Arrival in Paro International Airport after one of the most breath-taking flights in the world through Spectacular Mountain ranges of the Himalaya. Welcome at the airport and transfer to the hotel in Thimphu for check-in.

In the afternoon visit Tashi Chho Dzong – a Buddhist monastery on the western bank of Wang Chu River. It was first built in the 13th century, through the long-time of the history that was damaged by several factors. It was not until 1968, the dzong was restored and completed by His Late Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck followed by the traditional architecture and became the seat of Government. Spend time to wander around the monastery to indulge in the fresh as well as the tranquil ambiance surrounded by the lush gardens and well-kept lawns.

Overnight stay in hotel.

After breakfast at the hotel, we will proceed for a city tour of Thimphu.

Today’s first stopover is the National Memorial Chorten which is the most iconic relic of the kingdom. Holding the quintessence of Bhutan history, the stupas displays great Buddhist paintings and statues.  Also visit Takin Reserve, which was originally a zoo. A few years ago, the fourth king decided that a zoo was not in line with the environmental and religious beliefs of Buthan and was therefore demolished. The animals were released in the wild, But the “Takins” were so gentle animals that they roamed the streets of Thimphu in search of food and the only solution was to put them back in captivity. Also visit the Centenary Farmer’s Market to witness the lively atmosphere of local people selling their agriculture products on vendors and colorful stalls.

In the afternoon, visit Tachogang Lhakhang temple – the landmark of Paro holding important relics. With statues of Lord Buddha, Zhabdrung, Guru Padmasambhava and Chemrizg Avalokiteshvara. Then visit the fascinating suspension bridge nearby before returning to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

Overnight stay at hotel in Thimphu.

After breakfast, check out from the hotel.  it is time to drive back to Paro today via the scenic Doch La Pass, enjoying spectacular views of the towering Himalayas along the photo stop route at the confluence of the Paro and Thimpu   Rivers.  Upon arrival check in at the hotel.

In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing tour of the Paro Valley and visit the National Museum, which is housed in an old Ta Dzong (watchtower) and holds an intriguing collection of artefacts. Discover Dungtse Lhakang, an incredible three story Chorten-style building which was constructed in 1433 and the beautiful 7th century Kichu Lhakang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan.

Overnight stay at hotel in Paro.

After breakfast, visit the most famous Taktshang Pelphung Monastery or popularly known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery. It is one of the most venerated and famous of Bhutan’s monasteries. It is located on the face of a sheer 900m cliff above the floor of Paro Valley.

Today it will be a scenic hike, to view this spectacular and unmissable sight. The monastery is only accessible on foot or you can ride a pony part of the way (this must be arranged in advance).  Walk past a suspension bridge beyond a carved Buddha on a rock to Thankabi Monastery. Thankabi goemba is located amongst fields of buckwheat.

From the trail (2600m) we take a steep one hour walk up to a cafeteria where you can enjoy refreshments and the wonderful views of Taktshang (2940m). Those who wish to proceed further must travel on foot, the trail continues uphill for another 45 minutes to a high observation point (3140m) where there is a Chorten (stupa). From this vantage point, the lookout to the monastery is incredible and seems almost close enough to touch. Continuing down a flight of cliff-hanging steps on the narrow trail you’ll reach a beautiful waterfall that plunges down the deep chasm and alongside is a retreat hermitage, jammed dramatically into a rock crevice. Then, the final climb up the flight of steep steps to the monastery. At any point during this walk, you can return if you find it too difficult, though we would like to note that client feedback highlights today’s trek as one of the most rewarding and worth continuing to reach the top.

Once inside the monastery, there are several shrines and temples to explore, and you will see a few monks in residence too. After exploring the monastery, we walk back to the cafeteria for lunch before retracing our steps back to the road to journey back to Paro. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Overnight stay at hotel in Paro.

After breakfast, transfer to Paro Airport to catch your flight for onward destination. 
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Arrive home with pleasant memories of your Bhutan tour organized by State Express Global Voyages, which we are sure you will treasure for a lifetime.