Bhutan Express

Paro - Thimphu. Welcome to Bhutan! At the airport, meet your guide and begin the scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, with stops for sightseeing along the way.

En route, visit Tachogang Lhakhang, a historic 15th-century temple built by the Tibetan bridge-builder and spiritual master Thangthong Gyalpo. This site is also where he constructed one of his famous iron chain bridges. Continue to Chuzom, the confluence of the Paro and Thimphu rivers, where you’ll see three distinctive stupas – Bhutanese, Tibetan, and Nepalese – symbolising different Buddhist traditions.

In Thimphu, visit the National Memorial Chorten, built in memory of Bhutan’s third king and revered as a monument to world peace. Next, head to Kuenselphodrang, or Buddha Point, to view the world’s tallest sitting Buddha statue, which overlooks the Thimphu Valley. In the evening, tour Tashichho Dzong, an impressive fortress that houses the king’s throne room, government offices, and the summer residence of the Chief Abbot. Witness the ceremonial lowering of the national flag before entering the Dzong.

Afterwards, enjoy an included dinner and a night at your hotel in Thimphu.

Thimphu - Dochula - Paro. After an early breakfast, you'll depart Thimphu and drive to Dochu La Pass, situated at an altitude of 3,088 metres. This scenic mountain pass offers panoramic views of the eastern Himalayas and is adorned with 108 memorial chortens, colourful prayer flags, and mani walls. On a clear day, enjoy breathtaking views of some of Bhutan’s highest peaks, including Gangkar Puensum, the tallest peak in the country at 7,497 metres.

Following time at the pass, return to Paro and begin exploring this charming valley. Visit Ta Dzong, originally built in 1656 as a watchtower for the nearby Rinpung Dzong. Today, it houses Bhutan’s National Museum, featuring a rich collection of artworks, traditional costumes, armour, and artefacts. Nearby, tour Rinpung Dzong, a striking 17th-century fortress-monastery that once defended Bhutan from Tibetan invasions.

End the day with a visit to Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan. Originally built in 659 by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, it has undergone various restorations, including the addition of an exquisite statue of Avalokiteshwara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion.

Today, embark on a hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest. Perched dramatically on a cliffside 900 metres above the Paro Valley, this sacred site is one of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks. The trail to the monastery winds through pine forests draped in moss and prayer flags, taking between 4 to 6 hours round trip depending on fitness level. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche—believed to be the second Buddha—flew to this spot on the back of a tigress and meditated in a cave, giving the monastery its name.

Later, visit the ruins of Drukgyal Dzong, originally constructed by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1644 to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invaders. Though damaged by fire in 1951, the fortress remains a powerful symbol of Bhutanese resistance and is currently undergoing restoration. On a clear day, enjoy spectacular views of Mount Jhomolhari (7,314m), a sacred, snow-capped peak that is revered by locals as the dwelling place of the goddess Jhomo.

In the evening, return to Paro for the final night of your tour.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. Tour arrangements conclude here. We hope you enjoyed your journey through Bhutan — safe travels!