Punakha Tsechu- 6 Days
Come explore the magic of Bhutan where lively cities and ancient temples to quiet mountain monasteries all blend in, and see how nature, culture, and spirituality come together in one unforgettable trip.
Bhutan
6 Days
Easy
3,050 m / 10,004 ft
Jan-Jun, Sept-Dec
Hotel
Included
Paro
Trip Highlights
- Explore Bhutan’s capital city, Thimphu, to visit the Giant Buddha statue, the National Zoo, and the Simply Bhutan Museum
- Reach Punakha Valley via the Dochu La Pass for the panoramic views of the Himalayas
- Walk along the Chimi Lhakhang, a sacred temple dedicated to the “Divine Madman” and take blessings from this ‘Fertility Temple’ for couples
- Take a hike to Khamsum Yuelay Namgyal Chorten and explore the fortress that sits between two rivers, the historic Punakha Dzong
- Stop by the School of Arts and Crafts, a traditional paper factory, and the Takin Sanctuary
- Enjoy a hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched high on a cliff and soak in the jaw‑dropping views and its calming spiritual experience.
- Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and holiest temples, and its deep spiritual energy.
- Come back home on a scenic flight from Paro, with Bhutan’s beauty, warmth, and timeless traditions captured by the hearts
Trip Overview
Get ready for a trip to Bhutan that’s full of surprises and wonder. You’ll start with a stunning flight from Kathmandu to Paro, where the mountains will take your breath away. Then dive into the buzz of Thimphu, the capital city that mixes tradition with modern life. You’ll visit giant Buddhas, cool museums, and even the national zoo where the quirky takin hangs out.
Next, we’ll head over the Dochu-La Pass with its amazing mountain views and colorful rhododendrons to Punakha, a place full of history and beautiful old forts. Take a walk to a temple dedicated to a legendary “Divine Madman,” who wasn’t afraid to shake things up in Bhutan’s spiritual scene.
The big highlight? Hiking up to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro. Perched high on a cliff, it’s one of those places that stays with you forever. The stories, the views, the peaceful vibes – it’s something special. Plus, you’ll get to check out some of Bhutan’s oldest temples and really get a feel for the local culture.
This trip isn’t just about sightseeing, it’s about slowing down, soaking in the beauty, and connecting with a country that’s truly one of a kind. Whether you’re after adventure, culture, or just some peace and quiet, Bhutan has got it all.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 1: Flight from Kathmandu to Paro - drive to Thimphu, 1 hr drive
- Day 2: Thimphu to Punakha over the Dochu-La Pass (3,150 m): 2 hrs drive
- Day 3: Punakha Halt and Sightseeing
- Day 4: Punakha to Paro via Dochula Pass
- Day 5: Paro - Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) (3,120 m): 2 hrs
- Day 6: Paro to Kathmandu, Final Departure
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Flight from Kathmandu to Paro - drive to Thimphu, 1 hr drive
Today your adventure to Bhutan begins with one of the best flights you’ll ever take. The route to Paro offers spectacular Himalayan views, making every moment feel magical. As you land, a friendly representative from Ama Adventure will be there to greet you and help with customs. From Paro, a beautiful drive takes you to Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, about an hour away. Once a quiet, rural town, Thimphu is now a bustling city that blends old-world charm with modern life. After checking into your hotel, we’ll visit the towering Buddha statue, the fascinating Simply Bhutan Museum, and the National Zoo where you can spot Bhutan’s national animal, the unique takin.
Max Altitude :
Paro (2,200 m/7,200 ft)
Meals :
Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Paro
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 2: Thimphu to Punakha over the Dochu-La Pass (3,150 m): 2 hrs drive
Today we drive towards Punakha, crossing the Dochu-La Pass at 3,150 m, where a panoramic view of the Himalayan range unfolds. In spring, this area is a paradise of blooming rhododendrons. After arriving in Punakha, we’ll walk to Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of the Divine Madman, a quirky figure in Bhutanese history, famous for teaching spirituality in unconventional ways and granting blessings for fertility.
Max Altitude :
Punakha (1,200 m)
Trip Duration :
2 hrs drive
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Punakha
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 3: Punakha Halt and Sightseeing
Today we explore more of Punakha’s beauty and heritage. Our morning starts with a short hike to Khamsum Yuelay Namgyal Chorten, a beautiful stupa perched high above the river, built by the Queen Mother to ward off negative energies. After a peaceful picnic lunch by the river, we’ll visit the impressive Punakha Dzong. This 17th-century fortress is located at the confluence of the Mo Chu and Pho Chu (Mother and Father Rivers). Its richly adorned interiors and massive wooden pillars tell the story of Bhutan’s spiritual and royal heritage.
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 4: Punakha to Paro via Dochula Pass
After breakfast, we drive back towards Paro via the Dochula Pass, hoping for one more glimpse of the Eastern Himalayan range. After lunch in Thimphu, we’ll visit the School of Arts and Crafts, a special place where students hone their skills in Bhutan’s 13 traditional crafts. If time allows, we’ll also stop by the handmade paper factory and the takin preserve, where you can admire Bhutan’s shy national animal.
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 5: Paro - Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) (3,120 m): 2 hrs
Today is a highlight of any Bhutan trip. After breakfast, we’ll set out for a hike to Taktsang Monastery, a holy site perched dramatically on a sheer cliff almost 900 m above the Paro Valley floor. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew here on a tigress and meditated in a cave that became the site of this sacred monastery. You can hire a horse for part of the journey. After returning, we’ll visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, built in the 7th century.
Max Altitude :
Taktsang Monastery (3,120 m)
Trip Duration :
2 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Taktsang Monastery
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 6: Paro to Kathmandu, Final Departure
After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to Bhutan. Our Ama Adventure team will drive you to Paro Airport for your flight back to Kathmandu. As you rise above the mountains, take a moment to soak in the beauty and serenity of this special land. Bhutan will stay with you long after you’ve left, and its warmth and charm will call you back one day.
Max Altitude :
Paro (2,200 m/7,200 ft)
Meals :
Breakfast
Gallery
What is included
Accommodation
- 5 nights in a comfortable, government-approved hotels on a twin-sharing basis throughout the tour
Meals & Drinking Water
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea, Snacks during the tour
- Drinking water throughout the tour
Transportation
- Pick-up and drop-off at the airport and hotel using a private tourist vehicle (car, van, or minibus depending on group size)
- Private transportation and a designated driver within Bhutan with a dedicated driver in luggage vans, or light trucks
- Luggage carried by horses, mules, or yaks at higher elevations during the tour
Guide & Support Staff
- Licensed, experienced, English-speaking Bhutanese guide throughout the trip
- Required local staff and porters to carry luggage and camping gear during the tour
- Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, and medical care for all support staff
Permits & Entry Fees
- All entrance fees for monuments, museums, and cultural sites listed in the itinerary
- All access permits and entry fees for routes and monuments
- All required Bhutan visa fees included
Extras & Souvenirs
- Map, duffel kit bag, sun hat, and a trip completion certificate
Administrative
- Visa processing assistance for Bhutan
- 35% government royalty (part of the minimum daily package of US$200) that supports Bhutan’s free education and healthcare system
- All government taxes, official expenses, and standard tourism service charges
What is Excluded
- International flights and airport departure taxes
- Travel insurance, including coverage for emergency evacuation
- Tips for tour staff, porters, hotel staff, restaurant service, and drivers
- Personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, and other incidental costs
- Any expenses not specifically mentioned in the “Price Includes” section
Trip Departure
We book both solo and group trips to make your holiday a lifetime memory with people from all over the world. Once your trip is confirmed, we guarantee all group departure dates, even if only one person has signed up for the tour. Please note that before final sign-up, we always confirm the current number of members in your group.
Difficulty Level
Punakha Tsechu- 5 Days is quite easy and perfect for travelers of all ages and fitness levels. The route stays at lower altitudes, and the pace is gentle, allowing you to take in the scenery without feeling rushed. It’s a relaxed trip that requires little physical effort, making it an enjoyable and comfortable experience for everyone.
Dates & Prices
All departure dates listed are guaranteed. If the fixed dates don’t align with your travel plans, we’re happy to arrange a private trip on your preferred schedule. Let us know your interests, and our travel experts will help design a tailor-made journey to your dream destination.
Meals
Most hotels in Bhutan serve a mix of Indian, Chinese, and continental dishes, with pork, chicken, beef, and fish commonly available with fresh, seasonal options. During the tour, you’ll get three meals a day with breakfast, a hot picnic lunch, and dinner at the campsite with tea and snacks. Our experienced tour cooks prepare hearty meals at altitude, and special dietary needs can be accommodated if informed in advance.
Accommodation
Hotels in Bhutan are government-rated as A, B, or C categories, roughly equal to 3- to 4-star standards. In Paro and Thimphu, we typically use A-grade hotels like Tashi Namgay Resort and Namgay Heritage, depending on availability. During the tour, accommodation will be in tents. All stays are based on twin-sharing, with a single supplement available on request for USD 378.
Weather Information
During the Paro Tshechu Festival in late March to early April, the weather is generally mild and pleasant. Daytime temperatures range between 15 to 18 degrees Celsius, while mornings and evenings can feel quite cool, dropping to around 2 to 5 degrees.
Although a harsh cold is unlikely, early morning hikes like the one to Taktsang Monastery can feel chilly, so it’s a good idea to pack a warm layer just in case.
Packing List
For this tour, you don’t need to bring any special equipment, just pack some comfortable clothes. However, depending on the time of year, there are a few personal items you might consider bringing. The following list is optional and based on your personal preferences.
During the tour, all heavy equipment and luggage are transported by the vehicle. However, personal items that you’ll need throughout the day, such as money, a water bottle, camera, sunscreen, and toilet paper, should be kept in your daypack. It’s advisable to pack these essentials in a smaller bag that’s easy to carry with you.
If you’re traveling to Bhutan from Kathmandu, we’ll provide a complimentary waterproof duffel bag for your use. This duffel bag is perfect for carrying your shopping items and is yours to keep after the tour. You can rent these equipment with an additional USD 35.
General
- Duffel bag, rucksack, or suitcase
- Daypack for personal items
- Goggles or sunglasses for sun protection, dust, and wind
- Neck warmer (optional, recommended for cold months – January, February, and December)
Upper Body
- Warm wool or synthetic hat that covers ears (required for cold months – January, February, and December)
- Waterproof (preferably breathable) shell jacket (recommended for rainy months – June to September)
- 2 T-shirts
Torso
- 2 pairs of lightweight long underwear/thermals (for winter travel- January, February, and December)
Lower Body
- 1 pair of cotton pants (loose jeans or khakis)
- 1 pair of shorts
- 2 pairs of liner socks (synthetic or Capilene)
Hands
- 1 pair of warm gloves (required for cold seasons: January, February, and December)
Feet
- 1 pair of light camping shoes or sneakers
- 1 pair of sandals (optional)
First Aid Kits and Medications
Note: Our guides carry a basic first aid kit, but personal supplies are strongly recommended.
- Extra Strength Excedrin (for altitude-related headaches)
- Ibuprofen (for general aches and pains)
- Imodium or Pepto Bismol capsules (for upset stomach/diarrhea)
- Diamox (Acetazolamide)- consult before use
- 1 small personal first aid kit with blister treatments (moleskin, band-aids), waterproof tape, anti-infection ointments
Other Essentials
- Valid passport and 4 extra passport photos
- Airline ticket (Leave a copy at the Kathmandu office in case of changes)
- Durable wallet/pouch for travel documents and cash
- Lip balm (SPF 20+, bring 2 sticks)
- Sunscreen (SPF 40+, check expiration)
- Pocket knife or Swiss Army-style multitool
- Water purification tablets or Polar Pure crystals
- Toiletry kit (toilet paper in plastic bag, hand wipes, sanitizer, towel, soap, etc.)
- 2 bandanas
Optional
- 1 pair adjustable trekking poles (Highly recommended for knee/ankle support)
- Favorite snack foods (max 2 lbs)
- Paperback books, playing cards, mp3 player (Keep items lightweight)
- Binoculars
- Lightweight point-and-shoot or DSLR camera (Keep batteries warm in cold conditions)
- Pee bottle or pee funnel (Useful at high altitudes or cold nights)
Tip: Thamel is full of gear shops where you can purchase or rent tour essentials at a reasonable price once you’re in Kathmandu.
Documents and Logistics
- Valid passport (must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date)
- Bhutan visa clearance letter (arranged by us; required for boarding your flight to Bhutan)
- 4 passport-sized photos (for permits or emergencies)
- Travel insurance (mandatory; must include emergency medical evacuation and trip cancellation)
- Flight tickets and printed itinerary (keep physical copies for airport check-in and immigration)
- Copy of travel permit and entry documents (provided on arrival; carry with you during the tour)
Dates of Trip
Group Discount Prices
Traveler Reviews
Tripadvisor Reviews
Highly recommend Goma and AMA Adventure - Highly recommend Goma from AMA Adventure. Amazing trekking guide, took us to EBC + Chola Pass + Gokyo Lakes. Honest, punctual, lovely company to have. Have trekked with... read more
Cruiser613242
November 25, 2024 Great Lakes Trail, Gorkha, Nepal - This is my first solo trekking which I chose a 7 days trip that included day tour and Great Lakes Tail. I am so greatful because I met an authentic... read more
Namaste S
February 11, 2025 Best choice for trekking in Nepal - We were so lucky to come across Ama Adventure in a Facebook group, and specifically Goma Thapa, who's an experienced, educated, trekking powerhouse woman in charge of Ama trekking expeditions.... read more
Zofia F
December 30, 2023
Google Reviews
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