7D6N Discover Spiritual Bhutan with Truly Expat (21-27 August 2025)

Welcome to Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Touching down at Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide upon exiting the arrival hall. Today, we will take it easy to acclimatise to the altitude. Drive to Thimphu, check in to the hotel and lets have your first taste of Bhutanese cuisine. 

For those arriving early, take the opportunity to explore Thimphu town at your own pace. Stroll through its lively streets, where local cafés and artisan shops offer a taste of Bhutan’s creative spirit. Don’t miss Kaja Throm, a vibrant local market where you can experience the colors and flavours of daily life. Or visit iconic landmarks like the National Memorial Chorten and the Clock Tower Square, perfect spots to soak in the city’s cultural charm. It’s the ideal prelude to your journey, offering a first glimpse of Bhutan’s unique blend of tradition and modernity.

Hotel: Bhutan Peaceful Residency & Spa or similar (3 star)

ACTIVITIES:

Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten

(Duration 2 hour, 1 hour to ascend and 1 hour to descend)

There is no other temple in Bhutan built elaborately as this. This fascinating temple was built by the Queen Mother of the 5th King to bring universal peace in this world. The best of the spiritual art works are painted on the inner walls. There are also paintings of Buddhist teachers and tutelary deities of the country. This is a great temple to study the symbolic meanings from frescoes and sculptures. 

Chimi Lhakhang

Also known as the Fertility Temple, this monastery is located in the beautiful village of Sopsokha. It stands on a small hill close to the village of Lobesa and was constructed in 1499 by Ngawang Choegyel, the 14th Drukpaheirarch. The footpath to Chimi Lhakhang meanders through beautiful terraces of paddy fields. The walk across the fields takes about 30 minutes. Many have been blessed with children after praying at the temple.

Hotel: Zhingkham Resort or similar (3 star)

ACTIVITIES:

National Museum of Bhutan

Housed in the former watchtower of Paro Dzong, the National Museum of Bhutan has a wide collection of artifacts that span centuries, with displays showcasing traditional art, religious treasures, ancient weaponry, textiles, and more. Each exhibit tells a story about Bhutan’s unique identity, from its royal history to its spiritual practices. Overlooking the breathtaking Paro Valley, the museum offers visitors a stunning view of the landscape, complementing the cultural and historical journey within. It is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to understand the heart and soul of Bhutan.

Paro Dzong  (Rinpung Dzong)

Explore Rinpung Dzong, which the locals call the ‘fortress of a heap of jewels’. Built in 1646 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the dzong stands on a hill above Paro Township. It is linked by a traditional cantilever bridge called the Nemi Zam over the Po Chhu. Walk up the stone paved path running alongside imposing outer walls. Once inside the Dzong, you will be welcomed by the monks, architecture and beautiful frescoes. This dzong is a highlight for art and history lovers.

Paro Valley

The beautiful valley is home to many of Bhutan's old monasteries and temples. The valley is also home to Mount Chomolhari (7,300 meters) situated at the northern end of the valley whose glacier water forms the Pachu flowing through the valley.

Kyichu Lhakhang

At 1,300 years old, this is one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. Like the Jambhay Lhakhang in Bumthang, it is one of 108 temples built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo to subdue and vanquish an ogress that was obstructing the spread of Buddhism. Legend has it that all 108 temples were built in a single night. The Kyichhu temple’s name means “reservoir of peace”. Next to the temple is a museum dedicated to the late Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche. You will see photographs and other personal artefacts belonging to the Rinpoche.

Hotel:  Silver Cloud Hotel or similar (3 star)

Are you ready?  We will be making the hike up to one of the key highlights in Bhutan today! Tiger's Nest aka Taktsang Monastery

ACTIVITIES:

Taktsang Monastery

Also known as the Tiger’s Nest, this monastery set dramatically on the cliffs of Paro Valley, is Bhutan’s most famous landmark. Ascend more than two thousand feet from the valley floor to reach the monastery. For many, it has been shared that “A trip to Bhutan is not complete without climbing to Taktsang.”  A hike up to Taktsang draws people with different interests. It fills those who are spiritually inclined with a sense of peace, while avid hikers feel a sense of achievement upon reaching the monastery. 

According to local folklore, the Guru Rinpoche flew to this location from Tibet on the back of a tigress (his consort Yeshey Tshogyal) and meditated in one of the caves, before emerging in eight manifestations. 

Hot Stone Bath (optional)

After your trek, unwind with a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath to relieve tense muscles and rejuvenate your body. The process of preparing the bath involves heating fresh river water with hot stones, which are carefully selected for their ability to retain heat. The water is infused with Menchu, a special medicinal blend known for its healing properties. This relaxing experience not only soothes the body but also offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s ancient wellness traditions, combining natural elements with time-honored practices to promote relaxation and healing.

Hotel: Silver Cloud Hotel or similar (3 star)

Today, we bid a fond farewell to this beautiful Himalayan country as we take our flight back home. We hope that by now, you have made new friends and gathered many photos and cherished memories of Bhutan. We look forward to welcoming you back to this enchanting land again! Tashi Delek!