Bhutan: 9-Day Cultural Tour & Samtengang Trek｜Bhutan

Day 1: Arrive in Paro – Thimphu

Arrive in Paro and be greeted by your guide. If your flight is in the morning or afternoon, enjoy some sightseeing in Paro. Head to the 17th-century Ta Dzong, the National Museum of Bhutan, showcasing a range of artifacts and exhibits related to Bhutanese culture and history. Next, visit the Rinpung Dzong, known as the "fortress of the heap of jewels." Then, drive to Thimphu, the capital city. Spend free time strolling through Thimphu town.

Day 2: Thimphu Tour

Visit the Memorial Chorten, built in memory of the third King of Bhutan who reigned from 1952-1972. Then, drive to Kuenselphodrang where the giant 169ft Buddha statue is located. It is supposedly the largest bronze statue in the world. Follow with a visit to the Institute for Zorig Chusum.
After Lunch visit the Takin Preserve to see Takins, the national animal of Bhutan. End the day with the popular farmers market, the largest vegetable market in the country.
Day 3: Thimphu-Punakha

Begin your journey to Punakha via Dochula La at 3,100 meters. On a clear day, get spectacular views of the Himalayan mountains. From the pass, drive downhill through the forests of rhododendron, fir, and hemlock.

On the way, stop at Chimi Lhakhang Temple, the temple dedicated to the great Yogi in the 14th century known as Drukpa Kuenley, or the "Divine Madman," who is believed to bless women who seek fertility. After the visit, continue driving to Punakha. After settling in, head to the Punakha Dzong.

Day 4: Punakha Dzong - Lingmukha Village (trek starts)

After breakfast at your hotel, drive to the hike start point. The trail heads east towards Lingmukha. Initially, the trail winds through paddy fields and then climbs relatively steeply until reaching a chorten (stupa) which marks the highest point on today’s hike.

Enjoy a picnic lunch and scenic views of the valleys to the north here. After lunch, the trail leads into the pretty Lingmukha valley, with the last hour or so of today’s hike being along the feeder road; there is also an option to drive.

Day 5: Lingmukha Village – Samtengang Village

Continue your trek to Samtengang Village. Walk through lush forests and enjoy the peaceful countryside.
Day 6: Samtengang Village – Punakha (Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten)

After breakfast, hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten, a stunning temple built to bring peace and harmony to the world. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valley.

Day 7: Punakha – Paro (via Dochula Pass & Thimphu; weaving center)

Drive back to Paro, stopping at Dochula Pass for more breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Visit a weaving center in Thimphu to learn about traditional Bhutanese textiles.

Day 8: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Embark on a challenging hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched high above the Paro Valley. Enjoy stunning views and explore the monastery, one of Bhutan’s most sacred sites.

Day 9: Depart Paro
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.