Routes to Happiness Tour

Spend the day exploring Thimphu’s cultural and spiritual landmarks. Begin at Memorial Chorten, where locals spin prayer wheels and offer daily prayers. Continue to Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang), home to one of the world’s largest seated Buddha statues, with sweeping views of the valley.Visit the Arts and Crafts School to observe students practicing painting, wood carving, embroidery, and weaving. Stop at Sangaygang Viewpoint for panoramic city views, followed by a visit to the Takin Preserve, home to Bhutan’s national animal.

In the afternoon, explore the National Library, housing ancient Buddhist manuscripts, and the Folk Heritage Museum, showcasing rural Bhutanese life. Conclude the day with a visit to Changyul Park, a beautiful urban park ideal for a relaxing evening stroll. Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu

Depart Thimphu and drive approximately 75 km / 1 hour 45 minutes through forests, ascending to Dochula Pass (3,100 m). On clear days, enjoy panoramic views of the eastern Himalayas, framed by the 108 memorial stupas of Druk Wangyel Chorten. Pause for photos and take a short walk around the hilltop complex.Descend into the fertile Punakha Valley, known for rice fields, riverside villages, and a warm climate. Visit Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple of Drukpa Kunley, a short walk from the road. Continue to Punakha Dzong, an architectural masterpiece at the confluence of the Pho and Mo Rivers. Explore its courtyards, temples, and riverside walkways, then enjoy a leisurely stroll across the long suspension bridge for scenic valley views. Overnight: Hotel in Punakha / Wangdue Phodrang

Start the day with a scenic hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a hilltop monastery commissioned by the Queen Mother. The chorten features intricate murals and golden spires, with the trail passing through rice terraces and traditional villages. From the summit, enjoy sweeping views of Punakha Valley, making this a peaceful and memorable experience.After the hike, drive back to Paro, passing rivers, forests, and farmland. Check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening. Overnight: Hotel in Paro

Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched 900 meters above Paro Valley. The trail winds through pine forests, prayer wheels, and scenic viewpoints, culminating at the cliffside monastery. Learn about Guru Padmasambhava, who is said to have flown to this site on a tigress to subdue demons and spread Buddhism.After descending, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, and Rinpung Dzong, known for its traditional Bhutanese architecture and murals. Spend the evening exploring Paro town or relaxing at your hotel. Overnight: Hotel in Paro

After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. Depart Bhutan with lasting memories of serene valleys, sacred monasteries, dramatic mountain landscapes, and the warm hospitality of the Bhutanese people.