Routes to Happiness Tour

Destinations: Paro • Thimphu • Punakha • Wangduephodrang
Entry & Exit: Paro International Airport
Theme: Culture • Spirituality • Nature • Mindful Exploration
Best Time to Visit: March–May & September–November

Tour Highlights

• Hike to Bhutan’s sacred Tiger’s Nest Monastery

• Cross the stunning Dochula Pass (3,100m)

• Discover Bhutanese spirituality at monasteries and nunneries

• Visit majestic Dzongs, sacred temples, and scenic valleys

• Learn about Gross National Happiness and Bhutanese lifestyle

• Peaceful walks, village visits, and time for reflection

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Cultural Sightseeing – Drive to Thimphu

Highlights:
 Paro Rinpung Dzong •  National Museum • Kyichu Lhakhang •  Scenic Drive to Thimphu

Details:
Welcome to Bhutan – the land of happiness! Upon arrival, receive a warm greeting and begin your journey with visits to:

• Ta Dzong (National Museum) – A fine introduction to Bhutanese history and culture

• Paro Rinpung Dzong – An iconic fortress-monastery built in the 17th century

• Kyichu Lhakhang – One of Bhutan’s oldest and holiest temples

After sightseeing, enjoy a scenic drive (1.5 hrs) to the capital, Thimphu.
Overnight in Thimphu

Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing – Gross National Happiness Introduction

Highlights:
Buddha Dordenma • Memorial Chorten • GNH Learning Centre (optional) • Folk Heritage Museum

Details:
Start the day with a peaceful visit to:

• Memorial Chorten – A sacred monument for peace and reflection

• Buddha Point (Buddha Dordenma) – One of the largest Buddha statues in the world

• Folk Heritage Museum – Experience rural Bhutanese life

• Optional: Visit a Gross National Happiness (GNH) Centre or meet with a GNH practitioner for an enriching discussion

Evening: Stroll through Centenary Farmers’ Market or visit a local café
Overnight in Thimphu

Day 3: Thimphu – Dochula Pass – Punakha

Highlights:
Dochula Pass • Punakha Dzong • Riverside Reflection

Details:
Begin your journey to Punakha Valley via:

• Dochula Pass (3,100m) – 108 chortens and panoramic Himalayan views

• Stop for tea and a peaceful walk amidst fluttering prayer flags

Arrive in Punakha and explore:

• Punakha Dzong – A stunning riverside fortress that once served as Bhutan’s capital

Evening at leisure by the riverside or enjoy meditation at the nunnery
Overnight in Punakha

Day 4: Punakha – Chimi Lhakhang – Wangdue Exploration

Highlights:
Chimi Lhakhang • Village Walks • Wangdue Dzong (ruins)

Details:
Start the day with a short and scenic walk to:

• Chimi Lhakhang – The Temple of Fertility, known for its blessings and connection to the Divine Madman

Then visit:

• Wangduephodrang area – Explore the dzong site, terraced fields, and nearby villages to witness Bhutan’s agrarian lifestyle

Optional: Hot stone bath in a traditional farmhouse
Overnight in Punakha or Wangdue

Day 5: Punakha – Return to Paro – Tiger’s Nest Hike

Highlights:
Tiger’s Nest Monastery • Pine forest trails • Paro town

Details:
Early morning drive to Paro (approx. 4 hrs). After a short rest, start your ascent to:

• Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) – Bhutan’s most iconic and sacred site perched on a cliff. The 4–5 hour round-trip hike offers spiritual renewal, majestic views, and time for self-reflection.

Evening: Walk through Paro Town, visit local shops or enjoy tea in a traditional café
Overnight in Paro

Day 6: Departure from Paro

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Paro International Airport for your flight out.
Farewell with smiles, serenity, and memories of Bhutan’s happiness philosophy.
Tashi Delek & Safe Travels!

Tour Inclusions

• Bhutan Visa & Entry Permits

• Licensed English-speaking Guide

• Comfortable Accommodation (Standard/Luxury options)

• All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

• Private Transportation with Driver

• Monument & Park Entry Fees

• Tiger’s Nest Hike & Cultural Access

• Bottled Water & Refreshments

• All government taxes and sustainable tourism fee