Itinerary

Day 1 – Tuesday 30 March – Arrival in Bhutan – Thimphu

Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you’ll be welcomed by our local team before driving to Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu. The scenic journey of approximately one hour follows winding Himalayan valleys and offers a first glimpse of the country’s stunning landscapes.

After lunch at the hotel, we begin our introduction to Bhutanese culture with a visit to the Memorial Chorten, built in memory of the Third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, widely regarded as the father of modern Bhutan. The stupa remains an important place of worship, where locals gather daily to pray and spin prayer wheels.

We continue to the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, where students train in Bhutan’s traditional arts, including painting, wood carving, embroidery and sculpture.

Later, we’ll explore Kaja Throm, Thimphu’s lively farmers’ market, where vendors from surrounding valleys sell fresh produce, spices, textiles and handmade goods.

Overnight stay in a hotel in Thimphu.

Day 2 – Wednesday 31 March – Thimpu – Paro

This morning, we visit the impressive Buddha Dordenma at Kuensel Phodrang, a 51-metre-tall seated Buddha overlooking the Thimphu Valley. The site offers panoramic views across the capital and has become one of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks.

We’ll then experience Bhutan’s national sport during a traditional archery session using handcrafted bamboo bows and arrows. Archery remains deeply woven into Bhutanese culture and is an important part of local festivals and celebrations.

After lunch, we’ll visit a traditional handmade paper factory, where artisans continue centuries-old production methods using natural fibres. We also stop at the Bhutan Postal Museum, showcasing the country’s unique postal history and world-famous stamps.

In the late afternoon, we’ll drive to Paro, a picturesque town surrounded by fertile valleys, forested hills and traditional Bhutanese architecture.

Overnight stay in a hotel in Paro.

Day 3 – Thursday 1 April – Paro

Today we’ll visit Bhutan’s most famous and sacred site: Taktsang Monastery, better known as the Tiger’s Nest. Perched dramatically on a cliffside high above the Paro Valley, this iconic monastery is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in the Himalayas.

The three hour hike to the Tiger’s Nest is one of Bhutan’s most rewarding experiences, offering spectacular mountain scenery and panoramic views along the trail.

After returning to Paro, we’ll visit the National Museum of Bhutan, followed by Rinpung Dzong, the “Fortress on a Heap of Jewels”, one of the country’s most important historic monasteries and administrative fortresses.

In the evening, we’ll visit a traditional farmhouse to experience rural Bhutanese life firsthand. Here, we’ll enjoy a homemade dinner and have the opportunity to relax in a traditional hot stone bath.

Dinner and overnight stay in a hotel in Paro.

Day 4 – Friday 2 April – Paro – Yongphula – Merak

This morning, we’ll take a domestic flight to Yongphula in eastern Bhutan. The flight itself is a highlight, offering spectacular views of the Himalayas before landing at one of the country’s most scenic mountain airports.

From Yongphula, we continue towards Merak, a remote highland village located within the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary near Bhutan’s eastern frontier. Along the way, we’ll pass through villages such as Rangjung and Radhi, known for their traditional weaving and distinctive silk textiles.

Merak offers a rare glimpse into the semi-nomadic lifestyle of the Brokpa people, whose culture, dress and traditions are unlike anywhere else in Bhutan. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to explore the village and experience daily life in one of the country’s most isolated regions.

Dinner and overnight stay in a homestay in Merak.

Day 5 – Saturday 3 April – Merak Rhododendron Festival – Trashigang

Today we’ll experience the Merak Rhododendron Festival, held amidst the remote highland landscapes of eastern Bhutan.

After breakfast, we’ll travel to Sheytemi, where the festival celebrations begin with traditional ceremonies and cultural performances by the Brokpa communities.

As one of Bhutan’s lesser-known festivals, the Merak Rhododendron Festival attracts very few international visitors, offering a rare opportunity to experience local traditions in an authentic setting. There is also a good chance that members of Bhutan’s royal family will attend the celebrations, as they have regularly visited the festival in previous years.

Throughout the day, we’ll witness traditional dances, songs and cultural displays that celebrate the unique heritage of eastern Bhutan. Festival activities may include school performances, traditional singing, tug-of-war competitions involving local women and other customs unique to the highland communities of the region. Visitors may also have the chance to sample ara, Bhutan’s traditional distilled drink made from grains such as rice, wheat or millet.

In the late afternoon, we’ll return to Trashigang, the largest town in eastern Bhutan.

Overnight stay in a hotel in Trashigang.

Day 6 – Sunday 4 April – Trashigang – Samdrup Jongkhar

Today we descend from Bhutan’s eastern mountains towards the subtropical lowlands near the Indian border.

The drive to Samdrup Jongkhar takes us through ever-changing landscapes, from cool mountain forests to the warmer valleys of southern Bhutan. Along the way, we’ll pass remote villages and enjoy sweeping views of the eastern Himalayas.

After lunch in Wamrong, we’ll visit Palri Buddha Park, home to a large Buddha statue overlooking the surrounding valley. We then continue to Dzongsar Khentse Monastery in Dewathang, an important religious site associated with one of Bhutan’s most respected Buddhist lineages.

By late afternoon, we’ll arrive in Samdrup Jongkhar, Bhutan’s main gateway to India and the largest urban centre in the east of the country.

Overnight stay in a hotel in Samdrup Jongkhar.

Day 7 – Monday 5 April – Samdrup Jongkhar – Guwahati, India

This morning, we’ll cross the border into India and continue to Guwahati, the largest city in Assam. The drive takes us through the plains of northeastern India, offering a final glimpse of the region’s diverse landscapes and cultures.

Upon arrival in Guwahati, we’ll transfer to the airport for onward travel arrangements.

End of tour.