The land of happiness

You begin your Bhutan adventure with an individual flight to Paro, where the next morning it is finally time to say: Welcome to Bhutan! After landing, you will be greeted by a representative at the airport and get your first impressions of Bhutan’s rich culture. The Rinpung Dzong, also known as Paro Dzong, decorated with vibrant murals, is considered one of the most impressive architectural masterpieces of the kingdom. On your drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital located at an altitude of 2,320 meters, you may stop—depending on available time—at the suspension bridge of Tachogang Lhakhang and various stupas along the way. Upon arrival in Thimphu, you will check into your hotel, where you can relax after your journey and take your time to acclimatize to the unfamiliar altitude.

Bhutan's capital, Thimphu, presents a tranquil atmosphere where even traffic lights are nowhere to be found and, at the request of the population, traffic is still directed by police officers – the happiness and well-being of the citizens is paramount in this small kingdom. A leisurely hike leads you through a pine forest to the Wangduetse Temple, where you can enjoy a magnificent view over the valley. No less impressive is "Buddha Point," as Kuenselphodrang is also known; here, a 61-meter-high golden Buddha statue overlooks the enchanting mountain scenery. The King's Memorial Chorten, built in the traditional Bhutanese style as a monument to the third king, also symbolizes world peace and prosperity. From Friday to Sunday, you can find the perfect Bhutanese specialty among the diverse offerings at the market. A visit to an astrological monastery school and the Tashi Chodzong in the evening round off a day in the capital.

The Dochula Pass, at an altitude of approximately 3,080 meters, offers spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks of the eastern Himalayas and Bhutan's highest mountain, forming a breathtaking backdrop for the 108 small chortens and numerous colorful prayer flags. The Punakha Valley is one of the warmest places in Bhutan, where cacti and poinsettias bloom everywhere. Optionally (at an additional cost), you can immerse yourself in the culinary delights by preparing a typical dish in a local restaurant, while an optional archery lesson (at an additional cost) will introduce you to Bhutan's national sport. The natural beauty can be enjoyed in the afternoon with a walk (approximately 1.5 hours) to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten. The idyllic path leads gently to moderately uphill, across a suspension bridge, through rice paddies and forests to the hilltop pagoda, which overlooks the valley with a magnificent view.

The route leads back to Paro via the Dochula Pass, offering wonderful views of the enchanting mountains. Shortly before the pass, you'll take a short hike (approx. 1 hour) to the Chime Lhakhang fertility temple, shrouded in numerous legends and dedicated to a mad saint. Upon arrival, you can spend the afternoon relaxing before having the opportunity in the evening to try on a traditional Bhutanese garment (optional, at an additional cost) – a kira for women and a go for men.

The Tiger's Nest, as Taktshang Monastery is also known, is Bhutan's most famous monastery, not least because of its spectacular location on a cliff face high above the Paro Valley. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a flying tigress to meditate in a cave for three months. A walk (approx. 1 hour) leads you to a viewpoint where you can enjoy a wonderful view of the buildings perched on narrow ledges. If you're feeling even more adventurous, you can hike all the way up to the monastery (approx. 2 hours). On the way back to Paro, you'll visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and holiest shrines, whose construction marks the introduction of Buddhism to Bhutan and, with its countless colorful prayer flags, exudes a captivating spiritual atmosphere.

Depending on your departure time, you will have the day at your leisure before being transferred to the airport. From there, you will depart via Delhi for your return flight home, carrying with you a wealth of new impressions. We wish you a pleasant journey home and hope to welcome you back as our guests again soon.