Embark on a 7-day Bhutan tour that takes you to some of the most stunning and culturally rich destinations in this peaceful Himalayan kingdom. Our well-curated itinerary ensures you experience Bhutan's natural beauty, spiritual heritage, and vibrant traditions. Get ready for an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking views, ancient monasteries, and meaningful cultural encounters.

Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Travel to Thimphu

Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you’ll be greeted by our friendly guide, who will escort you to Thimphu, Bhutan's capital city. Situated at an altitude of 7,333 feet, you will have some time to adjust to the high altitude during your scenic drive. Once in Thimphu, check into your hotel and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the city, where you’ll first encounter Bhutanese traditions. You will see monks in red robes, men in Ghos, and women in vibrant Kiras.

The day's sightseeing includes visits to National Memorial Chorten, a stupa built in 1974 to honor Bhutan’s third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuk. You'll also explore the Tashichho Dzong, an impressive fortress and Buddhist monastery, and the Centenary Farmers’ Market, where you can see Bhutanese farmers selling local produce. Don’t miss the stunning Buddha Dordenma statue, one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world, located at Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, offering panoramic views of the valley.

Day 2: Explore Thimphu

Start your day with a visit to Sangaygang (BBS Tower), a viewpoint offering a panoramic view of the entire Thimphu city. You’ll also have the chance to spot Bhutan's national animal, the Takin, during your visit. If you're an early riser, consider taking a walk up to the tower.

Next, visit Dechen Phodrang, home to the state monastic school since 1971. Discover Bhutan's spiritual education system as you learn about the training of over 450 monks. Afterward, immerse yourself in Bhutan's living culture at Simply Bhutan, a museum and photo studio that celebrates Bhutanese traditions.

End your day with a visit to Simtokha Dzong, the first dzong built in Bhutan in 1627. Today, it houses the Institute for Language and Cultural Studies, and the artistry on the prayer wheels and slate carvings is truly remarkable.

Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha

Today, drive to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan. On your way, stop at Dochula Pass, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas. Visit the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens, built in memory of Bhutanese soldiers who lost their lives in a 2003 conflict.

Explore Druk Wangyal Lhakhang, a temple built to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the monarchy. Upon arrival in Punakha, visit the Punakha Dzong, one of the most beautiful and historically significant dzongs in Bhutan, located at the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers.

Don't miss the Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge, the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan, offering incredible views of the valley and Punakha Dzong.

Day 4: Explore Punakha

Begin your day by visiting Khamsum Yuley Temple, an architectural masterpiece built by the Queen Mother of the 5th King to bring universal peace. The temple is adorned with intricate paintings of Buddhist deities and spiritual symbols.

For lunch, enjoy a picnic by the riverside, followed by a home visit where you can interact with a Bhutanese family, experiencing local hospitality firsthand. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about the traditional way of life in Bhutan.

Day 5: Punakha to Paro

Travel to Paro, home to some of Bhutan’s most iconic monasteries and temples. Visit the Kyichu Lhakhang, the oldest temple in Bhutan, built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. This temple is one of the 108 constructed to subdue an ogress that obstructed the spread of Buddhism.

Also, explore the Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche Museum, dedicated to the late spiritual teacher, housing photographs and artifacts that tell the story of his life.

Day 6: Paro – Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)

Today, hike up to the world-famous Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), Bhutan’s most iconic and spiritual landmark. Perched on a cliff 2,000 feet above the valley, the monastery offers not only spiritual enrichment but also stunning views. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew to this location on the back of a tigress and meditated here, making it a sacred site for Bhutanese Buddhists.

The hike may take a few hours, but the view from the top and the sense of accomplishment make it worth the effort. The monastery’s beauty and spiritual significance will leave you in awe.

Day 7: Departure from Paro

After a week of exploration, it’s time to say goodbye to Bhutan. We hope that by now, you have made lasting memories, experienced Bhutanese culture and hospitality, and captured beautiful moments in photographs. Tashi Delek, and we look forward to welcoming you back to Bhutan in the future!

The Thimphu Festival (Tsechu) is one of the most celebrated and grandiose festivals in Bhutan, drawing large crowds from around the world. This spectacular event offers an authentic opportunity to immerse yourself in Bhutan's rich cultural traditions. The festival is renowned for its stunning dances, performed by both trained monks and laymen, adorned in elaborate masks and vibrant costumes.

At its core, a Tsechu is a Buddhist festival held in honor of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), the saint who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan. The Thimphu Tsechu, first established by the 4th Temporal Ruler, Tenzing Rabgye in 1670, is a vivid portrayal of Bhutan's unique religious and cultural identity.

During the festival, you’ll witness locals dressed in their finest Gho's (traditional attire for men) and Kira's (traditional attire for women), celebrating their heritage and faith. Beyond the grand celebrations, this tour also offers visits to sacred sites in Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha, providing a holistic experience of Bhutan’s spiritual heart. For those seeking even more adventure, an optional day tour of the scenic Haa Valley is available, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful retreat.

Whether you’re a culture enthusiast or a spiritual seeker, the Thimphu Tsechu is an unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories of Bhutan’s vibrant traditions and beautiful landscapes.

ITINERARY OVERVIEW

Day 01: Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu
Arrive at Paro International Airport and drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city. Settle in and enjoy a brief introduction to the culture and landscape of Bhutan.

Day 02: Explore Thimphu
Immerse yourself in Thimphu’s rich history, culture, and spirituality. Visit key sites such as the Buddha Dordenma statue, the Tashichho Dzong, and more.

Day 03: Thimphu Festival (Tsechu)
Experience the spectacular Thimphu Tsechu, where you'll witness monks and laymen perform traditional dances in awe-inspiring costumes and masks. This is one of the best ways to connect with Bhutan’s spiritual and cultural essence.

Day 04: Thimphu – Punakha
Travel from Thimphu to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan, known for its picturesque setting and historical significance. Visit the iconic Punakha Dzong and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this beautiful town.

Day 05: Punakha – Thimphu – Paro
Return to Thimphu for a brief visit before heading to Paro, home to the famous Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest). Explore Bhutan’s rich spiritual and cultural sites.

Day 06: Explore Paro
Spend the day discovering more of Paro’s sacred sites, including Kyichu Lhakhang and Ta Dzong. Experience the tranquil beauty of this historic town.

Day 07: Departure from Paro
Depart from Paro International Airport, taking with you memories of Bhutan’s stunning landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage.

Embark on an unforgettable 12-day Bhutan tour package that includes the highly acclaimed 6-day Druk Path Trek. This trek takes you from Paro to Thimphu, offering breathtaking views of Bhutan's natural beauty, ancient monasteries, and peaceful villages. As one of the most popular trekking routes in Bhutan, the Druk Path Trek offers an easy-to-moderate hiking experience amidst lush forests, stunning ridges, and pristine lakes. Along the way, you'll also get to explore Bhutan's rich cultural heritage through visits to ancient lhakhangs (temples), dzongs (fortresses), and villages.

Why Choose the Druk Path Trek in Bhutan?

• Scenic Beauty: The Druk Path Trek passes through diverse landscapes, including forests of blue pine, fir, and dwarf rhododendrons, offering spectacular views of the Himalayas.
• Mount Gangkar Puensum: Hike alongside the highest unclimbed peak in the world, Mt. Gangkar Puensum, visible from the trekking route.
• Cultural Insights: Visit sacred monasteries and dzongs that date back centuries, providing a glimpse into Bhutan’s rich history and spiritual heritage.

Day 01: Arrival in Paro & Transfer to Thimphu (1.5 hours)

• Arrival at Paro International Airport, traditional Bhutanese welcome.
• Scenic drive along the Paro River, passing through villages like Bondey and Shaba, to reach Thimphu.
• Visit:
  • Thimphu's Weekend Market (open from Thursday to Sunday): Local produce and Bhutanese handicrafts.
  • Tashichho Dzong: Explore Bhutan’s impressive fortress that houses the King’s throne room and government offices.
• Overnight stay in Thimphu, altitude 2400m.

Day 02: Thimphu Sightseeing

• Visit:
  • Cheri Monastery: A sacred site for Buddhist education since 1627.
  • Memorial Chorten: A monument dedicated to Bhutan’s Third King, often visited by locals for prayer.
  • Buddha Dordenma: A colossal Buddha statue overlooking Thimphu Valley.
• Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 03: Thimphu to Punakha (2.5 hours)

• Drive through Dochula Pass: Panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas.
• Visit:
  • Punakha Dzong: A stunning fortress at the confluence of two rivers, and the winter residence of Bhutan’s chief monk.
• Overnight stay in Punakha, altitude 1350m.

Day 04: Punakha to Phobjikha (3 hours)

• Drive through Wangdue and the Black Mountain Range, passing waterfalls and traditional villages.
• Visit:
  • Gangtey Gompa: Hilltop monastery known for the Black-Necked Crane Festival.
  • Phobjikha Valley: A serene valley, a sanctuary for endangered black-necked cranes.
• Overnight stay in Phobjikha, altitude 2900m.

Day 05: Phobjikha to Thimphu (5 hours)

• Retrace your journey via Dochula Pass to Thimphu.
• Visit:
  • Folk Heritage Museum: Insight into rural Bhutanese life and traditions.
• Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 06: Thimphu to Labana (Trek Begins)

• Start the Druk Path Trek from Thimphu.
• Trek through forests, crossing the Pumo La pass (4100m), and enjoy views of Thimphu Valley and Mount Gangkar Puensum.
• Overnight camp at 3500m.

Day 07: Labana to Jigmelangtsho

• Trek through rhododendrons, passing the lakes of Janatso and Simkotha.
• Overnight camp at Jigmelangtsho Lake, altitude 3300m.

Day 08: Jigmelangtsho to Jangchulhakha

• Trek through high-altitude forests and meadows, with views of Chomolhari mountain.
• Possible sightings of yak herders along the way.
• Overnight camp at Jangchulhakha, altitude 3200m.

Day 09: Jangchulhakha to Jele Dzong

• Trek through ancient forests and reach Jele Dzong, a 17th-century fortress.
• Overnight camp near Jele Dzong, altitude 3000m.

Day 10: Jele Dzong to Thimphu (Trek Ends)

• Descend through pine forests to reach Paro, visiting:
  • Ta Dzong (National Museum).
  • Paro Dzong: A historical religious and administrative center.
  • Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 11: Paro Sightseeing

• Visit:
  • Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched on a cliffside 900 meters above Paro Valley.
  • Kyichu Lhakhang: One of Bhutan’s oldest temples.
  • Hot Stone Bath: Experience a traditional Bhutanese bath to relax your muscles.
• Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 12: Departure

• Depart from Paro International Airport, carrying memories of your unique Bhutan experience.

Jampa Lhakhang is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Bhutan, located in the Bumthang Valley. Founded in the 7th century AD by King Songtsen Gampo, a Tibetan ruler, Jampa Lhakhang holds great historical and spiritual significance in Bhutanese culture. The temple is part of a larger set of 108 temples known as Thadhul-Yangdhul (temples built to subdue a demoness residing in the Himalayas). These temples were constructed across the Himalayas, with Jampa Lhakhang being one of only two built in Bhutan, the other being Kichu Lhakhang in Paro, which is also believed to have been built on the same day.

The Sacred History of Jampa Lhakhang

Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche, the revered Buddhist saint, visited Jampa Lhakhang on several occasions and deemed the site exceptionally sacred. Over the centuries, the temple underwent several renovations. In the 8th century AD, it was renovated by Chakhar Gyab, the king of the Iron Castle of Bumthang, to further solidify its importance as a spiritual hub.

In the 19th century, the first king of Bhutan, Gongsa Ugyen Wangchuck, constructed the Dus Kyi Khorlo (Kalachakra-Wheel of Time) inside the temple to commemorate his victory over his rivals, Phuntsho Dorji of Punakha and Alu Dorji of Thimphu, after the famous Battle of Changlimithang in 1885. Later, Ashi Wangmo, the younger sister of the second king of Bhutan, built the Chorten Lhakhang, further enhancing the temple’s spiritual significance.

Relics of Great Importance

The main relic housed in Jampa Lhakhang is the statue of Jowo Jampa (Maitreya), the future Buddha, after whom the temple is named. The temple also contains more than one hundred statues of the Kalachakra gods, constructed by King Ugyen Wangchuck in 1887. These relics make Jampa Lhakhang a vital part of Bhutan’s spiritual and cultural history.

Jampa Lhakhang Drup – A Festival Like No Other

One of the highlights of Jampa Lhakhang is the annual Jampa Lhakhang Drup, a vibrant five-day festival that attracts visitors from across the country and beyond. The festival, held every year in November, is a spectacular celebration of Bhutanese traditions, with performances, rituals, and spiritual offerings. The festival’s most notable event is the fire ritual held in the evening, where naked dances are performed, and crowds gather to witness the dramatic display of fire and devotion.

For 2025, the Jampa Lhakhang Drup is scheduled to take place from November 5th – 8th. This event is a must-see for those visiting Bhutan during this time, offering a unique opportunity to experience the deep-rooted traditions and spiritual practices that are integral to Bhutanese culture.

Why Visit Jampa Lhakhang?

Jampa Lhakhang offers a fascinating glimpse into Bhutan's history, spirituality, and vibrant cultural traditions. Whether you are exploring the Bumthang Valley or visiting Bhutan for the Jampa Lhakhang Drup Festival, a visit to this sacred site is an unforgettable experience. With its ancient history, spiritual significance, and stunning architecture, Jampa Lhakhang stands as a testament to Bhutan’s enduring cultural heritage.