Explore Bhutan Mystic Trails

Hotel Distance: 6 Km, Duration: 30 Min.

The flight into the Himalayas reveals breathtaking views of the great peaks Mt. Dorje Lakpa 6,966 m, Mt. Ganesh Himal 7,422 m, Mt. Purbi Chhyachu 6,637m, Mt. Langtang 7,227m, etc., (weather permitting) taking you right into the Himalayan capitals at Kathmandu. After immigration formality on arrival, as you exit the airport terminal you will be greeted and welcome by a Sampurna Adventure personal & transferred to your hotel, Spend the rest of the day at leisure for personal activities following your program briefing, overnight at the hotel. 

 Trip Distance: 5 km, Trip Duration: 15 min

Upon arrival at Paro Airport (2,134 m / 7,000 ft), you will be greeted and transferred to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, located at an altitude of over 2,500 meters in a fertile valley crossed by the Wangchu River. During the drive, enjoy panoramic views of the Paro and Thimphu valleys. The area is home to the current royal residence, as well as the summer residence of the Central Monastic Body and the country’s chief religious leader.

We begin with a visit to Paro Rinpung Dzong, a majestic fortress-monastery that dominates the Paro Valley. Built in the 17th century, this dzong is an outstanding example of traditional Bhutanese architecture, with its massive stone walls, intricately carved wooden galleries, and inner courtyards adorned with religious murals. In addition to serving as both an administrative and religious center, the dzong also hosts the famous Paro Tsechu Festival each spring — one of Bhutan’s most vibrant and significant celebrations.

Continue to the nearby National Museum (Ta Dzong), originally a 17th-century watchtower that was converted into a museum in 1968. Inside, you’ll find Bhutan’s national treasures — an exceptional collection of Thangka paintings, ancient textiles, weapons, coins, stamps, religious art, and other artifacts that reflect the rich cultural and historical heritage of the kingdom.

Depending on time, visitors may also try on the traditional Bhutanese attire — the Gho for men and the Kira for women — for photos and a genuine cultural experience. The day concludes with panoramic views of Rinpung Dzong beautifully illuminated at sunset, offering an unforgettable image of the Paro Valley.

Distance: 551 km, Flight Duration: 45 min

Fly to Trashigang, Bhutan’s largest eastern town, 551 km from Thimphu. Once a key trade hub with Tibet, it now connects the east-west highway to Samdrup Jongkhar and Assam. The town also serves as a marketplace for the semi-nomadic people of Merak and Sakteng.

Take a full-day excursion to Trashigyantse, starting with Trashigang Dzong (The Fortress of the Auspicious Hill), built in 1659 at the confluence of the Gamri Chhu and Dangme Chhu rivers. It offers stunning views and houses both a monastic community and district administration.

Visit Gom Kora, a temple 24 km from Trashigang, where Guru Rinpoche is said to have subdued a demon. Continue to Doksum village, where women weave traditional Bhutanese fabrics. The road then winds through the hills to Trashigyantse.

Once an important caravan hub, Trashigyantse is now a growing administrative center. The region is famous for its handcrafted wooden containers and bowls. Visit Trashigyantse Dzong, built in the late 1990s, and Chorten Kora, a white stupa resembling Nepal’s Boudhanath Stupa. The annual Kora festival here, held in the second lunar month, is a major cultural event.

Distance: 80 km, Duration: 3 hrs

After breakfast, take a 45-minute drive (16 km) through Chir Pine forests along the Gamri Chhu river to Ranjung Woesel Monastery, founded by H.E. Garab Rinpoche of the Dhujom Dharma lineage. Nestled in a deep valley, Ranjung town remains humid and hot during summer.

Continue 5 km to Radhi village (1,570m), known as the ‘Rice Bowl of the East’ for its lush paddy fields that supply rice to eastern Bhutan. During the off-season, locals weave exquisite raw silk textiles using traditional back-strap looms and natural dyes, making Radhi a hub for authentic Bhutanese weaving.

Later, drive to Mongar, the second-largest town in eastern Bhutan. Unlike the valley-floor towns of western Bhutan, Mongar is built on a hillside. Visit Mongar Dzong, one of Bhutan’s newest fortresses, built in 1930 to replace Shongar Dzong. While modern, it preserves the essence of traditional Bhutanese architecture, with its Utse (central tower) dating back to an earlier era. The Dzong houses four temples, including the Goenkhang (chapel of protective deities) and Sangay Lhakhang.

In the evening, explore Mongar’s colorful market at your leisure.

Distance: 198 km, Trip Duration: 6 hrs

After breakfast, we begin a breathtaking journey toward Bumthang, considered one of the most beautiful drives in the entire Himalayas. The route ascends to the Thrumshing La Pass (4,000 m), winding through roaring waterfalls, steep cliffs, and changing vegetation zones that create stunning natural contrasts and unforgettable scenery.

En route, we visit the Ura Valley (3,100 m) — the highest and one of the most picturesque villages in the Bumthang district. With its clustered stone houses and cobbled lanes, Ura retains a charming rural authenticity. 

We take a leisurely walk through the village and visit Ura Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), featuring an impressive statue of the master and exquisite wall paintings depicting his teachings. Once a humble and isolated settlement, Ura has flourished in recent decades while preserving its traditional way of life.

We then continue the journey for about 48 km (approximately 1.5 hours) to reach the Choekhor Valley, the heart of Bumthang, where the town of Jakar is located — the spiritual and cultural center of Bhutan.

Distance: 15 km, Tour Duration: 6 hrs

After breakfast, visit Jambay Lhakhang, an ancient temple built in 659 by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo to subdue evil spirits in the Himalayas. Though originally built in the 7th century, its present architecture dates back to the early 20th century.

A short drive takes you to Kurjey Lhakhang, a sacred site consisting of three temples. The oldest, built in 1652, stands against a rock where Guru Rinpoche meditated in the 8th century. The second, housing a rock with the Guru’s body imprint, is considered the holiest. The third, built in the 1990s by Queen Mother Ashi Kesang, is surrounded by a 108-chorten wall.

Next, visit Jakar Dzong, initially built as a monastery in 1549 and later expanded in 1646. Now serving as Bumthang’s administrative center, it also houses the regional monk body.

Post-lunch; explore Dorji Weaving Centre, where artisans create exquisite textiles on traditional looms.

Then, visit Bumthang Brewery, a modern microbrewery producing Swiss-style unfiltered Weiss beer. Learn about the brewing process and enjoy a tasting at Panda Beer Garden Café.

Conclude the day with a visit to Tamshing Lhakhang, founded in 1501 by Terton Pema Lingpa, a reincarnation of Guru Padmasambhava. Home to ancient murals of 1,000 Buddhas and 21 Taras, this temple remains a significant religious site.

Distance: 155 km, Trip Duration: 5 hrs

After breakfast, embark on a scenic journey to Gangtey via Trongsa. The 68 km drive (approx. 2.5 hours) from Bumthang crosses the 3,400m Yutong La Pass, offering spectacular landscapes. Trongsa, perched on steep slopes above a river gorge, was historically the center of Bhutan’s unification efforts.

In Trongsa, visit Ta Dzong, a former watchtower built in 1652 by Chogyal Minjur Tempa to guard Trongsa Dzong against internal rebellions. Now a state-of-the-art museum with Austrian support, it offers deep insights into Bhutan’s history.

Next, explore the majestic Trongsa Dzong, Bhutan’s largest fortress, built in 1648. Overlooking the Mangdi Chhu gorge, its tiered levels descend along the hillside. Strategically positioned on the only route between east and west, it was once the seat of power in central Bhutan. Traditionally, all Bhutanese Kings first served as the Trongsa Penlop (Governor) before ascending the throne.

Continue the journey to Gangtey, crossing the 3,300m Pele La Pass, the traditional boundary between east and west. The pass is marked by prayer flags and surrounded by dwarf bamboo forests. En route, stop at Chendebji Chorten, an 18th-century Nepalese-style stupa with painted eyes at four cardinal points, built by Lama Shida.

Distance: 73 km, Trip Duration: 2 hrs

Morning visit to Gangtey Gompa, the largest Nyingma-pa monastery in western Bhutan. Perched on a hill, it is home to Gangtey Tulku, a revered reincarnate lama. The complex includes a school, meditation facilities, and monks' quarters, surrounded by a quaint village inhabited by 140 Gomchen families who care for the monastery.

Next, explore the stunning Phobjikha Valley, a U-shaped glacial valley and a designated conservation area. At 3,000m, it serves as the winter home of the endangered black-necked cranes, which migrate from the arid north. The valley, part of Black Mountain National Park, is fed by two rivers—Nakay Chhu (Black Water) and Gay Chhu (White Water).

Visit the Black-Necked Crane Information Centre, located on the valley’s edge. The center features an observation room with high-power telescopes for spotting cranes and exhibits on the valley’s natural and cultural history.

After lunch, drive to Punakha via Wangdue, with time to explore this newly developed town center.

Distance: 73 km, Trip Duration: 2 hrs

After breakfast, visit Punakha Dzong, also known as ‘The Palace of Great Bliss’. Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal at the confluence of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, it served as Bhutan’s religious and administrative center. It was here, on December 17, 1907, that Bhutan’s first King, Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuk, was crowned. Despite damage from fires, earthquakes, and floods, the Dzong has been beautifully restored. Opposite stands Dzongchung, a smaller Dzong built in 1328 by Saint Ngagi Rinchen.

Next, embark on a short walk to Chimi Lhakhang, the Temple of the Divine Madman. Built in 1499 by Ngawang Choegyel, it was blessed by the eccentric saint Drukpa Kunley, known for his unorthodox teachings. The 20-minute walk to the temple passes through mustard and rice fields near Sopsokha village, where houses are adorned with phallus paintings, a symbol of fertility and protection.

After lunch, drive to Thimphu via Dochu La Pass (3,088m). This scenic pass, adorned with chortens, mani walls, and prayer flags, offers breathtaking views of Bhutan’s highest peaks, including Gangkhar Puensum (7,570m), the world’s highest unclimbed mountain.

Upon arrival in Thimphu, check into the hotel, then visit the Memorial Stupa, built in 1974 in honor of Bhutan’s Third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuk (1928–1972). Unlike other stupas, it doesn’t enshrine human remains but features a photo of the King in ceremonial dress, fulfilling his wish to build a chorten representing the mind of Buddha.

End the day with a leisurely stroll through Thimphu city center.

Distance: 15 km, Tour Duration: 6 hrs

After breakfast, we visit Buddha Dordenma, a colossal 61-meter (201-foot) bronze statue, considered one of the largest in the world. Located at Kuensel Phodrang, it majestically overlooks the Thimphu Valley. Surrounding the statue is a forest donated by His Majesty the Fourth King of Bhutan, enhancing the serenity of the site. The statue was consecrated in honor of the 60th birthday of the Fourth Druk Gyalpo.

Next, we visit the National Textile Museum, established in 2001 under royal patronage. This museum showcases the richness of Bhutanese textile art, displaying traditional weaving techniques, national costumes, and delicate fabrics created by local artisans.

Later, we explore the Centenary Farmers’ Market, the largest market in Bhutan, where farmers from all regions sell fresh produce, spices, and local handicrafts. It is an ideal place to interact with locals and purchase authentic souvenirs.

We then visit Tashichho Dzong, the seat of the Bhutanese government since 1952. This majestic fortress houses the King’s Throne Room, several government ministries, and monastic quarters. Located on the banks of the Wang Chhu River, it is renowned for its immaculate gardens and elegant architecture — a symbol of Bhutan’s harmony between spiritual and temporal power.

In the afternoon, we enjoy free time to explore the Handicrafts Emporium and Local Bazaar, a true treasure trove of handwoven textiles, Thangkas, masks, ceramics, wood carvings, and traditional jewelry.

 Distance: 50 km, Trip Duration: 1 hrs

After breakfast, we depart for Paro. On the way, we make a photo stop at Chuzom, the scenic confluence of the Paro and Thimphu rivers, where the meeting waters are framed by mountains and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind — a perfect spot to capture unforgettable images.

Next, we visit Tamchog Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to the 13th-century saint Thangthong Gyalpo, renowned for building many of Bhutan’s iron chain bridges. To reach the temple, we cross one of the few surviving original suspension bridges — an exciting experience as it sways gently above the rushing river.

Upon arrival in Paro, we begin our local sightseeing in the afternoon with a visit to Ta Dzong, originally built in 1649 as a watchtower and later converted into the National Museum of Bhutan in 1968. The museum houses a priceless collection of ancient Thangkas, textiles, weapons, armor, and historical artifacts that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage.

From there, we take a pleasant downhill walk to Rinpung Dzong, whose name means “Fortress of the Heap of Jewels.” Built in the 17th century, it is a masterpiece of traditional Bhutanese architecture, with massive stone walls rising above the Paro Valley. Inside are 14 chapels and shrines, including the Sandalwood Stupa, the Protector’s Shrine, and the Eleven-Headed Avalokiteshvara Chapel, each adorned with intricate murals and carvings rich in spiritual symbolism.

Distance: 15 km, Trip Duration: 30 min13

After breakfast, we set out for one of the most iconic experiences of any trip to Bhutan: the hike to Taktsang Monastery, also known as the “Tiger’s Nest.” The hike, approximately 2 hours uphill (with the option to ride part of the way on horseback), ascends through pine forests, prayer flags, and offers spectacular views of the Paro Valley.

Taktsang Monastery, built in 1692, perches majestically on a cliff over 700 meters above the valley. It is Bhutan’s most revered sanctuary, where, according to legend, the great tantric master Guru Padmasambhava — credited with bringing Buddhism to Bhutan and regarded as the kingdom’s tutelary deity — meditated for three years, three months, three weeks, three days, and three hours in the 8th century. Its name, “Tiger’s Nest,” comes from the belief that Guru Rinpoche flew to the site on the back of a tigress.

The monastery complex, made up of several temples and shrines built into the cliff, provides an atmosphere of profound spirituality and unparalleled panoramic views of the valley. Inside, visitors can admire beautiful murals, ancient statues, and offerings dedicated to various Buddhist deities. After descending, we stop for lunch at a restaurant with views of the valley and Taktsang.

In the afternoon, we continue to Kyichhu Jowo Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, built in the 7th century by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo. This temple marks the introduction of Buddhism to the country and preserves valuable relics, Buddha statues, and ancient murals. It is also an important pilgrimage site where devotees light butter lamps and spin prayer wheels, seeking blessings and prosperity.

The serene spiritual atmosphere and millennia-old history of Kyichhu Lhakhang offer a deeply peaceful experience, perfect for ending the day with a sense of devotion and tranquility.

Distancia: 6 km, Duración: 30 min

Breakfast, in the morning free for personal activities, later at the arranged time, transfer to the airport for final departure to connect onward flight to Kathmandu. After immigration formality on arrival, as you exit the airport terminal you will be greeted and welcome by a Sampurna Adventure personal & transferred to your hotel, Spend the rest of the day at leisure for personal activities, overnight at the hotel. 

Airport Distance: 6 Km, Duration: 30 Min.

Leisurely breakfast, In the morning free for personal activities, we can explore the narrow lively, and endless streets of Thamel town where we will find all kinds of good restaurants, typical Nepali handicrafts, fine jewelry, clothing, and trekking gear store, later at the arranged time transfer to the airport for final departure to connect onward flight. We wish you a safe flight and hope to serve you back in near future. End of Service.