Bhutan in Bloom

Day 1

Thimphu

Fly into Paro and drive to Thimphu. Keep the first afternoon gentle: Memorial Chorten, traditional crafts and textiles, the old town and perhaps Tashichho Dzong towards evening.

Day 2

Thimphu

Full day exploring Thimphu: Buddha Dordenma, Simply Bhutan or the Folk Heritage Museum, the National Textile Museum, the traditional painting school and a local market. Include an archery experience rather than only sightseeing.

Day 3

Punakha

Thimphu to Dochula Pass, with its 108 chortens and Himalayan views, then descend into the warmer Punakha Valley. Visit Chimi Lhakhang, the Divine Madman temple, en route.

Day 4

Punakha

A proper Punakha day: Punakha Dzong, arguably one of Bhutan’s most beautiful buildings, the suspension bridge, villages and rice terraces. Optional gentle hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten.

Day 5

Gangtey / Phobjikha

Drive to the magnificent Phobjikha Valley. Visit Gangtey Monastery and walk part of the Gangtey Nature Trail. This is where the itinerary begins to feel much less conventional.

Day 6

Gangtey / Phobjikha

A slow day in Phobjikha. Village walk, farmhouse visit, monastery experience and time in the valley. If travelling in the right season, this is the celebrated winter home of the black-necked cranes.

Day 7

Paro

Phobjikha to Paro. It’s a longer travelling day, so don’t overload it. Stop at Dochula or Thimphu if appropriate and arrive in Paro late afternoon.

Day 8

Paro

Explore historic Paro: Rinpung Dzong, the National Museum and Kyichu Lhakhang. I’d also arrange a private farmhouse visit followed by a traditional hot-stone bath.

Day 9

Paro

The finale: hike to Taktsang, Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Allow most of the day rather than rushing it. Farewell dinner that evening.

Day 10

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Transfer to Paro Airport and fly out.