Punakha Drubchen Tour (7 Days)

Day 1

Arrive in Paro

Your guide and driver will meet you at the airport.

Drive from Paro to Thimphu.
Distance: 54 Km | Driving Time: 1 Hour

After a quick stop at your hotel and lunch, you'll spend the rest of the day exploring Thimphu.

Places and attractions:
Thimphu  Authentic Craft Bazaar  Buddha Dordenma  Centenary Farmers Market  Institute of Traditional Medical Services  Memorial Chorten  Tashichhodzong

Accommodation options:
City Hotel  Le Meridien  Hotel Bhutan

Day 2

Drive from Thimphu to Punakha

Dochula, at 3100 metres, is one of many motorable mountain passes in Bhutan. Take in the astonishing panoramic view of the snowcapped mountain range.
The place also has a memorial, 108 identical stupas to commemorate the victory against insurgency and honour the fallen.

Lunch will be served on your way to Punakha.

Drive to Punakha
Distance: 63Km Driving |Time: 1 Hr and 30 Mins

A short hike to Chimi Lhakang (the fertility temple) will take you through Sopsokha village. The unusual practice of worshipping phallus in Bhutanese culture originates from this village.

Places and attractions:
Punakha  Dochula Pass  Lungchutse Hike  Punakha Dzong - The Palace of Great Bliss  Punakha Suspension Bridge  Chimi Lhakhang - The Fertility Temple

Accommodation options:
Drubchhu Resort  Amankora Punakha  Dhensa Boutique Resort

Day 3

Visit to Punakha Drubchen

You will be escorted to Punakha Dzong for the main event. Join the locals for an immersive cultural experience and watch the "pazaps" narrate the glorious battle fought 400 years ago to defend the nation.

Places and attractions:
Punakha  Punakha Dzong - The Palace of Great Bliss

Accommodation options:
Drubchhu Resort  Amankora Punakha  Dhensa Boutique Resort

Day 4

Drive from Punakha to Phobjikha

Start the day with an early drive to Phobjikha.
Distance: 78 Km | Drive Time: 3 Hr 30 Mins

Let the serenity of the valley with its wide-open spaces and pristine nature help you unwind.

A 16th-century Gangtey Goemba (monastery) sits atop a hill overlooking the valley. The complex consists of monks' quarters, guesthouses, and meditation centres.

There are nature trails that run along the field and through the pine forest connecting small villages. You can explore them on a foot or go biking.

It's one of those destinations where you just want to clear your schedule and go with the flow.

Places and attractions:
Phobjikha Valley  Black Necked Crane Information Centre  Gangtey Monastery  Gangtey Nature Trail  Hot Stone Bath in Gangtey

Accommodation options:
Amankora Bumthang  Gangtey Goenpa Lodge  Dewachen Hotel

Day 5

Drive from Phobjikha to Paro

It will be a long drive back to Paro.
Distance: 185 Km | Drive Time: 7 Hrs

In the evening, it's worth taking a stroll along the oldest street in Paro town. The street is lined with traditional houses renovated with western-inspired storefronts running cafes and souvenir shops.

Places and attractions:
Paro  Paro Town

Accommodation options:
Haven Resort  Tashi Namgay Resort  Le Meridien Paro Riverfront

Day 6

Hike to Taktsang

With few days to acclimatise, you are now ready for the ultimate experience in Bhutan.

An avid hiker will find this experience deeply rewarding. Bask in the scent of pine as you climb the trail in and out of the woods. Let your imagination run wild as your guide narrates the Buddhist mythology surrounding this place to keep you company on your hike.

When you get to the top, let the cold mountain air, the waterfall cascading down the cliff, and the ambiance of a secluded monastery inspire a spiritual experience for you.

Places and attractions:
Paro  Tigers Nest Hike

Accommodation options:
Haven Resort  Tashi Namgay Resort  Le Meridien Paro Riverfront

Day 7

Depart From Paro