Winter Lights of Bhutan

Arrive in Paro, and transfer to Thimphu. Stop at the ancient iron bridge built by the great master Thangtong Gyalpo and visit his temple. In the capital, visit the Buddha Dordenma and take part in a quiet meditation inside, the perfect way to begin your Bhutan journey with peace. Night in Thimphu.

Begin the morning with a gentle hike to Wangditse Monastery, where you’ll meet the resident monk and enjoy peaceful views over the valley. In the afternoon, visit a local artist’s studio and discover the delicate art of traditional Buddhist painting. Night in Thimphu. 

Drive across the scenic Dochula Pass (3,100m), where 108 white chortens crown the ridge and the Himalayas shimmer on the horizon. Descend into the fertile Punakha Valley and visit the beautiful Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, built in 2004 by the Queen Mother to bring peace and harmony to the world. Enjoy the soft winter sun lighting the valley. Night in Punakha.

Begin the morning at the splendid Punakha Dzong, a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture set at the confluence of two rivers. Walk across the Punakha suspension bridge, one of the longest in the country. Later, visit Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of fertility surrounded by rice terraces. Night in Punakha.

Journey to the serene Phobjikha Valley, winter home of the black-necked cranes. Visit Gangtey Monastery and enjoy a gentle walk along the Gangtey Nature Trail. On Christmas Day, join a Buddhist prayer and light-offering ceremony for peace and compassion, a truly soulful celebration of winter. Night in Phobjikha.

Drive east through pristine valleys toward Bumthang, the spiritual heart of Bhutan. Visit Pema Choling Nunnery and meet the resident nuns, sharing moments of serenity through their daily prayers, meditation, and gentle yoga practice. Night in Bumthang.

Explore Bumthang’s ancient monasteries and quiet temples, then head back to the nunnery in Tang Valley to rest and soak in the peaceful atmosphere or take part in the nuns’ gentle daily activities such as prayer, meditation, or yoga. Night in Bumthang.

Travel to Trongsa, where its majestic dzong towers above the deep valley. Pause to witness the annual sacred mask dances, a vibrant expression of Bhutanese spirituality, before wandering through the old streets of this mountain stronghold. Night in Trongsa.

Drive back through mountain passes and forests lined with fluttering prayer flags. Arrive in Thimphu for a peaceful evening after a long drive. Night in Thimphu.

Return to Paro and visit the impressive Paro Dzong, one of Bhutan’s finest fortresses, with its museum showcasing sacred relics and ancient artifacts that tell the story of Bhutan’s spiritual heritage. After the visit, enjoy a leisurely walk through town to browse local shops and find your last souvenirs. Night in Paro.

Hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery, the Tiger’s Nest, clinging to a cliff 900 meters above the valley floor. As the year comes to a close, join a butter-lamp ceremony to welcome the New Year with light, gratitude, and renewal. Night in Paro.

Transfer to Paro International Airport for your flight home, carrying with you the serenity and warmth of Bhutan’s winter light.