BHUTAN IN A WEEK

Arrive at Paro International Airport, where your dedicated Gu-Mar guide and driver will welcome you. Begin a scenic 1.5-hour drive along the glacier-fed Paro Chhu and Wang Chhu rivers to the capital city, Thimphu. Along the way, step onto the 15th-century iron chain bridge at Tamchog Lhakhang built by the legendary Tibetan engineer Saint Thangtong Gyalpo.

Upon arrival in Thimphu, check in to your hotel and rest. In the evening, enjoy a relaxed orientation stroll through the vibrant streets and handicraft markets of Thimphu town.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner  |  Overnight: Thimphu

Spend a full day uncovering the deep cultural roots of Bhutan’s capital. Start your morning at Buddha Dordenma, a massive 51.5-meter gilded bronze statue offering sweeping panoramic views of the entire valley, before joining local elders spinning prayer wheels at the National Memorial Chorten. In the afternoon, visit the forested Motithang Takin Preserve to view Bhutan’s unusual national animal, followed by a visit to the National Institute for Zorig Chusum to see students mastering the 13 traditional arts. Conclude your day at Tashichho Dzong, the impressive fortress housing the throne room and seat of government, viewed as the evening lights turn on.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner  |  Overnight: Thimphu

Leave the capital after breakfast for a 3-hour scenic drive to Punakha, the ancient winter capital. The route climbs steadily up to the magnificent Dochula Pass (3,100 m), where 108 memorial chortens stand against a backdrop of the snow-capped Eastern Himalayan range on a clear day.

Descend into the warm, subtropical valley of Punakha and stretch your legs with a gentle walk through emerald rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, the famous fertility temple dedicated to the eccentric saint Lama Drukpa Kunley (The Divine Madman).

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner  |  Overnight: Punakha

A dedicated day to experience the architectural grandeur and natural beauty of Punakha. In the morning, explore the magnificent Punakha Dzong, widely considered the most beautiful fortress in Bhutan, standing strategically at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (male) and Mo Chhu (female) rivers. Afterward, walk across the adjacent Punakha Suspension Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian suspension bridges in the country, adorned with thousands of fluttering prayer flags. In the afternoon, enjoy a short, scenic uphill hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten for a stunning view of the valley’s terraced fields.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner  |  Overnight: Punakha

Board your vehicle for a 4.5-hour drive backtracking over Dochula Pass and descending into the historic valley of Paro. Upon arrival, visit Rinpung Dzong, a grand fortress that showcases classic Bhutanese architecture, and walk across its traditional wooden cantilever bridge.

Spend your evening wandering through the charming, colorful storefronts of Paro town, where your guide will introduce you to a local weaver’s studio to see complex, hand-woven textiles being brought to life.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner  |  Overnight: Paro

The crown jewel of your journey. Hit the trail by 7:30 AM to beat the afternoon sun and climb 900 meters to Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), clinging dramatically to a vertical granite cliff face high above the valley floor. Explore the sacred caves and inner sanctuaries where Guru Rinpoche meditated in the 8th century.

After descending, celebrate the completion of your trek with an optional traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath at a local family farmhouse to soothe your muscles, followed by a warm farewell dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner  |  Overnight: Paro

After breakfast, your guide and driver will transfer you to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. Tashi Delek — may your journey with Gu-Mar bring lasting purpose home.

Meals: Breakfast