Probably the only capital city in the world without streetlights and an airport of its own, this small city is home to some 100,000 local residents including the Royal Family of the Kingdom of Bhutan. Like any other capital city, it is the political and economic center for the country. The city has a 17th century fortress which houses the Office of His Majesty the King and The House of Parliament stands on the eastern bank of the Thimphu River opposite to the fortress. 
Thimphu has successfully preserved its culture and tradition despite growing exponentially and rapidly. Any traveler exploring this unique city will have the luxury of modern convenience and witness ancient monument and traditional way of life simultaneously.

Dochula is one of the many mountain passes in Bhutan accessible by motor road. The pass has an elevation of 3100 meters and offers a panoramic view of the Eastern Himalaya mountain range.

Hike to Lungchutse from Dochula (2 ways and 1 hour at the spot- 4 hours) 

Lungchutse hike is one of the most rejuvenating and picturesque hike. The trail will take you through a diverse forest until you reach the ridge. From the Lungchutse temple you can enjoy a 360 degree view of the Himalayas and the valley below. 

Lunch at Dochula Cafeteria and Drive to Punakha (1 and half hour) and Cultural Sightseeing at Punakha

Travelling to Punakha is like getting in a time machine and going back to the 17th century. Punakha offers tourists a unique medieval experience. The region still holds many traditional houses built decades ago with people leading a simple farming lifestyle. The valley is especially beautiful during spring and autumn adorned by the produce in the paddy fields. Did you know that Punakha was a former capital of Bhutan? Much of Bhutan’s significant history from fighting against the Tibetan invasion to the institution of first monarch to the signing of the treaty of Punakha with the British Indian Empire which shaped Bhutan’s future significantly were all witnessed in this region.

Cultural Sightseeing at Paro

Overnight at a Hotel

The flawlessly executed sacred event is the culmination of the dedication and years of hard work the monks put in to master the nuances of performing masked dance. The monks perform the dance wearing colorful silk brocade and ferocious mask. The event encapsulates the essence of the traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan and its culture. The highlight of the Paro Tsechu is the unfurling of the Thongdrel on the final day. At the break of dawn, the giant applique scroll is unfurled for public display. The painting depicts a seated Guru Rinpoche. Locals believe that a mere sight of the painting cleanses bad karma and accumulate good merits. 

Overnight stay at a hotel in Paro

Taktsang which translate to The Tiger’s Nest is a Buddhist monastery in Paro valley. According to the legend, Buddhist saint Guru Rinpoche flew to the current monastery site riding atop a tigress in the 7th century. Today it has become the most visited site by tourists. Approached by a two hour hike through the pine forest, the majestic architecture perched on a cliff 900 meters above Paro valley greets the hikers. Once at the top, tourists can enjoy the panoramic view of the valley below.
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End of Trip