7 Days Bhutan Tour with Haa Valley

Welcome to Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by your guide just outside the arrival hall. To help you acclimatise to the altitude, we’ll take it easy today with a scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s charming capital. Check in to your hotel and enjoy your first taste of authentic Bhutanese cuisine. 

Begin your exploration at the National Memorial Chorten, a sacred stupa built in honour of King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Continue to the grand Thimphu Dzong, the largest dzong in Bhutan and the seat of the King’s office. If your visit falls on a weekend, explore the bustling Centenary Farmers’ Market, where villagers gather to sell fresh produce and local crafts. 

End the day at Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, home to the colossal 169-foot bronze Buddha Dordenma, one of the largest Buddha statues in the world. After dinner, enjoy a relaxing stroll through vibrant Thimphu Town.

Situated at 2,400 metres, Thimphu is a unique blend of tradition and modernity—home to monks, royalty, and city dwellers alike. Today, immerse yourself in the cultural heart of Bhutan. Begin with a serene hike to Cheri Gompa, built in 1620 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. This revered monastery is where the central monastic body was first established. Return to the city for a visit to the National Textile Museum, where you’ll discover Bhutan’s intricate weaving traditions—considered a national art form and elevated to global recognition by Queen Jetsun Pema. 

Later, head to the Takin Preserve to meet Bhutan’s endearing national animal, the takin, believed to be created by the Divine Madman. From there, ascend to Sangaygang (BBS Tower), where colourful prayer flags flutter in the wind and panoramic views of Thimphu Valley, Tashichho Dzong, and the Buddha Dordenma await. Follow a scenic trail through pine forests and apple orchards to Wangditse Monastery, then loop back via the forest path to complete this enriching day.

After breakfast, set off early for the ancient capital of Punakha, a picturesque 2.5-hour drive crossing the majestic Dochula Pass. Pause here for coffee and breathtaking views of the Himalayas, framed by the 108 memorial chortens built by Queen Mother Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck. Descend into the subtropical valley of Punakha and visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, dramatically situated between the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. This 17th-century masterpiece once served as the seat of government and is still the winter home of Je Khenpo, Bhutan’s Chief Abbot. 

Cross the country’s longest suspension bridge and hike through rice terraces and pine forests to the hilltop Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, an extraordinary temple built by Queen Mother Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck. End your day with a gentle 20-minute walk to Chimi Lhakhang, the Temple of Fertility, built in honour of the eccentric saint Drukpa Kunley. This revered site is especially popular among women seeking blessings for children.

Journey into the tranquil Paro Valley, home to ancient monasteries and Bhutan’s only international airport. Gaze upon the sacred Mount Jomolhari (7,300m), whose glacier-fed waters give life to the valley below. Begin with a visit to Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong), a striking 15th-century fortress-monastery that still serves as the administrative centre of the district. Then head north to explore the evocative ruins of Drukgyal Dzong, built in 1647 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to celebrate Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invaders. Though damaged by fire, its preserved walls stand as a proud reminder of Bhutan’s resilience and military prowess. Wander through the remains, take in the sweeping views, and relive stories of the kingdom’s glorious past.

Today, drive to the remote and pristine Haa Valley via the dramatic Chele La Pass (3,988m), the highest motorable point in Bhutan. On a clear day, you’ll enjoy incredible views of Paro Valley on one side and Haa Valley on the other, with snow-capped peaks in the distance. Enjoy a scenic picnic at Chele La before descending into Haa—Bhutan’s least visited region, only opened to tourists in 2002. Visit Katsho Village and the serene Katso Lhakhang, soaking in the simplicity of traditional Bhutanese life. With no tourist hotels in the valley, we return to Paro for the night, reflecting on the untouched charm and authenticity of this hidden gem.

Are you ready for Bhutan’s most iconic experience? Today, hike to the legendary Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest. Clinging to a cliff 900 metres above the Paro Valley floor, this sacred site is where Guru Padmasambhava is said to have landed on the back of a tigress in the 8th century. A one-hour trek brings you to a stunning cafeteria viewpoint with a clear panorama of the monastery. Follow the trail lined with fluttering prayer flags and ascend to the temple itself—a spiritual and visual marvel. After a rewarding descent and a hearty local lunch, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. Built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, it remains a serene sanctuary of peace and blessings.

Today, we bid fond farewell to the enchanting Kingdom of Bhutan. After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure. We hope your journey has been filled with inspiration, wonder, and unforgettable moments. Until we meet again in this mystical land of mountains, monasteries, and magic—Tashi Delek!