down to the valley.

If time permits in the late afternoon, we’ll also visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, originally built in the 7th century. With its peaceful gardens and deeply spiritual atmosphere, it offers a beautiful contrast to the dramatic heights of Taktsang.

Overnight: Hotel

This morning, we visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, followed by a leisurely stroll through Paro town. After lunch, we drive toward Ta Dzong, passing through the picturesque village of Damchen, a scenic journey of approximately 1.5 hours.

At the trailhead, we begin our trek into the Himalayas, ascending gently through a tranquil forest of blue pine and silver birch. After about 2.5 hours, we emerge above the tree line into an open alpine meadow and arrive at the Jele La Pass (3,580m), with panoramic views stretching across the Paro Valley.

From here, we visit Jele Dzong, a historic fort-monastery perched along the ridge, its walls adorned with fluttering prayer flags that reflect Bhutan’s deep spiritual heritage. We set up camp just below the Dzong, where we spend the night beneath the stars in the peaceful embrace of the mountains.

Overnight: Wilderness camp below Jele Dzone

Today we continue along a wooded ridgeline high above the Paro Valley, walking through forests of conifer and rhododendron. The trail is rich in flora, with orchids, ferns and wildflowers lining the path depending on the season. As we gain elevation, we are rewarded with distant views of the snow-capped peak of Chomolhari (7,314m) to the north.

The trail passes through several yak herder settlements, offering a glimpse into the traditional nomadic life of the high Himalaya. Our camp at Jangchulakha is beautifully positioned on an open hilltop that serves as a grazing ground for yaks, with sweeping views into the valley between Paro and Thimphu.

Overnight: Wilderness camp at Jangchulakha

Today’s trek is both scenic and rewarding. We begin by ascending through coniferous forest and patches of dwarf rhododendron, gradually emerging into more open terrain as we gain elevation. The trail leads us to the Jangchu La Pass (4,190 m), which offers sweeping views of the valleys below and, on a clear day, distant Himalayan peaks.

From the pass, we can see our destination, the mystical Jimilangtsho Lake, also known as Sand Ox Lake. The trail descends steeply to the lake at 3,830 m, where we set up camp for the night.

According to local legend, the lake is home to a spiritual ox, and Bhutanese farmers still bring their cattle here in hopes of producing strong and valuable offspring. Surrounded by rugged ridgelines and alpine stillness, this crystal-clear lake is a beautiful and peaceful place to rest.

Overnight: Wilderness Camp Lakeside

Today’s trail is well defined and scenic, offering a steady climb through high-altitude dwarf rhododendron forests, which bloom vibrantly in spring. We pass by the small, serene Janeytsho Lake, continuing onwards to the larger Simkotra Lake, a picturesque alpine body of water nestled beneath rocky peaks.

As we gain altitude, encounters with yak herders and their camps become more frequent. This remote region is also known for the seasonal harvest of Cordyceps sinensis, a rare medicinal fungus collected exclusively by yak herders under Bhutanese regulation.

We reach a saddle at 4,180 m, from which it's a gradual descent into Labana (4,130 m). The name Labana means "between two passes", and from camp, we can see Phume La (4,210 m) – the high point of our trek, which we will cross tomorrow.

Overnight: Wilderness camp at Labana

Today we begin with a steady climb toward the spectacular Pumo La Pass (4,200m), the highest point of our trek. The trail leads us through peaceful yak herder settlements, past shimmering alpine lakes, and across wide-open mountain landscapes. From the top of the pass, we enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Thimphu Valley far below.

Descending gradually, we reach Phajoding Goemba (3,650m)—a serene 12th-century monastery and an important pilgrimage destination for Bhutanese Buddhists. After taking time to explore, we continue along a steep downhill trail for approximately two hours, passing through beautiful mixed forest until we arrive at Motithang, the famed “land of pearls.”

Here, our vehicle awaits to transfer us to a nearby hotel for a well-earned rest.

Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu

This morning we explore Bhutan’s charming capital, Thimphu. Our visit begins at the Textile Museum, home to exquisite weavings, brocades, and royal garments that highlight Bhutan’s rich textile heritage. We then visit the Memorial Chorten, a Tibetan-style stupa located in the heart of the city. Here, you will witness locals of all ages performing their daily circumambulations, spinning prayer wheels, and offering heartfelt prayers. Many of Thimphu’s major religious events are centered around this revered monument.

After lunch, we begin our scenic journey toward the warmer valleys of Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan until the 1960s. The drive takes approximately 3 hours, not including stops. En route, we pause at the stunning Dochula Pass (3,000m / 10,000 ft), adorned with 108 memorial stupas and colorful prayer flags. On clear days, the pass offers magnificent panoramic views of the eastern Himalayas.

We continue to Chimi Lhakhang, the famed Temple of Fertility associated with the eccentric saint known as the Divine Madman. The temple is known for its unique fertility blessings and the symbolic phallus iconography integral to Bhutanese folklore.

Arriving in Punakha, we settle into our hotel and enjoy a warm dinner with beautiful views of the iconic Punakha Dzong.

Overnight: Hotel

This morning we embark on an invigorating short hike to the King’s temple, the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Stupa, beautifully perched on a hilltop overlooking the valley. Upon reaching the summit, you’ll be rewarded with magnificent panoramic views of the lush Punakha Valley and the winding Mochhu River far below.

In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic lunch on the tranquil banks of the Mochhu River. Later, we visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, an impressive fortress that stands guard at the southern end of the valley where the Pho Chhu (male) and Mo Chhu (female) rivers meet. As you explore the dzong, admire its vibrant and intricate artistry, towering statues of Buddha, Guru Rinpoche, and Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, alongside exquisite murals including the famed one-thousand Buddha painting inside one of its shrines.

Time permitting, we continue to Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge for a gentle and scenic walk before returning to the hotel for the evening.

Overnight: Hotel in Punakha

This morning, we retrace our route back to Thimphu, once again crossing the scenic Dochula Pass, offering one last chance to soak in the panoramic Himalayan views.

In Thimphu, we visit the impressive Buddha Dordenma, one of the largest Buddha statues in the world, built to emanate peace and happiness. We’ll then stop at the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, also known as the Painting School, where young Bhutanese students undergo intensive training in the country’s revered traditional art forms. Known collectively as Zorig Chusum, these thirteen crafts represent the soul of Bhutanese cultural identity and include thangka painting, wood carving, pottery, weaving, tailoring, musical instrument making, and traditional culinary arts, among others.

This visit offers a rare and enriching opportunity to observe students at work—each brushstroke, carving, and stitch reflecting centuries of knowledge passed down through generations. As you walk through the classrooms and studios, you’ll witness the passion and precision of these young artists and gain a profound appreciation for Bhutan’s commitment to preserving its heritage.

More than just a school, the institute is a vibrant testament to Bhutan’s dedication to cultural continuity and craftsmanship. It’s an inspiring and authentic experience that leaves a lasting impression.

After a satisfying lunch in Thimphu, we continue our journey to Paro, a drive of approximately one hour. Upon arrival, there will be time for some last-minute souvenir shopping in town, a perfect opportunity to pick up a meaningful memento of your time in Bhutan. We will then check in to our accommodation.

This evening, we come together for our final dinner, a special moment to share memories and reflect on the unforgettable experiences we've enjoyed throughout our journey in Bhutan.

Overnight: Hotel in Paro or Traditional Bhutanese Farmhouse (depending on group size)

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Paro Airport for your onward flight. We bid you farewell and hope you carry home wonderful memories of your journey through Bhutan.