Following breakfast, make a brief drive north of the town to reach Buddha Dordenma, situated atop a hill within the serene Kuenselphodrang Nature Park. This remarkable statue brings to life an ancient prophecy originating from the 8th century A.D., which was unearthed by Terton Pema Lingpa, a discoverer of religious treasures. It is believed that this statue emits an aura of tranquillity and joy, extending its influence to the entire world. Crafted from bronze and adorned with a layer of golden gilding, this colossal Shakyamuni statue stands at a towering height of 51.5 meters, solidifying its position as one of Bhutan’s largest statues. Within the Buddha Dordenma statue itself, an astonishing 125,000 smaller Buddha statues, also cast in bronze and gilded, have been meticulously arranged. While at Buddha Point, you’ll have the option to engage in meditation at a specially designated area.

Then embark on Buddha Dordenma to Changangkha Lhakhang (approx. 1.1/2-hour, easy walk) hike. As you move on this trail, you’ll be greeted by a magnificent sight of hundreds of prayer flags waving in the breeze, creating a colourful and spiritual welcome. The trail leads you through a pristine forest adorned with tall pines, graceful birch trees, and vibrant rhododendrons. Entire trail is well-maintained and along the way, you’ll come across charming gazebos, providing perfect vantage points.

Visit Changangkha Lhakhang, an ancient temple holding a rich history and dating back to its establishment by Lama Phajo Drugom Shigpo. This revered Lama, hailing from Tibet, is regarded as the founder of the Drukpa lineage in Bhutan. The temple’s construction began in the 12th century and was further extended by his son in the 13th century. At the heart of Changangkha Lhakhang resides a central statue of Chenrezig, a manifestation with eleven heads, representing compassion and enlightenment. For generations, parents have journeyed here to seek blessings for their newborns from the protector deity Tamdrin. Children are blessed with a phurba, a ritual dagger, and adorned with a sacred thread as part of this cherished tradition.

Bhutan has gained recognition for its inventive postage stamps, and The Postal Museum offers a glimpse into the evolution of postal services and, to some extent, the communication system within the country. It also showcases Bhutan’s collection of rare and unique stamps that have been issued over the years. Additionally, you can pay a visit to the Postal office, conveniently situated next door, where you have the opportunity to create personalized postal stamps and explore a variety of souvenirs.

Post lunch, continue onto Textile Museum, a cultural gem that beautifully encapsulates Bhutan’s rich heritage in the realm of textiles. Under the patronage of Her Majesty Queen Ashi Sangay Choden, this museum has elevated Bhutanese textiles to an art form of profound significance. Its exhibits are a captivating journey through six major themes, including warp and weft pattern weaves, the role of textiles in religion, outstanding achievements in textile arts, textiles sourced from indigenous fibers, and a glimpse into the Royal collection. Through intricate weavings and vibrant designs, the Textile Museum offers visitors a deeper understanding of Bhutan’s cultural tapestry and the intricate craftsmanship that has been a hallmark of the nation for centuries.

Then you’ll have the opportunity to explore the Centenary Farmers Market and Ka Ja Thorm, the local market. The Farmers Market, also known as the Weekend Market, is a vibrant hub where farmers from across the country gather to sell their produce. It’s a bustling and colorful marketplace, offering a wide array of farm products and handicrafts. With its picturesque setting and diverse offerings, the Farmers Market is a beloved destination for many visitors.

Afterwards, drive to Zilkha Nunnery. Built in 1976 by the 16th emanation of Thangtong Gyalpo, Drubthob Rikey Jadrel, this is the only nunnery in the capital city of Thimphu. Located above Zilukha Lower Secondary School, overlooking Traschichhoedzong, the nunnery is home to about 60 nuns who lead life of spiritualism, prayer and meditation.

Wrap up your day of sightseeing with a visit to Trashichhoedzong, often referred to as the ‘fortress of the glorious religion.’ This remarkable edifice serves as the heart of both government and religion in Bhutan, housing the monarch’s throne room and serving as the seat of the Je Khenpo, or Chief Abbot. Originally constructed in 1641 by Bhutan’s political and religious unifier, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it underwent a meticulous reconstruction in the 1960s, employing traditional Bhutanese construction methods that eschewed the use of nails or architectural plans.

Overnight at hotel in Thimphu.

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we embarked on a scenic drive up to the breathtaking Dochu-la pass, standing at an elevation of 3,088 meters (10,130 feet). Pausing briefly at this vantage point, we marvel at the panoramic views while admiring the adorned chorten, mani wall, and fluttering prayer flags that embellish the highest point along the road. On clear days, the towering peaks visible from this pass include Masagang, Tsendagang, Terigang, Jejegangphugang, Kangphugang, Zongphugang, and the majestic Gangkar Puensum, Bhutan’s highest peak at 7,570 meters.

At Dochula Pass, we encounter the remarkable sight of 108 chortens, known as Druk Wangyal Chortens, meticulously crafted by Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk, the esteemed Queen Mother. These chortens, constructed in three layers, symbolize spiritual reverence, with the lower layer comprising forty-five chortens, the middle layer thirty-six, and the top layer twenty-seven, encircling the central chorten.

Continue drive to Punakha enjoying breathing views along the way.

On arrival, check into hotel.

Punakha served as the capital of Bhutan and seat of government until 1955 and still it is the winter seat of Je Khenpo (the chief abbot). Blessed with temperate climate and owing to its natural drainage from Pho Chhu (male) and Mo Chhu (female) rivers, the fertile Punakha valley produces abundant crops and fruits. Located at an elevation of 1,300m above sea level, Punakha enjoys mild winters and is popular year-round destination.

Afternoon visit Punakha Dzong or ‘Palace of Great Happiness’, built at the junction of the Pho Chhu and Mo CHhu rivers in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. This majestic dzong served as both the religious and the administrative centre of Bhutan in the past. It measures some 600 by 240 feet and has a six-story, gold-domed tower. Inside are courtyards and religious statuary that hint at the depth of history and spiritual tradition embodied here. Your guide will illuminate your understanding of this intricate culture that is exotic to us, though long established here.

The Chimi Lhakhang, situated on a hillock in the centre of the valley, also known as the temple of fertility. It is widely believed that couples who do not have children and wanting one, if they pray at this temple, they are usually blessed with a child very soon. The trail leads across rice fields to the tiny settlement of Pana, meaning ‘field’. A walk through the village near the temple will give you rare glimpses into the daily life and lifestyle of the villagers.

Overnight at hotel in Punakha.

Morning, embark on a scenic hike leading to the majestic Khamsum Yuelley Namgel Chorten (approx. 2-hour round trip nature walk). This remarkable structure was erected with the intention of dispelling negative energies and fostering peace, stability, and harmony in a world marked by constant change. The chorten stands as a commanding presence in the upper Punakha Valley, offering breathtaking panoramas that sweep over the Mo Chhu River and extend towards the towering peaks of Gasa and the surrounding landscape.

Next, stroll across the Punakha Suspension Bridge, gracefully suspended over the rushing waters of the Mo Chhu River. A marvel of engineering, this bridge provides a thrilling experience for visitors. Spanning approximately 160 meters, it ranks among Bhutan’s longest suspension bridges, offering a unique perspective of the picturesque Punakha Valley. With prayer flags fluttering in the wind and the river’s roar below, crossing this bridge provides an exhilarating blend of natural beauty and cultural significance.

Post lunch, excursion to Talo village, which is scattered along the hill slopes and known for its cleanliness and hygiene among Punakha villages. Talo is the seat of the mind incarnations of the Zhabdrung. Talo Sangnacholing Dzong is built on a plateau and has majestic view of surrounding villages. The beautiful farmhouses of the village have its own flower gardens and on the hill slope corns and sweet peas are grown in abundance. Spend time at Nobgang and Talo villages visiting farmhouses and meeting families, experiencing Bhutanese rural life.

Later in afternoon visit to Nalanda Buddhist Institute. Locals call this place ‘Dalayna’ and the monks call it Nalanda Buddhist College. The Nalanda Buddhist Institute is a monastic school near the village of Talo, above the Punatsangchu river. Here you’ve opportunity to witness prayer ceremony, interact with monks, for knowledge on Buddhism, process of meditation. 

Post visit, drive to Paro along scenic highway. En route visit handsomely proportioned Simtokha Dzong built in 1629 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and modelled on Gyal Gyad Tshel Institute of Ralung (Tibet). Officially known as Sangak Zabdhon Phodrang (Palace of the Profound Meaning of Secret Mantras), Simtokha is often said to be the first dzong built in Bhutan. It is in fact also the oldest dzong to have survived as a complete structure.

On arrival in Paro, check-in to hotel.

The beautiful valley of Paro encapsulates within itself a rich culture, scenic beauty and hundreds of myths and legends. It is home to many of Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries, National Museum and country’s only international airport. Mount. Chomolhari (7,314m) reigns in white glory at the northern end of the valley and its glacial water plunge through deep gorges to form Pa Chhu (Paro River). Paro is also one of the most fertile valleys in the Kingdom producing a bulk of the locally famous red rice from its terraced fields.

Overnight at hotel in Paro.

After breakfast, embark on a fascinating excursion to Taktshang Monastery or Tiger’s Nest (approx. 5 – 6 hours round trip walk).  It is one of the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries, perched on the side of a cliff 900m above the Paro valley floor. Legends say that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery and hence it is called ‘Tiger’s Nest’. This site has been recognized as a most sacred place and visited by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646 and now visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime.

Afternoon visit Kyichu Lhakhang, a 7th-century temple that forms part of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas under the reign of Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. The establishment of this temple marked the introduction of Buddhism to Bhutan.

Later explore Paro city centre and local market.

Overnight at hotel in Paro.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport to connect onward.