Bhutan – The Last Shangri La

After an early breakfast take a scenic drive on the mountain route towards the former capital of Bhutan, passing through Dochu La pass (Alt: 10,000ft). Stunning scenery of the Himalayan ranges can be witnessed on a clear day from Dochula pass. Walk around the 108 stupas dedicated to His Majesty the King by Her Majesty the Queen Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk. Later descend to Wangdue valley to visit the Wangdue Dzong, the most picturesque in Bhutan. The drive from Thimphu to Wangdue is approx. 3 hours and covers a distance of nearly 44 miles. Walk around the local market of Wangdue and then visit Punakha Dzong, which is situated at a distance of approx. 8 miles. The Dzong is situated at the confluence of two mighty glacial rivers, Mo Chu and Pa Chu, which descend from the lofty heights of the Himalayas, and was the capital of the kingdom in olden times. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the river and relax for some time. In the evening drive back to Thimphu.

Stay overnight in Thimphu.

After an early breakfast drive back to Paro. The highlight of this day will be a hike to Taktsang retreat at Taktsang monastery (Tiger's Nest). This is about 3 hrs walk uphill and can also be done on horseback. Lunch will be served enroute. Return downhill on foot. Afternoon sightseeing in Paro includes a visit to the northern part of the valley to Drukgyel Dzong ruins (Monastery Fortress) that once was a strategic post to withhold invading Tibetan forces from the north; visit the famous Kyichu Lhakhang - one of 108 sacred Lhakhangs built by the Buddhist King Srongtsen Gompa of Tibet. Visit the district Dzong called Rinpung Dzong - Fortress of a Mountain of Jewels, which is now the seat of the administration and an institute for monks.

Stay overnight in Paro.

Breakfast at the hotel and transfer to the airport in time to connect to the flight for onward destination.