Quest for Happiness

08 Nights / 09 Days

Pick/Drop: Paro Airport

Private Tour

Overview

Embark on the “Quest for Happiness” with our exclusive luxury Bhutan tour itinerary. Experience the serene beauty of Bhutan, immerse yourself in its rich culture, and enjoy world-class accommodations on this journey designed for ultimate relaxation and spiritual fulfillment. Escape the fast-paced hustle and bustle of city life and journey to the tranquil Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan. Here, you can breathe in the crisp, clean air, find calmness, slow down, be present, and tap into the healing power of nature that Bhutan has to offer. This serene destination promises a rejuvenating retreat, far from the stresses of modern urban living.

Tour Highlights

  • Hike the Taktsang ‘Tiger’s Nest’ Monastery, one of Bhutan’s architectural highlights
  • Visit the 300-year old Punakha Dzong which is located between Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River).
  • Explore the bustling capital Thimphu, including sights like the Buddha Dordenma, the National Memorial Chorten and more
  • Enjoy spectacular views of the Himalayas from the Dochu la mountain pass
  • Walk across Farm Houses to reach Chimmi Lhakhang, a 15th-century fertility temple
  • Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten  situated on a ridge above the Punakha Valley, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and rice fields.
  • Visit the College of Astrology and Learn your Bhutanese name and your fortune in a fascinating sitting with a Buddhist monk.
  • Take a Talo village walk offering a chance to explore the serene rural life and cultural heritage of the country.
  • Hike through glacial valleys known for its stunning natural beauty immerse yourselves in the pristine environment of the Phobjikha valley.
  • Meditation class at the Gangtey Shedra (Buddhist College).
  • Hike to Tango Monastery, surrounded by lush forests, offering a peaceful environment for study and contemplation.

What's Included & Excluded

Inclusions:

  • 2 nights at Le Meridien Thimphu, including picnic lunch at Tango Base.
  • 2 nights at Gangtey Lodge with Mediation session at Gangtey Shedra (Buddhist College) 
  • 2 nights at Pemako Punakha with dynamic Yoga session
  • 2 nights at Como Uma Paro with Hot stone Bath & massage
  • All meals
  • A licensed Bhutanese tour Guide
  • All transport (transfer & sightseeing)
  • Monument (Dzongs & Temples) and Museum Fees
  • Sustainable Development Fee & Visa Fees.
     

Exclusions:

  • Air Transport/Flight
  • Personal Expenses such as Laundry, Tips, etc
  • Drinks & beverages.
  • Travel Insurance
  • Bank Charges

Itinerary

 

The early morning flight to Paro reveals scenic and breathtaking views of Himalayan Mountains of the world. If weather permits you will be able to see Mt. Everest (8848 m, 29,198ft) and other Himalayan Mountain Ranges. Once you arrive at the Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative (Guide) and then drive to Thimphu (50km) which takes approximately an hour. On the way visit;
Tachogang Iron Chain Bridge, located along Paro-Thimphu highway, before Chhuzom. It is just a 10 minutes walk from the highway. It is a great spot for photography with a stunning view and peaceful ambience.
After arriving in Thimphu,visit; National Memorial Chorten: Probably one of the most popular Thimphu points of interest. 
Royal Takin Preserve also known as the Mini Zoo by many is a small natural preserve for the Takin – Bhutan’s national animal.

The Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory is reputedly the best place that manufactures traditional paper. You can buy this unique paper here which will make for interesting souvenir gifts.
Changlimithang Archery Ground to see local folks playing their tradition game archery.
The Centenary Farmers Market (Now Kaja Throm) is a vibrant and dynamic space, offering a diverse range of products and experiences. Walk through Bhutan’s capital city exploring Clock Tower Square, a prominent landmark adorned with intricate Bhutanese motifs and stroll towards Thimphu’s iconic traffic junction, famously known as the main traffic circle as it has no traffic lights. Instead, you’ll witness a white-gloved traffic officer gracefully directing vehicles in a choreographed style that has become a tourist attraction in its own right.
Lastly Tashichhodzong visit. This magnificent structure stands proudly on the banks of the Wang Chhu River and serves as both a religious and administrative hub of Bhutan. Now it houses the secretariat building, the throne room and the office of the King and central monk body.

Overnight at Le Meridien Thimphu.

Tango Buddhist Institute: Set around 14 kilometers away from the city center, the Tango Buddhist Institute is a place of serenity set in the picturesque valley of Thimphu. The temple can be reached through a hike (1 hour approximately) through the scenic mountains and alpine woods, which is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Thimphu.
On the way visit Pangri Zampa – Astrology College and seek and find out your astrology birth chart.

Lunch at the Folk Heritage Restaurant in Thimphu offers a delightful opportunity to savor authentic Bhutanese cuisine in a traditional setting. Located next to the Folk Heritage Museum, the restaurant complements the cultural experience with its unique ambiance and carefully curated menu.

The Folk Heritage Museum a restored 19th-century traditional Bhutanese farmhouse, providing visitors with an authentic glimpse into the rural lifestyle of Bhutan.
Bhutan Postal Museum: Fascinating Stamps: If you have any sort of interest in philately, then you should definitely stop by the National Post Office in Thimphu. You can even create personalized stamps with your photo on it. It will be an interesting souvenir to bring back home. 
The National Institute for Zorig Chusum, also known as the Arts and Crafts School, is an educational institution in Bhutan dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional Bhutanese arts and crafts. “Zorig Chusum” translates to the “13 traditional arts and crafts” in the Dzongkha language of Bhutan.
The Authentic Bhutanese Crafts Bazaar in Thimphu offers a unique shopping experience, showcasing traditional Bhutanese handicrafts and artisanal products.

Overnight at Le Meridien Thimphu

Dordenma Buddha statue: Atop a hill in Thimphu, the capital and largest city of Bhutan. This massive statue of Buddha measures about 51.5 meters.
Drive to Gangtey and stop at Dochula Pass. We won’t deny the fact that Dochula is a 40-minute drive from Thimphu but it is definitely worth the visit especially for those who are looking for Thimphu sightseeing places. Once here, you will witness 108 Druk Wangyal chortens.
Check in to Gangtey Lodge.

After breakfast immerse yourself in the pristine surroundings of our Valley by hiking ancient trails through blue pine forests or meander past the crane roosting grounds on the valley floor to visit our neighbours. Gangtey Valley is one of the most beautiful places in Bhutan for hiking.
Join the evening meditation class at the Shedra. The Gangtey Shedra (Buddhist College), a 5-minute walk behind Gangtey Lodge where approximately 300 monks study. The Shedra is an institute where the monks learn about Buddhist philosophy, poetry, logic, meditation and debate. In addition to the regular academic practice and classes for monks, the Shedra provides a meditation class and discussion for our guests, mainly on compassion and shamata (tranquility and calm abiding meditation) by highly qualified lamas, with English translations. This meditation practice will help you overcome stress, develop a peaceful mind and to generate kindness.
Overnight at Gangtey Lodge

Join the monks at the Shedra for an early morning Thrusel ritual, for self-cleansing of all bad spirits surrounding us and for good luck. Buddhist fumigation is a ritual practiced by the Bhutanese every morning and during special pujas (religious ceremonies). Selected herbs are burnt and holy water (thrue-chhu) is poured over one’s head for purification. It is a common belief that every place has its local protective deity or spirit and the fumigation is to please the spirit and keep the spirit happy.
After breakfast drive back to Punakha (2 hrs).
Visit Chimi Lhakhang Temple
Chimi Lhakhang Temple or Chimi Lhakhang Monastery is the most well-known temple of Bhutan which stands tall on a round hillock in a village called Punakha. It is famously known as the “Fertility Temple” and is mostly visited by several childless couples from in and around Punakha District.
Overnight at Pemako Punakha

After breakfast 45 minutes hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel chorten with the picturesque view of the rice terraces along the river. Khasum Yulley Namgyal is a beautiful chorten located on ridge at Kabesa Gewog in Punakha overlooking several villages. It is 30-minute drive from the Khuruthang Town and a 45-minute uphill hike from the base of the hill through suspension bridge and rice fields.
Then visit Punakha Dzong, one of the majestic fortresses that sits at the confluence of the Mo Chhu (Female) and Pho Chhu (Male) rivers. To access the dzong, you’ll need to cross the Bazam Bridge, originally a bridge built in the 17th century.. Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan. Its magnificent structure showcases the world-class architecture of Bhutan and finest Bhutanese craftsmanship. Punakha Dzong is truly one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan and one of the most visited places by tourists.
After lunch, drive to Talo village. Talo Village is a picturesque settlement located in the Punakha District of Bhutan. Situated at an altitude of approximately 2,800 meters (9,200 feet) above sea level, Talo is known for its stunning natural beauty, traditional Bhutanese architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage. Visit a local home for a Bhutanese tea (Suja) and snacks.
Back to hotel Pemako and rejuvenation and self-discovery in with dynamic yoga. Led by seasoned experts, immerse yourself in an invigorating experience. Release daily stress as you find tranquility, awakening, and deep inner connection. Let our skilled instructors guide you through poses and breath, fostering vitality and harmony within.
Overnight at Pemako Punakha

After breakfast, drive to Paro (3 hrs).
Rinpung Dzong: Rinpung houses both the monastic body and district government offices, including the local courts. Famous as Paro Dzong, it was built in 1644 under the order of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan.
Check in to Uma Como and practice Archery is the national sport of Bhutan. With our archery lessons, your guide will set up the targets and teach you the rules, as well as how to correctly hold the bow.
Darts are another popular pastime in Bhutan, with a different scoring system to the western tradition, and a target low to the ground. Both sports are a fun way to spend an afternoon, enjoying some healthy competition.
Overnight at Uma Como

Start a early morning hike to Taktsang Monastery. The wooden structure built amazingly, stands bravely on a cliff. It is said that the great Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tigress and set up this monastery when he brought the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan in the 8th Century. The monastery was built in 1692 by Gyalse Tenzin Rabgaye who is said to be one of the reincarnations of Guru Rinpoche.
From the road, the hike toward Taktshang follows an uphill route and takes approximately 2-3 hours at an average walking pace on a clear, sunny day.
After the hike stroll around Paro town for souvenirs.
After the hike enjoy Hot Stone bath at the hotel. This uniquely Bhutanese experience comprises of a bath and massage that uses heated river stones to help relieve deep-set aches and pains. When placed in water, the hot stones crack and steam, releasing key minerals that help to aid stress and soothe the body. The treatment concludes with our signature COMO Shambhala Massage.

In the morning drive to Airport for your onward destination.
It is 20 minutes to the airport from our Lodge

Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs

The tour is ideal year-round. However, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are particularly popular for their pleasant weather, clear skies, and vibrant festivals.

Yes, the itinerary can be tailored to your preferences. Discuss your interests with your tour operator to customize your experience.

We offer a minimum of 3-star rated accommodations to Luxury Resorts, certified by the Department of Tourism, Bhutan.

Our selection of 3-star accommodations has been carefully curated based on top ratings and consistent positive feedback from our past clients. These hotels offer a blend of comfort, convenience, and authentic Bhutanese hospitality.

We also offer Homestays with a local family that can give you an authentic Bhutanese experience. Rooms are typically modest but comfortable, often featuring traditional Bhutanese décor.

Send us the scan copy of your passport and passport sized photos, we will apply on your behalf. Read more about the visa here. 

Contact us for your Visa.

A correctly input visa application can take up to five days to process.

There is a one-off fee of US$40 for the processing of your application. This is payable at the same time as your Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), as part of the process of submitting your visa application.