Overview
Step into a journey that combines luxury with Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This 5-night exploration tour, staying at COMO Uma Paro and COMO Uma Punakha, offers you a chance to experience the essence of Bhutan’s happiness-centered lifestyle. Traverse the magical valleys of Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha, and immerse in the blend of natural beauty and spirituality that defines this Himalayan kingdom.
Package Highlights
– Duration: 5 Nights / 6 Days
– Destinations: Paro, Dochu La, Punakha, Thimphu
Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Acclimatization and Sightseeing
Arrive in the scenic valley of Paro, where you’ll catch a stunning first glimpse of Bhutan’s Himalayan peaks. After completing the visa process, meet your private guide and driver who will take you to COMO Uma Paro, your luxurious home base. Spend time settling in, then head out to explore Paro’s vibrant town and the enigmatic Dumtseg Lhakhang temple. This afternoon excursion allows you to acclimatize while absorbing the unique charm and mystique of Bhutan.
Overnight: COMO Uma Paro
Day 2: Journey from Paro to Punakha (via Thimphu and Dochu La Pass)
Start the day by traveling to Punakha, with a stop in the capital city, Thimphu. Nestled along the Wang Chhu River, Thimphu offers sights such as the awe-inspiring Buddha Dordenma statue, the National Memorial Chorten, and the Folk Heritage Museum. After enjoying a traditional Bhutanese lunch, continue to Punakha, passing through Dochu La Pass at 3,100 meters. This scenic mountain pass, lined with 108 stupas, provides mesmerizing views and vibrant prayer flags that set a peaceful tone for your journey.
Drive Duration: 3-4 hours (126 km)
Overnight: COMO Uma Punakha
Day 3: Explore the Lush Golden Punakha Valley
Punakha Valley, with its temperate climate, serves as the winter residence of Bhutan’s monastic community. Start the day by walking through farmland to reach the stunning Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten. Enjoy a panoramic view of the valley and the Mo Chu River winding through golden fields. After a riverside lunch at Zomlingthang, explore the architectural marvels of Punakha Dzong, followed by a scenic walk to the famed Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the fertility temple. This ancient site is popular with couples seeking blessings for family.
Overnight: COMO Uma Punakha
Day 4: Return to Paro with Stops at Scenic Sights
Retrace your path back to Paro, stopping at Tachhog Lhakhang, a temple perched across the famous iron chain bridge over the Pa Chhu River. Take in the fresh mountain air, the fluttering prayer flags, and the serene setting before arriving at COMO Uma Paro. Spend the rest of the day relaxing or try Bhutan’s national sport, archery, amidst the apple orchards and rice paddies that surround the COMO Uma Paro property.
Drive Duration: 3-4 hours (126 km)
Overnight: COMO Uma Paro
Day 5: Hike to Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest)
Today is dedicated to an exhilarating hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, or Paro Taktsang, one of Bhutan’s most sacred pilgrimage sites. The trail through pine forests offers breathtaking views, and the reward at the end is the monastery perched dramatically on a cliff at 3,120 meters above sea level. After the hike, visit the ancient Kichu Lhakhang, a revered 7th-century temple steeped in legends and history.
Hike Duration: 6-8 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Overnight: COMO Uma Paro
Day 6: Departure from Paro
After breakfast, a brief 10-minute transfer will take you to Paro International Airport for your onward journey. As you bid farewell to Bhutan, take with you the memories of this beautiful and mystical Himalayan kingdom.