Punakha is home to one of the most beautiful Dzongs in all of Bhutan can be found, along with some stunning villages and beautiful rivers. We have the option of an early morning hike to watch the sunrise across the rice fields.

Today we will be exploring Punakha valley by hiking Khumsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten You get stunning views of the Punakha valley, the surrounding mountain ranges, and the iconic Punakha Dzong. The entire valley is lush and green, with terraced fields that are particularly beautiful during the rice-growing season.

This secluded valley gets really cold at night but we’ll be cosy in a farmhouse with log fires and hot stone baths. The valley still continues with a very basic rural style and offers us a chance to really slow down and contemplate the art of photography. This is home to the potato farmers and the Black Necked Crane, which will be starting to arrive in the valley for winter and are easily observed from a distance.

Explore Gangtey Monastry,  The monastery is a central point in the valley, and it’s well worth a visit. You can explore the monastery grounds, interact with the monks, and enjoy panoramic views from the hilltop. Phobjikha Valley is a photographer's paradise, especially during the fall and winter when the valley is lush and misty. The colors of the landscape, combined with the historic architecture of Gangtey Monastery and the wildlife, make for fantastic photo opportunities. Afternoon Hike Gangtey Nature Trail This is a popular and easy hike that takes you through the valley’s beautiful natural landscape. The trail is about 5-6 km long and offers breathtaking views of the valley, surrounding forests, and the Gangtey Monastery.

This drive is beautiful and dramatic with lots of scenic stops along the way. Trongsa, located in central Bhutan, is a town rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. It has long been a strategic and spiritual hub, offering visitors a blend of majestic architecture, serene landscapes, and deep-rooted traditions. Here are some of the top places to explore in and around Trongsa, Visit Trongsa Dzong This grand fortress, built in 1644, is the largest dzong in Bhutan. Perched on a ridge overlooking the Mangde Chhu River, it served as the ancestral home of Bhutan’s royal family and was pivotal in unifying the country. The dzong's intricate architecture and panoramic views make it a must-visit.

Before leaving for Bumthang we will be visiting Originally a watchtower guarding Trongsa Dzong, Ta Dzong now houses a museum dedicated to Bhutan's monarchy. Exhibits include royal artifacts, traditional costumes, and historical documents, offering insights into the nation's rich heritage.  Then we will Drive towards Bumthang

Bumthang is worth visiting regardless of festivals, but the presence of two unique festival events on the calendar makes it even better. No two festivals
in Bhutan are the same and each day of dance is a new experience and new opportunity. They are spectacular, and a little challenging. We’ll have time to talk about techniques plus reviews to help us advance our skills and try again the next day. There are many other around the Jakar valley and we’ll have a chance to visit some of the quiet ones.

A day excursion to Ura Valley from Bumthang is a scenic and culturally enriching journey into one of Bhutan’s most picturesque and traditional valleys. Here's a suggested itinerary and key highlights for your trip:

fly from Bumthang (Bathpalathang Airport) to Paro via a domestic flight operated by Drukair  depending on availability. This is the quickest and most scenic way to travel between central Bhutan and Paro.

Hiking Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang) is Bhutan’s most iconic experience — a sacred pilgrimage and a breathtaking trek combined.

Wave goodbye at the airport. Connecting flights can be made via Singapore, Bangkok or Kathmandu.