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Duration : 14 Nights / 15 Days
Destination Covered : Paro, Punakha
Tour Activities : Trekking
Tour Themes : Adventure Tours, Hill Stations & Valleys, Religious & Pilgrimage, Culture & Heritage
Price on Request
Paro and Punakha Tour Overview
Embark on a transformative journey into the remote Laya region, a land of towering Himalayan peaks, pristine alpine lakes, cascading waterfalls, and ancient forests. This trek takes you through Jigme Dorji National Park, home to rare wildlife such as the elusive snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, red panda, and blue sheep, while offering the chance to meet Bhutan’s semi-nomadic Layap people. Along the way, you’ll explore centuries-old monasteries, dzongs, and traditional villages, soaking in the unique culture, spirituality, and architectural heritage of Bhutan. The trek culminates at Laya Village, Bhutan’s second-highest settlement, before descending to the natural hot springs of Gasa for a rejuvenating finale.
Paro and Punakha Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, receive a traditional Khada scarf as a warm welcome to Bhutan. Your journey begins with a visit to Rinpung Dzong, a 17th-century fortress-monastery, where you can admire its central tower (Utse), the monks’ prayer hall (Kuenrey), and the old wooden bridge that once guarded the dzong. Afterward, stroll through Paro town, visiting local shops and cafes while enjoying scenic views of rice paddies, rivers, and traditional Bhutanese houses. Overnight at a hotel in Paro.
Day 2
Today you will hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery, perched 200 meters above the Paro Valley. En route, walk through dense pine forests, past waterfalls, prayer flags, and cliffside viewpoints, while spotting Himalayan vultures and small marmots. Meditate at Taktsang and enjoy sweeping views of the valley below. In the evening, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, built in the 7th century. Return to Paro for an overnight stay.
Day 3
Drive through scenic valleys, terraced rice fields, and pine forests to Dzongdrakha Village, perched on a cliff with panoramic views of Paro Valley. Visit Kila Gompa Nunnery, enjoying tea and interacting with the resident nuns. Continue the drive past the ruins of Drugyel Dzong, tiny villages, and lush forests, ending the day at Shana, where your first camping experience begins amidst the peaceful Himalayan environment.
Day 4
Trek through remote highland farms, yak pastures, and dense alpine forests, where you may spot wildflowers, yaks, and Himalayan birds. Cross wooden bridges over mountain streams, ascend steep ridges, and enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks. Arrive at Soi Thangthangkha campsite, surrounded by serene meadows for your overnight stay.
Day 5
Following the Pa Chhu River, the trail gradually leaves the tree line behind, opening into a wide valley with breathtaking views of Jomolhari (7,325m) and surrounding peaks. Along the way, you will see yak winter camps, alpine settlements, and grazing blue sheep, offering a glimpse into the local pastoral lifestyle. Overnight camping at Jangothang, with majestic mountain vistas.
Day 6
Take a day to rest and acclimatize. Options include hiking to Tshophu Lakes with views of Jomolhari and Jichu Drakey peaks, exploring alpine ridges, or walking among yak herder settlements, observing daily life and wildlife. This day allows you to enjoy the serenity of the mountains and adapt to the high altitude.
Day 7
The trek continues through open meadows, yak pastures, and forested valleys, crossing Nyle La Pass (4,880m). Enjoy panoramic vistas and spot Himalayan wildlife, including marmots and vultures. Descend to Lingshi Dzong, perched atop a ridge, then continue to Chha Chi Thang campsite for an overnight stay amidst peaceful mountain scenery.
Day 8
Trek through traditional villages, alpine meadows, and yak pastures, arriving at Chebesa, where a crystal-clear waterfall adds to the charm of the village. Enjoy close encounters with local stone houses, prayer wheels, and grazing yaks before camping for the night.
Day 9
Ascend Gogu La Pass (4,500m), spotting blue sheep grazing on rocky terrain. Descend through lush rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and yak herder camps, arriving at Shomuthang campsite, surrounded by pristine mountain landscapes.
Day 10
The trail passes edelweiss meadows and crystal-clear streams, crossing Jari La Pass (4,750m) with magnificent views of Kangbum Peak (6,526m). Enter Tsarijathang Valley, home to Bhutan’s rare Himalayan Takin, before reaching Robluthang campsite.
Day 11
Cross the Shingchen La Pass (5,005m) and enjoy breathtaking views of Gangchenta Peak (6,840m). Descend through moraine valleys, cedar forests, and alpine streams, arriving at Limithang campsite with mountains towering above.
Day 12
Trek through dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and high meadows to reach Laya Village, Bhutan’s second-highest settlement. Meet the Layap people, observe their traditional clothing, weaving, and customs, and take in the crisp mountain air and panoramic vistas. Overnight at a local farmhouse.
Day 13
Descend to the army camp and meet your vehicle for the drive to Gasa, famous for its natural hot springs. Relax and soak in the mineral-rich waters before continuing to Punakha, passing through rivers, valleys, and forested landscapes. Overnight at a hotel in Punakha.
Day 14
Visit Punakha Dzong, an architectural masterpiece built at the confluence of Po Chu and Mo Chu rivers. Drive through Dochula Pass, adorned with 108 Druk Wangyel Chortens, and enjoy panoramic Himalayan views. Explore Thimphu’s craft and weekend markets, then overnight at a hotel in Thimphu.
Day 15
Drive to Paro International Airport for your onward journey, carrying unforgettable memories of remote highlands, sacred monasteries, traditional villages, and the majestic Himalayas.
More Details about Paro and Punakha Tour
Inclusions
- Hotel
- Government levies, taxes, and visa fees
- Private vehicle transportation throughout the trip
- Accommodation in government-approved 3-star hotels
- Services of an English-speaking guide
- Bottled water during vehicle transfers
- Permits, entrance fees, and sightseeing activities
- Trekking equipment including sleeping tents, mats, and pillows
- Dining tents, kitchen tent, and toilet tent
- Tables, chairs, utensils, and hot water bags
- Support staff including trekking chef and assistants
- Horses to carry trekking equipment
- All food supplies during the trek
Exclusions
- Airfare to and from Bhutan
- Travel and health insurance
- Laundry services
- Drinks and beverages beyond provided meals
- Personal phone or internet charges
- Tips for guides and staff
- Wire transfer or card transaction fees
- Personal sleeping bag
- Any other personal expenses or bills not listed under inclusions
Payments Terms
- * 20% Advance Percentage of total booking amount
Cancellation & Refund Policy
- * Upon cancellation, refund will be made after deducting the Retention Amount.
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