9 Days Bhutan Walking Tour

Your flight into Paro Airport is among the most spectacular in the world, with breathtaking views of some of the highest peaks on Earth. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted by your guide. After lunch, begin your Bhutanese adventure with a visit to the National Museum, housed in the Ta Dzong—a former watchtower that now displays rare religious relics, traditional art, and artefacts. Continue to the Rinpung Dzong, known for its exquisite architecture and mural depicting the great saint Milarepa. Cross the wooden cantilever bridge before returning to your hotel in Paro for the night.

Begin your day with Bhutan’s most iconic hike to the famed Taktsang Monastery. The trail ascends through pine forests draped in Spanish moss and colourful prayer flags. After about an hour, you’ll reach the cafeteria viewpoint, offering a mesmerising view of the monastery clinging to the cliffside. 

Legend says Guru Padmasambhava flew here on the back of a tigress in the 8th century and meditated for three months. Those who wish may continue up to a higher vantage point for closer views before descending for lunch. The return journey offers a different perspective of Paro Valley. Dinner and overnight at your hotel. 

Hiking duration: 3–4 hours.

After breakfast, drive to Sangchoekor Buddhist College (2,800m) and begin your hike to Bumdra Monastery (3,800m). The trail leads through cool forests and open ridges overlooking Paro Valley. Reaching Bumdrak—a sacred site blessed by Guru Rinpoche—you’ll feel an immense sense of accomplishment. Behind the altar are footprints said to belong to a thousand angels. Enjoy a peaceful picnic lunch on the temple terrace with panoramic mountain views before descending to the base where your driver awaits. Return to Paro for dinner and overnight stay.

After breakfast, drive to Thimphu, the vibrant capital of Bhutan. Visit the Tashichhoe Dzong, an impressive fortress housing the King’s office and the monastic body. Continue to the National Memorial Chorten, where locals gather in prayer, spinning large prayer wheels in devotion. Explore the Institute of Zorig Chusum (School of Arts and Crafts) to see students learning Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts, then browse the Craft Bazaar for authentic handmade products. Later, visit the Zilukha Nunnery overlooking Tashichhoe Dzong before settling into your hotel. Dinner and overnight in Thimphu.

Today’s walk takes you to one of Bhutan’s most sacred meditation sites, founded by the 13th-century saint Phajo Drugom Zhigpo. The uphill trail passes through forests of blue pine, fir, and spruce, home to thriving wildlife. Phajoding offers panoramic views of Thimphu Valley and is home to around 40 monks who dedicate their lives to spiritual retreat. Visit the monastery and enjoy a packed lunch amid tranquil surroundings before descending to Thimphu. Dinner and overnight in Thimphu. 

Hiking time: approximately 4 hours.

Drive to Dochula Pass (3,140m), where 108 memorial chortens stand against a backdrop of Himalayan peaks. Begin your hike from the pass, winding gently through rhododendron and hemlock forests towards Lungchutse Temple. On a clear day, you’ll enjoy 360° views of Mount Jomolhari, Masang Gang, Zongophu Gang, and Gangkhar Puensum—the highest unclimbed peak in the world. 

Continue down through rhododendron forests to Trashigang Goemba, a serene monastery overlooking the valleys below. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the temple courtyard before your driver takes you to Punakha for dinner and overnight stay.

Embark on a scenic forest walk to the hidden Hokatsho Lake, an untouched gem surrounded by lush greenery. The trail begins with a gentle uphill climb past small villages and the 15th-century Chorten Nyeabu temple. As you ascend, the forest becomes denser, filled with birdsong and the soothing hum of nature. Upon reaching the tranquil lake, take time to rest and absorb the serenity before descending on an alternative trail. Stop for a picnic lunch at a local farmhouse and enjoy tea with the family before returning to Thimphu. Dinner and overnight stay. 

Hiking time: 5–6 hours.

After breakfast, enjoy a short, pleasant walk through rice fields to the famous Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Temple of Fertility. Built in 1499 by Lama Drukpa Kuenley—the Divine Madman—it is dedicated to fertility and blessings. After the visit, return to the vehicle and drive back over Dochula Pass to Thimphu, stopping briefly to enjoy views of the Eastern Himalayas. Continue to Paro in the evening. Dinner and overnight stay.

Take a leisurely morning to revisit Paro’s cultural landmarks. Visit the ruins of Drukgyal Dzong, built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646 to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invaders. From here, enjoy spectacular views of Mount Chomolhari on a clear day. Later, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples dating back to the 7th century, followed by Druk Choding, a 16th-century town temple in Paro. Spend your final evening exploring Paro town’s charming streets and handicraft shops before your farewell dinner. Overnight in Paro.

After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. As you leave the Land of the Thunder Dragon, take with you memories of peaceful walks, mountain air, and the profound spirit of Bhutan that stays long after your journey ends.