Sparkling Stones of the West Tour

Uncover the gems of western Bhutan on this 8-day journey through timeless valleys, sacred temples, majestic fortresses, and mountain passes. From the soaring heights of Tiger’s Nest to the spiritual calm of Dochula Pass and the grandeur of Punakha Dzong, each destination is a “sparkling stone” set in Bhutan’s cultural crown. Ideal for first-time visitors, the tour combines scenic beauty, spirituality, and heritage in the districts of Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and Wangduephodrang.

Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
Destinations: Paro • Thimphu • Punakha • Wangduephodrang
Entry/Exit: Paro International Airport
Best Seasons: March–May & September–November

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Cultural Exploration

Highlights:
Scenic landing in Paro • Rinpung Dzong • National Museum • Kyichu Lhakhang

Details:
Upon arrival, be greeted by your guide and transfer to your hotel. Begin your journey with visits to:

• Paro Rinpung Dzong, Bhutan’s finest example of fortress architecture

• Ta Dzong (National Museum), housing relics and traditional art

• Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples

Overnight in Paro

Day 2: Paro – Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktshang)

Highlights:
Hike to Tiger’s Nest • Pine forest trails •  Leisure time in Paro

Details:
Today is dedicated to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery, dramatically perched on a cliff 900 meters above the valley floor. The 4–5 hour round-trip hike offers breathtaking views, sacred atmosphere, and rich stories of Guru Rinpoche.

Evening: Free time to stroll through Paro town
Overnight in Paro

Day 3: Paro – Drive to Thimphu via Tachogang Bridge

Highlights:
Iron Bridge • Capital culture • Buddha Dordenma • Memorial Chorten

Details:
Drive (1.5 hrs) to Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, stopping at Tachogang Bridge, an iron chain bridge built by the great engineer Thangtong Gyalpo.

In Thimphu, visit:

• Buddha Dordenma, one of the world’s tallest Buddha statues

• Memorial Chorten, a lively site of prayer and devotion

• Tashichho Dzong, the seat of government and monastic authority

Overnight in Thimphu

Day 4: Thimphu Exploration

Highlights:
Folk Heritage Museum • Textile Academy • Takin Preserve • Handicraft Market

Details:
Explore the cultural side of Thimphu with visits to:

• Folk Heritage Museum – traditional Bhutanese home setup

• Textile Academy – witness live weaving

• Takin Preserve – meet Bhutan’s unique national animal

• Handicraft Market – perfect for souvenirs and artisan products

Overnight in Thimphu

Day 5: Thimphu – Dochula Pass – Punakha

Highlights:
Dochula Pass •  Punakha Dzong •  River confluence

Details:
Depart for Punakha Valley, crossing the breathtaking Dochula Pass (3,100m). On a clear day, enjoy views of the eastern Himalayan ranges.

Descend into the warm valley of Punakha to explore:

• Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most impressive fortresses built at the confluence of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers

Overnight in Punakha

Day 6: Punakha Exploration – Visit to Chimi Lhakhang

Highlights:
 Village walks • Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple) •  Riverside relaxation

Details:
Enjoy a gentle walk through rice fields to:

• Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of fertility dedicated to the “Divine Madman” Drukpa Kunley

Optional afternoon:

• Visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery

• Try a traditional hot stone bath in a local farmhouse

Overnight in Punakha

Day 7: Punakha – Wangdue Stop – Return to Paro

Highlights:
 Wangdue Dzong ruins • Scenic river valleys •  Paro relaxation

Details:
On your return to Paro, stop at Wangduephodrang to explore the site of the historic Wangdue Dzong, under reconstruction after the 2012 fire.

Continue through beautiful riverside villages and terraced fields to Paro. Enjoy the evening at leisure or opt for a local cultural performance.
Overnight in Paro

Day 8: Departure from Paro

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. Take with you memories of Bhutan’s cultural brilliance and natural serenity.

Tashi Delek & Safe Journey!

Tour Inclusions

• Bhutan visa and permit processing

• Licensed English-speaking guide

• All accommodations (3-star / boutique hotels)

• All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

• Private transportation with driver

• Entry fees to monuments and temples

• Bottled water and refreshments during drives

• Guided hike to Tiger’s Nest

• Cultural experiences and village visits