Hiking Western Bhutan-8 Days

Arrive at Paro Airport, Bhutan, and enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour drive to the capital, Thimphu.

On the way, stop to explore Tashog Lhakhang, a monastery with a traditional iron chain bridge.

Upon arrival in Thimphu, visit Tashicho Dzong, the royal fortress that houses the seat of Bhutan’s king and government.

Depending on time, you can explore more of the city’s attractions, such as local markets and landmarks.

Morning: Embark on a hike to Dodedra Shedra, a monastery school perched on a hill overlooking Thimphu. The 500-meter ascent offers spectacular views of the valley.

Visit the main temple at Dodedra, known for its original mural paintings and a small museum showcasing Bhutanese culture.

Afternoon: Drive to Buddha Dordenma, a massive Buddha statue overlooking the Thimphu valley. Take a short walk to the city viewpoint for panoramic views of the town.

Visit the Memorial Chorten, a stupa dedicated to the third king of Bhutan, which is a bustling place for locals to gather and pray.

Explore Norzin Lam Street, Thimphu's main shopping area, where traffic police manually signal traffic in the absence of traffic lights.

End the day at the Handicraft Market, where you can purchase traditional Bhutanese souvenirs like handwoven textiles and intricate handicrafts.

Morning: Start your drive towards Hongtsho village, passing by the famous Tashigang Gompa, situated on top of a ridge.

Begin a 4-5 hour hike towards Lungchusey Gompa, a monastery known for its stunning 360° views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. On a clear day, you may catch a glimpse of Gangkhar Punsum, Bhutan’s highest and most sacred peak.

After the hike, drive to Dochu-la Pass, a scenic mountain pass with 108 stupas, and visit the Druk Wangyel Lhakhang royal chapel.

Continue your journey to Gangtey, situated in the Phobjika Valley, known for its lush landscape and as the winter home of the endangered black-necked cranes.

Evening: Optionally attend a Buddhism lesson at Gangtey Monastery Shedra (a Buddhist college) or join the evening prayer ceremony.

Morning: Hike through the picturesque Phobjika Valley, known for its wetlands and meadows. This area is a vital habitat for the black-necked cranes, which migrate here every winter.

After a 2-hour walk, reach Gangtey Monastery for a visit to the main chapel.

Afternoon: Continue with a beautiful 4-hour hike through meadows and forests. Cross a mountain pass to reach Longtey village, where a vehicle will be waiting for you.

On your way back, drive through Pele-la Pass, where you can explore the local curio shops run by herders.

Alternatively, take a relaxing drive to Amankora Lodge and hike through the Blue Pine Forest, ending at the Black Neck Crane Centre.

Morning: Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, located on a hilltop offering spectacular views of the Punakha valley.

Optionally, enjoy a rafting experience on the "female river" for a leisurely ride or opt for the "male river" for more thrilling white-water rafting.

Visit the iconic Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most majestic fortresses, located at the confluence of two rivers.

Afternoon: Visit Chimi Lhakhang, a quirky temple dedicated to Drukpa Kunley, known as the “Divine Madman.” His unconventional methods of teaching Buddhism through humor and scandalous antics are a significant part of Bhutanese culture.

Continue your drive back to Paro via the scenic Dochu-la Pass.

Morning: Drive to the ruins of Drukyel Dzong to get a glimpse of the Jomolhari Mountain, Bhutan's holy peak.

Embark on the famous hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched on the cliffs. This approximately 2-hour trek will take you up to the monastery, one of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks.

Continue further up the mountain to reach Zangto Pelri Lhakhang and Ugyen Tshemo Temple for panoramic views.

Descend the trail through dense forest and stop at Shama Lhakhang, a secluded temple near Tiger’s Nest, for a peaceful visit.

Morning: Drive to Chele-la Pass, the highest motorable pass in Bhutan (3890 meters). Enjoy breathtaking views of Jomolhari and Kanchenjunga on clear days.

Hike to a 4000-meter viewpoint to experience high-altitude terrain. Historically, this pass was used for sky funerals, an ancient Bhutanese ritual.

Descend to Kila Gompa, the oldest nunnery in Bhutan, nestled in an ancient forest.

Afternoon: Visit the Dzongdrakha Monastery, known as Bhutan’s “Mini Tiger’s Nest” for its beauty and peaceful setting.

Evening: Optionally, take a final walk up to Zuri Dzong for a bird’s-eye view of Paro town and the airport.

Morning: After breakfast, head to Paro Airport for your onward flight.

End of the tour.