Highlights

• Visit the Taktsang ‘Tiger’s Nest’ Monastery, one of Bhutan’s architectural highlights
• Visit the Rinpung Dzong, where the Monastic body and government office of Paro is housed
• Be privy to the rich collection at Ta Dzong, the national museum of Bhutan
• Pay respects at Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan
• Enjoy spectacular views of the Himalayas from the Dochu La mountain pass
• Visit the 300-year old Punakha Dzong: the winter residence of the Central Monastic Body and where many major Royal events take place
• Spend a day exploring the bustling capital Thimphu, including sights like the Buddha Dordenma, the National Memorial chorten and more
• Experience Bhutanese local cuisine to savor its distinctive flavors and gain insight into its cultural heritage.

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Detailed Itinerary

Day 01 : Arrive in Paro

Upon arrival, you'll be warmly greeted and transferred to your accommodation. After checking in and settling in, embark on your first exploration of the Himalayan Kingdom with a tour of Paro town and a temple visit. This afternoon excursion helps you acclimate to the altitude and meet your guide. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 02 : Paro to Punakha Valley Via Thimphu and Dochula

After breakfast, you have the option to visit a nearby monastery for a serene butter lamp ceremony, offering a spiritual welcome to the kingdom. Witness monks lighting lamps with ghee, a ritual symbolizing the dispelling of ignorance and celebrating life's continuity. As you journey from COMO Uma Paro to COMO Uma Punakha, explore Thimphu’s treasures, including the majestic Buddha Dordenma statue and the National Memorial Chorten. The drive to Punakha, ascending the scenic Dochu La pass, reveals breathtaking views of 108 chortens, fluttering prayer flags, and the majestic Himalayan range. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 03 : Full day sightseeing Punakha

After delicious breakfast, begin the morning with a walk through farmhouses and rice paddies to Chimmi Lhakhang, a 15th-century fertility temple dedicated to Drukpa Kuenley, the 'Divine Madman.' This revered site, adorned with fertility symbols and vibrant statues, attracts couples seeking to start a family. Continue to the 300-year-old Punakha Dzong, built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and now the winter residence of Bhutan’s chief abbot and 1,000 monks. After lunch, explore Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a hilltop shrine, and enjoy the lush Punakha Valley, rich with bananas and oranges. Overnight at the hotel.

‍Day 04 : Punakha Valley to Paro

After breakfast, retrace your journey over the Dochu La pass for another view of the Himalayan range. At Chuzom, admire the three shrines with distinct Nepali, Tibetan, and Bhutanese architectural styles, built to ward off evil spirits. Time permitting, visit Tamchog Lhakhang, a temple by Thangtong Gyalpo, known for introducing suspension bridges. Conclude the drive through apple orchards and rice paddies back to COMO Uma Paro, where you can relax or try archery, Bhutan’s national sport. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 05 : Full Day Paro Sightseeing

After breakfast, traverse pine forests to the fortress-like Zurig Dzong monastery, then visit Ta Dzong, Bhutan’s National Museum, offering panoramic views of Paro. Continue to Rinpung Dzong, or the “Fortress on a Heap of Jewels,” and cross the Paro Chhu river via the traditional Nyamai Zam bridge. Explore Paro town, then visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, known for its magical orange tree. Time permitting, drive to Drukgyel Dzong, built in 1648 to guard the northern route to Tibet. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 06 : Paro Attractions

Today's focus is on the historic Paro Valley, culminating with a visit to the Taktsang ‘Tiger’s Nest’ Monastery, a key Bhutanese landmark. Legend says Guru Rinpoche arrived here on a flying tigress, bringing Buddhism from Tibet. The day starts early to avoid the heat during the steep, two-hour climb, which includes a scenic waterfall and culminates at the monastery’s entrance with beautiful murals. If time permits, explore further temples. After lunch at Taktsang or a picnic, return to COMO Uma Paro to relax, enjoy the steam rooms, gym, pool, or COMO Shambhala treatments.

Day 07 : Board your return flight

After breakfast at the hotel, you will be dropped at the Paro International Airport at the right time as per your flight schedule. It is a 10-minute drive. You will board the flight for your return journey at Paro International airport.

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