The essential circuit done right: Dochula’s 108 chortens, Punakha Dzong at the meeting of two rivers, Paro’s fortress and museum, and a full day for Tiger’s Nest. Balanced days, honest pacing, and room for the unplanned.
DAY BY DAY ──
1
Arrive Paro, drive to Thimphu. Gentle evening walk to acclimatise.
2
Thimphu: Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma, crafts school, Centenary Farmers’ Market (weekends).
3
Cross Dochula Pass to Punakha. Punakha Dzong at the meeting of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.
4
Punakha: walk through rice terraces to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, visit Chimi Lhakhang.
5
Drive to Paro. Rinpung Dzong, National Museum, evening archery demonstration.
6
Full-day Tiger’s Nest hike, farmhouse dinner with hot stone bath.