Explore Happiness Bhutan

7 Days / 6 Nights

About Explore Happiness Bhutan

This tour will take you through the beautiful valleys of Paro and Thimphu in the West, Punakha in the central region and Phuntsholing in the South.

As you move from one district to the other you will notice scenic views of the mountain and valleys with diverse vegetation. You will visit many monasteries and fortresses which are the foundation to the culture and tradition of the country. Some of the highlights would be the visit to the fortress which houses the King’s office, the monastery which was built in the 7th century , the fertility temple and the breathtaking Tiger’s Nest. You will also visit the museums, cultural center and go to local farm houses which will enable you to learn more about the country.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01Arrive Paro

After you arrive at the Airport, your tour manager will receive you and drive you to the hotel. Once you have checked in during the afternoon visit the Rinpung Dzong which is a fortress overlooking the Paro valley. Paro valley hosts many old temples and monasteries and is rich in culture and scenic beauty. Then visit the Ta Dzong, the watch tower was built to watch over the Dzong and now established as the National Museum. During the evening go for an exploratory walk in the town and the market area.

Overnight at Paro (Altitude 2,280m).

Day 02Paro Day Tour

After breakfast hike to Taktshang Monastery. Also known as the Tiger’s Nest is one of the most famous and religious sites in the country. It is perched on the side of a cliff 900m above the valley. Later in the afternoon drive to the base of Drukgyel Dzong, on the way you will get the scenic views of the valleys and the mountains where typical traditional farm houses are built.

Next drive to Kichu Lhakhang, it was built in the 7th century and is one of the oldest Buddhist temple in the country.

Overnight at Paro (Altitude 2,280m).

Day 03Paro to Punakha

After breakfast, drive to Punakha which was the previous capital of the country. On the way stop at Dochula pass (3088m), with favorable weather you will be able to see the highest peak. You will also find 108 stupas and Druk Wangyel Lhakhang at Dochula. Drive further and then explore some parts of the Royal Botanical Park.

After lunch visit Punakha Dzong, where the royal weeding of the 5th King took place. Then go for a short hike through the farms to Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the temple of fertility. Later during the evening explore the local market.

Overnight at the hotel in Punakha (Altitude 1300m).

Day 04Punakha and Drive to Thimphu

In the morning, visit Gangtey Goempa whose overseer is Gangtey Tulku, the ninth reincarnation of Pema Lingpa-a famous Buddhist saint.

The Daywill start with a drive to Sangchhen Dorji Lhendrup Lhakhang. There after hike to the Khamsum Yulley Namgel Chorten from where you will get a great view of the valley. Post lunch drive to Thimphu which is the capital of the country. It is a city where you will see a good blend of the modern and traditional culture. After checking in to the hotel in Thimphu, explore the city and go through the local market.

Overnight at Thimphu (Altitude 2320m).

Day 05Thimphu Day Tour

In the morning go to the National Library, Institute of Zorig Chusum, Textile Museum and the Folk Heritage Museum, after which you will have a good understanding of the culture, tradition and arts and crafts of the country. Post lunch visit Changgangkha Lhakhang which was built in the 12th century. Then drive to the Buddha Point, where you will find one of the biggest statues of the Buddha in the world.

Then visit the Memorial Chorten, it is one of the most important land mark in the capital. Conclude the Dayby visiting the Tashichho Dzong which houses the office of the King.

Overnight at Thimphu (Altitude 2320m).

Day 06Thimphu to Phuntsholing

Post breakfast, drive to Phuntsholing and on the way visit Simthokha Dzong which is one of the oldest dzongs in the country.The Thimphu-Phuntsholing highway was the First national highway built in 1962 with the help of the Indian Government.

Phuntsholing is a booming commercial hub, situated right at the border it blends in the fascinating mix of both Bhutanese and Indian cultures. Visit Kharbandi Gompa before entering Phuntsholing, from the monastery you will get a splendid view of Phuntsholing and the plains of West Bengal.

In the evening go around the town and visit the Zangtoe Pelri temple at the heart of the town.Overnight at hotel in Phuentsholing (Altitude 300m)

Day 07Depart Phuntsholing

FAQs

What are the main attractions of the Explore the Happiness tour in Bhutan?

Some of the major attractions covered through this tour include Rinpung Dzong of Paro, the famous Tiger's Nest Monastery-Taktsang, Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang or Temple of Fertility, National Library and Buddha Point of Thimphu, and Kharbandi Gompa of Phuentsholing. In addition, we will visit the ancient monasteries, fortresses, and cultural landmarks to provide a proper insight into their rich culture and tradition.

What is the best time to visit Bhutan for the Explore the Happiness tour?

The best time to visit Bhutan is spring, mid-March, and May, considered autumn, from September to November. The weather conditions are absolutely fine during these periods. The clear weather ensures blue skies; the scenery across the valleys and mountains will be at its best, helping you make the most of the sightseeing and hiking, like the Tiger's Nest Monastery Trek.

Are there any cultural activities included in the Explore the Happiness tour?

Of course! The tour offers an enriching cultural experience, taking you to visit several museums, monasteries, and local farmhouses. In Thimphu, you will explore the National Library, Folk Heritage Museum, and Textile Museum. Additionally, you can visit cultural landmarks such as Changangkha Lhakhang and Tashichho Dzong, where you can gain insight into Bhutan’s rich traditions and practices in art and religion.

What to pack for the Explore the Happiness tour in Bhutan?

Bring clothes for the days with hiking and dress warmly and comfortably, including hiking shoes. Pack layers as well for changing conditions. A light jacket, sunscreen, hat, and camera would make great accessories. Pack a light pack for daily excursions and a water bottle for the hikes.

What can I expect from the landscape and scenery during the tour?

Bhutan’s landscape is diverse and stunning. From lush valleys to towering snow-capped mountains, you will witness scenic views at every stop. The drive from Paro to Punakha offers panoramic vistas of valleys, traditional farmhouses, and the majestic Himalayan peaks. The hike to Tiger’s Nest provides an unforgettable view of Paro Valley from a cliffside perspective.