Thimphu in 5 Days for Couples - Hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery) overlooking the Paro Valley
In Collaboration with Relax Getaways Pvt. Ltd. Updated on February 24, 2026.
A 5-day all-inclusive cultural and nature tour through Paro, Thimphu and Punakha. Includes guided sightseeing, a hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest), scenic drives over Dochula Pass, all meals, licensed English-speaking Bhutanese guides, luxury transfers and hotel accommodation (3-star standard with upgrade options noted in the agenda).
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Relax Getaways Pvt. Ltd, inspired by the tour All Inclusive Bhutan Tour with 3 to 7 days days Option. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery) overlooking the Paro Valley
- Scenic drive over Dochula Pass with its 108 chortens and Himalayan views
- Historic dzongs: Tashichho Dzong (Thimphu), Punakha Dzong and Paro Dzong
- Traditional culture at the Folk Heritage Museum in Thimphu
- All meals, licensed English-speaking Bhutanese guide, and luxury transfers included
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Paro followed by transfer to Thimphu. Short orientation in Thimphu and hotel check-in. Evening at leisure to rest after travel.
Arrival — Paro International Airport pickup & transfer to Thimphu
Meet your guide and driver at Paro International Airport for a private transfer to Thimphu. Scenic mountain roads; brief stops for photos or short breaks as needed.
Tips from local experts:
- Have your travel documents and visa confirmation handy for the driver/guide at pickup.
- Carry a light jacket for the drive—temperatures vary quickly in the valley and at higher viewpoints.
- Expect roadside stops for photography; keep small change for restroom stops where needed.
Orientation walk and short introduction to Thimphu
A relaxed walk around central Thimphu to get a first impression of the city — its blend of traditional architecture and small-town energy. Ideal to stretch legs after the transfer.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring comfortable walking shoes; cobbled and narrow side streets can be uneven.
- Ask your guide for a quick introduction to local etiquette (shoe removal, photography rules).
- Carry a refillable water bottle — tap water is not always recommended; your guide will advise.
Hotel check-in — Selected 3-star hotel in Thimphu (upgrade available)
Check in, settle into your room and enjoy a calm evening. Dinner is included at the hotel or a nearby restaurant as advised by your guide.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your room preference (double/twin) with the guide at arrival to avoid delays during check-in.
- Keep valuables in the hotel safe; ask reception about evening dining options tailored for couples.
- If you need an earlier or later meal time due to flight schedules, notify the guide in advance.
Day 2
Full day of Thimphu sightseeing including important cultural landmarks, then a scenic drive over Dochula Pass to Punakha in the afternoon.
Visit Tashichho Dzong (Thimphu)
Explore the striking dzong that houses both government offices and a monastic body. Time to take in the architecture and riverside setting.
Tips from local experts:
- Dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered) — footwear removal is required in many internal shrine areas.
- Photography may be restricted inside certain areas; follow instructions from temple staff and your guide.
- There is limited shaded seating; bring a hat on sunny days and sit for short rests if needed.
Visit Buddha Dordenma (Great Buddha Statue)
See the large gilded Buddha statue and enjoy panoramic vistas over Thimphu Valley. A peaceful site for photography and reflection.
Tips from local experts:
- There are many steps to reach the viewing platform; take breaks and use shaded spots near the statue.
- Security checks may be in place — keep bags light and avoid large tripods without prior notice.
- The viewpoint is windy; bring a light windbreaker for comfort during photos.
Folk Heritage Museum (Traditional Bhutanese life)
A concise museum showcasing rural Bhutanese artifacts and living traditions—an accessible cultural stop in central Thimphu.
Tips from local experts:
- The museum has narrow staircases and small galleries; allow slower-paced exploration if desired.
- Ask the guide to point out textile or craft displays suitable for souvenir ideas.
- Restrooms are available nearby; use them before continuing with longer drives.
Lunch in Thimphu (included)
Lunch at a local restaurant or hotel as arranged by your guide — Bhutanese and international options available.
Tips from local experts:
- Notify your guide of any dietary restrictions before the meal to ensure suitable options.
- Try a mild Bhutanese dish if you want local flavors — ask for spice levels to be adjusted for comfort.
- Keep a small snack in your daypack for energy during the later drive to Punakha.
Drive Thimphu → Punakha (stop at Dochula Pass)
Afternoon drive across the Dochu La Pass with a stop to view the 108 chortens and, on clear days, Himalayan vistas before descending to the Punakha Valley.
Tips from local experts:
- At Dochu La Pass, temperatures can be several degrees cooler—bring a warm layer.
- The pass has limited shelter; if it’s sunny, use sun protection and hydrate.
- Allow extra time for brief photo stops and traffic on the mountain roads.
Hotel check-in in Punakha — 3-star (upgrade available)
Arrive at your hotel in Punakha, check in and rest. Dinner included at the hotel or arranged venue.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm wake-up time with reception if you plan an early start the next day.
- Ask reception about evening lighting and quiet rooms if you prefer a quieter location.
- Keep a small daypack ready for tomorrow's short sightseeing and return transfer.
Day 3
Full morning sightseeing in Punakha, visiting its famous dzong and suspension bridge, then return drive to Paro with evening arrival and hotel check-in.
Visit Punakha Dzong (Pungtang Dechen Phodrang)
Tour the historic Punakha Dzong situated at the confluence of the Pho and Mo Chhu rivers — a visually stunning and culturally significant site.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear modest clothing and be prepared to remove shoes in sacred areas.
- Steady walking surfaces near the dzong can include steps; use handrails where available.
- Carry a small umbrella during monsoon months; some exterior walkways are exposed.
Walk the Punakha Suspension Bridge
Cross the scenic suspension bridge spanning the Pho Chhu, with views of the valley and rice fields below.
Tips from local experts:
- The bridge can sway slightly—hold onto the side rails and proceed at a steady pace.
- Best photos are taken mid-morning when light favors the river valley; avoid peak heat hours.
- The bridge is open-air; keep personal items secure when crossing.
Lunch in Punakha (included)
Lunch in Punakha town before the return transfer to Paro. Menu includes local and international choices.
Tips from local experts:
- Inform the guide of any last-minute dietary needs before lunch service begins.
- Try locally grown produce—Punakha rice and seasonal vegetables are commonly served.
- Save some energy for the afternoon drive; keep any necessary motion-sickness remedies handy.
Transfer Punakha → Paro
Return drive to Paro with scenic mountain views and brief comfort stops as required. Expect several hours on winding roads.
Tips from local experts:
- The return drive can take several hours; seatbelts are provided—use them for safety.
- Keep your camera accessible for roadside views, but ask the driver before unscheduled stops.
- If you experience travel discomfort on winding sections, request a front-seat for a steadier ride.
Hotel check-in in Paro — 3-star (upgrade available)
Check into your Paro hotel and relax. Evening at leisure; your guide can recommend a quiet dinner option.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm tomorrow’s early departure time for the Tiger’s Nest hike with reception.
- If you prefer a room away from the street, request it at check-in for quieter evenings.
- Charge all devices tonight — mountain hikes and temples have limited charging options.
Day 4
Full day in Paro with an early start for the hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest), plus visits to Kyichu Lhakhang and Paro Dzong. Evening free to relax.
Early breakfast and departure for Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) trailhead
Light early breakfast at the hotel and a short transfer to the Taktsang trailhead. Ponies are available for hire at the trailhead for part of the ascent (subject to availability and safety).
Tips from local experts:
- Eat a light, carbohydrate-rich breakfast to fuel the hike; bring snacks for energy on the trail.
- If you prefer not to hike, speak to the guide about pony availability early—space is limited.
- Carry a small daypack with water, sun protection, and a rain layer; temples require modest dress.
Hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery)
Guided hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery perched on the cliff above Paro Valley. Trail includes a mid-point cafeteria viewpoint and a steep climb of steps to the monastery viewpoint; the full round-trip including time at the monastery typically takes 4–5 hours depending on pace.
Tips from local experts:
- The climb is steep and at high altitude—pace yourself and take frequent short rests.
- Leave large backpacks at the hotel; bring only essentials and enough water (1–1.5L recommended).
- Respect temple rules: no loud talking inside shrines, and photography can be restricted in some interior areas.
Visit Kyichu Lhakhang
A short, quieter temple visit after the hike — dating back to the 7th century and offering a reflective contrast to the morning’s activity.
Tips from local experts:
- Kyichu Lhakhang has steps and some uneven ground—use caution and wear appropriate footwear.
- This is a working temple; follow monks’ instructions and avoid disrupting rituals.
- Allow a few moments for quiet reflection; seating is limited in courtyard areas.
Visit Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong)
Explore the fortress-monastery that dominates Paro town. Good overview of Bhutanese architecture and monastic life.
Tips from local experts:
- Footwear removal and modest dress are required in many internal areas—carry a scarf or wrap if needed.
- If visiting during prayer times, expect quiet and minimal movement inside the temple spaces.
- Allow time for steps and narrow corridors; choose comfortable shoes for ease of movement.
Paro hotel — evening rest
Return to the hotel for rest. Evening at leisure with dinner included.
Tips from local experts:
- Soak your feet and rest after the hike — ask reception for any recommended light spa or massage services if desired.
- Confirm your transfer timing for departure tomorrow with reception and your guide.
- Plan for an early night if you have an early flight the next day.
Day 5
Leisurely morning in Paro with optional short stroll through town or market (if timing allows), hotel checkout and transfer to Paro International Airport for departure.
Leisurely breakfast and optional stroll through Paro town
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast. Time permitting, take a short walk in Paro town to visit shops and local markets for last-minute souvenirs.
Tips from local experts:
- Check with your guide about local market days to ensure stalls are open before visiting.
- Pack souvenirs securely in checked luggage to avoid carry-on restrictions at the airport.
- Keep essential documents and any carry-on medication in an easily accessible small bag for transfer.
Hotel checkout and transfer to Paro International Airport
Private transfer from your hotel to Paro International Airport. Guide will assist with luggage and departure formalities as needed.
Tips from local experts:
- Have your passport, boarding pass, and any customs paperwork ready for the driver/guide.
- Confirm your flight’s check-in and boarding time with the guide to ensure timely arrival at the airport.
- Allow extra time if you have larger pieces of luggage or require special assistance at the airport.
Departure from Paro International Airport
Assist with final departure formalities. Tour concludes on arrival at the airport; please check flight times and boarding procedures with your airline.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive at the departure hall at least 90 minutes before international flights as a guideline; follow airline instructions.
- Keep carry-on items with important documents and any immediate necessities separate for quick access.
- If you need additional assistance at the airport, inform your guide before arrival to allow time to arrange it.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 5 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 5 |
| Restaurants | 3 |
| Total Activities | 17 |
| Total Places | 22 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Neighborhood, Hotel, Attraction, Culture, Meal, Outdoor, Experience |