Bhutan: The Shangri-La Tour

The flight towards the Himalayan kingdom, Nepal reveals stunning views of the great peaks Mount Dorje Lakpa, Mt Ganesha, Mt Purbi Chhyachu, Mt Langtang, etc., (weather permitting).

You will arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport. After customs, immigration procedures and baggage claim, a representative from Sampurna will greet you upon leaving the arrivals terminal, welcoming you and transferring you to your hotel (Check-in: 1400 hours).

The Kathmandu Valley, the capital and heart of the country, essentially symbolizes everything that is Nepal. Having lived through the rule of several dynasties, the culture and society of Kathmandu has evolved over time to give it a more than unique characteristic. Today it is an urban city that has its ancient myths and at the same time is a testimony to the greatness of people who have lived there for centuries, a melting pot of everything that is Nepali.

In the afternoon free for personal activities, you can familiarize yourself by exploring the city center of Kathmandu with the narrow, lively and endless streets filled with shops of Nepalese crafts, jewelry, clothes, ATMs and good restaurants, etc.

Trip Distance: 50 km, Trip Duration: 1 hrs

The flight into the Himalayas offers breathtaking views of the eastern Himalaya (weather permitting), taking you directly into the Himalayan capital of Paro (7,000ft). After immigration formality on arrival, as you exit the airport terminal you will be greeted and welcome by a Sampurna Adventure personal and then transfer to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. The drive offers beautiful views of the Paro and Thimphu valleys. Thimphu, located at over 2,500 meters above sea level, lies in a fertile valley crossed by the Wangchu River.

In this area are the current royal residence and the summer residence of the monastic body and the Chief Abbot.

Visit Kuensel Phodrang (2,655 m) – home to the Great Buddha Dordenma, a 51.5-meter statue built “to bestow blessings, peace, and happiness to the whole world.” The statue, set amid the ruins of Kuensel Phodrang, houses over 100,000 smaller Buddha statues and offers magnificent panoramic views of Thimphu Valley.

Next, visit the Memorial Chorten, built in memory of His Majesty the Third King. The paintings and statues inside provide deep insight into Buddhist philosophy. This famous stupa is always lively with pilgrims from across Bhutan.

Then visit Tashichho Dzong, the most prominent landmark in Thimphu, meaning “Fortress of the Glorious Religion.” It serves as the seat of the religious and administrative center, housing the offices of the Ministries of Home Affairs and Finance, as well as the Throne Room and offices of His Majesty the King of Bhutan.

Later, enjoy some free time to explore the local handicraft market.

Tour Distance: 20 km, Tour Duration: 6 hours

visit Motithang, a peaceful neighborhood in Thimphu surrounded by pine forests, where the famous Takin Sanctuary, home to Bhutan’s national animal, is located. Afterwards, we visit the Dewachen Nunnery, situated on a quiet hill with spectacular views of the Thimphu Valley. This spiritual retreat houses Buddhist nuns dedicated to study, meditation, and a contemplative life. The soft sound of chanting and the fluttering prayer flags create a deeply serene atmosphere. Visitors can witness daily prayers and experience the simplicity and devotion of monastic life — an authentic and spiritual encounter in Bhutan.

Next, we explore the Bhutan Textile Museum, which preserves the country’s rich artisanal tradition. Ancient fabrics, royal garments, and intricate patterns are on display, showcasing Bhutanese cultural identity. We can also observe hand weaving, an art passed down through generations that connects history and daily life.

Visit to the National Library, which houses a vast collection of traditional books and manuscripts, as well as models of Punakha Dzong and typical Bhutanese chorten architecture. Continue to the National Museum, offering an insight into Bhutanese daily life and traditional architecture.

Finally, visit the School of Arts and Local Crafts, where traditional techniques of painting, weaving, and other crafts are preserved and passed on from generation to generation.

Tour Distance: 73 km, Trip Duration: 2 hours

We begin the day with a scenic drive to Punakha, crossing the Dochula Pass (3,100 m). On a clear, sunny day, the pass offers breathtaking panoramic views of the eastern Himalayan range.

Upon arrival in Punakha, visit Punakha Dzong, majestically located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. This dzong serves as the winter residence of the head of the Central Monastic Body, led by His Holiness the Je Khenpo. Punakha was Bhutan’s former capital and seat of government until 1955, when the capital was moved to Thimphu.

Constructed by Tuebi Zaow Balip in 1637, Punakha Dzong is considered one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan. It houses the sacred relics of the Southern Drukpa Kagyu School, including the Rangjung Kasarpani. 

In 1907, the dzong was the site of Ugyen Wangchuck’s coronation as the first King of Bhutan, and three years later, a treaty was signed here whereby the British agreed not to interfere in Bhutanese internal affairs, while Bhutan allowed Britain to manage its foreign relations.

Later, take a leisurely walk around Punakha Valley, admiring the traditional farmhouses and Bhutanese architecture, and soaking in the valley’s serene landscapes.

After lunch at heritage house, visit Chimi Lhakhang, an important Buddhist monastery perched on a small hillock. Built in 1499 by the 14th Drukpa hierarch, Ngawang Choegyel, the site was blessed by the legendary “Divine Madman,” Drukpa Kunley (1455–1529), who constructed a chorten here.

Drukpa Kunley, known as the “Mad Saint” or “Divine Madman,” taught Buddhism through humor, song, and unconventional methods, often with shocking and sexual undertones. He also promoted the use of phallic symbols, which appear as paintings on walls or carved wooden phalluses on house eaves, to ward off evil spirits and malicious gossip. The monastery preserves the original wooden phallus brought from Tibet, which is used to bless pilgrims—particularly women seeking fertility. Tradition holds that pilgrims are lightly tapped on the head with this symbolic phallus as part of the blessing ritual.

Tour Distance: 213 km, Tour Duration: 6 hours

After breakfast, we depart from Punakha for a scenic drive to Bumthang, the spiritual and cultural heart of Bhutan. The journey takes approximately 6–7 hours, depending on road conditions, but the landscapes along the way are spectacular.

En route, we cross two high mountain passes: Pele La (3,300 m) and Yotung La (3,425 m). From these vantage points, enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, deep valleys, and lush forests. You may also see nomadic herders, traditional farmsteads, and yak pastures, offering glimpses of rural Bhutanese life.

A highlight of the journey is a visit to Trongsa Dzong, one of the most majestic dzongs in Bhutan and historically significant as the ancestral seat of the Wangchuck monarchy. Perched on a ridge overlooking the Mangde Chhu river, the dzong combines military, administrative, and religious functions. Explore its courtyards, temples, and intricately carved wooden architecture while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding valley.

Afterward, we continue the drive down into the Bumthang Valley, the heart of Bhutan’s weaving and cultural traditions. Bumthang is known for its ancient temples, monasteries, and handwoven textiles, produced here for centuries. The valley is dotted with charming villages, serene rivers, and traditional Bhutanese architecture, providing a rich cultural and spiritual atmosphere.

Upon arrival in Bumthang, check in at your hotel and, enjoying the tranquil beauty of the Bumthang Valley.

Tour Distance: 20 km, Tour Duration: 6 hours

Today we explore Bumthang, a region comprising four major valleys: Choskhor, Tang, Ura, and Chhume. The largest, Choskhor Valley, is often referred to simply as Bumthang Valley and is home to the region’s most important dzongs and temples. The name “Bumthang” has two interpretations: one links it to a Bumpa, a sacred vessel containing holy water, with “Thang” meaning field or flat area, highlighting the valley’s spiritual significance; the other less formal translation refers to the beautiful women of the region.

Visit Jakar Dzong, built in 1667 and overlooking the Choskhor Valley. Also known as Yuelay Namgyal Dzong, it commemorates the victory over the troops of the Tibetan ruler Phuntsho Namgyal and is considered one of the largest dzongs in Bhutan.

Next, we visit Kurjey Lhakhang, named after the body imprint of Guru Rinpoche, preserved in a cave within the oldest of the three buildings in the temple complex. The first temple, built in 1652 by Mingyur Tenpa, is the oldest, followed by the second temple constructed by Ugyen Wangchuck, the first king of Bhutan, in 1900. The third structure is a three-story lhakhang built in 1984 by Ashi Kesang Wangchuck under the guidance of Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche.

We also visit Tamshing Gompa, founded in 1501 by the renowned treasure-finder Pema Lingpa. Known as Tamshing Lhendup Tsholing (“Temple of the Good Message”), it is the most important Nyingma-pa monastery in the kingdom.

A short distance below Tamshing lies the quaint town of Konchogsum Lhakhang, a small rural settlement with fascinating local stories. The temple’s history dates back to the 6th century, though the current structure was rebuilt in the 15th century.

This day offers a deep dive into Bumthang’s rich spiritual heritage, showcasing Bhutanese architecture, sacred relics, and centuries-old monastic traditions.

Tour Distance: 265 km, Tour Duration: 7 hours

Today we embark on a full-day scenic drive from Bumthang to Thimphu, enjoying the spectacular Himalayan landscapes along the way. A picnic lunch will be provided en route.

Departing Jakar, we first visit the Chendebji Chorten, a striking white stupa built to enshrine the remnants of an evil spirit that was subdued at this site. Continuing the drive, we cross the Pele La Pass (3,424 m), offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountain peaks.

Next, we stop at a traditional weaving center, where skilled artisans demonstrate Bhutan’s rich textile heritage. Here, you can observe the intricate process of hand-weaving, including the creation of the famous Bumthang and Wangdue patterns, and gain insight into the cultural significance of these beautiful fabrics.

After the weaving visit, we drive to Wangdue, where a short break is taken for tea and snacks. From Wangdue, we continue to Thimphu, crossing the Dochula La Pass. On a clear day, this pass offers stunning views of the eastern Himalayan ranges, adorned with 108 memorial chortens along the ridge. Another short stop allows for tea or coffee while enjoying the scenery.

By late evening, we arrive in Thimphu and check into the hotel. The rest of the evening is at leisure to relax or explore the local area.

Trek Distance: 50 km, Trek Duration: 4 hours

Early morning after breakfast, we drive an hour from Thimphu to Paro. Upon arrival, we transfer to the base point of Taktsang Monastery for a memorable hike to Taktsang Palphug Monastery, famously known as Tiger’s Nest. Perched dramatically on the cliffside of the upper Paro valley, it is one of Bhutan’s most sacred and iconic sites.

The monastery was built in 1692 around a cave where Guru Padmasambhava is said to have meditated in the 8th century. Guru Padmasambhava, credited with introducing Buddhism to Bhutan, is the tutelary deity of the country, and most Bhutanese visit this sacred site at least once in their lifetime.

After descending, we visit Kyichhu Lhakhang (Jowo Temple of Kyichhu), one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in the 7th century by the Tibetan Emperor Songtsen Gampo. This temple is considered one of the four “border-taming” temples he constructed, and it continues to host annual rituals honoring Vajrasattva, Palchen Heruka, and Vajrakilaya for the well-being of the country under the patronage of Queen Kesang Choden Wangchuck.

Later, we visit Paro Rinpung Dzong, an impressive monastery-fortress built in 1645. Overlooking the dzong stands the Ta Dzong, an ancient watchtower converted in 1967 into the National Museum of Bhutan, showcasing a fascinating collection of national treasures, including ancient armor, textiles, and Thangka paintings.

Return to the hotel in Paro for dinner and overnight stay.

Distancia: 6 km, Duración: 30 min

Breakfast, in the morning free for personal activities, later at the arranged time, transfer to the airport for final departure to connect onward flight to Kathmandu. After immigration formality on arrival, as you exit the airport terminal you will be greeted and welcome by a Sampurna Adventure personal & transferred to your hotel, 

after some brief rest, visit Kathmandu Durbar square (The World Heritage site), the most important monument of the Nepalese capital in an open-air museum, the Kumari Palace (Living goddess) where the Kumari acknowledges their greetings from her balcony window, filled with the temples, courtyards & palace of the Malla Kings, who ruled over the city. The palace is known as Hanuman Dhoka, the statue of the Monkey god adjoins the palace entrance. The palace’s main courtyard is where the Kings of Nepal were crowned and had their coronations solemnized.

Next to the palace, we have a gigantic figure of Kal Bhairab (the God of Destruction) and beautiful temples. 

Visit Swoyambhunath Stupa with its 2,500-year history, UNESCO World Heritage Site, an ancient religious complex mobbed by monkeys and soaring above the city on a lofty hilltop, the fascinating, chaotic jumble of Buddhist and Hindu iconography. Even the 2015 earthquake failed to topple Kathmandu's best-loved temple, you could see ancient carvings everywhere and the smell of incense and butter lamps, the mystical atmosphere is heightened by devotees who make a ritual circumnavigation, spinning the prayer wheels set into its base of this famous stupa, and surrounded by beautiful typical houses of the priest, Chaityas and monastery. 

We will visit Patan Durbar Square (World Heritage Site), the city of fine arts & crafts in metal, stone, and terracotta, officially known as Lalitpur Metropolitan City and one of the largest cities in Nepal, it is famous for its rich cultural heritage, where you will see in its ancient palace with golden gate and window, temples of Krishna, Shiva, Golden temple (Hiranya Barna Mahabihar) as well as monasteries & beautiful courtyard. Overnight at hotel.

Airport Distance: 6 Km, Duration: 30 Min.

Leisurely breakfast, In the morning free for personal activities, we can explore the narrow lively, and endless streets of Thamel town where we will find all kinds of good restaurants, typical Nepali handicrafts, fine jewelry, clothing, and trekking gear store, later at the arranged time transfer to the airport for final departure to connect onward flight. We wish you a safe flight and hope to serve you back in near future. End of Service.