Punakha
Phobjikha Valley is one of Bhutan’s most scenic glacial valleys, famous for the black-necked cranes 🐦 that migrate here every winter. It’s a peaceful, cultural, and ecological hotspot, surrounded by pine forests and traditional villages. The valley also has Gangtey Monastery ⛪, a major spiritual center of Bhutan.
The best time to visit is October to March when the cranes arrive.
Day 1: Arrival in Paro ✈️ – Arrive at Paro International Airport, visit Rinpung Dzong and Kyichu Lhakhang. Overnight in Paro 🏨.
Day 2: Paro → Thimphu 🛣️ – Drive to Thimphu, visit Tashichho Dzong, Buddha Dordenma, and local crafts market. Overnight in Thimphu 🏨.
Day 3: Thimphu Sightseeing 🕊️ – Visit Folk Heritage Museum, National Memorial Chorten, Changangkha Lhakhang. Overnight in Thimphu 🏨.
Day 4: Thimphu → Punakha 🌄 – Drive via Dochula Pass, visit Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang (fertility temple). Overnight in Punakha 🏨.
Day 5: Punakha → Gangtey/Phobjikha 🏔️ – Drive to Phobjikha Valley, visit Gangtey Monastery and explore the valley. Overnight in Phobjikha 🏨.
Day 6: Phobjikha Valley Exploration 🌾 – Walk through traditional villages, observe black-necked cranes if in season, enjoy local culture. Overnight in Phobjikha 🏨.
Day 7: Phobjikha → Bumthang 🏞️ – Scenic drive to Bumthang, check into hotel, relax. Overnight in Bumthang 🏨.
Day 8: Bumthang Sightseeing ⛪ – Visit Jambay Lhakhang, Kurje Lhakhang, and Tamshing Monastery. Overnight in Bumthang 🏨.
Day 9: Bumthang → Paro 🛣️ – Travel back to Paro via scenic routes or domestic flight, enjoy last evening in Paro town. Overnight in Paro 🏨.
Day 10: Paro Sightseeing 🏯 – Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang 🐉), visit Paro town markets. Overnight in Paro 🏨.
Day 11: Departure from Paro ✈️ – Transfer to Paro International Airport for your flight home.