DAY 01: ARRIVAL AND PARO SIGHTSEEING

As you arrive, the warm and attentive guide of Bhutan Best Inbound eagerly awaits to extend their heartfelt welcome. A quick and seamless 10-minute transfer will transport you to the exquisite COMO UMA Paro property, where you will embark on a journey filled with unforgettable experiences.

After smoothly completing the check-in process and taking a moment to familiarize yourself with the serene ambiance, we will commence our first exploration of the magnificent Himalayan kingdom. Delve into the charm of Paro town, immersing yourself in its captivating sights and sounds, while also paying a visit to a revered temple that holds profound cultural significance.

This afternoon escapade serves a dual purpose, allowing you to acclimatize to the rarified air at this elevated altitude while also providing an opportunity to build a rapport with your knowledgeable guide, who will accompany you throughout your adventure.

Overnight: COMO UMA Paro

DAY 02: PARO – PUNAKHA VIA THIMPHU AND DOCHULA PASS

Begin your day by embarking on a captivating journey from COMO Uma Paro to COMO Uma Punakha. En route, seize the opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant charms of Thimphu, the nation’s largest city. Enjoy an immersive tour that encompasses the iconic Buddha Dordenma statue, the National Memorial Chorten, a glimpse of Trashi Chhoe Dzong, and a visit to the enchanting Folk Heritage Museum (the exact itinerary may vary). Set against the backdrop of verdant rice paddies and towering peaks, Thimphu sprawls gracefully along the western hillside of the Wang Chhu River, creating a picturesque panorama.

Leaving Thimphu behind, brace yourself for a spectacular drive to Punakha that unfolds like a serpentine path, ascending the breathtaking Dochu La mountain pass at an impressive elevation of 3,000 meters. Along this mesmerizing route, be treated to awe-inspiring vistas of 108 chortens, adorned with fluttering prayer flags, as well as sweeping panoramas of the majestic Himalayan range on clear days.

Duration of the scenic drive: 3 to 4 hours (covering 126 kilometers)

Overnight: COMO UMA Punakha

DAY 03 : PUNAKHA VALLEY SIGHTSEEING

Morning

Awaken to a morning filled with enchantment as you embark on a leisurely stroll through picturesque farmhouses and lush rice paddies, leading you to the revered Chimmi Lhakhang. This 15th-century fertility temple, dedicated to Drukpa Kuenley, a Tibetan Buddhist saint fondly known as the ‘Divine Madman,’ has long been a revered pilgrimage site for couples seeking to start a family. Adorned with vibrant fertility symbols and striking statues, the temple exudes a captivating aura.

As you venture further down the valley, be greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of the Punakha Dzong, a grand fortress that traces its origins back to the 17th century when it was constructed by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the visionary founder of the Kingdom of Bhutan. Once the seat of the country’s government, the fortress now serves as the winter residence of Je Khenpo, the esteemed head abbot of Bhutan, accompanied by a retinue of 1,000 red-robed monks.

Afternoon

Indulge in a delectable lunch before embarking on a captivating exploration that leads you through charming homesteads and verdant farmland to the majestic Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten. Perched atop a hill, this exquisite shrine was built by the royal family and offers panoramic views that stretch across the lush Punakha Valley. This delightful excursion through the valley, which sits at an elevation of 1,200 meters, allows you to witness the unique juxtaposition of footpaths adorned with thriving banana and orange trees.

Duration of the immersive journey: 6 to 7 hours

Difficulty level: Easy to moderate

Overnight: COMO UMA Punakha

DAY 04: CHORTEN NINGPO AND KHABASA VILLAGE

Morning

Embark on a delightful morning journey from COMO Uma Punakha to the enchanting Chorten Ningpo, an ancient monastery steeped in history dating back to the 17th century. Within its sacred walls, behold the magnificence of the Maitreya statue, a representation of the future Buddha, as well as captivating images of revered lamas from the esteemed Drukpa lineage.

Legend has it that this mystical location was once a dense forest inhabited by malevolent spirits. The awe-inspiring oak tree standing outside the monastery is said to have sprouted from the fiery log flung by the renowned ‘Divine Madman,’ leaving its bark forever tinged with black remnants of the flames. In 2005, this revered monastery became a sanctuary for orphans from the nearby village, establishing a small yet impactful Buddhist educational institution where the children receive teachings in traditional Buddhist scriptures and Western subjects alike.

A leisurely hike back to COMO Uma Punakha, lasting approximately 45 minutes, will take you past the resplendent Thodrup Lhakhang temple.

Duration of the immersive experience: 3 to 4 hours

Difficulty level: Easy to moderate

Afternoon

Option 1: Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery and Talo Nobgang Village Walk

Immerse yourself in the cultural treasures of Bhutan by visiting the renowned Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery, home to one of the country’s largest bronze statues of Avalokiteshvara, a compassionate bodhisattva. Crafted with exceptional skill by local Bhutanese artisans, this splendid temple complex also houses a permanent center for higher learning and meditation, providing nuns with comprehensive religious training and valuable life skills.

Continue your journey to the historic Nobgang Monastery, which traces its origins back to the 17th century and served as the residence for the revered Tibetan Buddhist lama, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. As you descend on your hike, be captivated by the breathtaking vistas of valleys, mountains, and the grandeur of Punakha Dzong. Meandering through chir pine forests, you will pass by a school, farms, and traditional farmhouses. Along the way, a fascinating sight awaits—a remarkable tree believed to be the upside-down walking stick of the ‘Divine Madman’—before reaching the final destination.

Duration of the immersive journey: 4 to 5 hours

Difficulty level: Easy to moderate

Option 2: White Water Rafting at Mo Chhu or Pho Chhu River

For those seeking a thrilling adventure, indulge in the exhilaration of white water rafting on the Mo Chhu or Po Chhu River. Unlike many of Bhutan’s steep and remote rivers, these two picturesque rivers in the Punakha Valley offer accessible and safe waters, making them popular choices for rafting enthusiasts. Experience the rush of navigating through rapid sections while reveling in the unique perspective of the countryside unfolding before your eyes.

Duration on the water: 2 to 4 hours (depending on river conditions, with slightly shorter durations during the monsoon season from July to August)

Difficulty level: Easy

Additional Cost: US$350 plus taxes per boat (accommodating up to five people)

Please note: Rafting availability is subject to confirmation. While our expert outfitter prioritizes safety measures, it’s important to acknowledge that all white water trips carry inherent risks. Participants are recommended to possess swimming abilities and good overall health. All necessary safety equipment, including life jackets, splash jackets and trousers, helmets, and dry bags for valuables, will be provided.

Overnight: COMO UMA Punakha

DAY 05: PUNAKHA TO PARO

Morning

Embark on a scenic journey retracing your steps over the majestic Dochu La pass, granting you a second opportunity to bask in the awe-inspiring splendor of the Himalayan mountain range. As you return to the Chuzom, the confluence of the Wang Chhu and Paro Chhu rivers, witness the presence of three nearby shrines, each showcasing distinct architectural styles—Nepali, Tibetan, and Bhutanese. If time permits, a visit to Tamchog Lhakhang is possible, a sacred temple constructed by Thangtong Gyalpo, a pioneering engineer renowned for introducing the construction of suspension bridges in Bhutan and Tibet (many of which remain in use to this day).

The rest of the day invites you to savor the serene embrace of your mountain abode, as you journey through apple orchards and rice paddies. Engage in the national sport of archery, a delightful option that allows you to test your skills and immerse yourself in Bhutan’s cultural heritage.

Afternoon

Should you wish to partake in a deeply spiritual experience, your guide will arrange a visit to a nearby monastery for a meaningful butter lamp ceremony, an act of spiritual blessing and a heartfelt welcome to the kingdom. Witness the monks as they light ghee-filled lamps, symbolically replacing the traditional yak butter lamps. This profound ceremony serves to dispel ignorance, celebrate the fluidity of life, and honor the interdependency of nature.

Duration of the scenic drive: 3 to 4 hours (covering 126 kilometers)

Difficulty level: Easy

Overnight: COMO UMA Paro

DAY 06: PARO CULTURAL EXPLORATION

Morning

Embark on a delightful walk through the enchanting pine forests surrounding COMO Uma Paro, leading you to the captivating Zurig Dzong. This fortress-like monastery offers stunning panoramic views of Paro and serves as a gateway to Ta Dzong, which houses Bhutan’s esteemed National Museum. As you make your way downhill, you’ll cross the Paro Chhu river using the traditional covered bridge Nyamai Zam, passing by the archery ground, Ugyen Pelri Palace, and immersing yourself in the charm of Paro town.

Afternoon

Venture a few kilometers north of Paro to visit the ancient Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, renowned for its magical orange tree that bears fruit throughout the year. If time allows, continue your journey to Drukgyel Dzong, a historic fortress built in 1648 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to oversee the northern route to Tibet.

Duration of the experience: 5 to 7 hours (time spent at the National Museum and in Paro may vary)

Difficulty level: Easy to moderate

Overnight: COMO Uma Paro

DAY 07: CHELE LA PASS AND HIKE TO KILA NUNNERY SHEDRA (OPTIONAL BIKE DESCENTS)

Morning

Embark on an early morning drive to Chele La Pass, the highest road pass in Bhutan, offering breathtaking views as you ascend through forests of blue pine and vibrant rhododendrons. Along the way, catch glimpses of shaggy yaks and pass by a sky burial site. On a clear day, marvel at the majestic snow-capped peak of Mt. Jhomolhari and admire the pristine beauty of the Haa Valley, known for its traditional way of life.

Nestled below, you’ll find Kila Nunnery Shedra, an ancient site with deep historical significance, serving as one of the oldest nunneries in the country. Established in the early 19th century, it provided a sanctuary for meditation and spiritual practice.

Afternoon

Upon making offerings and receiving blessings, begin the descent. For an adventurous option, you can hop on a mountain bike and enjoy a thrilling ride down to Paro Valley. Alternatively, if you prefer a leisurely sightseeing experience, drive from Chele La Pass to the picturesque Haa Valley.

Duration of the experience: 7 to 9 hours

Difficulty level: Moderate

Overnight: COMO Uma Paro

DAY 08: HIKE FROM SANG CHOEKHOR BUDDHIST COLLEGE TO YAK PASTURE BELOW BUMDRA MONASTERY

Morning

Embark on an early morning drive to Sang Choekhor, where you’ll meet the ponies that will accompany you on the journey. Take a moment to appreciate the views of the valley from the Buddhist College before setting off on foot. The trail ascends the ridge, offering shaded paths and occasional steep sections. After one to two hours, you’ll reach a clearing adorned with prayer flags, providing sweeping views of the Paro and Do Chhu Valleys.

Continue your hike for another two hours to reach the Chhoe Tse Lhakhang temple, where you’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch.

Afternoon

The trail undulates before a steep climb, rewarding you with breathtaking vistas of Paro and the snow-capped Himalayas. Descend into the ancient forest and emerge onto a wide meadow adorned with sacred chortens and white flags. Your wild camp for the night is nestled beneath Bumdra Monastery, also called the “Cliff of a Hundred Thousand Prayers,” offering incredible views of the Himalayan range.

If time allows, you can visit the monastery and even climb to the peak, which houses a sky burial site, for even more awe-inspiring views before returning for a hearty dinner.

Duration of the hike to camp: 4 to 6 hours

Duration of the optional return trek to the peak: 2 to 3 hours

Difficulty level: Moderate to hard

Overnight: Bumdra Wilderness Camp (3,800m)

DAY 09: HIKE FROM YAK PASTURE BELOW BUMDRA MONASTERY TO TAKTSANG MONASTERY

Morning

After a satisfying breakfast, you have the option to either continue your journey into the valley or savor the breathtaking view while adding your own touch with prayer flags. Eventually, we descend into the ancient forest of pine and rhododendron, following a zig-zag trail that grants glimpses of temples nestled below. The trail winds its way between the temples, leading us to the beautiful gardens of Zangktopelri. From here, we are treated to a captivating view of Taktsang Monastery, with its ornate rooftops clinging to the cliff-face far below.

An hour later, we arrive at the gates of Taktsang, peering across the gorge. We descend steeply, passing by a waterfall, and ascend a set of steps to enter the revered Tiger’s Nest itself.

Retracing our steps, we begin the final descent to reach our vehicle and drive back to COMO Uma Paro. Don’t forget to pause on the other side of the valley to reflect on the incredible journey and admire all that we have accomplished.

Duration of the hike: 5 to 7 hours (time spent in monasteries may vary)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Overnight: COMO Uma Paro

DAY 10: DEPARTURE

On the final day, a 10-minute transfer to Paro International Airport will be arranged to coincide with your flight schedule.