Drive over the Dochu-La pass (3,100 meters), which on a clear day offers an incredible view of Himalayan peaks before descending into balmy Punakha valley (about 4 hrs total driving time). The drive through the countryside affords a glimpse of everyday life in this most remote of Himalayan kingdoms. In the Dochu-La area there are vast Rhododendron forests that grow to tree size and bloom in late April/early May covering the mountains in a riot of glorious spring colour.

Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan. On arrival, drive to Punakha Dzong, the “Palace of Great Happiness” to attend the festival. You will see locals dressed in their finest clothes who have walked from miles around to attend the festivities. They come to watch masked dances, to pray, and to feast. While the underlying purpose of the festival is spiritual, dances are more often like plays, telling stories where good triumphs over evil, or depicting significant historical events, especially surrounding the life of Bhutan’s patron saint, Padmasambhava (also known as Guru Rinpoche). There is inevitably a great deal of socialising as well.

Built in 1637 by the Shabdrung, the ‘Unifier of Bhutan’, Punakha Dzong is situated at the confluence of the Mo Chu and Pho Chu (Mother and Father Rivers). It is the winter headquarters of the Je Khenpo and hundreds of monks who move en masse from Thimphu to this warmer location. The three story main temple of the Punakha Dzong is a breathtaking example of traditional architecture with four intricately embossed entrance pillars crafted from cypress and decorated in gold and silver. It was here in 1907 that Bhutan’s first king was crowned.

Overnight at Punakha

Transfer to Phobjikha Valley (3 hrs) via the bustling market town of Wangduephodrang. Drive up a winding mountain road through oak and rhododendron forests, and over a high pass down into the picturesque Phobjikha Valley. Phobjikha is one of Bhutan’s few glacial valleys, and chosen winter home of black necked cranes (November – March) migrating from the Tibetan plateau. After lunch visit the Phobjikha Sanctuary to view the majestic black necked cranes (Nov-Mar only) and Gangtey Gompa (Monastery), dating back to the 16th century.

Overnight at Phobjikha.

The Trek starts near the village of Tabiting. The trail winds through meadows and fields. The climb takes you through a mixed forest of juniper, bamboo, magnolia, and rhododendron. You will reach Tsele La (3430m). From here you descend into the Juge Kangkha Chhu valley. Further on, the path leads to Gogona, well known for its “Gogona Cheese” production. The campsite is a bit further on besides a small stream in a yak pasture called Zasa.

A gentle climb leads to Shobe La pass (3,480m). The descent from the pass leads to a wide valley, surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges. Below the route, one can see Khothokha, a village with about 60 houses. You finally reach the campsite by climbing gently until you see four chortens in a forest of blue pine.

From the camp, you climb till you reach a forest road. From here it’s an easy walk up to a little ridge at 2,800m. The walk down back into the valley leads you through Bhutan’s best bird-watching areas.

Thimphu- This bustling little city is the country’s main centre of commerce, religion and government. Thimphu is the most modern city with an abundance of restaurants, internet cafes, nightclubs and shopping centres. However, it still retains its cultural identity and values amidst the signs of modernization, often referred to as world only city without traffic lights.

Buddha Dordenma- The Buddha Dordenma is located at the top of the hill in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park and overlooks the southern entrance to Thimphu Valley. The Buddha Dordenma is a gigantic 51.5-meter-tall statue, making it one of the largest statues of Buddha in the world.

Arts and Crafts Vocational School- Arts and Craft School is where students learn 13 different techniques to master in Bhutanese Arts. Some of the skills require eight years to graduate. You can see live carving, painting, sculpture etc. You are allowed to take pictures/make videos. Products made by students are on display at the showroom for sales as well. The school is closed in July and December to February, beside their exams and events.

Folk Heritage Museum-This museum was established in 2001 and provides visitors with fascinating insights into the Bhutanese material culture and way of life, especially the life of Bhutanese in remote parts of Bhutan. Authentic Bhutanese Crafts Bazaar- Bhutan’s first ever craft bazaar located behind Hotel Taj Tashi showcases a wide range of authentic Bhutan-made arts and crafts products with a reasonable price range.

Handicraft Emporium- Realizing the importance of socio-economic growth, the handicraft emporium was set up with the command of His Majesty 3rd King, this was the first step to showcase the authentic Bhutanese handicraft products in Bhutan. You can still find some of the fine products available here at a reasonable cost.

Witnessing Archery Match- Archery is the national game of Bhutan, it is amazing to see Bhutanese archers hitting targets from a distance of 145 meters range. Bhutan has top archers in some categories in the Olympic games.

Weekend Market/Centenary Farmers Market- An interesting well organized permanent set of stalls built for vegetable vendors across the country. It’s open from Wednesday to Monday and closed on Tuesdays. One can find a wide range of local vegetables and fruits. The other side of the river is place for Indigenous goods and handicrafts section, where locally produced goods, including religious objects, cloth, baskets hats etc from various minority groups are sold here. These shops are open from Friday to Sunday only.

Clock Tower Square- Situated in the heart of town, Clock Tower Square is a popular venue for open ground events such as cultural festivals, concerts, fund-raising events, live shows and trade fairs. The place is bounded by shops, cafes, souvenir shops and restaurants, making it one of the main attractions in Thimphu town.

Overnight at Thimphu

Departure from Paro