Itinerary:

Day 01: Flight from Home to Kathmandu
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu on the morning of Day 02: Transfer to the hotel, breakfast, and rest. Afternoon visit to Boudhanath – World Heritage Site, also known as Khasti or Chorzen Chenipo (Tibetan). Boudhanath Stupa (Buddhist Center Boudhanath) is located 5 km east of downtown Kathmandu and is the largest stupa in the Kathmandu Valley. It stands 38 meters tall, has a circumference of 100 meters, and is one of the most fascinating examples of stupa design. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 03: Kathmandu
We visit the major religious attractions of Kathmandu – Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath & Kathmandu Durbar Square. Then we proceed to the old royal city – this complex of palaces, courtyards, and temples, built between the 12th and 18th centuries, was the seat of the Malla kings of Kathmandu. A fascinating piece here is a stone inscription carved into the palace wall from the 17th century with writings in 15 languages. The Durbar Square, protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the social, religious, and urban focal point of the city. You will also be impressed by the intricately decorated temple complexes and religious ceremonies. We then visit Pashupatinath (temple and cremation sites): We would like to point out that cremations take place here. While this may be daunting for non-Hindus, it is part of daily life for Hindus. Expect significant air pollution in general. We also ask for discretion when taking photographs. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 04: Flight Kathmandu – Paro, Drive to Thimphu
On the way from Kathmandu to Paro, you will enjoy an approximately one-hour panoramic flight, which, with some luck and good weather, offers a magnificent view of six of the 14 eight-thousanders. Upon your arrival in Paro (2280m), the first sightseeing is directly on the program – the magnificent Paro Dzong (fortress/castle, monastery, and administrative center). It is considered one of the most impressive structures in the Kingdom of Bhutan and is seen as a typical example of Bhutanese architecture. Immediately afterward, we continue our journey and drive to Thimphu (2320m). Overnight stay at a hotel.

Day 05: Thimphu
We spend a whole day in Thimphu: Visit the National Memorial Chorten, whose paintings and statues provide a deep insight into Buddhist philosophy, a Buddha statue, the Institute of Traditional Medicine, and Tashichho Dzong monastery.

Day 06: Thimphu – Phunkha (Drive approx. 2.5 hours / approx. 50km)
Drive to Punakha via the Dochula Pass (3,050m), from where there is a magnificent panoramic view of the eastern Himalayas. Admire the 108 stupas built by the king for the benefit of all beings. In the afternoon, visit the “Palace of Great Happiness”, which lies at the confluence of two rivers, the Pho Chu and Mochu. Overnight in Phunakh.

Day 07: Punakha – Trongsa (Drive approx. 2.5 hours / approx. 80km)
Early morning drive to Trongsa via the PeleLa Pass (3,300m). Stop for lunch at Chendebji Chorten, built in the 18th century. Then visit the breathtaking Trongsa monastery, dating back to 1648. It is the most impressive and architecturally magnificent fortress in the kingdom. Overnight in Trongsa.

Day 08: Trongsa – Bumthang (Drive approx. 2.5 hours / approx. 80km)
Drive to Bumthang via the Yutong-La Pass (3,400m). Bumthang is famous for its Yathra, woolen textiles. These can be purchased in the Chumey village. The beautiful Bumthang Valley (known as the Switzerland of the Himalayas) consists of the combination of four valleys – Chumey, Choekhor, Tang, and Ura. It is home to many famous Buddhist temples and monasteries. Visit the so-called Swiss Farm. Overnight in Bumthang.

Day 09: Bumthang
We visit the Castle of the White Bird, Jakar, built in 1667 and experience the cultural events at the annual Bumthang festival. The Jambay Temple, built in the 7th century by the Tibetan King Songsen Gampo, is one of the oldest monasteries in the country; then proceed to the Kurje Temple; Tamshing Monastery, founded in 1501 by Terton Pema Lingpa. The monastery contains very old religious paintings as well as a thousand Buddhas and 21 Taras (female form of Bodhisattvas). We take a refreshment break in a nearby farmhouse and experience the traditional way of life. Overnight in Bumthang.

Day 10: Bumthang – Paro (35 min flight)
Upon arrival, visit the Rinpung Monastery, built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the first spiritual ruler of Bhutan. This fortress of Paro is the most visible landmark of the valley. Evening at leisure. Overnight in Paro.

Day 11: Paro
Take your time to explore the National Museum, which houses some of the finest examples of fine arts, including bronze masterpieces and paintings. The museum, with its extensive collection, interprets the history and culture of Bhutan through its exhibits. Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, a sacred shrine of the country. Drive to Drugyal Dzong (a castle ruin). Although in ruins, the Dzong is of great historical significance. This spot offers a magnificent view of Mount Jhomolhari, “Mountain of the Goddess” (7,329m). Overnight in Paro.

Day 12: Paro – Day hike: Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Today, enjoy a day hike to the “Tiger’s Nest Monastery” (Pelphug, 2,900m), one of the most popular spiritual sites in the Kingdom of Bhutan. As one of the most revered places, the monastery perches on the side of a cliff 900m above the Paro Valley. Lunch and refreshments will be taken in the cafeteria, which offers an impressive view of the cultural landmark. Evening at leisure. Overnight in Paro.

Day 13: Flight Paro – Kathmandu
Today it’s time to bid farewell to the Kingdom of Happiness. You fly back to Kathmandu and once again have the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the famous 8000ers. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and free time. Explore Kathmandu once again on your own. An impressive journey comes to an end with a farewell dinner. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 14: Kathmandu – Home
After breakfast, check-out and transfer to the airport.